Great Orme Summit Complex, Llandudno
Breathtaking summit views, family fun, and historic charm atop Llandudno’s Great Orme.
Perched 679 feet above sea level, the Great Orme Summit Complex offers breathtaking panoramic views of Llandudno, Snowdonia National Park, the Isle of Anglesey, and the Irish Sea. This vibrant summit hub features a café, a boxing-themed bar, a gift shop, children’s playground, mini golf, and easy access to the historic Great Orme Tramway and Cable Car. It is an ideal spot for families, hikers, and nature lovers seeking scenic vistas and engaging activities.
A brief summary to Great Orme Summit Complex
- Bishop's Quarry Rd, Llandudno, LL30 2XF, GB
- +441492860963
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10:15 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 10:15 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 10:15 am-4 pm
- Thursday 10:15 am-4 pm
- Friday 10:15 am-4 pm
- Saturday 10:15 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10:15 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit on a clear day for the best panoramic views stretching to Snowdonia and the Isle of Anglesey.
- Combine your visit with a ride on the historic Great Orme Victorian Tramway or the scenic cable car.
- Bring sturdy shoes if you plan to explore the walking trails around the summit and beyond.
- Families should take advantage of the children’s playground and mini golf for a fun break.
- Check weather conditions before visiting, as the cable car may close in strong winds.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Tramway
The Great Orme Victorian Tramway departs from Victoria Station in Llandudno and takes about 15-20 minutes to reach the summit. Tickets are purchased on site, with return trips sometimes limited after 3pm. The tramway accepts folding non-powered wheelchairs but not electric wheelchairs or scooters.
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Cable Car
The aerial cable car runs from the Llandudno promenade to the summit, offering a scenic 10-minute ride. It operates seasonally and may close in high winds. Tickets are available at the station, and the service is suitable for most visitors but check accessibility details in advance.
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Car
Visitors can drive to the summit via the Great Orme Marine Drive toll road, which is open year-round. Parking is available near the Summit Complex, but spaces can be limited during peak times. The toll fee is approximately £5, payable on arrival.
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Walking
Several well-marked footpaths lead to the summit from Llandudno and surrounding areas. Walking times vary from 45 minutes to over an hour depending on the route. Trails offer rewarding coastal views but require sturdy footwear and moderate fitness.
Great Orme Summit Complex location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Windy Conditions
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Great Orme Summit Complex
A Majestic Vantage Point Above Llandudno
The Great Orme Summit Complex crowns the limestone headland known as the Great Orme, standing 679 feet above sea level. From this commanding position, visitors are treated to sweeping views stretching across the Victorian seaside town of Llandudno, the rugged peaks of Snowdonia National Park, the tidal expanse of the Irish Sea, and the distant Isle of Anglesey. The panoramic vistas are a highlight for photographers and nature enthusiasts alike, offering a spectacular visual feast that changes with the seasons and weather.A Hub of Amenities and Entertainment
The Summit Complex itself is a lively cluster of facilities designed to cater to visitors’ needs and enhance their experience. It houses a café and restaurant where guests can relax and enjoy refreshments while soaking in the views. A unique boxing-themed bar pays homage to local sporting hero Randolph Turpin, adding a touch of local culture and history. The gift shop offers a variety of souvenirs, perfect for commemorating a visit to this iconic location. Families will appreciate the children’s playground and mini golf course, providing fun and entertainment for younger visitors.Access and Nearby Attractions
Reaching the summit is an adventure in itself, with several options available. The historic Great Orme Victorian Tramway offers a charming and nostalgic ascent, while the aerial cable car provides a scenic and thrilling ride. For those who prefer to explore on foot, well-marked walking trails wind their way up the headland, rewarding hikers with stunning coastal scenery. There is also road access for cars and local buses serving the area. Nearby, the Great Orme Country Park Visitor Centre offers interactive displays and films about the natural and cultural heritage of the region, while the ancient Bronze Age copper mines provide a fascinating glimpse into the area's prehistoric past.Wildlife and Natural Environment
The Great Orme is also renowned for its unique wildlife, most famously the wild Kashmiri goats that roam freely across the headland. Birdwatchers and nature lovers can enjoy spotting a variety of species in this protected environment. The combination of rugged cliffs, coastal flora, and diverse fauna makes the summit area a valuable nature reserve and a tranquil escape from urban bustle.Visitor Experience and Atmosphere
The atmosphere at the Summit Complex is a blend of relaxed enjoyment and outdoor adventure. Whether you are sipping a coffee while gazing out over the sea, playing mini golf with family, or setting off on a hike along the coastal paths, the site offers a memorable and varied experience. The often brisk winds and open skies add to the wild charm of the location, making it a refreshing retreat for all ages.Seasonal Considerations and Practical Information
The Summit Complex operates daily from 10:15 AM to 5:00 PM (4:00 PM on weekdays), with facilities such as the café and gift shop open during these hours. Weather can be changeable, so visitors are advised to dress accordingly, especially if planning to walk or use the cable car, which may close in high winds or poor conditions. The site is accessible for many, including those with limited mobility, though the tramway has some restrictions. Ample seating and picnic areas encourage visitors to linger and enjoy the stunning surroundings.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Pen-y-Dinas Hillfort
1.3 km
Explore Pen-y-Dinas Hillfort, an ancient Iron Age fortress on the Great Orme offering rich history and breathtaking coastal panoramas.
