Best Winter Walks in North Wales (With Kids)
There’s something really special about heading out when the air is crisp, the paths are quieter, and a cosy fire and hot chocolate are waiting for you at home.
Over the years, I’ve walked all of the routes below with my kids - some with a toddler in a carrier, others with little legs walking (and occasionally being carried!) part of the way.
These are the winter walks in North Wales that genuinely work for families. They’re scenic, manageable, and flexible enough to suit shorter daylight hours and unpredictable winter weather…
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Snowdonia National Park
Snowdonia National Park is breathtaking in winter, but when walking with kids I always stick to lower-level routes unless conditions are perfect. You still get incredible views, without the added risk that winter mountain weather can bring.
Llyn Padarn Circular Walk
Llyn Padarn is one of my go-to winter walks in North Wales I’ve walked this route multiple times as a family, and it’s one I always recommend because you can easily tailor the distance.
In winter, the lake is often beautifully still, and on clear days the surrounding mountains look stunning reflected in the water. The paths are wide and mostly flat, which makes it ideal for younger children or little ones in a carrier.
Another big plus is Llanberis itself - it’s perfect for warming up with a hot drink or lunch after your walk, which always helps keep kids motivated.
Why it’s great for winter with kids:
Flat, well-maintained paths
Easy to shorten
Excellent facilities nearby
Cwm Idwal Nature Reserve
Cwm Idwal feels like a proper adventure, and it’s a walk I’ve done with my children when conditions have been right. The dramatic scenery around the lake never fails to impress, even on grey winter days.
This one is best suited to families with older children who are confident walkers, as the terrain can be uneven and icy in winter. When it’s calm and clear, though, it’s one of the most memorable winter walks in North Wales.
Top tip: Always check the weather carefully before heading here in winter - it’s worth waiting for the right day.
Why it’s great for winter with kids:
Incredible scenery that keeps kids engaged
Clearly defined paths around the lake
Feels adventurous without being a full mountain hike
Accommodation in Snowdonia
Pale Hall (Luxury Hotel)
Dinas Noddfa (Holiday House - Sleeps 6)
Bryn Derwen Lodge (Lodge - Sleeps 6)
Anglesey Coastal Path
The Anglesey Coastal Path is one of my favourite places for winter walks in North Wales. Outside of summer, it’s quieter, calmer and far more enjoyable with children.
South Stack Lighthouse Walk
I’ve walked the South Stack Lighthouse route with my kids on cold, blustery days, and it’s always memorable.
The lighthouse, steps and crashing waves make it exciting even though it’s a relatively short walk.
Why it’s great for winter with kids:
Short distance, perfect for cold days
Lighthouse spotting adds excitement
Dramatic winter seas keep kids interested
Newborough Forest and Llanddwyn Island
Newborough Forest is a go-to for winter family walks. I’ve spent many winter days here with my children, especially when it’s windy elsewhere, as the forest offers brilliant shelter.
Walking through the trees and then heading towards Llanddwyn Island always feels like an adventure, even if you only do part of the route.
Why it’s great for winter with kids:
Sheltered forest paths out of the wind
Flexible routes - go as far as suits your family
Mix of forest, beach and history to keep kids engaged
Accommodation in Anglesey
Sandy Mount House (5-star inn)
Swn Y Wylan (Holiday Cottage - Sleeps 4)
Shepherds Stone (Shepherd’s Hut - Sleeps 2)
The Clwydian Range
The Clwydian Range is one of my favourite areas for winter walks in North Wales with kids. The hills here are gentler than Snowdonia’s peaks, making them ideal for family-friendly winter hill walks that still feel rewarding.
Moel Famau Walk
Moel Famau is one of the most popular walks in the Clwydian Range, and it’s a route I’ve walked with my children many times. The wide, well-marked paths make it one of the most accessible winter hill walks in North Wales for families.
The remains of the Jubilee Tower at the summit are always exciting for kids, and on clear winter days the views stretch for miles.
Why it’s great for winter with kids:
Wide, well-maintained paths
Clear routefinding, even in winter
Big views with a manageable climb
Penycloddiau Walk
Penycloddiau is a quieter alternative to Moel Famau and a walk I’ve really enjoyed with my children when we’ve wanted to avoid crowds. The climb is steady, and the Iron Age hillfort at the top adds a sense of adventure that kids love.
Because it’s generally less busy, it feels calmer in winter, making it a great option for relaxed family walks.
Why it’s great for winter with kids:
Quieter than Moel Famau
Clear paths and gentle gradients
Interesting summit that keeps kids engaged
Accommodation near The Clwydian Range
Northop Hall Country House Hotel (4-star Hotel)
The Old Workshop (Holiday Home - Sleeps 2)
Moel Famau (Log Cabin - Sleeps 2)
Conwy
Swallow Falls Walk
Swallow Falls is at its most powerful in winter, and it’s always impressed my children. You can keep this walk very short or combine it with woodland paths for a longer wander.
Why it’s great for winter with kids:
Short, accessible route
Waterfall is extra dramatic in winter
Well-maintained paths with viewing points
Gwydir Forest Walks
Gwydir Forest is ideal for slower winter walks where kids can explore at their own pace. I’ve found it’s one of those places where children naturally enjoy just being outside, without needing a set destination.
Why it’s great for winter with kids:
Sheltered woodland paths
Range of easy routes to choose from
Quiet and peaceful outside peak season
Accommodation in Conwy
The Manor Boutique Hotel (Hotel)
Sandy Shell Cottage (Holiday Home - Sleeps 2)
Winter Walking Tips for Families
After years of winter walks in North Wales with kids, these are the things I always keep in mind:
Dress kids in warm layers with waterproof outer clothing
Check weather forecasts carefully, especially for mountain areas
Pack snacks (and more snacks!) and a hot drink
Plan shorter walks due to reduced daylight
Choose footwear with good grip for muddy or icy paths
These winter walks in North Wales have given us some of our best family days outdoors. With quieter paths, dramatic scenery and the right route choices, winter can be one of the best times to explore North Wales with children.
If you’re looking for family-tested winter walks in North Wales, these are all walks I’ve personally done with my kids and would happily recommend.
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