The Smallest House in Great Britain, Conwy
Discover the charm of Britain’s tiniest home, a 16th-century red cottage on Conwy’s quay that tells a big story in a very small space.
Nestled on Conwy’s historic quay, The Smallest House in Great Britain is a striking red-painted 16th-century cottage measuring just 72 inches wide and 122 inches high. Once home to a succession of residents, including a 6-foot-3-inch fisherman who outgrew its cramped quarters, this tiny house is a unique glimpse into Welsh heritage and architectural ingenuity. Now a cherished tourist attraction, it offers a rare chance to step inside one of the nation’s most extraordinary dwellings.
A brief summary to The Smallest House In Great Britain
- 10 Lower Gate St, Conwy, LL32 8BE, GB
- +441492573965
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Budget
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-6 pm
- Thursday 10 am-6 pm
- Friday 10 am-6 pm
- Saturday 10 am-6 pm
- Sunday 10 am-6 pm
Local tips
- Visit during opening hours from 10am to 6pm daily to experience the house with a traditional Welsh guide present.
- Wear comfortable shoes as the house is small and the interior spaces are cramped and accessed by a narrow ladder.
- Combine your visit with a walk along Conwy’s medieval town walls and nearby castle for a full historical experience.
- Photography is popular outside the house; inside space is limited, so be mindful of other visitors.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take local bus services from Conwy town center to the quay area; buses run frequently with a journey time of about 10-15 minutes. Tickets cost approximately £2-£4 one way. Note that services may be less frequent on Sundays.
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Train
Conwy railway station is about 1.5 km from the Smallest House. From the station, a 20-minute walk along flat terrain leads to the quay. Trains connect Conwy with Llandudno and Bangor, with fares starting around £5.
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Car
Driving to Conwy is straightforward via the A55 expressway. Parking is available in nearby public car parks within a 5-10 minute walk. Expect parking fees of around £3-£5 for a few hours. The quay area is pedestrianized, so vehicles cannot access the immediate vicinity.
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Walking
For those staying in Conwy town center, a pleasant 15-20 minute walk along paved streets and the waterfront leads to the Smallest House. The route is accessible and suitable for most mobility levels.
The Smallest House In Great Britain location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Smallest House In Great Britain
A Remarkable Architectural Curiosity
The Smallest House in Great Britain, also known as the Quay House, is a diminutive red cottage located on Lower Gate Street in Conwy, Wales. Built in the 16th century as an infill property between two rows of houses abutting the medieval town walls, it occupies a narrow gap that was left when the two rows didn’t quite meet. Measuring approximately 72 inches (1.8 meters) wide by 122 inches (3.1 meters) high, the house’s compact size makes it an architectural oddity and a beloved landmark. Its bright red facade stands out vividly against the historic stonework of Conwy’s quay, drawing visitors from around the world.Life Inside the Tiny Dwelling
Despite its minuscule footprint, the house was lived in continuously from the 1500s until 1900. The ground floor contains a living area with a coal bunker, an open fireplace, and a small water tap tucked behind the stairs. A steep, narrow ladder leads to the upstairs bedroom, which is so cramped that visitors today can only view it from below due to structural safety concerns. The last occupant was Robert Jones, a fisherman who stood 6 feet 3 inches tall and found the house increasingly unsuitable for his stature. His eventual eviction followed a council inspection that declared the property unfit for habitation, ending its residential use.Preservation and Recognition
The house was nearly lost to demolition until Roger Dawson, editor of the North Wales Weekly News, recognized its cultural and historical value. He helped secure its place in the Guinness Book of Records as the smallest house in Great Britain after touring the country to confirm no smaller house existed. The property remains in the hands of the original landlord’s descendants, who maintain it as a museum-like attraction. Visitors can enter for a modest fee and learn about its fascinating history from a Welsh guide often dressed in traditional costume.Visiting Experience and Atmosphere
