Criccieth is the perfect base for visiting the Llŷn and Eifionydd National Eisteddfod
Boduan, 5 - 12 August 2023.
If you're looking for a place to stay while enjoying Wales' largest cultural festival, look no further than Criccieth. This charming seaside town on the Llŷn Peninsula offers stunning views, sandy beaches, historic attractions and a short drive from the festival site in Boduan. There are many reasons why Criccieth is the ideal choice for your Eisteddfod getaway.
Cricieth will also leave its own Eisteddfod mark for the 2023 event. Cricieth Creadigol - Creative Criccieth is a community art project that has brought many people together through creativity and culture with an array of projects. Initiatives, such as the 'Criccieth Tapestry' , 'Gown of poppies', 'Friendship benches', 'Welsh Incident' sculpture, a Town map, community gardens and more.
These activities have involved many volunteers from different generations and backgrounds, and have contributed to the well-being and quality of life of the town. Cricieth Creadigol - Creative Criccieth is a shining example of how creativity can foster community spirit and celebrate local heritage. Look out for creative works by Cricieth Creadigol for the Eisteddfod 2023!
Read more below.
The festival
The Eisteddfod is Wales' biggest cultural event, attracting over 160,000 visitors every year. It showcases the best of Welsh music, dance, visual arts, literature and more, with competitions, performances and activities for all ages. The Eisteddfod 2023 will take place in Boduan, a rural village just 4 miles from Criccieth. You can easily get there by car or by bus from Criccieth. The festival will run from 5 to 12 August 2023, with a full programme of events online from May. You can buy tickets online here..
Eisteddfod 2023 lineup and shows
One of the highlights of the Eisteddfod is the variety of shows that take place in the Pavilion every evening. From concerts by famous singers and bands to musicals and dramas by talented actors and writers, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Some of the shows are based on Welsh legends and folklore, while others are contemporary and original.
Maes-B
If you're looking for some more upbeat and energetic music, head to Maes-B - the official afterdark little brother of the Eisteddfod. Maes-B features late night performances by over 20 of the main Welsh language rock and pop musicians. It's a great place to dance, sing along and have fun with your friends. Maes-B started in 1997 when the Eisteddfod was last in Bala, and since then it has become an integral part of the festival. Maes-B is open to anyone aged 16 or over.
Welsh language
The Llŷn and Eifionydd National Eisteddfod 2023 is not only a celebration of Welsh culture, but also a promotion of Welsh language. The festival aims to encourage people to learn and use Welsh in their daily lives, as well as to appreciate its beauty and richness. The Eisteddfod offers a range of opportunities for learners and speakers of all levels to practice and improve their skills. You can join workshops, classes, games and quizzes on various topics related to Welsh language. You can also use translation services and bilingual information if you need some help. Learn Welsh here
Learning Welsh and visiting the Eisteddfod in Boduan:
Firstly, don't be put off going to the Eisteddfod if you can't speak Welsh. It's a great time to learn.
You can join one of our bilingual guided tours around the Maes at 1:00 and 14:00 every day. They start from the main entrance and last for about 45 minutes. You will discover more about the Maes before you explore it on your own. It's a great way to begin your day, and some of the guides are learners themselves - some of them started learning Welsh after coming to the Eisteddfod - so feel free to ask them for some festival advice! You don't need to book - just show up on time.
Don't forget to visit Maes D - the programme is designed for learners of all levels - and it has a variety of everything you can find around the Maes.
Travelling from Criccieth to Llŷn and Eifionydd National Eisteddfod 2023
Start from Criccieth and head west on the A497 towards
• Follow the A497, passing through Llanystumdwy, Llanarmon and Efailnewydd.
• At the roundabout in Pwllheli, take the second exit and stay on the A497.
• After about 1 mile, turn right onto the B4354 towards Boduan.
• Follow the B4354 for about 3 miles, passing through Rhyd-y-clafdy and Nanhoron.
• You have arrived at Boduan.
Alternatively, you can take a slightly shorter but slower route:
• Start from Criccieth and head west on the A497 towards Pwllheli.
• After about 5 miles, turn left onto the B4413 towards Llithfaen.
• Follow the B4413 for about 4 miles, passing through Pentreuchaf and Llithfaen.
• Turn right onto the B4417 towards Nefyn.
• After about 2 miles, turn left onto the B4354 towards Boduan.
• Follow the B4354 for about 2 miles, passing through Pistyll and Gwynfryn.
• You have arrived at Boduan.
Places to stay visiting Eisteddfod, Boduan, Pwllheli:
Why not stay at Mor Heli Guest House in beautiful Criccieth? We're about 10-15 min drive from the Eisteddfod and a perfect place to retreat to after the festivities! Find out availability and booking info here
Staying in Criccieth for Eisteddfod 2023
Criccieth beach
Why not enjoy some downtime on the beach too whilst visiting the Eisteddfod festival? Criccieth has two beautiful beaches, separated by a rocky headland where the 13th century castle stands. The eastern beach is sandy and shallow, perfect for families with children who want to splash around in the water. The western beach is pebblier, but still great for walking and enjoying the scenery. Both beaches have views of the Snowdonia mountains and the Cardigan Bay, where you might spot dolphins and seals.
Criccieth Castle
Criccieth Castle is one of the most iconic landmarks in North Wales, and a must-see for history lovers. It was built by Llywelyn the Great, a prince of Gwynedd who ruled Wales for over 40 years. The castle was later captured by Edward I, and then took by Welsh rebels in 1404. Today, you can explore the ruins and learn more about the Princes of Gwynedd at the exhibition inside. You can also enjoy panoramic views of the town and the coast from the castle walls.
Criccieth town
Criccieth is a small but lively town with a population of around 1,700. It has a rich Welsh culture and heritage. You can find plenty of shops, cafes, restaurants and pubs along the High Street and the seafront, offering local produce and specialties. Criccieth is also famous for its ice cream parlour, Cadwalader's, which opened in 1927 and still serves delicious flavours today.
So what are you waiting for? Book your accommodation at Môr Heli Criccieth today and get ready for an unforgettable experience at The Eisteddfod 2023!