Betws-y-Coed
Discover Betws-y-Coed – Snowdonia’s most popular village
Tucked among ancient woodlands and cascading rivers, Betws-y-Coed is one of the most charming and picturesque villages in Snowdonia. Often described as the gateway to the national park, it’s where dramatic mountain landscapes meet fairytale forests, and where your adventure can begin in just about any direction.
Whether you’re here for a relaxed weekend break, an adrenaline-filled adventure, or just a proper coffee before heading into the hills, Betws-y-Coed is a place you’ll fall in love with, and want to come back to again and again.
Set in the heart of the Gwydir Forest
Betws-y-Coed isn’t just a beautiful base, it’s a thriving hub for outdoor enthusiasts, walkers, artists, and food lovers alike. The village has a welcoming, creative vibe, with art galleries, independent shops, local eateries, and friendly faces all around.
Set in the heart of the Gwydir Forest and surrounded by dramatic peaks, it’s no wonder that this has become a favourite spot for those wanting a Snowdonia experience with a little bit of everything: riverside strolls, challenging hikes, waterfall dips, and scenic train rides. It’s also incredibly well connected, with direct trains and buses, making it one of the easiest places to reach in the national park.
Walks, Hikes & Adventures Around Betws-y-Coed
Swallow Falls Walk
- Distance: 2.5 miles / 4km (return from the village)
- Time: 1–1.5 hours
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
This iconic waterfall is one of the most visited in Wales — and it’s easy to see why. A short walk from the village leads you to this dramatic cascade where the Llugwy River tumbles through a narrow rocky gorge. There’s a small fee to access the main viewing platform, but it’s absolutely worth it.
Llyn Elsi Circular Walk
- Distance: 4 miles / 6.5km
- Time: 2–2.5 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate
Starting just behind St. Mary’s Church, this walk climbs gently through forest paths to a peaceful mountain lake with panoramic views of the surrounding hills. It’s a perfect mix of woodland, water, and views.
Fairy Glen
- Distance: 2 miles / 3km
- Time: 45 minutes–1 hour
- Difficulty: Easy
Tucked away down a wooded trail just outside the village, the Fairy Glen is a magical little gorge carved by the River Conwy. It’s a dreamy spot for photography or just a quiet moment in nature.
Gwydir Forest Trails
There are dozens of trails that wind through Gwydir Forest, many starting from or near the village. Whether you’re mountain biking, walking, or trail running, this area is packed with pine forests, quiet lakes, and old mining relics. Perfect for a half-day explore or a full-day adventure.
Snowdon & Ogwen Valley Hikes (short drive away)
Betws-y-Coed is within easy reach of more dramatic terrain too — including Moel Siabod, Tryfan, and the Carneddau range. These are just a short drive away and offer some of Snowdonia’s most epic scrambles and summit routes.
Things to Do in Llanberis
Wander the Village
Zip World Fforest
Conwy Valley Railway Museum
Places to Eat in Betws-y-Coed
After a big walk or morning paddle, you’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to food and drink. Betws-y-Coed has some fantastic places to grab a bite, from laid-back cafés to hearty pub meals.
- Caffi Caban-y-Pair – Great coffee, sandwiches, and cakes right by the river.
- Olif – A cosy bistro offering tasty tapas and Welsh gins.
- The Alpine Coffee Shop – A firm favourite for brunch and lunch, right by the railway.
- Stables Bar – Classic pub grub and a great beer garden for sunny days.
Good to Know
- Parking: There’s plenty in the village, but like anywhere in Snowdonia, it can get busy in peak times.
- Public transport: Betws-y-Coed has its own train station with regular services along the Conwy Valley Line.
- Shops: You’ll find outdoor gear shops, artisan stores, and delis dotted throughout the village.
- Dog friendly? Very. Pubs, cafés, and trails welcome well-behaved pups.
- Cash: Most places take card, but having some cash can be handy for smaller shops and entry points like Fairy Glen.
Where to Stay in Betws-y-Coed
We’ve hand-picked some fantastic places to stay in and around Betws-y-Coed, with options for every kind of explorer. Whether you’re after a cosy inn, a stylish guesthouse, or a woodland campsite, this area has it all.
Some of our favourite spots include:
- Ty Gwyn Hotel – A character-filled coaching inn with great food.
- The Courthouse B&B – Quirky, comfortable, and full of charm.
- Riverside Camping – A relaxed campsite right by the water’s edge.
Prefer something more secluded? There are plenty of glamping pods, woodland cabins, and holiday cottages just outside the village, perfect for stargazing after a day of adventure.
View places to stay in Snowdonia
Why We Love Betws-y-coed
Betws-y-Coed is where forest trails, riverside strolls, and mountain adventures all meet in one magical place. It’s a vibrant village full of charm, creativity, and natural beauty — the kind of place where every path leads to something special. Whether you’re here for the waterfalls, woodland walks, or a cosy café after a day outdoors, Betws-y-Coed is a gateway to unforgettable Snowdonia adventures.How to Get to Betws-y-Coed
Betws-y-Coed is one of the easiest places to get to in Snowdonia.
If you’re driving, it’s located on the A5, which connects directly from the A55 coastal route. There’s plenty of parking dotted around the village.
Arriving by train? The Conwy Valley Line connects Betws-y-Coed with Llandudno Junction, linking easily to Chester, Manchester, and beyond.
There are also regular buses from Llanrwst, Capel Curig, Bangor, and Blaenau Ffestiniog.
A Bit of Betws-y-Coed History
The name Betws-y-Coed means “Prayer House in the Wood,” and the village’s origins go all the way back to a 6th-century monastery.
The village as we know it today began to grow during the Victorian era, when the railway arrived in 1868. It quickly became a popular spot for artists, poets, and holidaymakers drawn to the natural beauty of the surrounding forests, rivers, and waterfalls.
Its proximity to the slate and mineral industries also brought workers and trade to the area, and today, it still carries that mix of culture, creativity, and adventure that’s made it so popular over the decades.
