In this guide, we share the best attractions and things to do in Llanberis, a town located at the foot of mighty Snowdon, Wales‘ highest mountain.
Tourists and walkers in pursuit of outdoor activities are drawn to this bustling town, regarded by many as the action-packed hub of North Wales.
Whether you’re drawn to Llanberis in search of industrial history, train journeys, incredible hiking or are simply drawn to its picturesque lake setting, this lively town in northwest Wales has something for everyone.
There are plenty of things to do around Llanberis too, making it an ideal base to explore Snowdonia National Park.
Read on to discover the very best things to do in Llanberis, North Wales.
POPULAR THINGS TO DO IN LLANBERIS, WALES
1. DOLBADARN CASTLE
Built during the 13th century by Llywelyn the Welsh Prince, Dolbadarn Castle sits dominantly atop a huge rock between Llyn Peris and Llyn Padarn. Its position in a narrow valley, provided a vital military stronghold over Snowdon Pass, against Edward I’s English forces.
Today, the lonely ruins are a grade I listed building under the watchful eye of Cadw. The sturdy round tower standing 50ft high, is one of the finest surviving towers remaining from this period.
Arriving over Pen-y-Pass, the castle is a lovely introduction to the town, whilst serving up spectacular views into Snowdon valley.
Before driving past this iconic Llanberis attraction, be sure to wander up to its ancient walls for a closer inspection.
- Location: On the A4086, 1/2m (0.8km) SE of Llanberis LL55 4UB
- Parking: Across the road in a local authority paying public car park. Pay for an all-day ticket, then follow the small footpath to reach the ruins.
- Cost: Free
- Hours: Daily 10am-4pm 1 April to 31 March (Closed 24, 25, 26 December and 1 January)
2. CEUNANT MAWR WATERFALL
Also known as Llanberis Falls, Ceunant Mawr Waterfall is an easy 15 minute walk from the town centre. The river Afon Arddu plunges down over 30-60 meters and the falls are especially spectacular after heavy rain in Winter and Spring.
So don’t let the rain put you off checking out this charming Llanberis attraction, as it will look more spectacular in these conditions.
Plunging in two stages into a wooded gorge, the main body of water on the lower fall is channeled diagonally along a rock shelf. There are three ways to view the waterfall.
- The easiest way to view the waterfalls is from a train which crosses through a viaduct above the river.
- From Snowdon mountain Railway Station in the town centre turn right and then take the first right hand turn. Continue to the end of the road and turn right into a short road with houses. At the bottom of the road is a sign to “upper and lower paths.
For the lower path, follow the fence on the left, branching left where it turns left. Walk between the fence and the bracken until you reach the river. Follow the path next to the river as it leads up a charming little valley and the lower view of the falls. Spectacular after heavy rain, they can be viewed from a safe distance.
For the upper path, follow the tarmac footpath which passes the viaduct and climbs steeply uphill offering views over Llyn Padarn, Llanberis and the track of the Snowdon Mountain Railway as it begins its ascent up the mountain.
To view the impressive waterfall, pass through a kissing gate crossing the railway track. You will see a platform overlooking the top of the falls.
- Location: Llanberis Village LL55 4TR
- Parking: In a local authority paying public car park.
- Cost: Free viewing daily 24 hours
3. LLYN PADARN & PADARN COUNTRY PARK
Llanberis lies on the southern banks of Llyn Padarn, a glacially formed lake. Snowdonia’s spectacular scenery provides a perfect backdrop together with Padarn Country park.
Boasting water sports, rowing, canoeing and sailing, the lake is a popular place to wander. A delightful circular walk along a way-marked trail gives a glimpse of several Llanberis attractions.
Both Llyn Padarn and Padarn Country Park are Sites of Special Scientific Interest, due to their geology and wildlife. Lake Padarn is one of only a few natural habitats in Wales where the cold-water Arctic Charr can be found.
Based in the old Slate Quarries, the extensive 800 acre Padarn Park on the south-eastern end of the lake includes industrial heritage, and a rare ancient Sessile Oak woodland.
Attractions including the National Slate Museum, Quarryman’s Hospital and old quarry workings are within the Park. The grounds are open all year round and ample car parking is available on site.
Whether you fancy a lakeside picnic, a themed woodland or lakeside trail or trying your hand at rock climbing or sailing, there is something for everyone.
