Updated by the Crib Goch Outdoor team Jan 2026 — based on real outdoor experience in Eryri
Beddgelert might just be the prettiest village in Wales — stone cottages, mountain views, rivers converging beneath old bridges, and trails leading straight into the mountains. Whether you’re here for a gentle wander, a café stop or a proper day in the hills, Beddgelert is a stunning Eryri National Park base with plenty to explore.
Here are 10 of the best things to do in Beddgelert, each with walking distance and time estimates to help you plan your day properly.
1. Visit Gelert’s Grave & the Riverside Walk
A short, peaceful stroll along the river to the legendary resting place of Gelert, Prince Llywelyn’s faithful hound. A beautiful introductory walk for all ages.
- Distance from central parking: ~0.7 miles return
- Time needed: 20–30 minutes
- Terrain: Flat, gentle paths – (wheelchair and pram friendly)
Takes in riverside views, ancient stone bridges, and some of the village’s best scenery.
2. Walk Through Aberglaslyn Pass (Fisherman’s Path)
One of the most spectacular walks in Wales. Follow a narrow rocky path above the rushing Afon Glaslyn — perfect for photos, wild energy and dramatic scenery.
- Distance from Nantmor NT car park: ~3 miles (4.8 km) return
- Time needed: 1.5–2 hours
- Terrain: Narrow paths, rocky ledges, some exposure
A must-do for anyone visiting Beddgelert. It is also possible to start this walk from Beddgelert village itself
3. Explore Llyn Dinas & the River Walk
A beautiful low-level route following the Glaslyn River to Llyn Dinas with mountain views the whole way. Calm, scenic and great in all weathers.
- Distance from Beddgelert parking: ~4 miles return
- Time needed: 1.5–2.5 hours
- Terrain: Surfaced riverside paths and tarmac road
Perfect for families, dog walkers and photographers.
4. Visit Sygun Copper Mine (Self-Guided Underground Tour)
A fascinating insight into the industrial past of Eryri. Wander underground walkways, climb through old mine chambers and pop out to brilliant views of the valley.
- Distance from mine car park: <0.2 miles (1 mile from Beddgelert)
- Time needed: 40–60 minutes
- Terrain: Uneven floors, steps
A great rainy-day option or family activity. Visit their Website
5. Explore Craflwyn Estate (National Trust Trails)
A quieter, lesser-known part of Eryri offering woodland trails, steep viewpoints and myth-inspired story routes.
- Distance from Craflwyn car park: 1–3 miles depending on trail (0.5 miles from Beddgelert)
- Time needed: 1–2 hours
- Terrain: Woodland paths, some steep sections
Great for those wanting a quieter alternative to the busier Yr Wyddfa paths.
6. Walk around Llyn Gwynant
A beautiful lake walk through open valley scenery with big views of Yr Wyddfa’s southern slopes. Excellent for morning or golden-hour strolls.
- Distance from lakeside lay-bys near Beddgelert: ~3 miles return
- Time needed: 1.5–2 hours
- Terrain: Valley paths, some muddy sections
Ideal for families and photographers.
7. Ice Cream at Glaslyn Ices (Award-Winning)
A Beddgelert classic! One of the oldest independent gelato shops in Wales — and a proper treat after a walk.
- Distance: Right in the village centre (<0.1 miles)
- Time needed: However long your cone lasts
A genuine must-do while in the village. Visit their website
8. Ride the Welsh Highland Railway (Beddgelert Station)
Steam through the Aberglaslyn Pass or continue up to Rhyd Ddu or Caernarfon (or Porthmadog in the other direction). One of the most scenic heritage railways in the UK.
- Distance from village parking: ~0.3–0.4 miles
- Time needed: 1–2.5 hours depending on route
- Terrain: Paved village paths
A brilliant activity for families and railway enthusiasts. Visit their website for train times.
9. Climb Moel Hebog (from Beddgelert)
A full mountain day straight from the village. Moel Hebog offers fantastic views down the Glaslyn valley and across to the Nantlle Ridge and the sea.
- Distance from Beddgelert parking: ~5 miles (8 km)
- Time needed: 3–5 hours
- Terrain: Steep, rocky, mountain terrain
A rewarding walk for those wanting a proper Summit Day without travelling far.
10. Wander the Village, Shops, Riverside Cafés, Pubs & Restaurants.
Sometimes the best thing to do in Beddgelert is simply wander. The stone bridges, riverside paths, Welsh craft shops and cafés give the village its charm.
- Distance: All within ~0.5 miles of central parking
- Time needed: 20 minutes to several hours
Great for relaxed days, mooching, meeting friends or sheltering from a rain shower.
Why We Love Beddgelert
Beddgelert is one of those places where you can do everything or nothing — take on a mountain, wander along the river, disappear into a forest, explore an old mine, or sit with an ice cream by the water and watch the world drift by.
Its mix of myth, landscape, history and easy access to trails makes it one of the most rewarding villages to explore in Eryri.
If you’re heading into the hills and need help choosing the right kit, drop by our Beddgelert shop — we’re always happy to help (and always up for talking gear).
Enjoy exploring — and we’ll see you out there.
If you’re thinking about Climbing Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) whilst you visit you might want to start here Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) FAQs: You Need to Know Before You Start Your Climb
