Betws-y-Coed Travel Guide

Trek Zone

Village

Facts and practical information

Nestled in the heart of Snowdonia National Park, Betws-y-Coed is a picturesque village that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and outdoor adventures. Located in the Conwy Valley of Wales, this charming village is a haven for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike.

Surrounded by lush green forests, cascading waterfalls, and majestic mountains, Betws-y-Coed is a paradise for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. The village is a gateway to a plethora of hiking trails, including the famous Swallow Falls trail, where visitors can witness the breathtaking beauty of the Swallow Falls waterfall. For a more challenging adventure, the nearby Mount Snowdon, the highest peak in Wales, offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

Aside from its natural beauty, Betws-y-Coed also boasts a vibrant arts and crafts scene. The village is home to several galleries and craft shops, showcasing the work of local artists and artisans. Visitors can browse through unique handmade crafts, from intricate pottery to exquisite jewelry, and even take home a piece of Betws-y-Coed as a memento of their visit.

For those seeking a taste of the region's history and culture, Betws-y-Coed offers a glimpse into its past through its historic landmarks. The iconic 14th-century Pont-y-Pair Bridge, with its charming arches spanning the River Llugwy, is a testament to the village's rich heritage. Nearby, the St. Michael's Church, built in the 19th century, showcases stunning stained glass windows and offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling village.

Betws-y-Coed is also renowned for its warm Welsh hospitality and a wide array of dining options. Whether you're craving traditional Welsh cuisine or international flavors, the village boasts a variety of restaurants, cafes, and pubs that cater to all tastes. Indulge in hearty dishes like cawl (traditional Welsh soup) or savor delectable treats such as bara brith (fruit loaf) with a cup of freshly brewed Welsh tea.

Alternative names: Population: 1.2 thous.Elevation: 69 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 53°5'33"N, 3°48'4"W

Location

WalesUnited Kingdom

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Betws-y-Coed Top Attractions

Betws-y-Coed Attractions - What to See and Explore

Betws-y-Coed offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Swallow Falls, Conwy Falls, Gwydir Forest, Llyn Elsi. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

Natural attraction • Park • Waterfall
Swallow Falls
Swallow Falls is a name coined by early tourists for the Rhaeadr Ewynnol, a multiple waterfall system in Wales, located on the Afon Llugwy near Betws-y-Coed, in Conwy County Borough.
Natural attraction • Park • Trail
Conwy Falls
Conwy Falls is a waterfall on the River Conwy at Bro Garmon in Conwy County Borough in Wales. The falls and surrounding area are a Site of Special Scientific Interest. The nearby cafe, adjacent to the A5, is an interesting example of the work of the Welsh architect Clough Williams-Ellis, of Portmeirion fame.
Natural attraction • Park • Forest
Gwydir Forest
Gwydir Forest, also spelled Gwydyr, is located in Conwy county borough and the Snowdonia National Park in Wales. It takes its name from the ancient Gwydir Estate, established by the John Wynn family of Gwydir Castle, which owned this area. Natural Resources Wales uses the alternative spelling.

Natural attraction • Body of water • Park
Llyn Elsi
Llyn Elsi is a lake located above the village of Betws-y-coed in the Snowdonia National Park in North Wales. It is a reservoir providing water for the village.
Specialty museum • Historical place • Museum
Conwy Valley Railway Museum
The Conwy Valley Railway Museum is located at Betws-y-Coed railway station, Betws-y-Coed, North Wales, on the site of the old railway goods yard.
Sacred and religious sites • Church • Gothic Revival architecture
St Mary's Church
St Mary's Church, Betws-y-Coed, is in the village of Betws-y-Coed, Conwy, Wales. It is an active Anglican parish church of the Church in Wales, in the deanery of Arllechwedd, the archdeaconry of Bangor and the diocese of Bangor. The church is designated by Cadw as a Grade II* listed building.
Historical place • View point • Forts and castles
Dolwyddelan Castle
Dolwyddelan Castle is a Welsh castle located near Dolwyddelan in Conwy County Borough in North Wales. It is thought to have been built in the early 13th century by Llywelyn the Great, Prince of Gwynedd and Wales.
Bridge
Waterloo Bridge
Waterloo Bridge is an early cast iron bridge, spanning the River Conwy at Betws-y-Coed, in Conwy county borough, north-west Wales. The bridge is located about half a mile south-east of the village. It was built by the civil engineer Thomas Telford.
53°5'38"N • 3°48'28"W
Galeri
Museum
53°5'33"N • 3°48'4"W
Platform Galeri
Museum
53°5'52"N • 3°47'25"W
Rhyd-y-creuau
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Day trips

Betws-y-Coed – popular in the area (distance from the center)

In the vicinity of Betws-y-Coed, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Caernarfon Castle (Caernarfon), Conwy Castle (Conwy), Bodelwyddan Castle (Bodelwyddan).

20 milesW
Dramatic, 13th-century waterfront castle
Caernarfon Castle, Caernarfon
Caernarfon Castle, a majestic medieval fortress in Caernarfon, Wales, stands as a testament to the architectural prowess of the Middle Ages. Constructed under the command of King Edward I of England during the 13th century, this imposing stone structure was part of his...
13 milesN
Massive, imposing 13th-century fortress
Conwy Castle, Conwy
Conwy Castle, a majestic fortification in the coastal town of Conwy, Wales, stands as a testament to medieval military architecture and the historical narrative of the United Kingdom. Constructed by Edward I during his conquest of Wales between 1283 and 1289, this...
17 milesNE
History museum, Art museum, Museum
Bodelwyddan Castle, Bodelwyddan
Nestled in the heart of North Wales, Bodelwyddan Castle is a majestic museum that offers a glimpse into the region's rich history and culture. Known for its stunning Victorian architecture, the castle is surrounded by scenic gardens and lush woodlands, making it a...
17 milesW
Amusement, Park, Theme park
GreenWood Forest Park, Y Felinheli
Nestled in the heart of North Wales, GreenWood Forest Park offers a unique blend of eco-friendly entertainment and outdoor adventure that sets it apart from your typical amusement park. Located near the city of Y Felinheli, this family-focused attraction is renowned...
21 milesSW
Imposing medieval stronghold of Edward I
Harlech Castle, Harlech
Harlech Castle is a majestic medieval fortification located in the coastal town of Harlech, within the scenic landscape of North Wales, United Kingdom. Perched high on a rocky outcrop, it offers breathtaking views of the Irish Sea and the surrounding countryside...