Hafod
1.3 km
Explore Hafod in Llandudno, a historic Welsh estate blending picturesque landscapes with rich 18th-century heritage and tranquil coastal charm.
Llandudno Cenotaph
1.7 km
A dignified obelisk on Llandudno’s Promenade honoring local heroes from world conflicts with serene sea views.
Historical Wales
2.1 km
Discover the essence of Welsh culture through unique gifts and handcrafted treasures at Historical Wales in Llandudno.
Llandudno Bandstand
2.1 km
Historic open-air bandstand on Llandudno’s Promenade, blending seaside charm with a century of musical heritage.
Statue of Llywelyn the Great
6.0 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
6.1 km
Walk the majestic medieval Conwy Town Walls for stunning views and a journey through Welsh history within a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Welsh Mountain Zoo
8.2 km
Explore the Welsh Mountain Zoo: a family-friendly haven for wildlife enthusiasts, offering unique animal encounters and stunning natural beauty.
National Trust - Bodnant Garden
11.6 km
Discover the enchanting Bodnant Garden in Wales, a botanical haven with stunning landscapes and vibrant floral displays throughout the seasons.
Trwyn Du Lighthouse
12.6 km
Explore the stunning Trwyn Du Lighthouse, a historic landmark offering breathtaking coastal views and a glimpse into Wales' maritime heritage.
Trwyn Penmon Point
12.7 km
Discover the breathtaking coastal views and historical charm of Trwyn Penmon Point, a must-visit scenic destination on Anglesey's stunning coastline.
Mynydd Marian Local Nature Reserve
13.7 km
Immerse yourself in the stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife of Mynydd Marian Local Nature Reserve, a true gem in North Wales.
Castell Aberlleiniog
15.5 km
Explore Castell Aberlleiniog, a historic castle ruin on Anglesey offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into medieval Welsh history.
Zip World Conwy
16.0 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.
Aber Falls
16.6 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Aber Falls, a stunning natural wonder in Snowdonia National Park, perfect for hiking and exploring.
Unmissable attractions to see
Summit Cable Car Station
0.0 km
Experience Britain’s longest cable car ride to the Great Orme summit with stunning panoramic views and historic charm in Llandudno.
Great Orme Viewing Telescope
0.0 km
Experience breathtaking panoramic views of North Wales’ coastline and mountains from the iconic Great Orme Viewing Telescope at Llandudno’s summit.
Historic information
0.1 km
Breathtaking panoramic views, rich history, and family-friendly attractions atop Great Orme Head in Llandudno.
Y Gogarth Great Orme Country Park
0.2 km
Explore ancient mines, wild goats, and breathtaking views atop Llandudno’s iconic Great Orme limestone headland.
St Tudno's Church Viewpoint
0.3 km
Historic St Tudno’s Church on Great Orme offers ancient charm, spiritual calm, and sweeping coastal views above Llandudno.
Water pump
0.3 km
Explore the historical Great Orme Water Pump in Llandudno, a Victorian engineering marvel offering stunning views and a glimpse into the past.
Great Orme Mines
0.5 km
Explore the world’s largest prehistoric copper mines, a 4,000-year-old underground labyrinth revealing ancient mining mastery on the Great Orme.