Stepping inside the house offers a unique sensory experience of cramped living quarters from centuries past. The scent of aged wood and coal lingers, while the vivid red walls and tiny furnishings evoke a strong sense of place and time. The house’s location near Conwy Castle and the waterfront adds to its charm, making it a popular stop for those exploring the medieval town. The atmosphere is intimate and contemplative, inviting reflection on the lives of those who called this tiny space home.Community and Cultural Significance
Beyond its architectural uniqueness, the Smallest House symbolizes the resourcefulness and resilience of Conwy’s residents through history. It stands as a testament to the town’s maritime heritage and the social history of working-class life in Wales. The house is affectionately nicknamed “Smalls” by locals and continues to be a source of pride and curiosity. Its preservation highlights the importance of safeguarding small-scale historical sites that offer rich narratives about everyday life.Legacy and Ongoing Appeal
Today, the Smallest House attracts thousands of visitors annually, fascinated by its record-holding status and quaint charm. Its enduring appeal lies in the contrast between its tiny size and the big stories it holds. The house provides a tangible connection to the past and invites visitors to imagine the challenges and simplicity of living in such a confined space. It remains a unique cultural landmark within the tapestry of British heritage.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Statue of Llywelyn the Great
0.2 km
A bronze tribute in Conwy honoring Llywelyn the Great, the 13th-century Welsh prince who shaped a nation and united Wales.
Conwy Town Walls
0.3 km
Walk the majestic medieval Conwy Town Walls for stunning views and a journey through Welsh history within a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Historical Wales
4.5 km
Discover the essence of Welsh culture through unique gifts and handcrafted treasures at Historical Wales in Llandudno.
Llandudno Bandstand
4.6 km
Historic open-air bandstand on Llandudno’s Promenade, blending seaside charm with a century of musical heritage.
Hafod
4.8 km
Explore Hafod in Llandudno, a historic Welsh estate blending picturesque landscapes with rich 18th-century heritage and tranquil coastal charm.
Llandudno Cenotaph
4.9 km
A dignified obelisk on Llandudno’s Promenade honoring local heroes from world conflicts with serene sea views.
Pen-y-Dinas Hillfort
5.3 km
Explore Pen-y-Dinas Hillfort, an ancient Iron Age fortress on the Great Orme offering rich history and breathtaking coastal panoramas.
St. Tudno's Church
6.2 km
Explore the serene St. Tudno's Church in Llandudno, a historic gem offering breathtaking views, captivating gravestones, and a tranquil atmosphere.
Zip World Conwy
10.4 km
Experience the thrill of zip-lining and adventure sports at Zip World Conwy, where stunning scenery meets exhilarating fun in the heart of Wales.
Mynydd Marian Local Nature Reserve
10.8 km
Immerse yourself in the stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife of Mynydd Marian Local Nature Reserve, a true gem in North Wales.
Cadair Ifan Goch
10.9 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and rich history of Cadair Ifan Goch, a stunning landmark in Wales, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Aber Falls
13.7 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Aber Falls, a stunning natural wonder in Snowdonia National Park, perfect for hiking and exploring.
Trwyn Du Lighthouse
14.5 km
Explore the stunning Trwyn Du Lighthouse, a historic landmark offering breathtaking coastal views and a glimpse into Wales' maritime heritage.
Trwyn Penmon Point
14.5 km
Discover the breathtaking coastal views and historical charm of Trwyn Penmon Point, a must-visit scenic destination on Anglesey's stunning coastline.
Gwrych Castle
14.7 km
Explore the enchanting Gwrych Castle in Abergele, a historical gem surrounded by lush gardens and breathtaking landscapes, perfect for history buffs and nature lovers alike.
Unmissable attractions to see
Plas Mawr
0.2 km
Explore Plas Mawr, Britain’s finest Elizabethan townhouse, with its stunning plasterwork, historic gardens, and rich Tudor heritage in the heart of Conwy.
Conwy Castle
0.3 km
Explore Conwy Castle, a majestic 13th-century fortress with breathtaking views of Snowdonia and the Welsh coast, steeped in history and heritage.
