Plas Ffrancon

Rock climbing in North Wales tends to mean driving past Bangor into the valleys, and Plas Ffrancon is exactly where you'll end up if you're serious about it. This outdoor sports centre sits in Conwy and specializes in climbing - both on natural rock and indoor facilities - making it the go-to spot for anyone wanting to learn or improve beyond the basics.

The site itself pulls in climbers of all levels, from beginners doing their first belay to experienced types working through serious grades. If you're not a climber yourself, there's less to do here unless you fancy watching - it's not the kind of place where non-participants find much entertainment. That said, families with kids keen on adventure sports will find proper instruction available, and the setting in North Wales means the natural rock climbing nearby is genuinely world-class.

You'll want to allow at least a few hours if you're doing a session, longer if you're booking a course. Three Streams Glamping sits six miles away and makes a decent base if you're planning a proper climbing holiday. The area around Bangor is strong for outdoor pursuits generally, so you could easily combine Plas Ffrancon with walking or other sports.

Bit specialist, this one - not a casual attraction. But if climbing matters to you, it's well worth the journey into the valleys. Check their website for current opening hours and what facilities they've got running, as these can shift with seasons.