Visiting Llyn Padarn, North Wales: The Best Things To Do!

Last Updated: December 20 2023

North Wales is home to some beautiful destinations (we should know, we live here!). One of these is the scenic Llyn Padarn, which boasts charming hiking trails, ample water sports opportunities, and plenty of great places to relax.

This glacially formed lake is approximately 2 miles (3.2 km) long and is one of the largest natural lakes in Wales. Not only is Llyn Padarn stunning but you’ll find plenty of things to do here! From the scenic lake walk to finding the iconic Lonely Tree, there’s something for everyone.

This guide is going to detail everything you should know when visiting Llyn Padarn. That includes how to get there, the best things to do, and where to stay. So let’s dive right in!

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A Guide to Visiting Llyn Padarn, North Wales

Where is Llyn Padarn?

Llyn Padarn is located in the charming village of Llanberis, which you’ll find in Snowdonia National Park. In fact, you can hike to Mount Snowdon from this beautiful lake!

Stretching from the small village of Brynrefail to the National Slate Museum in Llanberis, this lake is quite the size. Adjacent to it is Llyn Peris, which is another charming lake.

Llyn Padarn is just a 20-minute drive from the Welsh city of Bangor and under a 2-hour drive from Liverpool. As such, it’s a great day trip option for those who are exploring Wales and the North West of England.

How to get to Llyn Padarn, Llanberis?

The best way to reach Llyn Padarn is by driving, especially if you’re not staying locally. For those already in Wales, the popular destinations of Bangor, Beddgelert, and Caernarfon are all within a 30-minute drive.

If you’re exploring the North West of England, then the city of Chester is under a 1.5-hour drive away. Both Liverpool and Manchester offer easy accessibility too, with them being a maximum of 2 hours away.

If you’re staying local, then you’ll be able to make use of public transport. If you’re in Bangor or Caernarfon, then there are a couple of local bus services which will take you to Llanberis.

Your other option is to take a tour, and many of them depart from Liverpool or Manchester. This North Wales tour is a great option, which includes a visit to Llanberis, Conwy Castle, Snowdonia National Park, and Betws-y-Coed.

Where to park at Llyn Padarn?

Parking in Llanberis is surprisingly easy! Although only small, this village is a popular tourist attraction, as from here, you can catch a train up to the mighty Snowdon (more on this later).

As such, you’ll find plenty of parking options to choose from. The main car parks here include the Padarn Country Park car park and the parking lot that’s located opposite the Snowdon Mountain Railway.

However, these car parks are typically used by those who are hiking up Mount Snowdon. That means they can get busy, especially during the summer months, so you’re not guaranteed a spot.

In the end, we parked right by Llyn Padarn Lake. As soon as you enter Llanberis, you will see the Village Car Park on the left. This pay and display car park is located right next to the village, and you’ll find public toilets just a short walk away!

How to explore Llyn Padarn?

The best way to explore Llyn Padarn is on foot. There are tons of local hiking trails in the area, with the Llyn Padarn Walk being the most popular option. This way, you can really admire the area’s beauty.

In fact, this route will take you all around the lake’s circumference. For those who don’t want to hike, you’ll want to base yourself somewhere nearby.

As the lake is located alongside Llanberis, you could always park up in the village. From there, you can admire the views, take part in some watersports, or head out on the lake railway.

There’s also the option to drive around part of the lake, although you can’t drive around the whole thing. For those who do choose to drive, you’ll find a couple of car parks along the way, where you can admire the views.

The Best Things To Do at Llyn Padarn

1. Visit the Lonely Tree

While at Llyn Padarn, you just have to visit the Lonely Tree! This iconic tree is one of the most famous photography spots in Wales and it’s not hard to see why.

Also known as the Lone Tree, this tree sits on its own (as the name suggests) next to Llyn Padarn. If the water levels are high enough, then the tree is sometimes submerged in the water, so you’ll get a beautiful reflection in your photographs. If you can time your visit with sunrise or sunset, even better!