National Trust - Conwy Suspension Bridge
0.4 km
Step onto Thomas Telford’s iconic 19th-century suspension bridge for breathtaking views of Conwy Castle and the River Conwy estuary.
Marl woods fairy door
2.0 km
Experience the magic of Marl Woods Fairy Door in Llandudno Junction, a whimsical attraction perfect for families and nature lovers alike.
The Smithy
2.3 km
Historic 17th-century country house hotel with exquisite gardens, spa luxury, and stunning views of Snowdonia and Conwy Castle near Llandudno.
Box Cottage
2.3 km
Historic charm meets luxury spa retreat amidst 200 acres of scenic Welsh parkland near Llandudno.
Bank Prospect
2.3 km
A secluded self‑catering cottage on the Bodysgallen Hall estate, perfect for a peaceful countryside escape with easy access to Llandudno and Snowdonia.
St Mary's Well
2.7 km
Discover the tranquil and historic St Mary's Well in Llanrhos, a sacred spring steeped in Welsh spiritual heritage and poetic tradition.
Glan Gloddaeth Woodland Park
3.0 km
A peaceful woodland retreat in the heart of Llandudno, offering serene walks and seasonal natural beauty year-round.
Wales Coastal Path (West Shore Sand Dunes)
3.3 km
Tranquil sandy beach with stunning views, dunes, and family-friendly charm on Llandudno’s peaceful west shore.
Llandudno Footpath 28 (Public Right of Way)
3.3 km
A quiet public footpath on the edge of Llandudno, linking town and countryside with peaceful views of the Great Orme and Conwy Bay.
Nant-y-Gamar
3.7 km
Discover tranquil woodland trails and breathtaking panoramic views at Nant-y-Gamar, Llandudno’s serene hiking haven.
TheBoyandTheShed
3.9 km
Discover tranquility at The Boy and The Shed, a hidden garden gem in Llandudno perfect for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful escape.
Trinity Park
4.0 km
Explore the picturesque landscapes and serene atmosphere of Trinity Park in Llandudno – a perfect retreat for nature lovers and families alike.
Queen's Park
4.2 km
A serene and family-friendly green haven in Llandudno, perfect for leisurely walks, play, and community gatherings.
Essential places to dine
The Jackdaw
0.1 km
An intimate Michelin-recommended restaurant in Conwy serving innovative, seasonal Welsh cuisine with a cool Scandinavian aesthetic.
Paysanne
1.4 km
Experience authentic French cuisine in a warm, family-run bistro nestled in the heart of Deganwy, where tradition meets seasonal freshness.
Signatures Restaurant
2.0 km
Award-winning modern British cuisine with Welsh flair, served in an elegant theatre-style kitchen at Aberconwy Resort & Spa.
The Lilly
4.3 km
Charming seaside hotel and British restaurant offering cozy rooms with sea views and hearty homemade dishes in peaceful Llandudno.
Mamma Rosa
4.4 km
Authentic family-run Italian dining in the heart of Llandudno, offering homemade pastas, seafood, and steaks in a cozy, welcoming setting.
Carlo's Restaurant
4.5 km
Experience hearty Italian and steakhouse flavors in a welcoming Llandudno setting with generous portions and exceptional service.
Y Review Restaurant
4.5 km
Dine on exquisite Welsh cuisine with panoramic sea views at Llandudno’s acclaimed Y Review Restaurant within Venue Cymru.
Indulge restaurant
4.5 km
Experience modern British cuisine with seasonal flair and crafted cocktails in a stylish, family-run setting in the heart of Llandudno.
Dylan's
4.5 km
Iconic seafront seafood dining in a beautifully restored historic hotel with stunning views and a vibrant atmosphere in Llandudno.
Candles
4.5 km
Cozy British dining in Llandudno with classic tunes, attentive service, and a varied menu featuring a great-value three-course option.
White Tower
4.6 km
Experience authentic Greek flavors and warm hospitality at White Tower, Llandudno’s beloved spot for hand-tossed pizzas and traditional dishes.
