Site of Plaid Cymru’s Founding in Pwllheli
Historic birthplace of Plaid Cymru, where Welsh nationalism took root in 1925 at Pwllheli’s Y Maes.
Located at Y Maes in Pwllheli, this historic site marks the birthplace of Plaid Cymru, the Welsh nationalist party founded in 1925 during the National Eisteddfod. It commemorates the meeting of six men at Maes Gwyn café, who united two Welsh nationalist movements to form a party dedicated to promoting Welsh language, culture, and political independence.
A brief summary to Site of Plaid Cymru’s founding
- Y Maes, Pwllheli, LL53 5HA, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit on a Wednesday to experience the traditional market at Y Maes, enriching your historical visit with local culture.
- Explore nearby Pwllheli harbour to understand the town’s maritime heritage that shaped its community.
- Learn about the 1936 Penyberth protest linked to Plaid Cymru’s founders for deeper historical context.
- Combine your visit with the National Eisteddfod festival if timed during its hosting in Pwllheli for cultural immersion.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Train
Pwllheli railway station is located in the town center, approximately a 5-minute walk from Y Maes. Trains connect Pwllheli to Caernarfon and other regional hubs, with typical travel times from Caernarfon around 30-40 minutes. Services run several times daily, and tickets cost approximately £10-£15 one way.
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Bus
Local bus services connect Pwllheli with surrounding towns on the Llyn Peninsula and Caernarfon. Buses arrive at stops near Y Maes, with journey times varying from 30 minutes to over an hour depending on origin. Tickets generally cost between £3 and £7. Services are regular but less frequent on weekends.
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Car
Driving to Pwllheli is straightforward via the A499 or A497 main roads. Parking is available in nearby pay-and-display car parks around Y Maes, with charges typically £1-£3 per hour. Note that the town center can be busy during market days and festivals.
Site of Plaid Cymru’s founding location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Site of Plaid Cymru’s founding
Origins of Welsh Nationalism in Pwllheli
The site at Y Maes in Pwllheli is renowned as the birthplace of Plaid Cymru, the National Party of Wales, established in 1925. This pivotal moment occurred during the National Eisteddfod, when six men convened at the Maes Gwyn café to merge two recently formed nationalist groups: Byddin Ymreolwyr Cymru (the Home Rule Army of Wales) and Y Mudiad Cymreig (The Welsh Movement). Their aim was to create a political entity focused on safeguarding the Welsh language and securing political autonomy for Wales.The Founding Meeting and Early Ideals
Plaid Genedlaethol Cymru was founded as a broad coalition, attracting members from across the political spectrum, including monarchists and republicans. The party’s early platform emphasized cultural preservation and the promotion of Welsh identity amid growing concerns over English dominance. Saunders Lewis, often hailed as the party’s charismatic founder, alongside David John Williams and Lewis Valentine, played crucial roles in shaping its direction. Their activism later included dramatic protests such as the 1936 arson attack on the RAF bombing school at Penyberth, reflecting their pacifist and nationalist convictions.Pwllheli’s Historical and Cultural Context
Pwllheli itself is a town steeped in history, granted borough status in 1355 and known for its maritime heritage and vibrant weekly market held on Y Maes, the very square where Plaid Cymru’s founding meeting took place. The town’s name means “salt-water pool,” reflecting its coastal geography. Pwllheli has long been a stronghold of the Welsh language, which remains the first language of most locals, reinforcing the cultural significance of Plaid Cymru’s origins here.Legacy and Political Impact
Since its founding at this site, Plaid Cymru has evolved from a cultural movement into a significant political force advocating for Welsh self-government. The party won its first parliamentary seat in 1966 and has been instrumental in campaigns for the Welsh Language Act and the establishment of the Welsh Assembly. The founding site at Y Maes symbolizes the enduring spirit of Welsh nationalism and the ongoing struggle to preserve Wales’ unique cultural identity.Commemorative Significance Today
Today, the location at Y Maes is marked as a historical landmark, reminding visitors of the party’s roots and the broader narrative of Welsh political and cultural revival. It stands as a testament to the vision of those six founders and their commitment to Wales’ language and nationhood, inspiring subsequent generations of Welsh activists and politicians.Connection to Wider Welsh Heritage
The founding of Plaid Cymru in Pwllheli is intertwined with the town’s rich cultural fabric, including its role as a center for Welsh poetry and language. The site is part of a broader heritage landscape that includes the National Eisteddfod and other cultural institutions that continue to celebrate and promote Welsh traditions and identity.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Site of Plaid Cymru’s founding
0.0 km
Historic birthplace of Plaid Cymru, where Welsh nationalism took root in 1925 at Pwllheli’s Y Maes.
