The Best Ice Cream in North Wales
When the temperature rises, there’s nothing more satisfying than a bit tasty ice cream.
Here are some of the best places for ice cream in Gwynedd, Anglesey and Conwy.
Two Islands Ice Cream Parlour, Abersoch
If I were to choose the best ice cream in North Wales, it would have to be Two Islands in Abersoch.
Two Islands is a small batch ice cream parlour. They use Welsh dairy and organic products in order to create rich, creative and honest flavours.
As the small batches are made daily, the flavours on offer change all the time. If you do come across the PB and jam, or hazelnut ice cream, I highly recommend those flavours.
Cariad Gelato - Abersoch, Porthmadog and Criccieth
Cariad Gelato is a family run business who make homemade authentic Italian ice cream in Porthmadog.
As well as having their ice cream parlour in the centre of Porthmadog, their adorable piaggo can be found on the Criccieth promoenade on sunny days, and at their new parlour in Abersoch.
If available, I recommend their hazelnut ice cream, cherry cream, and chocolate flavours.
Glaslyn Ice Cream & Pizza
You cannot make the journey to Beddgelert without buying an ice cream from the Glaslyn parlour.
Glaslyn ice cream in Beddgelert has been around since 1970, making it the oldest parlour in Snowdonia national park. So naturally, they have won an impressive amount of awards for their artisan ice cream. Read about how they make their ice cream here.
I’ve had many great ice creams from here, but my favourite to date was the pistachio swirl (pictured).
Palas Caffi, Caernarfon
Palas Caffi Ice Cream Parlour is a favourite within Caernarfon. Palas Caffi is situated just opposite the castle, and can be easily spotted with its lilac painted walls.
All flavours are made on site, and are served by a welcoming bunch of staff. I recently had the raspberry ripple (pictured), and was in sweet sweet heaven.
Parisella’s, Conwy and Llandudno
Parisella’s has been part of Conwy since 1952, and have transformed into a successful local business. They have outlets within the Conwy town wall, Conwy Quay ice cream hut, and Llandudno.
The retro decor compliments the history of the business (Domenico Parisella moved to Britain in 1912, and learned to make ice cream with Carlo Forte in Llandudno), whilst also makes for an aesthetically pleasing ice cream.
I highly recommend the cookies & cream and the Parma violet flavours (pictured).
Scoops, Caernarfon
Another great ice cream parlour in Caernarfon is Scoops. As well as offering delicious Dutch pancakes, they have a fantastic range of artisan ice cream which is made daily using Welsh cream and full milk.
The ice cream offerings change weekly, but if they have the pistachio flavour on offer, make sure to order a scoop of that.
Red Boat Ice Cream Parlour - Beaumaris and Menai Bridge
Red Boat are slowly taking over the world. Owners Tony and Lyn opened the first ice cream parlour in Beaumaris, and the popularity led to the opening of many more sites across North Wales.
With Tony receiving training at the famous Carpigiani University of Italy, you know the ice cream is going to be good. Make sure to check out the tiramasu flavour which won a Great Taste Award in 2020.
Fortes Ice Cream Parlour, Llandudno
If you’re after an indulgent snack, head to the Forte’s Ice Cream Parlour. The Ferrero Rocher crepe and ice cream is as luxurious as you can get.
Created by Italian Onorio Forte in 1926, the parlour and restaurant are now owned by Onorio’s grandson, and still use the same original recipes.
Georgio’s, Llanberis
If Llanberis is your base for a trip to Snowdonia, make sure to visit Georgio’s.
The ice cream is made on a daily basis on site, and uses whole milk and cream from a local dairy.
The portions are one of the most generous on this list (picture above is just one scoop). So here’s a tip that I learned from their Tripadvisor reviews: They offer split flavours.
Other ice cream parlours (Still to try!)
Lulu’s Frozen Yoghurt, Conwy
If you have any other recommendations or are a local business that would like to be showcased on North Wales Grub, drop me an email!
