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Town/City Name
Barmouth
County
Gwynned
Population
2,522
About Barmouth
Located on Wales’ west coast and facing the Cardigan Bay, Barmouth is a breathtaking destination where rolling mountains meet the vast sea. Featuring a colorful concoction of seaside and mountain attractions peppered with heritage tours along the way, Barmouth is a perfect holiday getaway for travelers and families loving the sand, sun, and sea.
Outdoor activities and adventures abound in the city. Whether on land or out in the sea, there are things to do and explore for people of all skill levels. Biking, kayaking, paddleboarding, and sunbathing are just some of the most exciting activities that the town offers.
The city centre is lined with pubs, cafes, and restaurants where people can spend their time while sipping coffee or having an ice cream. There are plenty of options to choose from when it comes to culinary delight — from authentic local cuisine to international gastronomic offerings that will satisfy anyone’s cravings.
Highlighting the rich culture and history of Barmouth, the Heritage Trail is a must-experience self-guided tour around the city. Most notable sites are The Rock — Barmouth’s Old Town — Talbot Square, and St. John’s Church. There are about 23 key sites in the Heritage Trail leaflet, providing plenty of places to explore and history to learn about the city.
For nature-lovers, Barmouth is part of the Snowdonia National Park, so travelers can enjoy miles and miles of coastline and stunning landscape for a leisurely day of sightseeing. Also, the path crossing Barmouth Bridge will provide tourists with unparalleled views of the Mawddach estuary overlooking the harbour.
Because the town is on the west coast, Barmouth turns into a magical place during sunset.
There are plenty of transport options for tourists and people may choose to get around the town with a rental car, by riding a bus, by booking train tickets, or taking a ferry ride.
One of the most famous events in Barmouth is the Three Peaks Yacht Race that is held every month of June.
Places to eat in Barmouth, Restaurants in Barmouth
Places to drink in Barmouth, Pubs and Bars in Barmouth
A brief history of Barmouth
Although the area of Barmouth has been occupied many centuries ago, as evidenced in the place called Dinas Oleu, the oldest texts referencing Barmouth only started in the 13th century.
Dinas Oleu, meaning “Fortress of Light”, was the first patch of land donated to the National Trust. It can be found east of Barmouth.
Farmhouses were built in the town way back in the 15th century, and its maritime history started in the 1700s. Boat-building and coastal shipping boomed in the area with the help of the strategic position of Mawddach estuary.
​Starting with the wool industry, Barmouth became one of the major commercial hubs, exporting wood, slate, paving stones, and cloth. The Barmouth-Dolgellau port was then constructed, which linked the two commercial centres by the Mawddach River.
The Victorian era saw Barmouth rise into popularity as a seaside resort. Even before the railway was constructed, people from all over had been visiting the town, with some visitors even settling in the area.
Victorian philanthropy also became popular, with most notable philanthropists such as Fanny Talbot and John Ruskin donating money to the town to improve its landscape and appearance.
In 1867, the railway was built and Barmouth saw a huge influx of tourists. By this time as well, St. David’s Church and St. John’s Church were built.
​William Wordsworth, a recognized literary genius, visited Barmouth in the 19th century, and included a snippet of the town in one of his writings: “With a fine sea view in front, the mountains behind, the glorious estuary running eight miles [13 km] inland, and Cadair Idris within compass of a day's walk, Barmouth can always hold its own against any rival.” (William Wordsworth, 19th century)
Popular things to do in Barmouth
- Ride horses in Bwlchgwyn Farm Pony Trekking Centre - http://www.bwlchgwynfarm.co.uk/
- Have a trip on Fairbourne Steam Railway - http://www.fairbournerailway.com/
- Enjoy fun slides in Bendi-gedig - http://www.bendi-gedig.com/
- Camp in The Childrens Farm Park - http://childrensfarmpark.co.uk/
- Explore the Llanfair Slate Caverns - https://www.llanfairslatecaverns.co.uk/
Free things to do in Barmouth
- Find stunning views in the Panorama Walk - http://www.mawddachestuary.co.uk/walks/panorama-walk.html
- Take pictures of coastal and mountain sceneries in the Taith Ardudwy Way - http://www.taithardudwyway.com/
- Learn the town’s maritime history at the Sailors’ Institute - http://www.barsailinst.org.uk/
- Marvel at the majestic architecture of the Criccieth Castle - http://www.castlewales.com/criccth.html
- Tour the Portmeirion Village - https://portmeirion.wales/
Great for kids in Barmouth
- See ponies and farm animals up-close at the Bwlchgwyn Farm Pony Trekking Centre - http://www.bwlchgwynfarm.co.uk/
- Build sandcastles in Llwyngwril Beach - https://llwyngwril.org.uk/
- Wander through the Harlech Castle - https://cadw.gov.wales/visit/places-to-visit/harlech-castle
- Walk around the King Arthurs Labyrinth - https://www.kingarthurslabyrinth.co.uk/
- Have fun in the gardens and play areas of Corris Craft Centre - https://www.corriscraftcentre.co.uk/
Great for dogs in Barmouth
- Take a stroll at the Barmouth Beach
- Trek around the Llanberis Path, Snowdon
- Range through the Coed y Brenin Forest Park
Dog friendly bars
- Môr Wyn Guest House
- The Last Inn
- Myrddins Brewery & Disillery
Dog friendly restaurants
- Bistro Bermo
- The Bank
- The Captain's Table
Did you know?
Barmouth’s population is estimated at 2,500, but the town accommodates over 10,000 visitors each year, especially during the peak holiday season.
Writers, scientists, and notable people such as John Ruskin, Charles Darwin, and William Wordsworth had set foot in Barmouth and wrote about their experiences in this picturesque town.
The hidden gems of Barmouth
In Snowdonia National Park, a hidden lake called Blue Lake can be found by only the most meticulous adventurers. There is also a nearby plateau that rewards tourists with amazing views of Barmouth Bay.
Unique to Barmouth
Commander Harold Godfrey Lowe RD, the fifth officer of the famous and tragic RMS Titanic, had lived in Barmouth until the age of 14.
