North Wales, with its dramatic landscapes, rugged coastlines, and historic landmarks, is a region that offers some of the most breathtaking sunsets in the UK. Whether you’re atop a mountain peak, beside a tranquil lake, or standing on a sandy beach, the golden hour in North Wales is something truly special.
In this guide I suggest locations from inside Snowdonia/Eryri National Park, along the Llyn Peninsula, around Anglesey and along the North Wales Coast. I include some locations that are easy to access and others that require a little more effort.
Having lived and worked in North Wales for the last two years, here’s my guide to the best places to experience the magic of sunset in this stunning part of the world.
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13 Of The Best Places To Watch Sunset In North Wales
1. Llandudno
Llandudno, often referred to as the “Queen of the Welsh Resorts,” is a charming seaside town located on the North Wales coast. Known for its elegant Victorian and Edwardian architecture, Llandudno is nestled between two headlands, the Great Orme and the Little Orme. The town has long been a popular holiday destination and offers several locations from which to enjoy a spectacular sunset.
Great Orme
Llandudno’s Great Orme is a limestone headland that rises from the sea, offering panoramic views over the Irish Sea and the North Wales coast. As the sun begins its descent, the sky is painted in hues of orange, pink, and purple, reflecting off the water below. The summit of Great Orme is easily accessible by car, tram, or on foot, making it a popular yet serene spot to witness the day’s end.
Llandudno Pier
Stretching over 700 meters into the sea, Llandudno Pier is the longest in Wales. It’s a quintessential British pier, complete with amusements, shops, and stunning views of the coastline, especially at sunset.
Llandudno Promenade
This wide, flat promenade runs along the seafront and is perfect for a leisurely sunset stroll. The promenade is lined with Victorian hotels on one side and the beach on the other, offering a classic seaside experience.
West Shore beach
Llandudno West Shore Beach is a quieter, more tranquil alternative to the bustling North Shore Beach. Located on the western side of the Great Orme headland, this sandy beach offers stunning views across Conwy Bay and out towards Anglesey. As the name suggests, Llandudno West Shore Beach faces westward, making it an ideal location to watch the sunset over the sea.
2. Llynnau Mymbyr
Llynau Mymbyr is a pair of connected glacial lakes located in the heart of Snowdonia National Park, near the village of Capel Curig. These lakes, surrounded by the dramatic peaks of the Snowdonia mountain range, including the iconic Snowdon Massif, are renowned for their serene beauty and picturesque setting. The area around Llynau Mymbyr is a favourite among photographers, hikers, and nature lovers, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
As the sun sets, the calm waters of Llynau Mymbyr perfectly reflect the surrounding mountains, particularly the Snowdon Horseshoe which is a classic Snowdonia hike. The mirrored image of the peaks against the glowing sky creates a breathtaking and symmetrical landscape that is especially captivating at sunset.
Llynau Mymbyr is easily accessible from the nearby village of Capel Curig, making it a convenient spot for a quick evening visit. There are several vantage points along the A5 road, where you can pull over and enjoy the sunset without needing to hike far.
3. South Stack Lighthouse, Anglesey
Perched on the rugged cliffs of Holy Island in Anglesey, South Stack Lighthouse is one of the most iconic landmarks in North Wales. The sight of the lighthouse standing tall against the backdrop of a fiery sunset is nothing short of spectacular. The cliffs offer various vantage points to watch the sun dip below the horizon, casting golden light on the crashing waves below.
Take a walk down the 400 stairs to get a view close to the lighthouse or stay high for a more distant panorama. Visit during August to enjoy the mountainside covered in purple heather. Learn more about this lighthouse and others on Anglesey here.
There are two main car parks that offer parking for South Stack. They are both operated by the RSPB and are pay and display. However, at the end of the road, close to the top of the island there are several lay-bys that offer limited but free parking which are ideal for sunset. This will get busy on nice evenings so competition for space is fierce.
4. Snowdon/Yr Wyddfa Summit
At 1,085 meters (3,560 feet), Snowdon/Yr Wyddfa is the highest mountain in Wales and England, and watching the sunset from its summit is a truly awe-inspiring experience. On a clear day, the panoramic views stretch as far as Ireland, with the setting sun casting long shadows over the surrounding peaks and valleys.
Whether you hike up or take the Snowdon Mountain Railway, reaching the summit in time for sunset is well worth the effort. Although be warned, the trains don’t run beyond sunset so you’ll have to make your own way down the mountain.
Although not the shortest route to the summit, the Llanberis Path offers the easiest walking underfoot and is the best option for a sunset hike, certainly for the descent. Read more about hiking routes to the top of Snowdon here.
5. Llyn Padarn, Llanberis
Nestled in the heart of Snowdonia, Llyn Padarn is a glacially formed lake surrounded by towering mountains. In calm conditions, as the sun sets, the still waters of the lake mirror the vibrant sky, creating a tranquil and picturesque scene.
The best spot to watch the sunset is from the famed Lonely Tree on the south western shores as you can see Crib Goch glow in the evening sun, however this location is arguably better at sunrise. Another great spot is on the shore near the Llanberis Slate Museum, where you can also see the historic steam trains passing by, adding a touch of nostalgia to the moment.
6. Conwy Castle
Conwy Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the most well-preserved medieval fortresses in the UK and a popular castle to visit in North Wales. As the sun sets behind the castle’s imposing towers, the sky is filled with warm colors that contrast beautifully with the stone walls.
Enjoy sunset over the castle with a drink from Castle View Pub. Alternatively, from the town, walk across the River Conwy to enjoy views looking back towards the castle with reflections of the castle mirrored in the river.
