Shop ’til You Drop in North Wales!

Do you consider yourself a shopaholic? I know there’s little more I enjoy doing than hitting the high street to splash a little cash on some purchases. If, however, you’re hoping to combine shopping with a break away, I advise you visit North Wales, as the region is a great place for fashionistas looking to update their wardrobe.As you can pick up everything from replica medieval items to clothes made from organic materials, there is more than enough opportunity for you to burn a hole in your pocket. As such, you shouldn’t be surprised if you return home from your North Wales holiday accommodation laden with bags filled with new purchases.

The question is, however, which places offer the best shopping? Well, I think you’ll discover great shops all across the region, but I believe the following towns and villages are particularly worthwhile destinations to give your debit and credit cards a thorough workout.

Conwy
OK, so most tourists who come to Conwy will probably make a beeline for Conwy Castle. The 13th-century fortress is certainly hard to miss and it dominates the town’s skyline, but there is so much to capture your interest than this alone. Indeed, if you’re interested in getting a deeper insight into the area’s medieval past, I advise you stop by the Knight Shop.

This store specialises in replica products from this era and you’ll have the chance to buy everything from costumes based on the popular designs of the Middle Ages to authentic-looking swords. If you’re looking to buy something that is a little bit different, however, you could get your surname’s coat of arms printed on parchment paper.

Parents who go away on holiday are likely to be all familiar with their children complaining they have nothing to do, but I think taking a trip to the town’s Yesteryears shop will help to alleviate any boredom they claim to have. The store sells a range of traditional toys and games, including dollhouses and puppets, so it’s the perfect place for young and old kids alike to visit.

Abersoch
Fashion lovers will certainly enjoy spending some time in Abersoch, namely as the coastal village contains a number of independent boutiques. One that is particularly worth visiting, I feel, is First Light. As it sells a diverse array of men’s, women’s and children’s clothes, you should be able to buy something for everyone in your family, but what really make the store stand out is that everything sold has been made using sustainable and organic materials and processes.

There are also plenty of surf shops to visit, including OSD and West Coast Surf Shop, although given the village is a popular destination for water sports, such as sailing, wakeboarding and surfing, this shouldn’t come as too much of a surprise.

Dolgellau
Last, but by no means least, Dolgellau offers plenty of opportunity to make some indulgent purchases. At the Corris Craft Centre, you’ll get to watch local designers and artists produce handmade homewares and garden items before buying from them directly. Everything from traditional wooden furniture to dip candles can be bought here, while you can even have a go at painting pottery and making your own crafts.

At Medi, meanwhile, you can buy a range of gifts and handmade goods. As it specialises in shabby chic and vintage items, it’s the perfect destination if you want an unusual present to give to a loved one or if you are looking to freshen up your home’s decor.

If you’re considering taking a shopping break in North Wales, please let us know where you’re thinking of going by leaving a comment below.