Trains to North Wales

Conwy Castle

Built for Edward I, Conwy Castle is amongst the finest surviving medieval fortifications in Britain. Incredibly well preserved, its grand towers and curtain walls cast an imposing shadow over the town. If the outside impresses - and it will - wait until you go inside. The intact interior means it's very easy to imagine how this gritty fortress functioned when the royal entourage of the 13th century were in town. While there, be sure to take in the quaint town of Conwy, which time has chosen to pass by. After a bite at the local chippy, take a stroll along the town walls, explore the nearby mountain walks or uncover hidden gems along the city's streets.

Holyhead Ferries

Get away from it all without the hassle of baggage restrictions, queues and ash cloud-induced delays, and take the ferry to Dublin from Holyhead. Imagine - with the ferry terminal a mere 5 minute walk from the train station, you could be docking in Dublin in under 2 hours. Plus, you can book a combined train and ferry ticket in advance, so getting to the Emerald Isle couldn't be easier.

Bodnant Garden

Bodnant Garden has often been described as the finest in Wales. With expansive lawns and inimate corners, grand ponds and impressive terraces as well as awe-inspiring plant collections, there are continually changing glorious displays of colour on display to enjoy. So get away from it all for an afternoon's relaxation and inspiration at beautiful Bodnant Garden.

Electric Mountain

On the shore of the glacial lake Llyn Padarn, Electric Mountain marks the starting point for tours into fascinating Dinorwig Hydro Electric Power Station. Deep in Elidir mountain is one of Europe's largest man-made caverns, home to a pumped storage generator which converts the power of water into electricity. Sound a bit odd? Perhaps so, but it's well worth the visit. It’s like a film-set for a James Bond movie, vast chambers and tunnels so big you can drive a bus through them. Which is a good job, since you’ll be on it.

Greenwood Forest Park

Voted 'Best Family Attraction' in North Wales for 2011 and 2012, days out don't get much better than Greenwood Forest Park. Set in 17 acres of magical woodland, your family will discover bags of adventure. Jump aboard the world's only people powered roller coaster; zoom down the longest sledge run in Wales and bounce on the Giant Jumper. Smaller tots can run wild in the Toddlers' Village and Little Forest Play Barn, while you relax in the onsite cafe. Bliss!

Pili Palas Butterfly & Bird Palace

Pili Palas is a brilliant day out for all the family – whatever the weather. Enter a steamy environment full of lush vegetation and waterfalls, with live butterflies flying all around you. If you're brave enough, join the popular animal handling sessions to get up close and personal with snakes and lizards of all kinds. And after you've seen all the animals and explored the nature trail, toddlers can let off steam in the indoor play area, while older children can play on the giant bouncy castle. Perfect!