About

The Great Orme rises spectacularly above the coastal resort town of Llandudno. It is 2 miles long, 1 mile wide and rises 207 metres (679 feet) from the sea. The geology, wildlife, archaeology and landscape is of such importance that much of the headland has been designated a Special Area of Conservation, a Site of Special Scientific Interest and a Heritage Coast.

Whether your interests lie in history, bird watching and natural history or simply walking or enjoying spectacular views, the Great Orme has something to offer everyone.

 For wildlife enthusiasts, the Great  Orme offers an extraordinary array of flora and fauna due to its diverse habitats. From sea cliffs and limestone grasslands to heathlands and woodlands, this location boasts a rich ecosystem. Although fresh water is scarce, an abandoned reservoir can be found east of St. Tudno's church.

You'll find an abundance of wild flowers, thriving in various habitats ranging from sheltered woodlands to exposed sea cliffs and visitors are encouraged to appreciate their beauty without picking them. The limestone rock prevalent on the headland creates a shallow, lime-rich soil that supports a significant grassland community dominated by sheep's fescue. Among the grasses, an array of wild flowers, including rare species like hoary rockrose, coexist. Spring and early summer walks through these areas offer a delightful experience.

The Great Orme is a birdwatcher's paradise, hosting a wide range of bird species throughout the year. Some birds breed exclusively on the headland, while others migrate through or spend winters there. Breeding colonies of seabirds such as guillemots, razorbills, kittiwakes, cormorants, and fulmars find sanctuary on the sea cliffs. Approximately thirty species of birds are permanent residents of the Great Orme.

With its captivating wildlife and diverse habitats, the Great Orme is a must visit location for nature lovers, offering a unique opportunity to observe and appreciate the wonders of the natural world.

Kashmir Goats
The feral or wild goats with their white, shaggy coats and impressive horns are arguably the most spectacular mammals on the Great Orme. They are Kashmir goats. The herd descended from a pair of goats from the Windsor Royal Herd, acquired by Major General Sir Savage Mostyn around 1880. The herd was released on the Great Orme 20 years later and the goats have been roaming wild over the Great Orme ever since