Braich Las / Trwyn y Gorlech
10.8 km
Discover the rugged coastal cliffs and ancient heritage of Braich Las / Trwyn y Gorlech on Wales’ scenic Llŷn Peninsula.
Gyrn Goch
13.0 km
A quiet coastal hamlet between Caernarfon Bay and the mountain Gyrn Goch, perfect for walkers and those seeking a peaceful Welsh retreat.
Aber-marchnad
13.1 km
Historic coastal market site at Criccieth, marked by resilience and scenic views beside the iconic castle ruins.
Ynys Cyngar
18.0 km
Historic maritime landmark on the Glaslyn estuary, offering scenic coastal views and a glimpse into North Wales’ slate and shipping heritage.
Ogof Ddeuddrws
21.0 km
Explore Ogof Ddeuddrws, a twin-entrance coastal cave near Pwllheli, where ancient geology meets stunning sea views and rugged Welsh coastline.
Trwyn y Gwyddel
25.2 km
Windswept Welsh headland offering dramatic coastal vistas and authentic peninsula heritage.
Snowdonia Adventure Activities
26.8 km
Discover outdoor adventure in Snowdonia with thrilling activities surrounded by stunning landscapes, perfect for all adventure enthusiasts.
Porth y Clochydd
27.8 km
Explore the historical landmark of Porth y Clochydd in Llanfairpwllgwyngyll, a captivating site steeped in rich Welsh heritage and scenic beauty.
Celtic cross
27.8 km
A serene Celtic Cross memorial honoring Welsh poet Syr John Morris-Jones, set beside historic St. Mary's Church with stunning Menai Strait views.
Tafarn Snowdonia Parc
28.3 km
Discover the heart of Welsh culture at Tafarn Snowdonia Parc, where delicious food meets stunning natural beauty in Snowdonia National Park.
Cadair y Cythraul
28.7 km
Discover the mysterious 'Chair of the Devil' in Llanfairpwllgwyngyll, a historic landmark steeped in Welsh myth and ancient landscape charm.
Caernarfon Tower
29.2 km
Explore Caernarfon Tower, a medieval fortress sentinel offering breathtaking views and rich Welsh history in a UNESCO World Heritage setting.
Pont Yr Aber
29.5 km
A scenic swing bridge linking Caernarfon Castle with woodland paths, offering iconic views and a touch of maritime theatre as boats pass beneath.
Caernarfon Castle
29.5 km
Explore Caernarfon Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site that showcases medieval architecture and offers stunning views of Wales' beautiful landscapes.
Unmissable attractions to see
Llŷn Peninsula
5.8 km
Discover the wild beauty and rich heritage of Wales’ Llŷn Peninsula, a coastal paradise of sweeping beaches, ancient sites, and vibrant Welsh culture.
Snowdonia Attractions
7.1 km
Discover the tranquil charm and stunning natural beauty of Snowdonia Attractions at Y Ffor, a gateway to North Wales’ mountains and coast.
Amgueddfa Forwrol Llŷn Maritime Museum
8.6 km
Discover the rich maritime heritage of the Llŷn Peninsula in a historic church-turned-museum with vivid exhibits and community stories.
