North Wales: Day Trips and Tours from Liverpool

With its dazzling beaches, mountainous landscapes and ancient castles, North Wales is a destination that many people dream of. Some of the region’s most iconic sites include Conwy Castle, North Shore Beach and Mount Snowden.

North Wales day trips from Liverpool provide you with the opportunity to see a distinctively different landscape without straying too far from your hotel. Get out of the busy streets of Liverpool for the day and spend a few hours exploring the Welsh countryside!

Here's all you need to know about North Wales, one of the most exciting day trips from Liverpool.

How to get to North Wales from Liverpool?

The region of North Wales borders England and the Irish Sea and is located roughly 120 kilometers southwest of Liverpool.

From Liverpool to North Wales by car

The drive between Liverpool and North Wales is relatively straightforward and famously scenic. There are a few different routes that you can take, but the easiest is to head west on the North Wales Expressway and follow the signs to North Wales.

As there isn’t a hard border, you won’t have to stop for passport checks or border control stops. The drive should take just under 2 hours, depending on where you plan to visit in North Wales.

From Liverpool to North Wales by public transport

While it is possible and relatively affordable to travel from Liverpool to North Wales by train, you need to change trains at least twice and you can expect the journey to take at least 4.5 hours, depending on the train schedules.

For this reason, it is recommended that you either drive or book a guided tour should you want to visit North Wales for the day.

Guided tour to North Wales from Liverpool

Have all your travel plans taken care of by a professional tour guide so that you can relax and simply enjoy the experience of exploring North Wales. Make your way from Liverpool to North Wales in a comfortable, private vehicle.

Most North Wales day trips from Liverpool are full-day experiences lasting between 8 and 10 hours, including travel time.

What is the typical itinerary?

North Wales day trips from Liverpool typically begin at around 8 AM, when you’ll be asked to meet your guide and other tour participants at a centrally located landmark in Liverpool, such as The World Museum.

You’ll make your way to North Wales in a comfortable, private vehicle, enjoying the beautiful scenery along the way. While each tour itinerary is slightly different, some of the most popular places that are visited include Llandudno, Snowdonia National Park and Conwy Castle.

Your guide provides information about all the places that you visit in North Wales, and you’ll also have plenty of free time to explore on your own, relax, take photos, etc. At the end of the day, you are driven back to Liverpool and are dropped off at the tour’s starting point.

What kinds of tours are available to go to North Wales?

When you are looking to book a North Wales day trip from Liverpool, you’ll find that you have a few different options available to you, including guided tours, small-group tours and shore excursions.

Guided tours to North Wales from Liverpool

Guided tours provide an enjoyable yet affordable way to get out of Liverpool for the day and see what the countryside of North Wales has to offer. As there will be other tour participants on the tour, you’ll get the opportunity to meet new people, potentially from around the world!

Small-group tours to North Wales from Liverpool

Small-group tours are similar to guided tours in that you’ll be joined by other participants. However, small-group tours are typically limited to 10 people, which means that you’ll enjoy a more personalized experience.

Shore excursions to North Wales from Liverpool

Shore excursions from Liverpool to North Wales are specifically designed for cruise ship guests, who have docked at the Liverpool Cruise Terminal. These tours align with cruise ship schedules and ensure that you see as much as possible during your time on land.

How much does a day trip to North Wales from Liverpool cost?

Small-group North Wales tours from Liverpool, which last roughly 10 hours, cost around £65 per person and are inclusive of a knowledgeable driver/guide. Guided tours, which last around 9 hours, also typically cost £65 per person.

Shore excursions that cater specifically to cruise ship guests cost around £80 for an 8-hour day trip.

Keep in mind that the cost of North Wales day trips from Liverpool is not typically inclusive of lunch, drinks, entrance fees or any personal expenses.

What will you see and do?

Conwy Castle

Conwy Castle is a well-preserved fortress that is well over 700 years old. The majestic castle, which is famed for being designed by Master James of St George, overlooks the historic town of Conwy.

Climbing up the spiral staircases provides you with beautiful views of the surrounding area, including the mountains of Eryri as well as Conwy’s harbor. The medieval castle and its high castle walls are a true feat of engineering, with a new marvel around every corner.

Snowdonia National Park

Snowdonia is the largest national park in all of Wales, covering an impressive 1,300 square kilometers. The national park is home to vast mountain ranges, cascading waterfalls, stunning lakes and a wide variety of fauna and flora.

The natural beauty offered by Snowdonia National Park’s diverse landscapes is truly breathtaking and presents many incredible photo opportunities. Keep a look out for wild horses as you drive or hike through the park.

Llandudno

Llandudno is a quaint seaside town in North Wales that offers its visitors an enigmatic old-world charm. The town was once home to the largest copper mine in Europe, and proof of this can be found in the many ancient tunnels that lead to the Great Orme Mines.

This little town is the perfect destination for history enthusiasts as it is steeped in a rich and fascinating past.

Betws-y-Coed

Located in the Conwy Valley, within the Snowdonia National Park, the small village of Betws-y-Coed is backdropped by an enchanting forest. The village is easily one of the most picturesque in all of Wales and has become a popular destination for tourists to visit.

While there may not be too much to do in the village, besides grab a bite to eat, those who visit it immediately fall in love with its irresistible charm.

When is the best time to visit North Wales?

The best time to visit North Wales is during the late spring to early fall (May to September) when the weather is milder and attractions are fully open. The scenery is particularly breathtaking during spring with blossoming flowers, and in autumn with the vibrant fall colors.

Summer offers the best weather for outdoor activities like hiking, while early autumn is perfect for exploring historical sites without heavy crowds.

Travel tips

• North Wales can be chilly, even in summer. Dress in layers and bring waterproof clothing.
• Sunscreen, insect repellent are must-haves if you intend to explore the outdoors. Don't forget your camera to capture the stunning landscapes.
• Pubs are great places to enjoy local food, beers, and often, live music. Don't miss the opportunity to try traditional Welsh dishes like cawl (a hearty stew).
• North Wales is full of sheep roaming freely. Be cautious while driving, especially around blind corners.