Shopping for souvenirs
Although we all probably have too much stuff, it's hard to resist buying something special to remind ourselves of our travels and to give to our families and friends. In North Wales, there are plenty of opportunities to buy something special. Locally designed and made craft items are in plentiful supply: items carved from slate have a particular resonance in Snowdonia and Welsh woollen blankets are ideal winter warmers!
Increasingly, visitors are buying food items (taking care to check import restrictions to their home countries, of course!). On Anglesey, Halen Mon sea salt is a hugely popular and easily transportable product. The Bodnant Food Centre in the Conwy Valley has a wonderful choice of artisan products. (some of our visitors can't resist the bread and cheese - ideal for an afternoon treat.)
There are a variety of shops (Siop – in Welsh for the shop) to suit everyone’s tastes and needs. In the cities, towns and villages of North Wales we are lucky enough to have independent shops (owned by local people) as well as the larger chains – some of which are Welsh, some are UK wide and others you’ll probably recognise since they are international.
Among the best places for buying souvenir items are Caernarfon, Beaumaris, Betws-y-Coed and Beddgelert. In these towns and villages, you can find everything from locally made crafts to locally produced food. Also, look out for the craft fairs which take place, and don’t forget the agricultural shows that take place in the summer months.
Your guide and your accommodation provider can help you with more information. Don’t assume that the shops will be open 7 days a week and 24 hours a day! Most will be open Monday to Saturday 9 am to 5.30pm, though some have a half day closing on a Wednesday or Thursday. Others open late, particularly in the tourist season. Not all will be open on Sundays and Bank Holidays.
For everyday items, including hair and beauty products, basic medicines and snack foods, your needs will be met in most local shops.