Llŷn Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty
8.8 km
Experience the wild beauty and rich Welsh culture of the Llŷn Peninsula’s stunning coastal and rural landscapes.
Tre'r Ceiri Hillfort
9.6 km
Explore one of Britain’s best-preserved Iron Age hillforts with intact stone walls and panoramic views atop the Llŷn Peninsula’s rugged peaks.
Yr Eifl
9.8 km
Explore the dramatic triple peaks of Yr Eifl, where ancient hillforts meet sweeping sea views on Wales’s rugged Llŷn Peninsula.
Canolfan Dreftadaeth Heritage Centre
10.1 km
Explore the rich Welsh heritage and vibrant community spirit at Canolfan Dreftadaeth Heritage Centre in the heart of Pwllheli.
Amgueddfa Lloyd George Museum
10.7 km
Explore the life and legacy of David Lloyd George at this intimate museum nestled in his childhood home on the Llŷn Peninsula.
Moryn
11.7 km
Stylish beachfront apartment in Porthdinllaen with stunning sea views and direct beach access on the beautiful Llyn Peninsula.
Tŷ Coch Inn
11.8 km
Historic red pub on a sandy beach with stunning Irish Sea views, accessible only by foot across the golf course.
Gyrn Ddu
12.1 km
Explore Gyrn Ddu, a rugged hill on Wales’ Llŷn Peninsula offering ancient geology, open walking country, and breathtaking panoramic views.
Castell Cricieth
12.9 km
Dramatic medieval castle perched on a coastal headland with stunning views over Cardigan Bay and rich Welsh history.
Criccieth
12.9 km
Discover Criccieth, the Pearl of Wales, where medieval castles meet sandy shores and scenic coastal charm enchants every visitor.
Caeau Tan y Bwlch North Wales Wildlife Trust nature reserve
15.0 km
Discover the vibrant wildflower meadows and traditional haylands of Caeau Tan y Bwlch, a tranquil nature reserve rich in biodiversity and heritage.
National Trust - Plas yn Rhiw
15.3 km
Historic manor gardens with organic blooms and sweeping coastal views on Wales’ scenic Llŷn Peninsula.
Essential places to dine
Tremfan Hall
5.2 km
Historic coastal retreat in Llanbedrog offering modern British dining with stunning sea views and charming en-suite accommodation.
Aqua Beach Bar Restaurant
5.5 km
A contemporary beachside grill and bar with stunning coastal views, fresh seafood, and warm family hospitality in Llanbedrog.
Glyn Y Weddw Arms
5.5 km
A charming coastal pub in Llanbedrog offering fresh food, family-friendly fun, and traditional Welsh hospitality in a relaxed seaside setting.
Y Madryn
6.9 km
A cozy village pub and restaurant in Chwilog offering hearty home-cooked meals and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Bombay Joes
8.7 km
Experience authentic Indian cuisine with warm hospitality in the charming coastal town of Nefyn, North Wales.
The Potted Lobster
9.1 km
Fresh, locally sourced seafood served in a stylish coastal setting with vibrant atmosphere and welcoming service in Abersoch.
The Dining Room
9.2 km
Intimate Welsh bistro in Abersoch serving seasonal local dishes with fresh, refined flavors in a cozy, elegant setting.
Tir a Môr
13.0 km
Fresh seafood and warm Welsh hospitality combine at Tir a Môr, a cozy café and restaurant in scenic Criccieth.
Poachers Restaurant
13.1 km
Experience the heart of Welsh cuisine with fresh local flavors and warm hospitality at Poachers Restaurant in Criccieth.
Dylan's Criccieth
13.6 km
Experience fresh Welsh seafood and stunning sea views in a charming Art Deco setting at Dylan's Criccieth on the North Wales coast.
The Goat Inn - Tafarn Yr Afr
14.0 km
A cosy gastropub in Garndolbenmaen serving hearty Welsh fare with warm hospitality and a welcoming atmosphere.
Y Sgwâr
19.5 km
Experience warm hospitality and exquisite British-European cuisine in the heart of historic Tremadog at Y Sgwâr.
