A Perfect Day Out in Bala with the Kids
Looking for a fun-filled day out with the little ones? Bala, just a short drive from Snowdonia, is one of our children’s favourite local destinations. From painting pottery to taking a ride on a steam train, and enjoying a swim at a lovely hotel, there’s no shortage of activities. Here’s how we spent a perfect family day out in Bala.
1. Get Creative at Capel Clay
We start our day at Capel Clay, a charming pottery painting studio in Bala. The kids absolutely love it here and always ask to coming to paint. It’s such a relaxing yet creative activity, and the friendly staff are always on hand to offer guidance and tips. Whether it’s a quirky mug, a plate, or even a little animal figurine, each child can choose their pottery piece and let their imagination run wild. The best part? You get to take your creation home once it’s been fired and glazed. It's the perfect memento from a fun day out! We were impressed how helpful the owners were and love the fact the items are glazed as a lot of other paint your own pot locations don’t offer this.
2. Take a Splash at the John Lewis Activity Hotel Pool
After all that creativity, it’s time for a splash! The John Lewis Hotel, located on the edge of Bala Lake, offers a lovely pool that’s perfect for a family swim. The kids love the warm, welcoming atmosphere of the hotel, and the pool is ideal for them to burn off some energy. If you’re lucky with the weather, you can even step outside to enjoy the beautiful lake views. A swim here is a real treat, there’s a hot tub and sauna too and it’s just a stone’s throw away from the main attractions in Bala. We stay for lunch as well. The restaurant is a good place to view the Mach aircrafts flying low.
3. All Aboard the Bala Lake Railway
To finish off, we hop on the Bala Lake Railway for a scenic steam train ride. This nostalgic train ride along the edge of the stunning Bala Lake is a hit with kids and adults alike. The train, pulled by a real steam engine, makes it feel like you’ve stepped back in time. The kids love waving at the passengers on the passing trains and spotting the wildlife along the track. It’s a relaxing way to take in the breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding countryside. If you’re visiting during the summer months, be sure to check out the special events that the railway runs!
Key Information
Distance from Dolgellau: Bala is just a 25-minute drive (about 15 miles) from Dolgellau, making it a perfect local destination for a family day out.
Prices:
Capel Clay: Prices start from £10 per person for pottery painting, with various pieces to choose from.
John Lewis Hotel Pool: Day passes for non-residents are available. Check directly with the hotel for pricing and availability, you can book slots online, it’s around £25 for a family of four, you can also rent towels.
Bala Lake Railway: Adult tickets start from £12.50, with discounted prices for children and family passes available. Check the website for up-to-date pricing and special events.
Fun Facts About Bala
Did you know that Bala is home to the largest natural lake in Wales? Bala Lake (Llyn Tegid) is not just beautiful, but it’s also steeped in history and myth. Legend has it that the lake is home to the fabled Bala monster, similar to Scotland’s Loch Ness! It’s also famous for being the starting point of the River Dee, which flows through some of the most scenic areas of Wales.
Don’t Forget the Ice Cream!
If you’ve got a sweet tooth, be sure to stop by Aran Hufenia in Bala. This family-owned ice cream shop has become a local favourite, serving up delicious homemade ice cream in a variety of flavours. Whether you're visiting in Bala or staying local in Dolgellau (where they’ve recently opened a new shop), a scoop of their ice cream is the perfect way to cool off after a day of exploring.
