Cae'r Gors: Kate Roberts' Childhood Home
The childhood home of Kate Roberts, Wales' 'Queen of Literature', preserved as a window into quarrying-era hardship and literary genius.
Cae'r Gors is a preserved smallholder's cottage near Caernarfon where Kate Roberts, Wales' renowned 'Queen of Literature', spent her childhood in the early 1900s. This intimate heritage site offers visitors a window into the life of the celebrated Welsh author and the hardships of quarrying communities that shaped her powerful literary voice. The adjoining heritage centre provides deeper context into Roberts' life and the industrial history of north-west Wales.
A brief summary to Cae'r Gors
- Caernarfon, GB
- +443000256000
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2.5 hours
- Budget
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 3 out of 5
Local tips
- Cae'r Gors is open only on Tuesdays, so plan your visit accordingly. Check ahead to confirm opening times and any seasonal variations.
- Combine your visit with nearby Penrhyn Slate Quarry to see the actual landscape where Roberts' father and other quarrymen worked, deepening your understanding of her literary context.
- Allow time to explore the heritage centre's interpretive displays and films; they provide invaluable historical context that enriches the cottage experience.
- If you are familiar with Kate Roberts' work, reading one of her short stories before visiting will significantly enhance your emotional connection to the spaces and objects within the cottage.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Visitor Center
- Information Boards
- Seating Areas
Getting There
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Car from Caernarfon Town Centre
Drive south-west from Caernarfon town centre towards Rhosgadfan, approximately 5 kilometres. The journey takes 10–15 minutes depending on traffic. Parking is available at the site. This is the most practical option for most visitors, as the cottage is situated in a rural upland area not well served by public transport.
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Bus from Caernarfon
Local bus services operate from Caernarfon bus station towards Rhosgadfan and surrounding villages. Journey times vary from 20–40 minutes depending on the specific route and service frequency. Services are limited, particularly outside peak hours, so check timetables in advance. This option is suitable for those without a car but requires advance planning.
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Taxi from Caernarfon
Taxis are available from Caernarfon town centre and can reach Cae'r Gors in approximately 15–20 minutes. Expect to pay between £15–25 GBP depending on the taxi firm and exact pickup location. This is a convenient option if you prefer not to drive or use public transport.
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Walking from Rhosgadfan Village
If you are based in Rhosgadfan village itself, Cae'r Gors is accessible on foot via country lanes and footpaths, approximately 2–3 kilometres from the village centre. The walk takes 30–45 minutes and involves some uphill terrain. The route follows rural roads with limited traffic but no dedicated pavements in places; wear appropriate footwear and be prepared for variable weather conditions.
Cae'r Gors location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Cae'r Gors
A Literary Icon's Formative Years
Cae'r Gors stands as a testament to the early life of Kate Roberts (1891–1985), one of Wales' most celebrated authors, often revered as the 'Queen of Welsh Literature'. This modest tyddyn, or smallholder's cottage, located near Rhosgadfan in the shadow of Caernarfon, has been carefully preserved and restored to reflect the conditions in which Roberts grew up. As the oldest child of a poverty-stricken family, Roberts witnessed firsthand the struggles and resilience of quarrying communities—experiences that would later become the beating heart of her literary work.Stepping Into Victorian Hardship
Crossing the threshold of Cae'r Gors transports visitors directly into the late Victorian era. The cottage's rooms are furnished with authentic period pieces and filled with Roberts' childhood belongings, creating an immersive experience that speaks to the material conditions of her youth. Every object tells a story of a family dependent on the dangerous and demanding work of slate quarrying. The sparse furnishings and modest layout underscore the economic realities that defined her formative years, offering visitors genuine insight into the world that inspired her unflinching portrayals of strong women battling against poverty and hardship.The Quarrying Landscape That Shaped Her Voice