Yr Hen Fecws Restaurant and B&B
19.7 km
A cosy bistro and charming B&B in Porthmadog offering fine seasonal dining and warm Welsh hospitality in the heart of Snowdonia.
Good Mood restaurant
19.8 km
A stylish Italian and burger restaurant offering harbour views and vibrant dining within Porthmadog’s historic Madoc Yacht Club.
Pant Du Vineyard and Cafe
20.9 km
Discover Pant Du Vineyard and Cafe: Welsh wines, home-cooked meals, and stunning Snowdonia views in a family-friendly rural setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Pwyth Pistyll
0.1 km
Explore Pwyth Pistyll in Pwllheli for unique gifts and local treasures that capture the essence of Welsh culture.
Eifion Stores
12.9 km
Discover unique Welsh gifts and homewares in a charming Criccieth shop nestled near Snowdonia’s scenic beauty.
Atig Helens Attic
13.1 km
Discover unique antiques and handcrafted treasures in a warm, family-run shop nestled in the historic heart of Criccieth.
Boho Bazaar
19.7 km
A colourful, fair-trade gift shop on Porthmadog’s High Street, filled with bohemian clothing, handmade jewellery, essential oils and global-inspired décor.
The Original Factory Shop (Porthmadog)
19.8 km
Discover unbeatable deals on quality clothing, beauty, and footwear at The Original Factory Shop in the heart of Porthmadog.
Crafts North Wales
19.9 km
Discover authentic handmade crafts and local treasures at Crafts North Wales, a charming gift shop in the heart of Porthmadog.
Cymru Country Store
19.9 km
Discover authentic Welsh gifts and crafts at Cymru Country Store, Porthmadog’s charming souvenir shop on High Street.
Pop Local And Beyond
19.9 km
Discover authentic Welsh handmade gifts and homeware at Pop Local and Beyond, supporting local artisans in the heart of Porthmadog.
Ludicrous Allsorts
20.5 km
Quirky Welsh antique shop brimming with vintage treasures and nostalgic curiosities.
Hampers Store
20.5 km
A versatile gift and general store in Penygroes offering sweets, hardware, stationery, pet food, and DIY supplies under one welcoming roof.
Siop Hwylus Penygroes
20.7 km
Authentic Welsh flavors and everyday essentials await at Siop Hwylus Penygroes, your friendly local supermarket in the heart of Penygroes.
Wool & Gifts Harlech
21.1 km
Discover authentic Welsh wool crafts and charming gifts in the heart of historic Harlech’s Castle Square.
Castle Gift Shop
21.1 km
Discover authentic Welsh gifts and souvenirs at this charming family-run shop opposite historic Harlech Castle.
Pwts
21.1 km
Discover unique Welsh gifts and homewares at Pwts, a charming independent shop near Harlech Castle offering artisan treasures and local craftsmanship.
Seasons & Reasons
21.1 km
Discover the charm of Harlech at Seasons & Reasons, your ultimate DIY store for home improvement and creative projects.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Vics Boogie-Nights
3.2 km
Energetic bar in Abererch offering lively DJ nights and a friendly atmosphere for music lovers and nightlife seekers.
Ship Inn
6.1 km
A beloved traditional pub on the Llyn Peninsula offering warm hospitality, fresh seafood, and a family-friendly atmosphere by the sea.
Y Bryncynan, Morfa Nefyn
8.8 km
Cozy gastropub in Morfa Nefyn offering hearty British fare, award-winning ales, vegan options, and a welcoming coastal atmosphere.
Tafarn Y Plu
10.7 km
Historic Welsh pub in Llanystumdwy offering traditional fare, local ales, and a cozy atmosphere steeped in Welsh culture.
The Sun Inn
11.3 km
A charming traditional Welsh pub in Llanengan offering quality ales, hearty food, and a welcoming village atmosphere.
