Step into the past in North Wales

Mighty Caernarfon Castle’s sheer scale and commanding presence sets it apart from the rest. Begun by Edward I in 1283 during his conquest of Wales, the castle was constructed not only as a military stronghold but also as a seat of government.

Its unique polygonal towers, intimidating battlements and colour-banded walls echoed Constantinople, the imperial power of Rome and the dream-castle, ‘the fairest that ever man saw’, of Welsh myth and legend.

Slate splitting looks easy but is not: one of the slate industry tasks that were never successfully mechanised. Deep in Llechwedd Slate Caverns, holes were pounded out of the rock by men using steel rods then packed with gunpowder for blasting, and trucks laden with slate were pushed along rails by men and horses.




Take a trip underground to learn more about the miner’s life and then wander through the Victorian village with its ‘Old Bank’, smithy, lockup and historic narrow gauge railway wagons.

Step back in time and visit The Great Orme Tramway which has been delighting visitors since it opened on July 31st, 1902. An engineering marval of its age, it's the only cable-hauled tramway still operating on British public roads. At the Halfway Station exhibition, discover the history of this fascinating funicular tramway - then enjoy the spectacular ride to the top!"