Llanberis
Discover Llanberis - The Adventure Hub of Snowdonia
Nestled at the foot of Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon), Llanberis is one of Snowdonia’s most iconic and well-loved villages, and for good reason. Surrounded by mountains, lakes, and rich history, it’s the perfect base for anyone looking to experience the best of what Snowdonia has to offer. Whether you’re here to hike, relax by the lake, dive into local heritage or just soak up the views, Llanberis has something for everyone.
Gateway to Snowdon
Llanberis is often referred to as the “gateway to Snowdon,” and it’s not hard to see why. The village sits right at the base of the highest mountain in Wales, making it a hotspot for walkers and climbers. But don’t worry, this isn’t just a place for hardcore hikers. Llanberis has a relaxed and welcoming vibe that suits families, couples, solo travellers, and four-legged explorers alike.
The village itself is full of charm, with independent shops, lakeside cafés, friendly pubs, and a strong local community that makes visitors feel instantly at home. It’s the kind of place where a spontaneous walk turns into a day of unexpected adventure, and where you’ll always want to stay just a bit longer.
Walks, Hikes & Adventures Around Llanberis
If you’re in Llanberis, you’re probably here to get outside, and you’re in the right place! There are walks for all levels, whether you want a challenging summit or a peaceful lakeside stroll. Here are some of our favourites:
Llanberis Path (to the summit of Yr Wyddfa)
- Distance: 9 miles / 14.5km (return)
- Time: 5–7 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate
This is the most popular and accessible route up Snowdon, and it starts right from the village. It’s a steady climb, perfect for first-time summit seekers. Expect breathtaking views all the way and a huge sense of achievement when you reach the top.
Padarn Lake Circular Walk
- Distance: 5 miles / 8km
- Time: 2–3 hours
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate
A scenic and peaceful walk that loops around Llyn Padarn. You’ll pass through woodland, along slate paths, by the lakeside and past Llanberis’ historic slate quarry buildings. It’s a great one for families and a brilliant intro to the area’s natural beauty.
Ceunant Mawr Waterfall Walk
- Distance: 1.5 miles / 2.5km
- Time: 30–45 minutes
- Difficulty: Easy
This short walk takes you from the centre of the village to the spectacular Ceunant Mawr waterfall. It’s a hidden gem tucked into the hillside, and a great quick walk if you’re short on time but still want that wow factor.
Dinorwig Quarry & Slate Trails
Explore the old Dinorwig Slate Quarry on foot, where a network of trails winds through abandoned buildings, dramatic rock faces, and rusting machinery. It’s a fascinating mix of history and adventure, and the views over Llanberis and Llyn Padarn are unreal.
Snowdon Ranger Path (a short drive away)
If you fancy a quieter route up Snowdon, the Ranger Path is a short drive from Llanberis and offers a wilder, more remote feel with fewer crowds.
Things to Do in Llanberis
Ride the Snowdon Mountain Railway
Paddle, Swim or Chill by Llyn Padarn
Visit the National Slate Museum
Dolbadarn Castle
Llanberis Lake Railway
Where to Stay in Llanberis
We’ve hand-picked some amazing places to stay across Snowdonian and if you’re looking to stay close to Llanberis, Llanberis Lodges and The Royal Victoria Hotel are great choices.
Prefer something a little more personal? Local B&Bs and guesthouses offer that classic Welsh welcome and insider tips for exploring the area. Or, if you’re after starry skies and mountain air, there are plenty of campsites and glamping pods nearby for a more off-grid experience.
Places to Eat in Llanberis
After a day of hiking or exploring, you’ll need a good feed, and Llanberis has plenty to offer.
- Pete’s Eats is a legendary stop for walkers, think big breakfasts, even bigger mugs of tea, and hearty comfort food.
- Pantri is a lovely café with a cosy atmosphere and fantastic homemade cakes.
- The Heights is a lively pub with great food, live music, and local ales.
- Caffi Gwynant (a short drive away) is well worth the trip for scenic eats on the way up or down Yr Wyddfa.
Good to Know
- Parking gets busy, especially in summer, arrive early or consider park & ride options.
- Outdoor shops in the village stock everything you might have forgotten.
- Dog-friendly? Absolutely. Most trails, cafés and pubs welcome well-behaved pups.
- Weather? Changeable! Always pack layers and waterproofs.
Why We Love Llanberis
Llanberis is the beating heart of outdoor adventure in Snowdonia. It’s where history, hiking and community come together, all wrapped up in some of the most stunning scenery Wales has to offer. Whether you’re here to summit Yr Wyddfa, explore forgotten quarries, or simply breathe in the mountain air, this little village will leave a big impression.How to Get to Llanberis
Getting to Llanberis is pretty straightforward, whether you’re travelling by car, train, or bus.
If you’re driving, Llanberis is easily reached via the A4086 from Caernarfon or Capel Curig. There’s plenty of parking in the village, but it can fill up quickly during peak times — especially in summer and on weekends, so arriving early is a good shout.
Coming by train? The nearest station is Bangor, which is well connected to major cities like Chester, Manchester, and London. From Bangor, you can catch a local bus (number 85 or 88) or a short taxi ride will get you to Llanberis in around 25 minutes.
There are also regular buses from Caernarfon, Bangor, and Betws-y-Coed, making Llanberis a well-connected base for your Snowdonia adventure.
A Bit of Llanberis History
Llanberis has deep roots that go far beyond its modern-day reputation as a hub for hikers and adventurers. The village’s story stretches back centuries, with its most notable chapter tied to the Welsh slate industry. In the 19th century, Llanberis became a key centre for slate quarrying, particularly at the vast Dinorwig Quarry, which once employed over 3,000 men and shipped slate all over the world. Today, the National Slate Museum, located on the old quarry site, offers an amazing insight into the lives of the workers and the legacy they left behind.
But the history here goes back even further. Overlooking the village is the ruin of Dolbadarn Castle, built by Llywelyn the Great in the early 13th century. It was a symbol of native Welsh power before the English conquest, and its round tower still stands strong today — a reminder of Llanberis’ important role in medieval Wales.
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