The Gateway to Snowdonia Village: A Self-Guided Walking Tour

Betws-y-Coed , Wales

The Gateway to Snowdonia Village: A Self-Guided Walking Tour

Active

45m - 1h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Betws-y-Coed is Britain’s first artists’ colony, nestled at the entrance to Snowdonia National Park. On this self-guided walking tour, you’ll stroll down this village’s charming streets, riverside paths, and historic bridges to find out how this woodland paradise inspired generations of landscape painters.

The tour starts at the historic Betws-y-Coed Railway Station. As you explore this picturesque settlement – meaning “prayer house in the woods“ – you’ll find out how painter David Cox established Britain’s first art colony here in 1844, forever changing the Welsh village’s fortunes. Other landscape artists, unable to travel to Europe during the Napoleonic Wars, soon discovered its dramatic beauty and, as railways brought Victorian tourists, the once-peaceful artist haven evolved into the gateway to Snowdonia we know today.

Available options

The Gateway to Snowdonia Village: A Self-Guided Walking Tour

What's included

Lifetime access to this tour in English before your booking date and after it

Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata

App for Android and iOS

Flexibility to explore at your own pace with a self-guided GPS tour

Directions to the starting point so that when you’re in the right place, the tour will start

Detailed itinerary

We'll pass by the Conwy Valley Railway Museum, with its rich history. However, entry to the Museum itself is not included in this tour.

We'll pass by the beautiful historic St Michael's Old Church.

We'll also pass by the The Courthouse, adding to the historic charm of the neighbourhood. However, entry to is not included in this tour.

We'll also pass by the Artworks 2 Celf, a quirky local arts shop. However, entry to the shop itself is not included in this tour.

Passing by the Saint Mary’s Church, you'll witness another architectural gem of the village. Please note that entry to the church is not included in this tour.

We'll also pass by the Royal Oak Hotel, with its storied past. However, entry to the hotel itself is not included in this tour.

We'll also pass by Anna Davies (Betws-y-Coed) Ltd, a lovely local institution. However, entry to the shop itself is not included in this tour.

We'll also pass over the Pont-y-Pair Bridge, a beautiful historic bridge.

We'll also pass by the Betws-y-Coed Memorial Hall, with its unique stone architecture. However, entry is not included in this tour.

We'll end the tour at the Betws y Coed Tourist Information Centre. However, entry to the Centre itself is not included in this tour.

What's not included

Smartphone and headphones

Personal expenses for attractions not included during the tour

Food and drink

Transportation

Available languages

Audio guide

Written guide

Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

The total tour time includes walking the route and passing by the attractions

Meeting point

This tour starts at the railway station, Station Rd, Betws-y-Coed LL24 0AE, United Kingdom. Before arrival, please install the mobile app and use the code provided on your confirmation ticket. Detailed starting point instructions are available after downloading.

Important notes

VOICEMAP CODE
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Please check your email at the address you provided when you made this booking. You've been sent an eight character code you'll need to redeem your tour.

This code can be used by every member of your party. If you've booked for three people, for example, three people can download this tour using the same code.

DOWNLOAD INSTRUCTIONS

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Once you've received your code, please follow these steps:

Install the VoiceMap Audio Tours mobile app

Create an account

Select Tour Codes from the menu, then select Enter Codes

Enter your code then select Download Now

PLEASE NOTE
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You can download the tour at any time, before or after your booking date. It’s best to download the tour before you set off for the starting point.

This tour follows a set route and includes turn-by-turn directions. It works best if you start it in the right place and follow the directions from one location to the next.

When the download completes, you’ll see a screen with a photo of the starting point and directions to it. The red start button will become active when you are at the starting point.

Remember to bring your own headphones, unless you have booked a driving tour.

SUPPORT
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For technical support and other queries, please email support@voicemap.me

About Betws-y-Coed

Betws-y-Coed is a charming village nestled in the heart of Snowdonia National Park, known for its stunning natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and rich history. Often referred to as the 'Gateway to Snowdonia,' it offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adrenaline-pumping activities.

Top Attractions

Swallow Falls

Swallow Falls is a stunning waterfall located just outside Betws-y-Coed. It's a popular spot for nature lovers and photographers, offering a peaceful and scenic escape.

Nature 30 minutes to 1 hour Free

Conwy Falls

Conwy Falls is another beautiful waterfall located near Betws-y-Coed. The walk to the falls is part of the Miners' Track, offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Nature 1 to 2 hours Free

Betws-y-Coed Golf Club

Betws-y-Coed Golf Club offers a challenging 18-hole course set in the heart of Snowdonia. It's a great place for golf enthusiasts to enjoy a round while taking in the stunning scenery.

Sports 2 to 4 hours Moderate

Llyn Elsi

Llyn Elsi is a beautiful lake located near Betws-y-Coed. It's a popular spot for walking, picnicking, and enjoying the stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

Nature 1 to 2 hours Free

Zip World Fforest

Zip World Fforest is an adventure park located near Betws-y-Coed, offering a range of outdoor activities including zip lines, treetop adventures, and mountain biking.

Adventure Half day to full day Moderate to Expensive

Must-Try Local Dishes

Welsh Lamb

Tender and flavorful lamb dishes, often served with local vegetables and potatoes.

Main Course Not vegetarian or vegan

Welsh Rarebit

A savory dish made with a cheese-based sauce served over toasted bread.

Main Course Contains gluten and dairy

Bara Brith

A traditional Welsh fruit loaf soaked in tea and spiced with cinnamon and mixed spice.

Dessert Contains gluten and dairy

Welsh Cakes

Small, round cakes made with flour, butter, eggs, and currants, cooked on a griddle.

Dessert Contains gluten and dairy

Popular Activities

Hiking Mountain biking Zip lining Picnicking by the lake Strolling through the village Enjoying a meal at a local pub Visiting historic sites Attending local festivals

Best Time to Visit

June to August

This is the busiest time of year with warm weather and long daylight hours, perfect for outdoor activities. However, it can be crowded with tourists.

15°C to 20°C 59°F to 68°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English, Welsh
Widely spoken: English
English: Widely spoken

Currency

British Pound (GBP)

Time Zone

GMT (UTC+0) or BST (UTC+1) during daylight saving time

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Betws-y-Coed is a generally safe destination with low crime rates. However, as with any tourist destination, it's important to take basic precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas
• Use reputable taxi services and tour operators

Getting there

By air

Manchester Airport • 100 miles (160 km)
Liverpool John Lennon Airport • 80 miles (130 km)

By train

Betws-y-Coed Station

By bus

Betws-y-Coed Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are a convenient and affordable way to get around, especially for those without a car.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Local taxi services can be booked by phone or at taxi ranks.

Rentals

Car, Bike

Neighborhoods

Village Center Llyn Elsi Area Conwy Falls Area

Day trips

Mount Snowdon

20 miles (32 km) • Full day

Mount Snowdon is the highest mountain in Wales and offers stunning views and a variety of hiking trails for all skill levels.

Conwy

12 miles (19 km) • Half day to full day

Conwy is a historic walled town with a stunning castle, charming streets, and a rich history.

Llandudno

15 miles (24 km) • Half day to full day

Llandudno is a charming seaside town with a beautiful promenade, sandy beaches, and a variety of attractions.

Festivals

Betws-y-Coed Eisteddfod • August Snowdonia Marathon • October

Pro tips

Visit the Swallow Falls early in the day to avoid crowds and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Try local Welsh dishes such as Welsh lamb, Welsh rarebit, and Welsh cakes.
Explore the nearby Conwy Falls and Llyn Elsi for stunning scenery and peaceful walks.
Consider staying in nearby areas for a more peaceful experience and easier access to outdoor activities.
Book accommodations and activities well in advance, especially during peak season.