Romeo Ristorante Italiano
4.6 km
Experience authentic Italian and Sicilian flavors with generous portions and a cozy Tuscan ambiance in the heart of Llandudno.
Taylor's Cafe Bar
4.6 km
Cozy family-owned cafe in Llandudno serving homemade meals and delightful treats in a friendly, relaxed setting with outdoor seating.
Forte's Restaurant
4.6 km
Experience hearty British classics and warm hospitality in the heart of Llandudno at Forte's Restaurant, a family-friendly dining gem.
Wildwood Restaurants Llandudno
4.7 km
Experience vibrant Italian flavors with stone-baked pizzas and fresh pasta in a bright, family-friendly setting near Llandudno’s pier.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Knight Shop
0.2 km
Step into history at The Knight Shop, Conwy’s premier destination for medieval armor, swords, and authentic historical collectibles.
The Collectors' Corner
4.3 km
Discover rare coins, comics, and vintage treasures at The Collectors' Corner, Llandudno’s beloved collectibles shop with a welcoming atmosphere.
Parc Llandudno Retail Park
4.3 km
A vibrant retail hub in Llandudno offering diverse shops, ample parking, and a welcoming shopping experience for all visitors.
Statement Home & Gifts
4.4 km
Discover unique, artistically curated home décor and furniture in the heart of Llandudno at Statement Home & Gifts.
Mandarin Gifts Co Ltd
4.5 km
Discover authentic Chinese-themed gifts and novelties with personalized service in the heart of Llandudno’s vibrant shopping district.
Chinese Themed Gifts & Novelties
4.5 km
Discover unique Chinese-inspired gifts and novelties in a welcoming Llandudno shop filled with charm and cultural treasures.
Parker's Welsh Rock & Gifts
4.5 km
Explore the beauty of nature with unique geological specimens and local gifts at Parker's Welsh Rock & Gifts, Llandudno's hidden gem.
Love & Light by Sonia
4.5 km
Discover unique healing crystals, spiritual gifts, and holistic wellness in the heart of Llandudno’s charming town centre.
Italian World
4.5 km
Discover authentic Italian handcrafted gifts and Venetian artistry in the heart of Llandudno’s Mostyn Street.
Kingdom Krafts
4.5 km
Discover ethical gifts, fairtrade treats, and community warmth at Kingdom Krafts, Llandudno’s cherished fairtrade and Christian shop.
Billy Lal Bargain Centre
4.5 km
Affordable gifts, toys, and homewares in the heart of Llandudno’s bustling Mostyn Street.
The Gift Company
4.5 km
Llandudno's premier destination for distinctive gifts, home décor, and quality furnishings in a welcoming, centrally located shop.
Givealittle
4.5 km
Discover unique artisan gifts and Welsh craftsmanship in a warm, inviting boutique nestled in the heart of Llandudno.
The Crystal Hut Clonmel Street Llandudno
4.6 km
Discover the magic and energy of healing crystals at The Crystal Hut, Llandudno’s premier spiritual gift boutique.
The X Factory Outlet
4.6 km
Explore the best of fashion at The X Factory Outlet in Llandudno, where style meets affordability in a charming seaside town.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Nevill
4.3 km
A lively, community-focused sports pub in Llandudno offering great drinks, multiple screens, and a welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
Cask and Apple
4.4 km
A cozy Llandudno pub celebrated for its quality cask ales, ciders, and welcoming, accessible atmosphere on Mostyn Avenue.
The Ascot Tapproom
4.4 km
A cosy micropub in Llandudno offering expertly curated craft ales and real beers in a friendly, intimate setting.
The Queen's Head
4.4 km
A charming village pub in Glanwydden offering hearty British fare, cozy ambiance, and a welcoming community spirit near Llandudno Junction.
Someplace Else
4.4 km
A cozy, community-loved bar in Llandudno serving quality food and drinks with a relaxed, dog-friendly atmosphere.
