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Town/City Name
Bangor
County
Gwynedd
Population
16,358
About Bangor
Bangor is a cathedral city close to the Menai Strait which comes between Gwynned and the island of Anglesey. The city name is an old Welsh term for “wattle.” Considered the oldest city in North Wales, Bangor boasts breathtaking sceneries, relaxing trails, impressive music, and medieval establishments.
The Penrhyn Castle is a 19th-century castle in Llandygai, Bangor, which served as the residence for the Lords and Ladies Penrhyn. The intricate design of the castle is a work of Thomas Hopper. This neo-Norman castle is only half an hour from Bangor’s center, making it one of the most popular tourist destinations in the city. Aside from the medieval architecture, tourists visit the Penrhyn Castle for its restored kitchens, railway museum, and beautiful Victorian gardens.
Bangor is home to the ninth longest pleasure piers in the British Isles, the Garth Pier. This Grade II-listed Victorian structure is a highly preferred spot to take a leisure stroll. Stretching up to 1,500 feet, the Garth Pier provides the most picturesque seaside views.
Located in the middle of the city’s high street, the 13th-century Bangor Cathedral is a known place of worship since the medieval period. The Gothic structure is built in dedication to Saint Deiniol, Bangor’s first bishop.
Restaurants in Bangor offer a wide assortment of culinary treats. From Italian, Asian, and vegan meals, Bangor has a satisfying dining experience for every palate and appetite. Buffets have been gaining fame, too. Cafés are the go-to places for lighter food and drink options.
A visit in Bangor will not be complete without a taste of the city's craft ale, cocktails, and wines. Aside from premium quality drinks, pubs in Bangor are known for having helpful and friendly staff. Tourists also love to stay and drink in bars along the pier for fascinating coastal views.
Music is big in Bangor. The city brims with event venues, cafes, and bars that feature live performances. One of the most prominent cultural and art centers in Bangor is Pontio at Bangor University which also hosts the city’s annual music festival.
Places to eat in Bangor, Restaurants in Bangor
Places to drink in Bangor, Pubs and Bars in Bangor
A brief history of Bangor
Bangor is one of the earliest bishoprics in the United Kingdom. The roots of the city can be traced in the founding of the Bangor Cathedral in 6th century AD. The majestic cathedral underwent extensive modifications over the past centuries.
The conflict for power in 973 between the King of Gwynedd, Iago, and his brother, Hywel, drove the King of England, Edgar, to visit Bangor and persuade the brothers to share the rule in the land. Starting from 1284 up to the 15th century, Bangor bishops enjoyed privileges and executive liberties.
In the 18th century, Bangor saw opportunities for progress as the slate mining in Bethesda grew and the A5 road connected London and Holyhead. Ferry terminals also increased, and the Bangor railway station started its operations in 1848.
In 1557, academic institutions such as Friar Schools started to emerge. The University College of North Wales was built in 1884 and was eventually renamed as Bangor University. The HMS Clio was converted into a school ship in 1877. Having suffered greatly in World War I, the ship was later sold.
The Blitz during World War II prompted parts of the BBC to seek refuge in Bangor.
In 1974, the Queen reaffirmed Bangor’s city status following local government reorganization.
Bangor set a record in 2012 as the first city in the UK to carry out a nighttime curfew.
Popular things to do in Bangor
- Check out the history collections at the Storiel - https://www.storiel.cymru/whats-on/
- Tour the Penrhyn Castle - https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/
- Watch movies and other performances at the Pontio - https://www.pontio.co.uk/Online/default.asp
- Shop at the Blue Sky - https://www.blueskybangor.co.uk/
- Visit the Bangor Cathedral - https://bangorcathedral.churchinwales.org.uk/
Free things to do in Bangor
- Take a walk in the Cwm Idwal National Nature Reserve - https://www.first-nature.com/waleswildlife/n-nnr-idwal.php
- Stop by the Bangor University - https://www.bangor.ac.uk/
- Enjoy outdoor activities in Ogwyn Cottage - https://www.eryri-npa.gov.uk/visiting/places-to-visit/ogwen
- See stunning views at the Britannia Bridge - https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g186430-d12428921-Reviews-Britannia_Bridge-Bangor_Gwynedd_North_Wales_Wales.html
- Roam in the Cadeirlan Bangor Cathedral - https://bangorcathedral.churchinwales.org.uk
Great for kids in Bangor
- Try the UK’s first solar powered ride in the GreenWood Family Park - https://www.greenwoodfamilypark.co.uk/
- Have fun at The Play Centre - https://www.dayoutwiththekids.co.uk/attractions/the-play-centre-6a596c03
- Ride a cruise boat with the Puffin Island Pleasure Cruises - https://starida.co.uk/cruises/puffin-island-wildlife-cruise/
- Play games in the Pili Palas Nature World - https://www.pilipalas.co.uk/
Great for dogs in Bangor
- The Menai Hotel and Bar
- Arvonia
- 4 The Crescent
Dog friendly bars
- Tap and Spile
- Lord Nelson
- The Menai Hotel
Dog friendly restaurants
- Ty Mawr Tearooms/Restaurant
- The Bull Beaumaris
- Golden Fleece Inn
Did you know?
After releasing their eight album in 1967, the Beatles travelled to Bangor for a conference. The famous English rock band learned about their manager’s death during their stay in Bangor.
The charm of Bangor attracted various productions. In 2014, Penrhyn Castle became the location for the Welsh National Opera’s performance of La chute de la maison Usher, an opera act by Claude Debussy.
HBO also chose the medieval castle to film scenes for the 2019 superhero drama series Watchmen.
The hidden gems of Bangor
The Treborth Botanic Gardens are suitable for those looking for a relaxing space to enjoy a leisure walk and calming greenery. Managed by Bangor University, the gardens have greenhouses filled with various plants. The visit to the botanical gardens is free of charge.
Unique to Bangor
Bangor may be a small city but it has the longest High Street in the county. The 1.265-km business street is lined with excellent retail shops and commercial establishments.
