8 free family things to do in Prestatyn
- Kid Friendly North Wales

- Jul 16
- 4 min read
Updated: Jul 22
Looking for free things to do with kids in Prestatyn?
Whether you're planning a summer day at the beach, hoping to burn off some energy outdoors, or simply looking for family activities that won't cost a penny, Prestatyn has plenty to offer.
From sandy beaches and nature reserves to scenic walks and playgrounds, here are some of our favourite free family things to do in Prestatyn.
1. Visit Prestatyn's Beaches
With three sandy beaches to choose from, Prestatyn is a fantastic place for a free family day out by the sea.
Barkby Beach, Central Beach and Ffrith Beach all offer plenty of space for building sandcastles, digging holes, playing beach games or simply enjoying a paddle on a warm day.
One of the best things about Prestatyn's coastline is how easy it is to explore. A flat path runs alongside the seafront, making it ideal for walking, cycling, scooting and pushchairs. You can start at Barkby Beach and make your way along to Central Beach and Ffrith Beach, or continue all the way to Rhyl if you're feeling adventurous.
2. Hike Prestatyn Hillside
For families who enjoy getting outdoors, Prestatyn Hillside offers some spectacular coastal views.
The trails are suitable for children of all ages, although younger children may need a little more time to tackle some of the steeper sections. Fortunately, there are plenty of opportunities to stop, catch your breath and admire the scenery along the way.
On a clear day, you'll be rewarded with stunning views across the Irish Sea and surrounding countryside. Pack a picnic and head up in the early evening to enjoy the sunset, just remember to leave enough time to make your way back down before it gets too dark.
3. Walk or cycle the Prestatyn-Dyserth Way
Following the route of a former railway line, the Prestatyn-Dyserth Way is one of the area's most popular family walking and cycling routes.
The path gently climbs from Prestatyn towards Dyserth, making the return journey slightly easier thanks to the gradual downhill slope. It's a great route for family bike rides, scooting adventures or leisurely walks.
Keep your eyes open for wildlife as you travel. During the warmer months, butterflies are often seen along the route and if you're lucky, you may even spot a common lizard basking in the sunshine.
Part way along the route you'll find Y Shed, a visitor centre and café where families can stop for a break before continuing their adventure.
4. Explore Prestatyn Nature Reserve
Many visitors are surprised to discover a nature reserve right in the heart of Prestatyn.
Within easy walking distance of the high street, Prestatyn Nature Reserve offers a peaceful escape from the bustle of town. Families can explore woodland and wetland habitats while keeping an eye out for birds, insects and other wildlife.
It's an ideal place for a gentle family walk, especially if you have children who enjoy nature spotting and outdoor exploration.
5. Discover Big Pool Wood Nature Reserve
If you're happy to travel just a few minutes outside Prestatyn, Big Pool Wood is well worth a visit.
This family-friendly nature reserve offers a mixture of woodland, wetland and open water habitats, making it a fantastic place to spot wildlife throughout the year.
Children love visiting the bird hides to see what they can spot, while the accessible boardwalks make much of the reserve suitable for pushchairs, wheelchairs and little legs.
Whether you're looking for a short stroll or a longer nature adventure, Big Pool Wood is a brilliant free trip for families.
6. Visit one of Prestatyn's playgrounds
Sometimes all children really want is a good playground, and Prestatyn has some great options.
Central Beach Playground is one of the town's most popular play areas, offering equipment suitable for a wide range of ages. Its location near the beach means it's easy to combine with a day by the sea.
Another favourite is Station Road Playground, located close to the railway station. After a play session, families can enjoy a picnic in nearby Coronation Gardens or head into the town centre.
7. See the Roman Bath House
For a quick stop with a bit of history thrown in, visit the remains of Prestatyn's Roman Bath House.
Younger children often enjoy exploring around the ruins, while older children may be more interested by the information board explaining how the site was used during Roman times.
Although it's not somewhere you'll spend hours, it's an interesting place to visit and a great opportunity to introduce children to a small piece of local history.
As the site sits within a residential area, it's worth being mindful of nearby residents during your visit.
8. Browse the shelves at Prestatyn Library
If the weather isn't on-side, Prestatyn Library is a fantastic free option for families.
The children's section offers books for a wide range of ages, from babies and toddlers through to confident young readers. It's a lovely place to spend an hour discovering new stories together.
The library also regularly hosts events and activities for children and families throughout the year, so it's worth checking what's on before your visit.
Planning your free family day out in Prestatyn
Whether you're hiking up hillsides, exploring nature reserves, cycling old railway lines or simply enjoying a day at the beach, Prestatyn offers plenty of ways to keep children entertained without spending a penny.
With activities suitable for toddlers, older children and teenager, it's easy to mix and match several of these ideas into a full day out.
So pack a picnic, grab your bikes or scooters, and start exploring everything Prestatyn has to offer.