Bryn Hir Arms
12.8 km
Experience authentic Welsh pub culture with great beers, warm hospitality, and a lively atmosphere in the heart of Criccieth.
Prince of Wales
13.0 km
A welcoming traditional pub in Criccieth offering hearty meals, lively social atmosphere, and a true taste of Welsh coastal charm.
Tafarn Glanaber
17.1 km
Cozy coastal bar and restaurant in Morfa Bychan serving fresh Welsh seafood with stunning sea views and a warm, relaxed atmosphere.
Black Rock Beach Club
17.2 km
Stylish beachside dining and drinks with heated outdoor terrace, BBQ flavors, and a welcoming vibe in Morfa Bychan, North Wales.
The Union Inn
19.5 km
Historic 19th-century village pub in Tremadog offering cozy rooms, traditional Welsh fare, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Tafarn Pencei
19.7 km
Historic Grade II listed pub on Porthmadog’s harbour, serving traditional ales and diverse food in a welcoming Welsh atmosphere.
Red Lion
19.7 km
A welcoming traditional Welsh pub in Porthmadog with a spacious beer garden, pool table, and lively atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
The Ship Inn/ Y Llong
19.7 km
A traditional Welsh pub in Porthmadog offering hearty homemade meals and a warm, welcoming atmosphere steeped in maritime heritage.
The Australia
19.9 km
A lively Purple Moose Brewery pub in Porthmadog offering hearty pub fare, vegan options, and a welcoming atmosphere with local craft beers.
Clwb Llyn Bach
20.0 km
A lively pub and social club in Porthmadog offering spirited nights, friendly service, and a welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Cove
6.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at The Cove in Hafan Y Mor, North Wales, where music, dancing, and unforgettable memories await.
New Horizons
25.9 km
Experience vibrant nightlife and lively music at New Horizons, Dyffryn Ardudwy’s welcoming nightclub with spaces for all ages.
The Club Barmouth
30.5 km
Experience vibrant Saturday nights at The Club Barmouth, where stylish vibes meet lively music by the scenic Welsh coast.
Wellman's Sports & Social Club
41.1 km
Llangefni’s vibrant social hub with lively entertainment, spacious dance floor, and a welcoming community atmosphere.
The Victoria
41.2 km
Traditional Welsh pub and restaurant with scenic Menai Strait views, recently refurbished for a welcoming and modern experience.
The Foundry Vaults
41.6 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and exciting entertainment at The Foundry Vaults, Llangefni's premier pub for drinks, karaoke, and sports.
The Market Vaults
41.6 km
Experience the warm ambiance and local flavors at The Market Vaults, a beloved pub in the heart of Llangefni.
Academi
42.3 km
Bangor’s beloved student nightclub, offering vibrant music, a welcoming atmosphere, and a central role in university social life.
Trilogy Nightclub
42.8 km
Experience Bangor’s vibrant nightlife at Trilogy Nightclub, where diverse music rooms and lively weekend parties create unforgettable nights.
The Buffs
49.3 km
A welcoming social club in Holyhead offering lively nights, friendly faces, and a true taste of local nightlife on Cambria Street.
Albert Vaults
49.4 km
Experience authentic Welsh hospitality at Albert Vaults, a charming pub in Anglesey with a vibrant atmosphere and exceptional drinks.
Pier Pressure
57.1 km
Experience Aberystwyth’s vibrant nightlife at Pier Pressure, a lively nightclub set on the historic Royal Pier by scenic Cardigan Bay.
Yokoswnb
57.2 km
A vibrant, budget-friendly nightclub and bar in Aberystwyth, popular with students for its lively atmosphere and central location.
The Queens Head
58.2 km
Experience the heart of Amlwch at The Queens Head, a welcoming pub with local ales and hearty meals in a cozy atmosphere.
Stag Inn
58.4 km
Experience the charm of Anglesey at The Stag Inn, where delicious meals and a cozy atmosphere await you.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Tranquil
- Cultural Heritage
- Unique
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Myth & Legends
- Day Trip
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