The Lone Tree is easy to find, just head towards the Snowdonia Watersports Centre in Llanberis. There’s parking here and it’s just a 5-minute walk from the centre of Llanberis.

Once you get to the watersports centre, simply walk across the gravel towards the small forested area. If you follow the path, you’ll find yourself at the Lonely Tree in no time (approx 5 minutes).

2. The Llyn Padarn Lake Walk

Snowdonia National Park is home to some of the best hikes in North Wales. The Llyn Padarn Walk is one of the area’s most popular options, as it will take you all around the lake (an important Site of Special Scientific Interest).

As you walk around Llyn Padarn, you’ll be treated to striking views of the surrounding mountains. There are several popular spots along the way, including the iconic Lonely Tree, Dolbadarn Castle, and the Quarry Hospital, with the latter offering epic views of Snowdon and the national park.

The whole route is around 6 miles (8 km) long and will take you approximately 2.5 hours. However, we’d recommend stopping off at a few locations along the way, especially as this walk is a great spot for a picnic.

For the most part, the walk is relatively easy and pretty flat. However, there are some steep inclines, but the majority of these are optional.

3. The Llanberis Lake Railway

If you’re looking for a more unique way to appreciate Llyn Padarn then why not give the Llanberis Lake Railway a go? Starting at Gilfach Ddu, the station is just a short walk from the village centre.

This small vintage railway runs along the lakeside for around 5 miles (8 km). A return journey takes around 60 minutes, so this activity won’t take too much time out of your day.

The Llanberis Lake Railway will take you past the village’s twin lakes and Dolbadarn Castle, and through the lush Padarn Country Park. Not only that, but you’ll get jaw-dropping views of Snowdon, the tallest mountain in Wales.

For those who are arriving by car, there’s a pay-and-display car park nearby that’s run by Gwynedd Council. If you’re planning to visit, then you’ll want to check the train timetable in advance.

We’d also recommend booking your tickets in advance, especially during the summer.

4. Relax at Padarn Country Park

If you’re looking for a place to relax while visiting Llyn Padarn then head to Padarn Country Park. This park is located along the lake shores and is where you’ll find the popular Llyn Padarn hike. Other great hiking routes include the Nature Walk, Woodland Walk, and Vivian Walk.

Covering an impressive 800 acres, Padarn Country Park has a lot to offer. First of all, the scenery here is breathtaking, with everything from stunning mountain views to lush woodlands.

Not only that but there are plenty of watersport opportunities available nearby, with kayak rentals being very affordable. You’ll also find lots of attractions near the park including the National Slate Museum and the Llanberis Lake Railway.

The great thing about Padarn Country Park is that you can park here all day. As such, many people choose to park up and then explore Llanberis from this car park.

5. Try out some Watersports

There are plenty of awesome watersports on offer at Llyn Padarn. Whether you’re interested in kayaking, paddle boarding, or canoeing, there’s something for everyone.

For those who are more confident in the water, you can simply rent equipment and head out to explore the lake self-guided. If you’re not too sure, then there are lessons and tours available, so shop around for the best deals.

If you’re not feeling that adventurous then why not head out for a swim in Llyn Padarn? This lake is a popular wild swimming spot (especially during the summer), with a variety of secluded areas.

Snowdonia Watersports offer open-water swimming lessons for those who’d prefer to experience this in a group. If you don’t have a wetsuit then don’t worry, as the company can provide you with them.

While spending time in Llyn Padarn, make sure you exercise caution and use common sense, especially if you’re not a confident swimmer.

6. Admire Dolbadarn Castle

Located just a 10-minute walk from Snowdon Mountain Railway is the spectacular Dolbadarn Castle. This castle is perched on top of a high rock, overlooking the beautiful Llyn Padarn.

Dating back to the 12th or 13th century, Dolbadarn Castle has been around for at least 800 years. It’s believed that the castle was built by Llywelyn the Great and was once used as a defence system for the Gwynedd Kingdom.

Today, the tower reaches 50 feet (15 metres) high and you can climb up the narrow stairs right to the top. From here, you’ll be treated to striking views of the lake and surrounding mountains.