- Location: Llanberis Village LL55 4TR
- Parking: In a local authority paying public car park.
4. NATIONAL SLATE MUSEUM
For a fascinating insight into the Dinorwic Slate Quarry first started in 1787, the fantastic National Slate Museum is the place to visit. Housed in the old industrial Victorian workshops in the shadow of Elidir mountain, the museum offers a rare insight into the Welsh slate industry.
Check out one of the largest watermills in mainland Britain, enjoy slate working demonstrations and hear gripping tales of quarry life. The buildings are designed to show how quarrymen worked in an industry that once serviced the enormous slate quarry.
This free Llanberis attraction recaptures the craftsmanship, suffering and community life from a significant period and is a fun thing to do for all the family. Although there is a cafe on site, you are welcome to bring your own picnic to the museum!
- Location: Llanberis
- Parking: Padarn Country Park car park (£4.50 cash or card, no change given)
- Opening Hours: Sunday – Friday 10am – 4pm (closed Saturdays)
- Cost: FREE but tickets have to be booked in advance
5. QUARRYMAN’S HOSPITAL
Life for workers in Dinorwig Slate Quarry was arduous and dangerous. Accidents often resulted in amputated limbs, death and loss of work time during recovery.
With the nearest hospital in Bangor over 12 miles away and injuries often involving loss of fingers and bone fractures, the quarry owners built a hospital in 1860.
Employee welfare was important and time missing from work had to be reduced for efficient running of the quarry. With its own operating theatre for surgical procedures, it also become the first British hospital to be given an x-ray machine in 1900.
With the formation of the National Health Service in 1948, its use continued as only a first aid centre until 1969 when the quarry closed.
Situated a few hundred yards from the Welsh Slate Museum, the hospital is now a museum with many things restored to their original state. You can gain insight into quarrymen’s lives in the 19th century, their injuries and subsequent treatment.
Some of the interesting items on display are a dispensing area with medical name tags, various old-style medical implements and a stretcher attached to a specially made 2 foot gauge tramway chassis.
Plus this is an ideal thing to do in Llanberis in the rain, when you don’t want to get wet!
- Location: Within Padarn Country Park next to the National Slate Museum
- Hours: Daily during main holiday periods. Check times and book your visit.
6. DINORWIG QUARRY
The vast Dinorwig Quarry was at its peak, producing over 100,000 tons of slate a year. In fact at the turn of the century, it was the second largest slate quarry in the world. The sheer scale of the quarry was vast.
The two main quarry sections housing 20 galleries each, closed in 1969 and have since become the National Slate Museum, although almost all structures survived.
It is hard to grasp the scale of the quarry until you are in amongst it. From the museum you can follow a pathway across the railway track to view old buildings and a viewing platform.
- Location: Between the villages of Llanberis and Dinorwig
7. LLANBERIS LAKE RAILWAY
Up there as one of the most fun things to do in Llanberis especially for families, is to take a ride on the Llanberis Lake Railway.
While away an hour on a 5 mile return trip alongside Padarn Lake aboard a lovingly restored vintage steam engine. Enjoy views of 13th century Dolbadarn Castle, and watch the driver stoking the fire at Gilfach Ddu.
There are beautiful views of Snowdon as you travel along the 1845 slate railway route.
- Location: Gilfach Ddu, Padarn Country Park Llanberis LL55 4TY
- Timetable & Fares: Check online booking details
8. SNOWDON MOUNTAIN RAILWAY
One of the top things to do in Llanberis, a visit to Snowdon Mountain Railway is obligatory when you are visiting the area.
Board a contemporary diesel carriage, pushed by traditional diesel locomotives or a heritage carriage pushed by an original Swiss steam locomotive from 1896.
Described as one of the most scenic railway journeys in the world, you will be privy to awe-inspiring views as you climb up Snowdon to Clogwyn Station.
At the summit is the UK’s highest visitor centre and cafe. The views from Hafod Eryri to the valleys below are spectacular on a sunny day.
- Check out the journey to the Summit.
- Times and prices
- Location: Llanberis, Gwynedd, LL55 4TT
- Parking: There is a pay and display car park behind the station on Victoria Terrace (LL55 4TT) which does not require pre-booking.
Another great short railway trip is Llandudno Tramway, which is one of many things to do in Llandudno, a short drive away.