Roberts' literary genius emerged directly from her environment. Her father, like countless men in the region, laboured in the slate quarries that dominated north-west Wales during the industrial boom. The surrounding landscape bears the scars of this extractive heritage—vast waste tips, scattered upland settlements, and remnants of railway networks that once transported slate to the sea. These barren, dramatic vistas form the backdrop to Roberts' stories, which centre on the resilience and dignity of women in quarrying communities. Understanding this landscape is essential to understanding her work; the bleakness and beauty of the terrain mirror the emotional complexity of her characters.The Heritage Centre and Broader Context
Adjacent to the cottage, the heritage centre employs modern interpretive technology, including film and interactive displays, to contextualise Roberts' life within the wider history of the region. Visitors learn not only about the author's personal journey but also about the social, economic, and cultural forces that shaped quarrying communities in Wales. This dual-site experience—the intimate domestic space of the cottage combined with the broader historical narrative of the centre—creates a comprehensive portrait of a crucial period in Welsh industrial and cultural history.A Window Into Welsh Literary Heritage
Cae'r Gors is far more than a museum; it is a pilgrimage site for those seeking to understand the roots of modern Welsh literature. Roberts' novels and short stories, written primarily in Welsh, explore themes of gender, class, and survival with unflinching honesty. Her characters—often women enduring impossible circumstances with quiet strength—reflect the real lives she observed growing up in this cottage. For readers familiar with her work, visiting Cae'r Gors deepens appreciation of her literary achievement; for those new to Roberts, the site provides essential context for understanding why she remains such a towering figure in Welsh cultural life.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Tafarn Snowdonia Parc
2.5 km
Discover the heart of Welsh culture at Tafarn Snowdonia Parc, where delicious food meets stunning natural beauty in Snowdonia National Park.
Caernarfon Tower
5.9 km
Explore Caernarfon Tower, a medieval fortress sentinel offering breathtaking views and rich Welsh history in a UNESCO World Heritage setting.
Caernarfon War Memorial
6.0 km
A dignified stone pillar in Castle Square honoring Caernarfon’s fallen heroes from the World Wars and beyond.
Pont Yr Aber
6.1 km
A scenic swing bridge linking Caernarfon Castle with woodland paths, offering iconic views and a touch of maritime theatre as boats pass beneath.
CARN / Oriel Pendeitsh
6.1 km
Discover contemporary Welsh art and culture in Caernarfon’s inspiring Oriel Pendeitsh gallery, a vibrant creative hub above the Tourist Information Centre.
South African War Memorial
6.2 km
A wheel-headed Celtic cross honouring 173 Caernarfonshire soldiers lost in the Boer War, unveiled in 1904.
Bryn Gwyn Standing Stones
10.6 km
Discover the towering Neolithic Bryn Gwyn Standing Stones, ancient sentinels of Anglesey’s prehistoric past and ritual heritage.
Caer Leb (Prehistoric Castle Enclosure)
10.6 km
Explore Caer Leb, a prehistoric fortified enclosure with water-filled ditches that reveal ancient defensive ingenuity on scenic Anglesey.
Porth y Clochydd
12.9 km
Explore the historical landmark of Porth y Clochydd in Llanfairpwllgwyngyll, a captivating site steeped in rich Welsh heritage and scenic beauty.
Celtic cross
13.1 km
A serene Celtic Cross memorial honoring Welsh poet Syr John Morris-Jones, set beside historic St. Mary's Church with stunning Menai Strait views.
Cadair y Cythraul
13.1 km
Discover the mysterious 'Chair of the Devil' in Llanfairpwllgwyngyll, a historic landmark steeped in Welsh myth and ancient landscape charm.
Goleudy Tŵr Mawr
13.2 km
Historic white lighthouse on a magical tidal island, offering spectacular coastal views and rich Welsh maritime heritage.
National Trust - Hafod y Llan
13.6 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Hafod y Llan, a tranquil campsite in the heart of Snowdonia National Park, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Cwm Idwal
13.7 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Cwm Idwal, a stunning ravine in Snowdonia National Park, perfect for hiking, photography, and nature exploration.
Gyrn Goch
13.9 km
A quiet coastal hamlet between Caernarfon Bay and the mountain Gyrn Goch, perfect for walkers and those seeking a peaceful Welsh retreat.
