Things to see and do in Betws Y Coed, Snowdonia

As well as a large array of restaurants and cafés, the village has a huge variety of walking and hiking shops and has an interesting selection of independent Welsh art and craft shops. The village also features the very old Pont Y Pair Bridge with the stunning Pair Falls rushing underneath and 2 miles upstream the beautiful Swallow Falls. A short distance in the opposite direction is the magical Fairy Glen. There is also the picturesque Victorian train station which has a main line connection to the coast, a railway museum and miniature railway. Next to the railway station is a golf course and the 14th Century St Michael’s Church overlooking the River Conwy (Betws y Coed actually means Prayer House in the Woods). www.visitbetwsycoed.co.uk

The village has many walks and cycle routes for the able to the ambitious on its doorstep. Visit here for more information and ideas for days out.  If you don’t have your own bike you can hire one from Beics Betws  in the village.

Located in the heart of North Wales, Eyri/Snowdonia National Park is well-known for its breathtaking landscapes, exciting outdoor activities, and, of course, its delightful culinary scene. Just a stone’s throw away from the picturesque village of Betws Y Coed, there are numerous dining establishments offering an array of delicious food and drinks. Let’s explore some of the top places to indulge your taste buds when you’re in the area:

Ty Gwyn: With a picturesque setting opposite the banks of the Conwy River, Ty Gwyn is renowned for its traditional Welsh cuisine and warm, cosy atmosphere. Enjoy hearty dishes made from locally sourced ingredients, complemented by an excellent selection of wines and ales and only a 10 minute walk from Aberconwy House.

The Royal Oak: There is something for everyone at the Royal Oak. Its an iconic destination in Betws Y Coed. It serves traditional British cuisine with a modern twist in the Grill room or traditional pub food in Yr Stablau. With locally sourced ingredients and a relaxed, comfortable setting, it’s the perfect spot for a leisurely lunch or a sumptuous dinner.

Hangin Pizzeria: A favourite among locals and tourists alike, Hangin Pizzeria offers the best pizza in Betws Y Coed. Beautiful authentic Italian Pizza bursting with flavours and green credentials served in uniquely styled surroundings. An impressive selection of craft beers and ales. With a friendly atmosphere and a great spot to catch the last of the evening sun, it’s a perfect stop after a day exploring Snowdonia.

Alpine Coffee Shop: For the tea and coffee aficionados, this unique café offers a delightful range of cakes, sandwiches, and a huge variety of teas. The sister business to the pizzeria is located by the train platform. A great spot for lunch!

Olif: If you’re looking for a special meal to celebrate a birthday or anniversary, then Olif is the place to go. Serving Welsh Tapas using local ingredients and locally made craft beers, wines and gins. A lovely atmosphere and beautiful food is served in this charming restaurant in the heart of the village.

Glan Aber Hotel: Great selection of local drinks served in this homely and unpretentious venue, The Glan Aber serves pub classics as well as Sunday Roasts and evening meals in the restaurant. The bar area has a juke box and pool table to entertain, and often has live music too.

Contact us for a full list of places to eat in the area.

Nestled in the heart of North Wales, the charming village of Betws-y-Coed serves as a gateway to some of the region’s most exhilarating adrenaline activities. Whether you’re a seasoned thrill-seeker or a novice adventurer, this scenic locale offers a blend of awe-inspiring landscapes and heart-pounding excitement.

Scaling the Heights of Yr Wyddfa/Snowdon

Just a half-hour drive from Betws-y-Coed, Yr Wyddfa/Snowdon, the tallest mountain in England & Wales, beckons the intrepid. The mountain offers a variety of routes to the summit, each offering its unique challenges and breathtaking vistas. For those seeking an adrenaline rush with a view, a hike or climb up Yr Wyddfa/Snowdon is a must. A café serves the summit and the option of a steam or diesel train to get you there, means the mountain is accessible to everyone.

Zip World: A Sky-High Adventure

For the ultimate in high-flying excitement, two of the main Zip World attractions are conveniently located just thirty minutes away from Betws-y-Coed. These attractions offer a range of adrenaline-pumping activities, from the fastest zip line in the world to underground trampolines in former slate mines. Soar above stunning landscapes at breakneck speeds or bounce your way through caverns deep below the earth.