9. LLANBERIS PATH
Climbing Wales’ highest mountain is on many a walker’s bucket list. This famous massif is part of three jagged peaks, Crib Goch, Crib-y-ddysgl and Y lliwedd, with Yr Wyddfa the crowning summit.
This climb is not for the faint hearted and shouldn’t be easily dismissed. While there are several paths to choose for your assent, the Llanberis Path is the easiest, but longest route.
It may not come with the gritty height, scramble or ridge pitches of others, but is nevertheless tough.
After an initial walk along a residential street, an interpretation board is reached detailing the walk which has an initial steep tarmac road at its start. At the end of this section, you will start the actual mountain path.
On the return trip, look forward to a stop (and rest) at the delightful Pen y Ceunant Isaf, Snowdon Cafe!
- Distance: 9 miles (14.5km)
- Ascent: 975m
- Time To Climb: 5.5-7 hours return
- Start Point: At the roundabout outside the Royal Victoria Hotel in Llanberis, you will see a signpost “Pathway to Snowdon”, which is the start of the Llanberis Path.
- As with any climbs, be prepared for all types of weather, wear waterproof clothing and check the latest weather forecast. Before you start, read route details.
10. DRIVE LLANBERIS PASS (Bwlch Llanberis)
Another of the best Llanberis Snowdon things to do, is to drive the incredible Llanberis Pass from Llanberis to Pen-Y-Pass. Expect 5 miles of incredible mountain scenery, twists and turns around every corner and breathtaking vistas.
Starting from Llanberis, you will drive for 7km and the elevation gain will be 346metres.
Leaving Llanberis on the A4086, the road hugs the shores of Llyn Peris with views over Dolbadarn Castle. At the bottom of the pass is the small village of Nant Peris, which up until the early 19th century was the main hamlet in the valley. There is a quaint church here which is worthy of a stop.
The winding mountain road takes you past Glyder Fawr, the highest mountain in the Glyderau ranges and the famous Snowdon massif. The breathtaking route becomes more impressive the higher you ascend.
Llanberis Pass summit is located at an elevation of 360 metres above sea level. Here there is a small carpark and the starting point for 3 routes to climb up Snowdon.
Be sure to read our post “Snowdonia Driving Route For One Of The Most Scenic Drives In Wales“
11. SNOWDON HONEY FARM & WINERY
If you’re on the hunt for something to remember your time in the town by, then one of the best Llanberis shops to stop off at should include Snowdon Honey Farm & Winery.
Here you can discover the Magic of Snowdonia through the Company’s locally produced collection of treasures, right in the middle of town.
What started out as a bee-keeping hobby, has transformed into a budding small family-run business.
Choose from locally sourced honey, fruit wines, fudges, welsh meads, and luxury beeswax products. Or for a special occasion why not gift someone special, a traditional carved love spoon.
Not sure which products to buy? “Try before you buy” at the popular tasting bar.
Other notable shops in Llanberis are:
- Piggery Pottery – established in 1972, this craft shop is open 7 days a week and specialises in handmade ceramics and personalised gifts. Why not have a go at “throwing your own pot” followed by a coffee and cake in the cafe.
PLACES TO PARK IN LLANBERIS
With a steady flow of eager walkers passing through Llanberis, parking is available in multiple places (mainly payable).
- Village Carpark alongside Lake Padarn
- Ger y Llyn Carpark alongside Lake Padarn
- Padarn Country Park Carpark
- Llanberis Pay & Display Carpark by Snowdon Ticket office
PLACES TO EAT IN LLANBERIS
Llanberis town has some great places to enjoy Welsh fare, including:
- Pantri Llanberis : High Street 10am-5pm Cosy cafe serving a great selection of soups, sandwiches and homemade cakes. Location | High Street, Hours | 10am-5pm
- Pen-y-Ceunant Isaf Tea House : 400yds up the Llanberis Path. This 18th century cottage cafe serves yummy home-baked cakes, snacks, welsh teas and very welcome drinks.
PLACES TO STAY IN LLANBERIS
Llanberis lies just outside the national park. Being the hub for Snowdon Mountain Railway, and a pick-up place for Snowdon Sherpa Bus, accommodation options tend to favour walkers.
- The Lake View Hotel: Features rooms overlooking Lake Padarn.
- YHA Snowdon Llanberis: An ideal base for climbing Snowdon and only a 10 minute walk from the main street.
- Padarn Hotel: With 17 modern bedrooms and free parking, you are only 100 yards from the lake.
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