Betws-y-Coed

Overview

Betws-y-Coed is a beautiful village that serves as the gateway to the Eryri National Park (Snowdonia) in North Wales. You’ll feel like you’ve just stepped into the Alps with a visit to this rural village in the heart of the stunning Welsh countryside.

There are plenty of free things to do in Betws-y-Coed, and a visit here is suitable for everyone. Adventurous couples and solo travellers will love exploring further afield with one of the many walking routes starting from the village, or just pottering around the independent shops and art galleries.

Children will enjoy discovering the magic of Fairy Glen and using their imaginations to create their own outdoor fairy tales.

Is it worth visiting Betws-y-Coed?

If you’re staying nearby at YHA Snowdon Pen-y-Pass, then it’s well worth a visit to Betws-y-Coed. Not only is it a picture-perfect village with its quaint slate buildings and charming train station, but it’s also known as the gateway to the Eryri National Park, where you’ll find spectacular mountain scenery and sparkling lakes.

Whether you enjoy outdoor adventures like hiking, biking, or climbing, or just having a little wander before cosying up with a cuppa, there’s something for you here.

What does Betws-y-Coed mean in English?

The name Betws-y-Coed is thought to mean something like “prayer house in the wood.” Betws is a Welsh word for a prayer house or oratory, and y coed means the wood. A Celtic Christian community founded a monastery on the site of the village in the late 6th century AD.

Why is Betws-y-Coed so popular?

Betws-y-Coed has been a popular tourist destination in Wales since the Victorian period, and it’s easy to see why. It originally became a place to visit thanks to the arrival of the railway and its ideally located station.

The village’s gorgeous buildings and picturesque setting make it a must-visit if you’re heading to North Wales. Plus, there’s plenty to do here.

How do I pronounce Betws-y-Coed?

The Welsh language is notoriously tricky, but if you want to give it a go, the correct pronunciation of Betws-y-Coed is something like “bet-uss-ee-coyd.” If you have a quick Google, you should be able to find an audio file or video to give you a better idea.

Betws-y-Coed attractions

Here are some of the best free things to do in Betws-y-Coed.

Betws-y-Coed Visitor Centre

To discover everything you need to know about the village, plus recommendations on what to do from enthusiastic locals, head to the Betws-y-Coed Visitor Centre. Inside, you’ll find an exhibition about the Snowdonia National Park as well as craft stalls.

Walks in Betws-y-Coed

Whether you want a long-distance hike or a short stroll, you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to walks starting from Betws-y-Coed. Some of the best routes include:

Llyn Elsi easy circular walk (4.2 miles/6.8 kilometres): simple uphill walk to an idyllic mountain lake
Betws-y-Coed Miner’s Bridge walk (4.3 miles/7 kilometres): exploration of the surrounding countryside, staying close to the village
Snowdonia Way: a 97-mile (156-kilometre) long-distance walking route crossing the full length of the national park

Fairy Glen

Fairy Glen is a magical place close to Betws-y-Coed. Here, there’s a narrow ravine surrounded by trees, creating a spellbinding emerald-green gorge that feels like you’re in a fairy tale. This beautiful area is steeped in folklore and has been the subject of many poems.

Betws-y-Coed train station

Even if you’re not travelling by train, Betws-y-Coed train station is well worth a look. The former station buildings are now home to cafes, shops, and art galleries, and it’s a great spot to take a picture.

Hop over the bridge to the Conwy Valley Railway, where you’ll find a museum and model railway. There is an entrance fee for this.

Swallow Falls

Just east of the village, you’ll find the highest continuous waterfall in Wales. This set of beautiful cascades is accessible on foot and has been a popular tourist attraction since the early 19th century. Swallows and swifts can be seen flying low over the waterfall during the summer months, which is how it gets its name.

Please note: there is a small entry fee to access the viewing platforms.

How to get to Betws-y-Coed from YHA Snowdon Pen-y-Pass

YHA Snowdon Pen-y-Pass is around 10.7 miles (17.2 kilometres) from Betws-y-Coed, making it one of the best places to stay if you’re planning to visit this pretty village. One of the best ways to get there is by public transport.

Cycling: It takes about 45 minutes to cycle from YHA Snowdon Pen-y-Pass to Betws-y-Coed.

By public transport: From the bus stop at YHA Snowdon Pen-y-Pass, take the S1 bus to Betws-y-Coed, alighting at the railway station. The journey should take approximately half an hour.

By car: Driving from YHA Snowdon Pen-y-Pass to Betws-y-Coed should take around 19 minutes. There are several pay and display car parks in the village, including: