Things to Do in Bangor: A Tour of Wales' Oldest City

Small in size but mighty in character, Bangor is a city that can often fly under the radar. Located between the Menai Strait and the foothills of Eryri (Snowdonia), it may come as a surprise as to how much you can do on and around the Welsh coast.

Whether you’re new to the city or debating whether to make it your base camp come next term, we’ve got you covered with all the top things to do in Bangor for students who want to enjoy a uni experience that’s a little different.

What Makes Bangor Special?

Bangor is the oldest city in Wales, with roots stretching back to the 6th century. The region it’s located in (Gwynedd) is also a key part of the Mabinogion, the most famous of North Wales’ mythological tales. The kingdom of Gwynedd is mentioned heavily in the Fourth Branch of the story that centres around the tale of Math, Son of Mathonwy.

You can learn more about the Mabinogion on the Official Wales website. 

Aside from local myths, Bangor is also renowned for being home to one of the top universities in Wales and has a thriving student community. Its scenic location and accessibility to some truly wonderful destinations make it a unique city to live and study in.

The Top Things to do in Bangor (And Nearby)

1. Walk the Iconic Garth Pier

Garth Pier is one of the longest in Britain, stretching into the heart of the Menai Strait. It’s the kind of place that’s perfect for a mental health walk. Students in the city have often described it as their go to thinking spot when studying gets overwhelming. It is particularly refreshing at sunrise as you watch the light illuminate the distant mountains and sea below.

There are also plenty of quirky kiosks found along the pier, each housing independent businesses. Some serve ice cream, others showcase local artists. Bring a book, or a friend and enjoy some mindful moments.

2. Explore Penrhyn Castle

A famous National Trust property, Penrhyn Castle, resembles something out of a fantasy novel. This neo-Norman house has more than an impressive exterior, though. Inside, you’ll discover one of the finest art collections in Wales, including elaborate carvings, Victorian kitchens, and a dedicated steam railway museum.

The castle is often cited as the best thing to do in Bangor for anyone new to the city, and is a popular spot to snap some scenic pictures. If you’re up for a day of discovery, this is the place to be.

3. Cross the Menai Bridge to Anglesey

Just a short walk from the city centre is the Menai Suspension Bridge, one of the most iconic footbridges in the country. It connects mainland Wales to the island of Anglesey and was designed by the legendary Thomas Telford. It is a marvel of engineering and cannot be missed upon a visit to Bangor.

Once you’re on the other side, you’ll discover a world of hidden beaches, wildlife reserves, and the famous village of Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch (the longest in Europe). Welsh speakers will thank you for not asking them to pronounce it when you first meet them.

4. Take on the Eryri Slate Trail

If you’re the adventurous type that enjoys challenging hikes, then Bangor doesn’t disappoint! The Eryri Slate Trail is an 83-mile circular route through former slate mining communities, passing waterfalls, valleys, and dramatic cliffs.

The idea isn’t to do it all at once, but discover each segment over time. The trail starts in Bangor, making it your perfect base for the earlier parts of the walk. It’s best tackled in Spring or Summer when the light is longer and the weather has improved.

5. ZipWorld Bethesda

Just 20 minutes away from Bangor is the former quarry at Bethesda, now home to the fastest zipline in the world. ZipWorld’s Velocity 2 will catapult you over the pit at electrifying speeds of around 100mph, though some have claimed to have reached 125mph online.

Local students often make the journey outside of the city for special occasions, as it isn’t the cheapest activity on our list. This doesn’t take away from the fact that you’ll be thinking about it for weeks after you retouch ground.

It’s also important to book ahead as spots fill up quickly, especially during school holidays.

What Students Love Most About Bangor

A common theme among Bangor’s student population is just how accessible and varied the city can be. You’ll find some raving about fishing trips or others catching live music at Blue Sky Café.

Many also mention how they came for a specific course without realising the thrilling nature of what they could get up to. Many now enjoy outdoor pursuits such as paddleboarding, rock climbing and open water swimming. “You can do beach, mountains, forest, and city centre all in one afternoon,” says Reddit user @stoneandslate.

You can discover more amazing things to see in North Wales on the Go North Wales website. It’ll help further immerse you in the natural glory of the country you’re living in.

Practical Tips for Your Adventures

• Transport: Bangor has a regional train station that can take you along the Welsh coast. There’s also a local bus network for exploring local attractions.
• Weather: It’s the North Wales coast, pack for rain and shine, no matter the occasion.
• Budgeting: If you’re on a budget, Garth Pier is £1 to access, and Menai Bridge is free.
• Accommodation: Find student housing in the centre of Bangor and have access to all of the top things to do in North Wales.

Discover More to See and Do in Bangor

For more student lifestyle tips in Bangor and beyond, the Universal Student Living blog is the place to be. We’ve got guides on discount shopping, study tips, and city guides galore.

Now that you know what the best things to do in Bangor and the surrounding areas are, what will you get up to? Will it be flying down ziplines or strolling the grounds of a stately home? Whatever you choose to do, we know you’ll love it as much as we do.