Better yet, there’s no entrance fee to visit the castle making it the perfect spot for budget travellers. It’s also easy to access, as you’ll find Dolbadarn Castle just off the A4086.

Not only that, but the castle is dog-friendly so your pooch can come along with you. What more could you ask for?

Things to do in Llanberis

After visiting Llyn Padarn, leave some time free to explore the village of Llanberis and its attractions. This charming destination has a lot to offer, which is why many people choose to stay here overnight.

There are plenty of great things to do in Llanberis so here are a few of our recommendations!

1. The National Slate Museum

The National Slate Museum is certainly a historical point of interest in Llanberis. Surrounded by towering mountains, this incredible museum offers a unique insight into the area’s mining history.

It’s around a 20-minute walk from Llanberis itself or there’s a car park right next door. Located across the lake from town, this museum is one of the most significant industrial heritage sites in Europe.

Built in 1870, this building once housed industrial Victorian workshops. These workshops were used to maintain the Dinorwic Slate Quarry and once employed over 3000 men, making it an important source of income for many of the local people.

The National Slate Museum is one of the area’s best free attractions and is open all year round. It offers you a chance to learn about the site’s rich history, with the introductory film offering great insight. As such, this place is a must-visit.

2. Vivian Quarry

Adjacent to the National Slate Museum, you’ll find the Vivian Quarry. This quarry is part of the former Dinorwic Quarry; once one of the largest quarries in Wales.

Vivian Quarry hasn’t been worked since 1960, and since then, underwater springs have filled it with water. Boasting a depth of 65 feet (20 meters), it’s no wonder that the waters here are now being used as a diving centre.

Divers have the opportunity to explore the remains of a working quarry which has been fully submerged. For those brave enough, you’ll get to witness submerged buildings and vehicles.

If you want to take a look at Vivian Quarry, we recommend heading towards the entrance. You’ll then want to take the stairs up to the right, and once at the top, go left. From here, you’ll be treated to a great view of the quarry!

There’s also the Vivian Quarry Trail which starts from Padarn Country Park.

3. The Quarry Hospital

You’ll find plenty of things to do in Llanberis, but we’d highly recommend heading to The Quarry Hospital. Also known as Dinorwic Quarry Hospital, this place was built in 1860 and was used as a medical centre up until the 1940s. Afterwards, the hospital was used as a first aid centre.

Thanks to contributions, this hospital provided free medical care before the NHS was formed. Not only that, but The Quarry Hospital was one of the area’s first buildings to have electricity and running water.

Today, The Quarry Hospital is a visitor centre so you’re welcome to look around. While here, you’ll get a fantastic insight into the workings of this hospital back in the day, and you’ll get to appreciate interesting artefacts.

Not only that, but the views from this hospital are stunning! From here, you’ll be treated to epic vistas of Llyn Padarn, Llanberis Village, and the surrounding mountains, including Mount Snowdon.

4. Llanberis View Point

Although the Lonely Tree offers arguably some of the best views in the area, you’ll find another belter if you head up above the quarry. The Llyn Padarn and Llanberis View Point is just a short walk from the village, and there are two paths that you can take.

One path goes around the back of the Quarry Hospital, and this is the longer route. When we visited, there was a path you could take from the First Hydro Company. Although this path is a lot steeper, you’ll reach the viewpoint much quicker.

If you want to take the latter path, you’ll come across a small roundabout before the Quarry Slate Museum. From here, take the path towards the Hydro Company on the right. After you take this path, you’ll see a set of stairs on your left that you need to take!

5. Hike up Mount Snowdon

For those who have more than one day at Llyn Padarn (e.g. you’re staying nearby), why not hike up Mount Snowdon? At an impressive 3,560 feet (1,085 metres), Snowdon is the highest mountain in Wales and England.

Often referred to as Yr Wyddfa, this famous peak is one of the United Kingdom’s most iconic landmarks. It towers above the village of Llanberis, and there are several routes that you can take to the summit.

