Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Chester, England and Gwalchmai, Wales

Driving from Chester, England, to Gwalchmai, Wales, can be a beautiful journey, filled with stunning landscapes and serene countryside. The route takes around three hours, with a midway point at Colwyn Bay, CWY. However, there are several other interesting places to stop along the way. Here are five unexpected places to visit on this road trip.

1. Conwy Castle, Conwy

Conwy Castle is a mighty fortress that dates back to the 13th century. This impressive castle has withstood wars and sieges and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can explore its towers and turrets, as well as the castle walls, which offer stunning views of the surrounding areas. The town of Conwy is also worth exploring, with its charming shops and cafes.

If you wish to grab a bite after your exploration, we recommend trying some Welsh Rarebit, a kind of cheese toast that is a local delicacy.

2. Great Orme, Llandudno

Great Orme is a massive limestone headland that towers above the town of Llandudno. Visitors can take a cable car ride to the summit, which offers panoramic views of the town and the sea. On the way to the summit, visitors can stop at the Great Orme Country Park, which boasts several walking trails and a zoo.

Once you get to the top, you might want to try some Welsh Cakes - a delicious small cake, a specialty of this region.

3. Bodnant Garden, Conwy

Bodnant Garden is a beautiful National Trust site that features 80 acres of stunning gardens, woodland, and a rippling river. The garden is famous for its colorful flowers and plants, and visitors can explore its many paths and trails. From dazzling rhododendrons to stunning trees, the garden is the perfect place to unwind and appreciate the beauty of nature.

After enjoying a walk around the garden, visitors should try some Bara Brith, a type of fruitcake that is often served at tea time.

4. Caernarfon Castle, Caernarfon

Caernarfon Castle is a magnificent fortress that sits on the banks of the River Seiont. This castle is famous for being the location of Prince Charles's investiture as the Prince of Wales. Visitors can explore the castle's intricate details, including its towers, battlements, and Norman arches. The castle is an excellent place to learn about the history of Wales and its royal connections.

After touring the castle, we recommend trying some Cawl, a traditional Welsh soup made from beef or lamb and vegetables.

5. Anglesey Sea Zoo

The Anglesey Sea Zoo is a unique and fascinating attraction that is a must-visit for sea-life enthusiasts. The attraction features over 150 species of fish and invertebrates, including sea horses, rays, and sharks. Visitors can walk through a 40-meter-long tunnel and see sea creatures swimming overhead. The zoo also features several outdoor exhibits and the National Lobster Hatchery.

If you get hungry after visiting the sea creatures, try some Welsh Lamb. Grown on the island, Welsh Lamb has a unique taste and is considered a delicacy.

Conclusion

Driving between Chester, England, and Gwalchmai, Wales, can be a fun and educational road trip. By visiting these five unexpected places, you will get a glimpse of the stunning beauty of Wales and its rich culture. From magnificent castles to beautiful gardens, there is something for everyone on this road trip. Don't forget to indulge in some tasty Welsh delicacies along the way!