Route for Liverpool to Barmouth

[ScouseIan]

I am considering visiting Barmouth area with my 'van at the end of May and I'm interested to know what route people would recommend when towing a 'van. I normally just go A5104, A5, A494 when solo but some of these roads can have narrow sections as I remember them. Wondering about the A55/A487 which is a great road all the way to Carnarvon, but then don't know about the A487, etc.

As a newcomer to towing I am finding it quite difficult towing on narrow roads and I am having a tendency to stray over the middle white line of the road. I also feel that my towing mirrors make the outfit wider than the lane itself. I recently used the B5286 Hawkshead to Ambleside road and upon meeting a bus coming the other way I did have a bit of a problem getting past. Although we 'stopped' and edged past I don't think I had more than millimetres separating us as the rear of my van went past the bus. Too late to adjust direction at that point. In fact if I steered left at that point I think it would have moved the caravan in the opposite direction anyway. Where the road meets the A593 there is a narrow bridge and I had gone wide right to ensure I got over it. The guy in front then stopped due to traffic being over the bridge (there was actually enough space but there you go) and I was 'stuck' once again over the white lane. Then the traffic lights changed and cars came towards and really struggled to get past my rear end. Very, very stressful. Is this normal?

 

[Robtel]

Scouse Ian,

Don't know anything about the route you are planning I'm afraid. But regarding your closing statement about stress and narrow roads, easier said than done but try not to let yourself get stressed out about it, just take your time, err on the side of caution. You will gain experience and confidence with every trip.

Robert

 

[ScouseIan]

Thanks Rob

 

[Big S]

Ian,

We have done this trip a few times from Warrington and I would recommend the A55/A487 route via Caernarfon and Porthmadog and then the A496 to Barmouth. The A55 is a super road now and is dual carriageway all the way to Bangor and with the new road being completed at Queensferry recently it is a breeze compared to what it used to be.

Whilst the A494 through Ruthin and Bala is certainly a more direct and quicker route, but like you say, it is a hair raising stressful trip along windy roads with a caravan on the back. Little ones were car sick last time we took this route and I was constantly pulling in to allow the build up of traffic behind me to pass.

I usually plan for four and a half hours for this route. 2 hours to Caernarfon and a further 2 hours from there to Barmouth, with a break along the way. Although last time we made it in three and a half.

The coast road from Porthmadog we prefer (A496) as it is more scenic but you could also take the A470 for a more direct route.

Hope this helps. Have a great time as this is certainly a lovely part of the British Isles when the sun shines.

 

[ScouseIan]

Thanks Big S

Thats what I was thinking. Thanks for echoing it.

Correct me if I'm wrong, but A487 down to Maentwrog then A496 towards Barmouth through Harlech. The A470 looks a bit more out of my way.

Yes, Barmouth area is fantastic. Apart from the actual centre that is. It can feel a bit rough like many small towns. Anyone who has not been to this area is missing a real treat. Walks along the (blue flag) beach watching dolphins swim is amazing.

Cheers

 

[Big S]

Yes your right Ian, the A487 goes through Porthmadog and you turn off at the junction with the A496 at Maentwrog. We didn't use the Toll road which is just passed Porthmadog which can cut twenty minutes off your journey due to having the van on the back of the car, so can't say whether this is suitable for a caravan.

Must admit we love this part of Wales and further down the coast to Aberystwyth and Borth although this is further and only worth the journey if we are staying for the week.

I know what you mean about the centre of Barmouth though!!

 

[Hamer_5041128]

Scouse Ian,

I live next to Portmeirion, just outside Porthmadog.

I tow a Swift Conqueror 655 many times a year out of Wales to England. Being from St.Helens origonally we often tow to the Southport Caravan Club site.

We always use the same route as follows.

Chester-A483 to Chirk-Llangollen-Corwen-Bala-Trwsfynedd-Home.

However if you are going to Barmouth on reaching Bala continue through Bala to Dolgellau on the A494. Then the A496 to Barmouth.

As you are unsure about towing on narrow roads i would NOT tow from Maentwrog to Harlech. Also i would avoid towing through Porthmadog due to the hold ups.

The route i have given you is an easy route for towing , yes there are a couple of narrow bits but nothing to worry about.

From Halech to Porthmadog via the toll bridge is fine without the caravan, but a definite NO NO with a caravan.

Hamer

 

[ScouseIan]

Nice one Hamer, Many thanks for your superb advice.

I see what you mean. Dual carriageway to Chirk, then the A5 is not too bad. Its really only the A494 which is a bit windy but I suppose I'm worrying a bit too much.

Regards

Ian

 

[Hamer_5041128]

Scouse Ian,

The A494 from Corwen to Bala is a popular road for caravanners towing to Porthmadog and the surrounding area, so don't worry you will be among like minded people.

The A494 from Bala to Dolgellau has much less traffic, even in the main holiday season and is good for towing.

Try not to worry,take your time, and i am sure you will have a good journey.

Hamer