The King's Arms
4.5 km
Experience authentic Welsh pub culture with real ales, lively events, and a welcoming atmosphere at The King's Arms in Llandudno.
Cross Keys
4.5 km
A lively, traditional pub in Llandudno offering great drinks, sports on HD screens, live music, and a welcoming dog-friendly atmosphere.
TAPPS Micropub
4.5 km
A cozy micro pub in Llandudno offering an excellent range of real ales, craft beers, and friendly service in a quirky, welcoming setting.
The County Bar
4.5 km
A welcoming Llandudno pub offering real ales, live football, and a relaxed atmosphere perfect for locals and visitors alike.
The Alex Bar & Grill - Llandudno
4.5 km
A lively grill and bar in Llandudno offering signature burgers, pizzas, local craft beers, and a warm, family-friendly atmosphere all day long.
The Magic Bar Live
4.6 km
Experience enchanting magic, delicious dining, and vibrant entertainment at Llandudno’s unique family-run Magic Bar Live.
3D Management Pubs
4.7 km
Affordable, lively pub in Llandudno’s historic Cocoa House, perfect for a classic British social experience near the town center.
Town House Cafe Bar
4.7 km
A classic, welcoming pub in Llandudno offering hearty meals, local drinks, and a friendly atmosphere in a casual setting.
The Palladium - JD Wetherspoon
4.8 km
Historic 1920s theatre turned lively Wetherspoon pub offering affordable food and drinks in the heart of Llandudno.
Carlton
4.8 km
A lively traditional British pub in Llandudno’s heart, offering classic fare, vibrant events, and warm local hospitality.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Broadway Boulevard
4.4 km
Llandudno’s largest nightclub, Broadway Boulevard pulses with vibrant music, themed events, and a lively party atmosphere in the heart of town.
Club 147
5.0 km
Llandudno’s energetic nightclub and sports bar offering electronic beats, pool, and a lively social scene in the town centre.
Bentley’s Sports Bar & NightClub
19.5 km
Experience Towyn’s vibrant nightlife at Bentley’s Sports Bar & NightClub, where music, dancing, and great vibes come alive every weekend.
Trilogy Nightclub
20.5 km
Experience Bangor’s vibrant nightlife at Trilogy Nightclub, where diverse music rooms and lively weekend parties create unforgettable nights.
Academi
21.1 km
Bangor’s beloved student nightclub, offering vibrant music, a welcoming atmosphere, and a central role in university social life.
Hidden Nightclub
22.7 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Hidden Nightclub in Rhyl, where electrifying music and an energetic atmosphere create unforgettable nights out.
Victory Club
22.7 km
Rhyl’s last members-only club, offering traditional real ale, live music, and a welcoming community atmosphere steeped in 70 years of history.
The Tiki Room
22.7 km
Rhyl’s vibrant tropical-themed nightclub with dual music floors offering modern beats and 80s classics for lively weekend nights.
Esplanade Social Club
24.3 km
A lively coastal social club in Rhyl offering themed nights, local ales, and a welcoming community atmosphere near the beach.
Pendyffryn Club
28.0 km
A cosy and tranquil social club in Prestatyn offering a friendly atmosphere to enjoy a pint and good company without distractions.
Central Beach Club
28.5 km
Discover Central Beach Club in Prestatyn, where local charm meets coastal views, offering delicious food, refreshing drinks, and a vibrant atmosphere.
The Wings Club
29.3 km
Discover the charm of Denbigh at The Wings Club, a vibrant social hub offering a taste of local culture and community spirit.
Wellman's Sports & Social Club
31.9 km
Llangefni’s vibrant social hub with lively entertainment, spacious dance floor, and a welcoming community atmosphere.
The Market Vaults
32.2 km
Experience the warm ambiance and local flavors at The Market Vaults, a beloved pub in the heart of Llangefni.
The Foundry Vaults
32.3 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and exciting entertainment at The Foundry Vaults, Llangefni's premier pub for drinks, karaoke, and sports.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Unique
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
