Llandudno’s Alice in Wonderland Statues
Although Lewis Carroll famously resided in Oxford, he was also connected to the Victorian seaside town of Llandudno.
It is here that Alice Pleasance Liddell - the real life inspiration for Alice in Wonderland, spent her summers in the family’s holiday home. It’s rumoured that Carroll spent some time here too, allegedly basing his story on their adventures.
While there is little evidence to show that Carroll spent time with Alice in Llandudno, the Welsh town continues to be linked to the famous author. In fact, former British Prime Minister David Lloyd George unveiled a sculpture of the White Rabbit here in 1933. Whether Carroll spent time here with Alice or not, it seems that Llandudno will forever be tied to her Adventures in Wonderland.
Today, fans can explore Llandudno through the Alice in Wonderland trail, which includes a number of quirky wooden sculptures featuring characters from the story. It’s a great way to see the town and provides a fun activity for readers and families alike.
The entire trail is 8.7km in length and takes an estimated 3 - 4 hours to complete (depending on your walking speed).
Where to Start the Trail
Head to the Tourist Information Centre opposite Marks and Spencer to begin the trail. While the website and mobile app no longer appear available, the trail is marked on the ground using rabbit feet, and maps should be available at the Tourist Information Centre.
If you are unable to get your hands on a map, an unofficial route has been shared on the AllTrails website.
Alternatively, you can wander around the town and see how many you can find. Make sure to pop into the visitor’s centre to see if they have any physical maps available.
Here are a few of the sculptures that I found…
Other Places to Go in Llandudno
This Victorian seaside town has a variety of cafes, shops and attractions to keep guests busy. Yes, that includes bookshops!
You’ll find the local branch of Waterstones in the Victoria Centre, and a shop called Bargain Books on the pier. Also nearby is the Junction Book Shop which specialises in second hand and antiquarian books, as well as Madoc Books on Madoc Street.
While you’re here make sure you go for a stroll down the seaside Promenade, which is lined with Victorian architecture and right next to the beach. The pier is also a must visit, with shops, cafes, children’s rides and an amusement arcade.
If you’re looking for a cosy cafe to spend some time in, I’d recommend the lovely Botanical Babe Plants. Here you can chill with a coffee while browsing the many plants that they have for sale.
For great views of the area, take a ride on the Llandudno Cable Car.
Further afield you’ll find many more attractions including the Great Orme Copper Mine and Great Orme Tramway. Just a short drive away you can also visit Conwy, a local town with a castle that’s well worth exploring.
Have you been to Llandudno before? I’d love to know how many sculptures you found!