7. Newborough Beach, Anglesey
Newborough Beach, with its expansive sands and views of the Snowdonia mountain, is a perfect location for a sunset stroll. As the sun sets over the Sea, the sky is set ablaze with color, creating a peaceful and romantic atmosphere. The wide, open space of Newborough Beach allows for unobstructed views, making it an ideal spot to watch the day transition into night.
The nearby Llanddwyn Island, home to a historic lighthouse, adds to the scenic beauty of the area. This is a tidal island which can be uncrossable at high tide so be sure to plan accordingly if you plan to watch sunset from this point.
There is ample parking at Newborough which is all pay and display.
8. Criccieth Castle
Overlooking Cardigan Bay, Criccieth Castle is a striking medieval fortress perched on a headland. The views from the castle are nothing short of spectacular, especially at sunset. The sun sets over the bay, casting a golden glow on the ruins and illuminating the sea below.
The combination of history and natural beauty makes Criccieth Castle a must-visit for sunset lovers. The nearby beach also offers a great vantage point for watching the sun dip below the horizon.
9. Barmouth
Barmouth, known as Abermaw in Welsh, is a picturesque seaside town located on the west coast of Wales, at the mouth of the Mawddach Estuary. It is part of the Snowdonia National Park, offering a stunning combination of mountains and coastline. Barmouth is renowned for its expansive sandy beach, charming harbor, and breathtaking views, making it a popular destination for both relaxation and outdoor activities.
Barmouth Beach
The long, sandy beach provides an unobstructed view of the horizon, making it an ideal spot to watch the sunset. As the sun dips into the Irish Sea, the sky often fills with vibrant colors, reflecting off the waves and creating a serene atmosphere.
Barmouth Bridge
Barmouth Bridge is a historic railway viaduct crossing the Mawddach Estuary. The bridge offers stunning views of the estuary, mountains, and coastline. As the sun sets, the sky is reflected in the calm waters of the estuary, creating a breathtakingly beautiful scene. Walking across the bridge during sunset provides a unique perspective, with the sun setting behind the mountains and casting long shadows over the landscape.
10. Dinas Dinlle
Dinas Dinlle, a long sandy beach on the coast of North Wales, offers expansive views across the Llyn Peninsula and Snowdonia. The wide-open space and unobstructed horizon make it an ideal location to watch the sunset. As the sun sinks lower, the beach is bathed in a warm, golden light, creating a peaceful and serene atmosphere. The southern end of the beach is particularly quiet, making it perfect for those looking to enjoy the sunset in solitude.
11. Talacre Lighthouse
Talacre Beach is a beautiful stretch of golden sand located on the north coast of Wales, near the village of Talacre in Flintshire. Known for its expansive shoreline and tranquil atmosphere, Talacre Beach is a popular destination for both locals and visitors seeking a peaceful seaside escape. The beach is particularly famous for its iconic Point of Ayr Lighthouse, which stands as a striking landmark against the natural beauty of the coastline.
The Point of Ayr Lighthouse, dating back to 1776, is one of the most photographed landmarks in North Wales. As the sun sets, the lighthouse creates a dramatic silhouette against the vibrant colors of the sky, making it a perfect subject for photography or simply to enjoy the view.
The wide-open space of Talacre Beach offers unobstructed views of the horizon, allowing you to fully appreciate the sunset as it sinks into the Irish Sea. The flat sands and gentle waves create a serene environment, ideal for a relaxing evening.
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12. Glyder Fach
The summit of Glyder Fach offers panoramic views across Snowdonia, including stunning vistas of nearby Tryfan, Llyn Ogwen, and the wider Glyderau range. The elevation allows for an expansive view of the surrounding peaks and valleys, which are bathed in golden light as the sun sets.
The Cantilever Stone is an iconic rock formation near the summit of Glyder Fach, where a large slab of rock is perfectly balanced on smaller rocks. Watching the sunset from here provides a dramatic and unique foreground for photography, with the stone creating a striking silhouette against the colorful sky. Perhaps even more dramatic is the nearby summit of Castell y Gwynt. The jagged rocks of this peak perfectly frame the highest mountain in Wales, Yr Wyddfa, in the distance.
Be warned though that the Glyderau range is rugged and the terrain can be challenging, especially after dark. Bring a headlamp for the descent and be prepared for changing weather conditions. The most common route starts from Ogwen Cottage, following the path up through Cwm Idwal, via the Devil’s Kitchen and Glyder Fawr. A shorter route starts from Gwen Gof Uchaf campsite and ascends through Cwm Tryfan and the Miners Track directly to Glyder Fach summit.
Discover more routes to Glyder Fawr and Glyder Fach in this post.
13. Trefor Sea Stacks
The Trefor Sea Stacks (Ynys Fawr), located on the northern coast of the Llyn Peninsula in North Wales, are striking rock formations that rise dramatically from the Irish Sea. These sea stacks, along with the rugged cliffs, are part of the area’s wild and unspoiled coastline and are home to colonies of cormorants and shags. I also spotted seals during my visit so keep your eyes poised for wildlife in the water as well.
The stacks can be viewed after taking a short walk westwards from Tefor Beach. This walk follows a path across the clifftops which can be dangerous in places. Care should be taken, especially after dark.
Final Thoughts
North Wales is a region of unparalleled natural beauty, and these 13 locations offer some of the best places to watch the sunset. Each spot has its unique charm, whether it’s the rugged cliffs of Anglesey, the serene lakes of Snowdonia, or the historic castles that dot the landscape. Wherever you choose to watch the sunset, hopefully you’ll to be treated to a spectacle of colour and light that will stay with you long after the sun has dipped below the horizon.