North Wales was recently named one of the best holiday destinations in the world by Lonely Planet on account of its plethora of fabulous attractions. These are made up of both natural wonders and man made visitor hotspots with there seemingly being something to appeal to all ages and interests. 

We are proud that our Gimblet Rock Holiday Park is situated close to many of the most highly regarded attractions in the region. With the school holidays now upon us, we thought that we’d help our guests out a little by putting together a list of what we consider to be the best places to visit in North Wales for families who are struggling to find ways to keep the children entertained during this period.

1. ZipWorld

The list of things to do in North Wales for families seems to be ever growing, with one of the most popular additions over the past decade having been the wonderful Zip World. There are now three Zip World sites across the North Wales region, each of which has something very different to its visitors. The Zip World sites in Llechwedd and at Penrhyn Quarry are the two which are located closest to Gimblet Rock Holiday Park.

Llechwedd is probably the best destination for those with smaller children with the site offering a trampoline based “bounce below” activity alongside the world’s first underground crazy golf course. 

The Penrhyn Quarry resort meanwhile is perhaps the most famous as it is home to the world’s fastest zipline. Here you will achieve speeds of up to 100mph as you through the quarry with views of Snowdonia on the horizon. While this will no doubt appeal to any adrenaline junkie adults, there are still plenty of activities to keep kids entertained with the slightly tamer Quarry Flyer and fun Quarry Karts where you’ll navigate a three wheel kart down the world’s only downhill quarry circuit. 

2. Greenwood Family Park

Greenwood Family Park was recently named the best North Wales attraction for families by Tripadvisor, but it is our number two. It is probably the closest thing that North Wales has to a theme park but it is nowhere near as grand in scale as the likes of Alton Towers. Nevertheless, it still has plenty to offer families particularly those with smaller children.

On-site you will have the opportunity to ride the thrilling Green Dragon Roller Coaster, fly down a huge water slide or even meet the farm animals that live at the park. This is just a short selection of the many activities that are available at Greenwood Family Park, most of which are admittedly better suited to smaller children.

However, the cute farm animals and on-site restaurant are sure to appeal to the adults of the group as are the many hours that your children will spend enjoying the many activities that are available on-site. You can also be safe in the knowledge that you are funding a theme park that is committed to being environmentally friendly, with the solar splash ride famed for being the UK first solar powered ride. 

3. Glasfryn Parc

Just a 15 minute drive from Gimblet Rock Holiday Park is Glasfryn Parc which is the ultimate family attraction. It really does have an attraction to appeal to everyone and in all weather conditions.

Leading the offering is its water park where you can try your hand at paddleboarding, kayaking and much more. There is even fishing available for the adults who are looking for a slightly more peaceful activity. 

If you would prefer to remain on land, then you can get behind the wheel of a go-kart and unleash your inner Lewis Hamilton on their thrilling outdoor circuit. Other outdoor activities include archery, crazy golf and clay pigeon shooting.

On days where the weather isn’t on your side, you can head inside and enjoy a friendly game of ten pin bowling or let the kids have fun in the soft play area. 

4. Welsh Highland Railway

Located approximately 30 minutes away from our resort is the Welsh Highland Railway. This is a mecca for rail enthusiasts with visitors able to enjoy scenic rides aboard a historic steam train.

However, you don’t have to be a railway enthusiast to enjoy these spectacular journeys which take in some of North Wales most spectacular countryside. There are a number of different options to choose from depending upon the time and budget that you have available. The cheapest and shortest of which is a 3 hour experience where you’ll travel from Porthmadog station to Blaenau Ffestiniog with a 50 minute time allocation to stretch your legs before enjoying the return journey. 

Alternatively, you can opt for a 7 hour experience from Porthmadog to Caernarfon with little under 2 hours permitted to explore this historic town which is home to a selection of fine eateries and a magnificent 11th century castle. This is a great option for anyone looking for a fun filled family day out in North Wales. 

5. Welsh Mountain Zoo

This one does require a bit more of a journey, being located over an hour away from Gimblet Rock Holiday Park. However, you will feel that it is well worth the trip once you have arrived at the wonderful Welsh Mountain Zoo in the seaside town of Colwyn Bay.

With 80 different species of animal on a 37 acre site, there is plenty to see. Alongside being able to wander around the zoo at your own leisure, you’ll also have the chance to enjoy a number of shows put on by the zookeepers. This includes the charming penguin parade which really is a must see. Alongside this are feeding sessions with the resident sea lions and opportunities to pay a little more for an animal encounter. 

If you’ve taken the time to drive to Welsh Mountain Zoo, then you may as well make a day of it. While the zoo itself will take up plenty of your time, you may also want to pay a visit to Colwyn Bay beach which is the ultimate seaside holiday destination. Here you can build sandcastles, have a paddle or enjoy some traditional British fish & chips.