The Llanberis Path is the easiest route to the summit and also the most popular (although it’s the longest). You’ll need to start from the end of Victoria Terrace, and it’s best to start nice and early, as the hike takes around 7 hours (there and back).

For those who don’t want to hike up to the summit, you can take the Snowdon Mountain Railway. However, you’ll want to book in advance because spaces can get booked up early, especially during the summer months.

Where to Stay in Llanberis

Although only small, you’ll find plenty of great places to stay in Llanberis. Many of these are centrally located too, so you’ll have easy access to Llyn Padarn, nearby restaurants, and pubs.

Although some of the accommodation options in Llanberis are quite pricey, there are plenty of campgrounds in the area too, for those who are on a budget.

Here are a couple of our recommendations!

Budget: Camping In Llanberis

Although not right by the lake, Camping in Llanberis is just a 5-minute drive away. This rustic campsite is located close to the Llanberis Path, so is perfect for those who want to hike up Mount Snowdon too.

As well as camping, you can opt to stay in one of the site’s glamping yurts. This place is perfect for those on a budget, and you’ll be staying close to some of the area’s major attractions!

Mid-range: Dol Peris

This gorgeous guesthouse offers mountain-view rooms, unlimited free WiFi, and a kitchen. There’s also a dedicated drying room – perfect for keen hikers and outdoor lovers.

This property is run by a lovely couple and is a great base for exploring Snowdonia National Park. The rooms are also cosy and spacious, with each one featuring a private bathroom.

Luxury: Padarn Hotel

Padarn Hotel is situated right in the centre of Llanberis and is just a short walk from Llyn Padarn and the Snowdon Mountain Railway, so you’ll be in a great location.

Boasting an on-site restaurant, spacious en-suite rooms, and a sports bar, this hotel has so much to offer. After a full day of exploring the national park and Llyn Padarn, it’s the perfect place to relax.

Booking.com

Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Padarn Lake, Llanberis

How many days should I spend in Llyn Padarn?

For the best experience, you’ll want to allow at least one full day here. That gives you enough time to admire the area’s beauty, enjoy the lake walk, and try out some water sports if you wish!

If you do choose to stay overnight, then you’ll have more time to enjoy what this area has to offer. That includes exploring more of the national park and trying out some local eateries.

What is a good budget for Llyn Padarn?

If you’re just looking to enjoy the outdoors then you can enjoy Llyn Padarn on a budget. All you’ll need to account for is parking and food, so allow around £15 per person for the day.

If you do want to stay overnight in Llanberis then your costs will increase substantially, unless you’re planning to camp. Luckily, there are plenty of great and affordable campgrounds nearby!

Where is the Lonely Tree?

The Lonely Tree is just a short walk from the Snowdonia Watersports Centre, located just outside the village of Llanberis. As it’s so easy to visit, you have to make sure you include this place on your itinerary!

After getting to the watersports centre, you just need to walk towards the small forested area. Once you follow the path, you’ll end up at the Lonely Tree in around 5 minutes.

Can you swim in Llyn Padarn?

Yes! Llyn Padarn is a great place to swim, especially during the summer months. You’ll find plenty of fantastic swimming spots here, with some being more secluded than others!

If you’re not feeling that confident then Snowdonia Watersports offers open water swimming lessons, where you can enjoy this experience in a group. This company can even provide wetsuits if needed.

Final Thoughts on Visiting Llyn Padarn

Hopefully, this guide has inspired you to visit the beautiful Llyn Padarn. From swimming in its blue waters to hiking around the lake, there are so many amazing things to do here!

Although you can easily visit in a day, many people choose to stay overnight in this area so they can explore more of Snowdonia National Park. Honestly, we’d recommend doing the same if you can.

Just be aware, that during the summer months, this place can get really busy, so we’d suggest getting here early if you can.

If you have any questions about Llyn Padarn, don’t hesitate to contact us via Instagram, Facebook, or in the comments below!

Here are some other UK guides that you may find helpful:

• Visiting Moel Famau Country Park
• Spending 2 Days In London
• 2 Days In Edinburgh (The Ultimate Edinburgh Itinerary)

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