Into the Fforest

Just a short drive from Betws-y-Coed, Zip Fforest offers a unique adrenaline experience amid lush woodland settings. Here, you can navigate treetop nets, swing through the canopy on zip lines, test your balance on the Skyride swing or zoom around Britain’s only Alpine rollercoaster. Suitable for adventurers of all ages, Zip Fforest is the perfect place to get your heart racing while appreciating the beauty of the surrounding woodland.

The Rivers, Lakes, and Seas of North Wales

For water enthusiasts, North Wales offers a variety of adrenaline activities on its rivers, lakes, and coastal waters. From white-water rafting on the River Tryweryn to canyoning in the Afon Ddu gorge, there’s no shortage of wet and wild adventures. Or, for a unique combination of sea and sky, try coasteering – a blend of swimming, climbing, and cliff jumping along the rugged Welsh coastline. For those that enjoy cold water swimming there are many stunning Llyns (Lakes) and beautiful beaches to swim in to make sure you get your cold water kick.

No matter what kind of adrenaline rush you seek, Betws-y-Coed serves as an ideal base for exploring the wealth of high-octane activities that North Wales has to offer. So strap on your adventure gear and prepare for a rush of adventure that is sure to leave you with lasting memories and a thirst for more!

Eryri/Snowdonia National Park in Wales is an area of natural beauty and wonder, offering a myriad of experiences and attractions to its visitors. Here are some of the top things to see and do in Snowdonia:

Hiking Yr Wyddfa/Snowdon: As the highest peak in Wales, and the highest point in the British Isles outside the Scottish Highlands, hiking up Yr Wyddfa/Snowdon is a must. There are several routes to the summit, each varying in difficulty and scenery We are happy to help you plan your route and provide you with any advice and information, we want to make sure you get there and back safely. 

Visit Betws-y-Coed: Our village is often referred to as the gateway to Snowdonia. It’s known for its picturesque setting, complete with waterfalls, rivers, bridges, and charming buildings. Swallow Falls and Conwy Falls are both nearby and a sight to behold.

Explore North Wales’s Castles: Wales has the largest amount of castles per square mile, in the whole world. In North Wales we have an abundance. Harlech Castle is a must-visit UNESCO World Heritage Site, alongside Conwy and Caernarfon, all built by Edward I during his invasion of Wales. 

Have an Adventure at Zip World: Zip World is known for its thrilling adventure sports, including zip-lining, underground trampolining in a slate cavern, and quarry karting.

Visit Portmeirion: This unique village was built in the style of an Italian village by the architect Sir Clough Williams-Ellis. It’s a great place to explore and enjoy the beautiful views.

Ride the Ffestiniog and Welsh highland Railway: These historic narrow-gauge railway’s offer a stunning steam train ride through the mountains and forests of Eryri/Snowdonia. Starting from the harbour in Porthmadog to the slate-quarrying town of Blaenau Ffestiniog and the castle walled town of Caernarfon.

Explore the beautiful Bodnant Garden: Bodnant Garden is a world-renowned National Trust Garden and one of the most beautiful gardens in the UK. Spanning some 80 acres and is situated above the River Conwy on ground sloping towards the west and looking across the valley towards the Snowdonia range. It is home to National Collections and champion trees as well as the famous 55 metre long Laburnum arch that visitors flock to see in flower every May. 

Walking and Cycling:  North Wales is filled with trails suitable for both walking and cycling. Coed y Brenin Forest Park, for instance, offers a variety of walking trails and is also known as a premier mountain biking destination.

Experience the Dark Skies: Snowdonia National Park is an International Dark Sky Reserve, making it an excellent spot for stargazing. On a clear night, you can see the Milky Way, numerous constellations, shooting stars, and occasionally the Northern Lights.

Remember that the weather in Snowdonia can change quickly, so always check local forecasts, and ensure you have appropriate clothing and equipment, particularly if you’re venturing into the mountains.