SCORES of youngsters had fun in the sun hunting for a dragon's eggs at Gwrych Castle near Abergele.

Expecting a straightforward visit to the castle they were set to work as soon as they arrived.

Denbighshire Free Press: A sword to fight off any angry dragons at Gwrych Castle. Picture: Phil MicheuA sword to fight off any angry dragons at Gwrych Castle. Picture: Phil Micheu

As they sent into the grounds they were told the six years old (mythical) Lord Thomas had let his dragon escape and it had laid eggs around the castle and help was needed in finding them. They were also told there would be a surprise waiting for them should they discover all the eggs.

Denbighshire Free Press: One of the helpers at Gwrych Castle. Picture: Phil MicheuOne of the helpers at Gwrych Castle. Picture: Phil Micheu

This was one of many of the fun attractions in North Wales for the Easter weekend. There was a sword hunt for youngsters in Conwy Castle, an eggs extravaganza at Colwyn Bay’s mountain zoo, egg hunts in Penrhyn Castle, Bangor, Bodnant Gardens and Plas Newydd on Anglesey.

But the old favourite of sun and sand and soaring temperatures won out as thousands flocked to the many glorious beaches along the North Wales coastline, although the sea was a little cold for spending too much time in the water.

Denbighshire Free Press: A dragons egg found. Picture: Phil MicheuA dragons egg found. Picture: Phil Micheu

Snowdonia bathed in the warm sunshine was a magnet for thousands: mountain walkers, rock climbers and picnickers. Snowdon’s Mountain Railway had barely a seat to spare, and the sea was dotted with yachts and power boats, most going nowhere in particular, their crews just glad to be on the water.