St. Tudno's Church
0.5 km
Historic St. Tudno's Church on Great Orme: A serene medieval sanctuary with stunning coastal views and rich spiritual heritage.
Gogarth North Wales Wildlife Trust Nature Reserve
0.7 km
Discover the serene limestone grasslands and rare wildlife of Gogarth, a coastal nature reserve on the Great Orme’s dramatic slopes.
Great Orme Tramway - Halfway Station
0.7 km
Experience Britain’s only cable-hauled tramway on public roads, climbing through scenic Great Orme with historic charm and breathtaking views.
Ogof Deuben
1.0 km
Explore Ogof Deuben, a captivating natural cave on Great Orme, where geology and ancient heritage meet amid stunning coastal landscapes.
Llandudno Footpath 23 (Public Right of Way)
1.1 km
A peaceful coastal footpath in Llandudno offering scenic sea views and access to local heritage along a cherished public right of way.
Llandudno West Shore Beach
1.2 km
Tranquil sandy beach with panoramic Conwy Bay views, family-friendly facilities, and dog-friendly spaces just west of Llandudno town centre.
Pigeon Cove
1.3 km
Discover the tranquil beauty and abundant wildlife of Pigeon Cove, a scenic coastal gem on the Great Orme near Llandudno.
Dum and Dee
1.3 km
Discover the playful Dum and Dee sculptures nestled in Llandudno’s tranquil Haulfre Gardens, blending literary charm with natural beauty.
Essential places to dine
The Lindens Restaurant
1.4 km
Cozy British dining in Llandudno’s heart, serving classic local dishes with warm hospitality every day from morning till evening.
Watkins & Co
1.5 km
Elegant British dining with creative flair in the heart of Llandudno’s boutique Empire Hotel.
The Seahorse Restaurant
1.5 km
Experience fresh, locally sourced seafood in a cozy, elegant bistro setting at The Seahorse, Llandudno’s celebrated dining gem.
The Mediterranean Restaurant Llandudno
1.5 km
A stylish and welcoming spot in Llandudno serving fresh, authentic Mediterranean and Turkish-inspired dishes with a diverse menu and cozy atmosphere.
The Queen Victoria Bar and Restaurant
1.5 km
Experience traditional British pub culture at The Queen Victoria Bar and Restaurant in Llandudno – where great food meets local charm.
Snooze Wine Bar And Restaurant
1.5 km
A vibrant boutique wine bar and restaurant in Llandudno, blending tapas delights with expertly crafted wines and cocktails in a stylish setting.
La Taverna
1.6 km
Cozy family-run Italian restaurant in Llandudno serving authentic dishes with warm hospitality in a charming, traditional setting.
The Next Door Restaurant
1.6 km
Innovative British cuisine in a cozy boutique hotel setting, celebrated for fresh local ingredients and creative small plates in Llandudno.
Home Cookin'
1.6 km
Savor hearty British classics and warm hospitality in the heart of Llandudno at Home Cookin', where comfort meets quality.
LC Drink & Dine
1.6 km
Lively gastropub in Llandudno serving hearty British classics, fresh seafood, and a celebrated Sunday carvery in a warm, welcoming setting.
The Lilly
1.6 km
Charming seaside hotel and British restaurant offering cozy rooms with sea views and hearty homemade dishes in peaceful Llandudno.
Johnny Dough's Wood-Fired Pizza
1.6 km
Savor expertly crafted wood-fired pizzas with vegan and gluten-free options in the heart of lively Llandudno’s Mostyn Street.
Osborne's Cafe Grill
1.6 km
An elegant, intimate dinner spot in Llandudno’s Osborne House Hotel, serving modern British and European dishes with local produce and a glass of wine included.
Take A Break Cafe
1.6 km
Cozy and friendly breakfast cafe in Llandudno serving traditional English fare in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.
Tudno’s Restaurant & Bar
1.6 km
Seafront British dining with local flavors and warm hospitality overlooking Llandudno Bay.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Llandudno Rock Shop
1.6 km
Discover the colorful charm and traditional flavors of Llandudno’s beloved Rock Shop on lively Mostyn Street.
Murshi
1.7 km
Discover unique handcrafted gifts and artisan treasures at Murshi, Llandudno’s vibrant cooperative gift shop on Mostyn Street.
The House of Names
1.7 km
Discover authentic Welsh souvenirs and local treasures at The House of Names, right on Llandudno’s iconic pier.
