Top Day Trips from Bangor for Students
Bangor might be a small city, but it’s also your gateway to some of the most unforgettable day trips in North Wales and beyond. Whether you’re a nature lover, train enthusiasts or are simply in search of some local cultural hotspots, we’ve got you covered!
Planning day trips from Bangor is easier than many think, and the rewards for getting out and exploring what the city and its surroundings have to offer are certainly worthwhile.
Penrhyn Castle & Gardens
If you’re into history or just love a good castle, Penrhyn Castle is a must-see. It’s only a 10-minute bus ride from the city centre, but it feels like stepping into another world.
The castle grounds are some of the most tranquil spots you can find anywhere in the city, and the views of Eryri (Snowdonia) from the towers are not to be missed.
Students can benefit from discounted entry, and if you’re a National Trust member, it’s free to get in. Many visitors bring lunch to enjoy on the lawn, but the on-site café has a few tasty budget bites too. Surprisingly, the castle even has a strong Wi-Fi network, so if you’re looking for a unique study space this could be the place for you.
Top Tip: The castle isn’t the only National Trust property in the area, so make sure to explore them all!
Zip World Velocity – Bethesda
Fancy flying head-first over a quarry at over 100 miles per hour? That’s not an exaggeration. Zip World Velocity in Bethesda is the fastest zip line in the world, and it’s right on Bangor’s doorstep. It’s the kind of raw thrill you won’t forget in a hurry – if you’re brave enough to face the challenge.
You can get there by car or bus in about 20 minutes, and if you travel in a group, discounts are often available. Beyond the main zip line, the park is also home to a forest roller coaster and the famous underground trampoline centre known as ‘Bounce Below’.
For those wanting to spice up their day off and enjoy an activity that’s a little out of the ordinary, Zip World is the perfect destination.
Top Tip: Rent a GoPro helmet for the zip line —it’s worth it for the footage alone, and you’ll have a story to show, not just tell.
Menai Bridge & Anglesey Coastal Walk
Sometimes the best escapes are the simplest. A short walk or bus ride from Bangor will take you to the historic Menai Bridge, where you can make the crossing into Anglesey. It’s one of the easiest and most popular trips for students living in the city, and you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the Welsh coast.
Whether you’re in the mood for a solo ramble or a day of seaside chatter with friends, the path along the edge of Anglesey delivers. If you’re looking to finish your day off in style, consider visiting Dylan’s for one of the best pizza’s in North Wales – or simply grab a bag of chips and watch the world go by.
Top Tip: Wear comfy shoes and bring headphones if you’re walking solo. A podcast and the sound of the tide is a surprisingly perfect combo.
Betws-y-Coed
Hop on a direct train from Bangor and in just under an hour you’ll find yourself in the tranquility of Betws-y-Coed—a peaceful, tree-lined village knows locally as the ‘Gateway to Eryri’. It’s a place where nature seekers, train lovers, and pub goers collide.
If you love a walk with purpose, this is it. There’s a railway museum to poke around in, a few art shops worth exploring, and trails that don’t require expert gear to enjoy but still give you the full experience of hiking around the countryside.
Top Tip: Bring a journal or sketchbook. It’s the kind of place that unlocks a slower, more thoughtful rhythm—great for creative minds and reflective moments.
Llanberis & Snowdon (Yr Wyddfa)
This one’s for the true climbers, hikers, and anyone who loves a challenge. Llanberis is your starting point for the climb up Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon), the highest mountain in Wales. Whether you take the scenic train up or hike one of the many routes, you’re in for jaw-dropping views and a real sense of accomplishment you can take home with you.
If you’re going for the summit, give yourself at least 5–6 hours for the round trip. But even if you decide to admire the mountain from afar and stay in Llanberis, there’s still plenty to do: lakeside s
trolls, local cafés, and the National Slate Museum for some fantastic insight into Welsh history.
Top Tip: You can make a day in Llanberis more than just a day trip from Bangor, consider camping or ‘glamping’ sites around the area.
Hopefully you’re no longer wondering what the top day trips from Bangor are! North Wales promises to be your adventurous home from home, bringing you closer to the natural world and immersing you in Welsh culture.
These aren’t just day trips—they’re your chance to make memories, discover new places, and build your own version of the university experience.