Getting to Know North Wales: Conwy

Conwy has got to be one of Britain most well preserved medieval towns! It is a truly unique location. Encapsulated within the castle walls of the town are cobbled streets, incredible local businesses, and fascinating history – and that is only the half of it. So, what are you to expect from visiting?

Food

One thing tourists look forward too when visiting new places is finding the best places to eat! Thankfully, there are plenty of cafes, bakeries, and restaurants Conwy has to offer. Also, most places allow dogs to come inside with you – its that sort of friendly place. 

A local favourite is Popty Bakery on Castle street. You’ll feel like a child in a toy shop once you see the selection of goods on display. 

Shops

The great thing about Conwy is that a lot of the shops are quite specialised. If you are after some cheese, you wouldn’t go to the supermarket, but you’d visit the artisan cheese shop. If you wanted a nice bottle of wine, you might choose the wine and alcohol shop instead of the local off-license. Choices like this give you so many more options to decide upon, and the shop keepers will have the knowledge to suggest the best for you. 

Aside from food and drink shops, there are many boutique shops selling local crafts and gorgeous presents. 

What is Conwy famous for?

When people think of Conwy, immediately the castle comes to mind – and for good reason. Conwy Castle is part of a World Heritage Site, and towers over the town, dominating it with its authentic medieval atmosphere. The castles grandeur is known across the globe. 

Conwy is also famous for its seafood, and in particular, mussels. The mussels in Conwy are unique, from their colourful shell to the rich-tasting meat. Supposedly, the estuary the town lies on is why they are so delicious. The mixture fo the fresh river water meeting the sea gives the mussels their unique flavour. You can purchase fresh mussels on the harbour.  

But what about the history?

Conwy was just a small site occupied by a cistern monastery before King Edward I took over in 1283, building the castle and its walls. Most walls are still intact today, becoming a World Heritage Site in 1986. 

The Conwy river had always been an obstacle for travellers, so flash forward to 1822, and the Conwy Suspension bridge, designed by non-other than Thomas Telford was built to help people gain access. 

Conwy is now predominantly a tourist town, with great access from major northern cities in the UK via the A55. 

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