With the first fall of snow dusting Yr Wyddfa this week, we know that Christmas must be just around the corner! If you've got a trip to Snowdonia planned before the Big Day, here's a round up of festive activities across the region in the run up to it.
Whether you're planning to see Santa to confirm you're on the Nice List or just need to do some last-minute Christmas shopping there's something for everyone - young and old - to enjoy over the next few weeks.
Santa Train - Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railway
Santa has joined the Welsh Highland Railway crew to meet children on a magical return journey from Caernarfon station. Grown-ups can relax and enjoy the wintry scenery as the train journeys into the heart of Snowdonia while the kids wait for Santa and the elves to arrive to dish out some Christmas cheer - and maybe a gift or two!
Pre-booking is essential - these trips sell-out every year! For full details click here.
Breakfast with Santa at Anglesey Sea Zoo
Always wondered what the Big Red Man eats for brekkie? You'll find out if you join Santa for breakfast this December! On selected dates running up to Christmas, you can sit down with Santa and enjoy a hearty breakfast... maybe even get a little something if you've been good!
For more information and to book, email post@angleseyseazoo.co.uk / or head over to the Sea Zoo Facebook page.
The Enchanted Forest at Greenwood Family Park
Experience a magical Christmas adventure when the Enchanted Forest comes alive after dark! With Buddy the Elf to guide you, explore the sparkling winter forest, then write a letter with any last minute gift requests and finally meet Santa in his woodland grotto.
All this and much more awaits intrepid explorers in the Enchanted Forest! Find out more here.
Zipmas at Zip World Llechwedd
Billed as North Wales's ultimate Christmas grotto, it's certainly the most unique! Fans of Father Christmas will travel 500ft below ground (yes, 500ft!) and wander through caverns filled with mesmerising winter scenes before meeting Mr C and his elves, hard at work preparing for the Big Day. Afterwards, you'll get the chance to decorate a beautiful slate bauble as a memento of your visit.
To book your visit, click here.
Festive cheer at Plas Newydd
All through December, National Trust property Plas Newydd will be spreading Christmas cheer.
This beautiful property on the banks of the Menai Strait on Anglesey, will be hosting festive choirs, tempting you with delicious Christmas food and drink and offering some lovely shopping opportunities in the National Trust shop. And, not forgetting the kids! They are invited to decorate the Plas Newydd Christmas tree by making a natural tree decoration to adorn its branches.
To find out more about Plas Newydd at Christmas, click here.
Conwy Winterfest
The popular Christmas event returns for the first time post-COVID and is sure to be as busy as ever! Immerse yourself in the medieval atmosphere and celebrate Christmas as we did seven hundred years ago. With street performers, chestnut sellers, minstrels, Morris dancers, fighting knights and late night shopping, Conwy Winterfest culminates in a grand torchlit parade around the town - it's magical!
For date and times, click here.
Traditional Christmas at Penrhyn Castle
This year, National trust property Penrhyn Castle celebrates the hobbies and pastimes that bring us together during the festive period. Whether it's a family board game or some seasonal baking, the castle invites you to spend some quality time together.
As always, the stunning Victorian kitchens are busy preparing for Christmas and the castle's public spaces are decked out with beautiful trees and decorations. After you've finished exploring the house, head out into the castle gardens and take a bracing winter walk. You'll feel at one with nature on the trail to the bird hide at Afon Ogwen, the views are breathtaking. To find out more, visit the Penrhyn Castle webpage on the National Trust website.
Stay with us this Christmas
We can't promise snow but whether you do one or all of these amazing seasonal activities, the Royal Victoria Hotel makes a great base for your festive forays!
STAY & DINE SPECIAL OFFER - EXTENDED
Why not take advantage of our popular Stay & Dine offer? It has been extended to cover dates in the New Year so even if you can't make it before Christmas you can beat the January Blues and look forward to a lovely break with us.
Simply quote promo code STAYDINE22 when booking a two night stay with breakfast from £79 per person and receive a complimentary £50 credit per couple to spend on food and drink in the hotel! Book to Stay & Dine now!T&Cs
Offer valid on stays between Sunday 30th October 2022 - Wednesday 21st December 2022 and Monday 23rd January - Sunday 29th January 2023 with LIMITED Friday and Saturday availability. Reservations must be pre-paid, are non-refundable and must be made a minimum of 24 hours prior to arrival. Prices based on two adults sharing a double or a twin room for a minimum 2 night stay. This special promotional rate is subject to availability and cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer, programme or promotion and can not be used against existing bookings. Bookings will receive £25 credit per person to your bill to be spent on food & drink in the restaurant or bar during stay. Restaurant may be closed on low occupancy days without prior notice. Credit card must be pre-authorised on arrival, there will be no change or cash alternative given. All food and drink will be solely for consumption in the hotel's public areas. Prices quoted are subject to availability and an allocation of rooms. Once the allocation of rooms is sold, alternative rates will be offered.