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Writer's pictureJan Svamberg

Llandudno - Cable car or Tram?

Updated: Aug 19, 2020

How to decide whether to go to the Great Orme by Tram or Cable car? Both attractions deserve your attention as it will add a nice adventure to your itinerary.


Cable car is about views

How to make the most out of your day in Llandudno? Whether you are staying in Llandudno for several days or just passing by to miss this attraction is not recommended. It is easy to access the top of the Great Orme accompanied by breathtaking views. Unfortunately, the cable car is not operating every single day (from April to October) where it depends on the weather especially on the wind. If it is too windy then cable car is not operating due to the safety (sometimes it is suspended just for a few hours). The tricky part is even though it's windless down in Llandudno it might be very windy at the top of the Great Orme. When you will start your ride you can see a Llandudno Pier, Happy Valley and higher you get the more amazing views you will get especially the view of the whole Llandudno (yes Llandudno has two beaches), Little Orme and the beginning of the Snowdonia National Park shaped by the mountains.


The longest in the UK

This cable car is the longest in the UK and it takes about 15 minutes one way. The cable car was built in 1969 and is fully operational since then. If you are in a rush you can make it in about 2 hours including one hour stay on the top of the Great Orme. On the other hand you can enjoy this experience combined with a lovely walk on the Great Orme and spend there the whole afternoon (or morning).


Tram is about history

This adventure is a perfect fit for families, the older generation, couples, singles and for everyone who is tired as this adventure will recharge you. You are about to take part in the adventure which was built in 1902. It all starts bellow the oldest pub in Llandudno, where is situated Tramway Station. The Tram is running every year April-October every day and departures are usually every 20 minutes. The full one-way ride takes about 20 minutes where the time splits into 2 sections (2x10 minutes).



The Tram ride

You just bought a ticket for your first ride. You now boarded on the tram where you can admire Tram's history look. After the sound and according to the time schedule the Tram begins its ride. The first you are passing the oldest pub in Llandudno, edge of the Llandudno at the last houses (if you didn't take out your camera now is the time), last street where you will meet the Tram going the opposite direction so you can take the photo of the whole Tram in the action and the higher you will get the better views will become.


Second part

You will reach the middle station in about 10 minutes where you will walk about 50 m and change the Tram. While you are walking towards the second Tram you can see pictures and stories about the Tram hanging on the middle station's walls. The second Tram just started its ride and you can enjoy the amazing views all around you as Great Orme landscapes, Llandudno Cable Car running along the Tram path, people hiking to the top of the Great Orme and much more. It took another 10 minutes to reach your final destination. You are almost on the top of the Great Orme where its just up to you how your adventure will continue.


Prices compared - Tram vs Cable car

The smart pricing tactic offers cable car return ticket for 11£ and single ticket 10.50£ (2020) amd the tram for 8.10£ return and 6.60£ single - 2020. If you were hoping the price will help you to decide there is not much difference.


The decision

If you are deciding between the cable car and the tram then when available go for the cable car because the tram is running even in the stronger wind. If you are not sure whether the cable car is running or not you can always call its information or have a look by yourself from the promenade where you can easily see it.


Always windy on the summit

Do not underestimate the weather and always bring an extra layer with you. Even when there is a stunning sunny day down in Llandudno it doesn't mean it's not windy and cold on the top of the Great Orme.

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