North Wales Golf Club

The links course at North Wales Golf Club sits right on Conwy's doorstep, a proper seaside track that's been going since 1894. You're looking at 18 holes that take full advantage of the coast - the views across the water and toward Snowdonia aren't just decoration, they're part of what makes it tricky. Wind comes off the Irish Sea with real teeth, especially in winter.

This is a members' club primarily, though visitors can play if you've got a handicap certificate and book ahead. Even if golf isn't your thing, the course itself is worth a walk around the perimeter - the geography of it tells you everything about why seaside links evolved the way they did. The greens demand respect; it's not a beginner's course where you can bash the ball and hope.

If you're basing yourself at Waenfechan Glamping about six miles away, North Wales makes a proper full day. Play in the morning when the light's best, grab lunch at the clubhouse if they'll have you, then explore Llandudno proper afterwards. The town's Victorian promenade is a ten-minute drive, and Conwy Castle is practically on your lap from here.

Golfers will absolutely rate it. Casual visitors? You'll need to book a round to get inside the gates. Allows a good four and a half hours from tee to finish. Worth the detour if you've got a handicap.