Clares Department Store
1.8 km
A historic Llandudno department store offering quality goods, friendly service, and a charming shopping experience since 1927.
Llandudno Emporium
1.8 km
Premium aromatherapy and wellness treatments in a tranquil seaside setting on iconic Llandudno Pier.
Petticoat Lane
1.8 km
Discover unique homewares, stylish clothing, and handcrafted jewellery at Petticoat Lane, Llandudno’s charming boutique near the Victorian seafront.
Page Antiques & Collectables
1.8 km
Discover timeless treasures and local charm at Page Antiques & Collectables, Llandudno’s cozy hub for vintage finds and collectibles.
Kingdom Krafts
1.9 km
Discover ethical gifts, fairtrade treats, and community warmth at Kingdom Krafts, Llandudno’s cherished fairtrade and Christian shop.
The Edinburgh Woollen Mill
1.9 km
Discover timeless Scottish knitwear and classic fashion at The Edinburgh Woollen Mill, Llandudno’s premier destination for quality clothing.
Victoria Shopping Centre
1.9 km
North Wales’ premier shopping destination blending high street brands and independent stores in the heart of Llandudno.
About You
1.9 km
Discover stylish, affordable ladies' fashion with personalized service in Llandudno’s vibrant Victoria Centre.
The Gift Company
1.9 km
Llandudno's premier destination for distinctive gifts, home décor, and quality furnishings in a welcoming, centrally located shop.
The X Factory Outlet
2.0 km
Explore the best of fashion at The X Factory Outlet in Llandudno, where style meets affordability in a charming seaside town.
The Crystal Hut Clonmel Street Llandudno
2.1 km
Discover the magic and energy of healing crystals at The Crystal Hut, Llandudno’s premier spiritual gift boutique.
Wizarding Boutique
2.1 km
Step into Llandudno’s Wizarding Boutique for an immersive Harry Potter shopping experience filled with magical treasures and enchanting events.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Kings Head
1.3 km
Llandudno’s oldest traditional pub serving real ales, home-cooked food, and lively events in a warm, family-friendly atmosphere.
The Snowdon
1.5 km
A warm, dog-friendly pub in Llandudno serving quality food and drinks in a cozy, welcoming atmosphere.
The Fat Cat Café Bar
1.5 km
A stylish and welcoming bar in Llandudno offering diverse drinks, all-day dining, and a vibrant social atmosphere in the town centre.
Fountains
1.5 km
Llandudno’s lively corner bar with friendly vibes, diverse drinks, and a unique outdoor veranda on Mostyn Street.
The Gresham
1.6 km
Llandudno’s welcoming cocktail bar with a lively vibe, friendly service, and a diverse drinks menu on Mostyn Street.
The Irish Bar
1.6 km
Experience authentic Irish hospitality and lively traditional music in the heart of Llandudno’s vibrant pub scene.
Ormo Lounge
1.6 km
A vibrant Llandudno bar and café offering diverse vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free dishes in a lively, modern setting.
Baytree Hotel Sea View Bar & Grill
1.6 km
Casual seaside dining with hearty grills and sea views on Llandudno’s North Parade, perfect for relaxed meals and drinks by the coast.
The Palladium - JD Wetherspoon
1.6 km
Historic 1920s theatre turned lively Wetherspoon pub offering affordable food and drinks in the heart of Llandudno.
Carlton
1.7 km
A lively traditional British pub in Llandudno’s heart, offering classic fare, vibrant events, and warm local hospitality.
3D Management Pubs
1.8 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
1.8 km
A classic, welcoming pub in Llandudno offering hearty meals, local drinks, and a friendly atmosphere in a casual setting.
Cross Keys
1.9 km
A lively, traditional pub in Llandudno offering great drinks, sports on HD screens, live music, and a welcoming dog-friendly atmosphere.
Oceans Bar
1.9 km
Seaside bar with stunning bay views, local ales, vibrant cocktails, and live summer music at the iconic Llandudno Pier’s end.
TAPPS Micropub
1.9 km
A cozy micro pub in Llandudno offering an excellent range of real ales, craft beers, and friendly service in a quirky, welcoming setting.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Family Friendly
- Relaxing
- Fun-filled
- Tranquil
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Nature Reserve
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
- Requires Hike
- Seasonal Only
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly