Llanberis provides the perfect dog-friendly day out with its scenic surroundings and welcoming atmosphere. The town is surrounded by stunning landscapes, including the Llyn Padarn and Snowdon, offering ample opportunities for picturesque walks, picnics, and paddleboarding - enabling dogs and their humans to stretch their legs and enjoy the fresh air. It's perfect place to visit whether you're travelling solo, as a couple, or as a family.
1. Discover Dolbadarn Castle
If you're interested in learning a bit about the history of the area, then a visit to the dog-friendly Dolbadarn Castle is for you.
Dolbadarn Castle is a small but mighty medieval fortress with a rich history dating back to the early 13th century. Built by Llywelyn the Great, the castle stands proudly on a rocky hillock, offering breath taking views of Eryri (Snowdonia) majestic landscape. Today, the castle is a popular dog-friendly historical attraction, accessed through a short stroll through woodland, inviting you and your four-legged friend to explore its ruins and immerse yourselves in the tales of Wales' medieval past. You can find out more and how to get there by reading our Dolbadarn Castle blog.
2. Ceunant Mawr Waterfall
Do you enjoy chasing waterfalls? Well, Llanberis’ waterfall Ceunant Mawr is one to add to your list and won’t disappoint.
Ceunant Mawr Waterfall in Llanberis is a stunning natural wonder just a short walk from the centre of Llanberis. Tumbling down a rocky gorge, the waterfall captivates with its cascading beauty and lush surroundings. The picturesque trails lead you to viewpoints that allow you to appreciate the awe-inspiring waterfall, creating a memorable experience for you and your dog in the heart of the Welsh landscape. Find out more about the waterfall and how to get to it in our blog.
3. Walk, Picnic and Play at Llyn Padarn
Llyn Padarn is a beautiful lake offering breath taking views. It's popular for its clear waters and serene atmosphere. Llyn Padarn provides a picturesque setting for various outdoor activities, including paddle boarding, kayaking, picnicking, and lakeside walking with your dog - it’s much loved by locals and visitors for its peace and tranquillity. And we think many locals will agree, there's nothing better than visit the Llyn Padarn on a warm summers evening. Discover more in our Llyn Padarn blog.
If you're considering going paddle boarding with four-legged friend, you might found our checklist and tips for paddle boarding with your dog helpful.
4. Take a Photo with Your Dog at the Blade Of The Giants
While walking by Llyn Padarn, it’s worth a stop and look (and a photo) at the Blade of the Giants sculpture created and erected to highlight Gwynedd's indigenous princes, Welsh castles, and Wales as a nation.
5. Ride the Llanberis Lake Train
Embark on a charming five-mile journey alongside the picturesque Lake Padarn, nestled in the heart of Snowdonia, aboard a delightful vintage steam engine. The enchanting route showcases the 13th century Dolbadarn, and passes by Llanberis' twin lakes. The dog-friendly train seamlessly travels through Padarn Country Park, tracing the historic 1845 slate railway route, offering breath taking views of Y Wyddfa (Snowdon). So a leisurely journey you and your pooch are sure to enjoy.
You can begin your journey at Gilfach Ddu station, in Padarn Country Park or at Llanberis Station. Pre booking online is recommended and it's important to note that this running of the train is seasonal.
6. Discover Dinorwic Slate Quarry
Dinorwic Slate Quarry is a historic industrial site that played a significant role in Wales' slate mining heritage. The abandoned quarry boasts impressive remnants of slate industry infrastructure, creating a unique and interesting landscape. We have yet to meet anyone who hasn’t loved this walk. You can enjoy a dog-friendly walk through the scenic paths surrounding the quarry, offering a perfect blend of history and natural beauty. To get to the quarry, you can either walk from Llanberis, which is about a 3 mile walk, or drive and park outside of the entrance. Be aware though the parking area can get busy on weekends and sunny days.
Keep checking back (or sign up for our newsletter) as we’ll have a full blog on this walk coming soon - promise!
7. Hike to the Peak of Y Wyddfa (Snowdon)
One of the most popular and easiest walking paths to reach the peak of Y Wyddfa (Snowdon) is the Llanberis path, as it follows the railway line (if you’re thinking of getting the train to the summit, we’re sorry to tell you that it isn’t dog-friendly). It’s the longest route to the top, but due to its slightly steadier incline, it's best for first-time climbers. Although it’s the easiest path, it’s worth noting that it still requires you and your dog to have a certain level of fitness as it’s just under a 7-hour round trip up and down the mountain. So, if you and your four-legged friend are up to the challenge, you can find more information, including where to start the walk in Llanberis, on the Snowdonia website.
So are you and your four legged friend ready for an adventure in Llanberis?
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