Unmissable attractions to see
Gypsy Wood Park
3.5 km
Discover the magic of fairies, friendly animals, and scenic woodland adventures at Gypsy Wood Park in North Wales.
Caer Rufeinig Segontium / Segontium Roman Fort
5.5 km
Explore the ancient Roman military outpost of Segontium, where history and legend meet amidst scenic Welsh landscapes.
Welsh Highland Railway - Caernarfon
5.8 km
Historic steam journeys begin beneath Caernarfon Castle, winding through Snowdonia’s breathtaking landscapes on the UK’s longest heritage railway.
Sir Hugh Owen
6.0 km
Celebrate the legacy of Sir Hugh Owen, a pioneer of Welsh education, with his statue in the historic heart of Caernarfon’s Castle Square.
Caernarfon Walks - Guided Tours
6.0 km
Discover Caernarfon’s rich history and hidden stories on expert-led walking tours through its medieval streets and iconic castle walls.
Caernarfon Castle
6.0 km
Discover the grandeur of Caernarfon Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site rich in history and stunning medieval architecture, perfect for your Welsh getaway.
Royal Welch Fusiliers Museum
6.0 km
Explore centuries of Welsh military history within the majestic towers of Caernarfon Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Big Wheel, Caernarfon Castle
6.1 km
Experience breathtaking panoramic views from the Big Wheel beside historic Caernarfon Castle, blending medieval heritage with modern leisure.
Historic Tours Wales
6.1 km
Explore Caernarfon’s rich history with passionate local guides on immersive walking tours that reveal hidden stories beyond the castle walls.
Eglwys Sant Baglan
6.1 km
Discover the timeless charm of St Baglan's Church, a medieval sanctuary steeped in ancient history and coastal Welsh heritage.
Caernarfon Castle Walls
6.1 km
Walk the nearly complete medieval walls of Caernarfon, a fortress town’s historic shield with panoramic views and rich Welsh heritage.
Hanging Tower
6.2 km
A haunting medieval tower in Caernarfon where justice was once served by execution, steeped in history and ghostly legend.
Town walls in caenarfon
6.2 km
Discover the historical significance and stunning views of the Caernarfon Town Walls, a must-visit landmark in Wales.
Caernarfon Waterfront
6.2 km
Historic Caernarfon Waterfront: Where medieval heritage meets vibrant maritime charm on the Menai Strait.
Bath Tower
6.3 km
Sleep in a 13th-century tower within Caernarfon's castle walls—where medieval history meets modern comfort.
Essential places to dine
The Gunroom Restaurant
3.4 km
Historic charm meets exquisite Welsh fine dining in the cozy elegance of The Gunroom at Plas Dinas Country House.
Plas Dinas Country House
3.5 km
Luxurious historic country house near Caernarfon offering royal heritage, fine Welsh dining, and tranquil gardens with Menai Strait views.
Pant Du Vineyard and Cafe
5.1 km
Discover Pant Du Vineyard and Cafe: Welsh wines, home-cooked meals, and stunning Snowdonia views in a family-friendly rural setting.
The Mill Bistro Y Felin
5.5 km
A charming barn-turned-bistro in Caernarfon serving refined Welsh dishes with warm hospitality in a rustic setting.
Molly's
5.9 km
Contemporary bar and restaurant at Coed Helen Holiday Park offering fresh, shareable dishes and scenic views near Caernarfon.
Caffi Gisda
6.0 km
Ethical café in Caernarfon serving fresh local fare with a heart for community and kindness in a cozy, welcoming setting.
Y Gegin Fach
6.0 km
Family-run cafe in Caernarfon serving hearty Welsh classics and homemade British dishes in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Caffi Maes
6.0 km
A friendly, three-storey café on Caernarfon’s Castle Square, serving hearty breakfasts, local dishes, and excellent coffee in a relaxed, pet-friendly setting.
Caernarfon Tandoori Restaurants
6.1 km
Authentic Indian flavors and tandoori specialties served in a spacious, friendly setting in the heart of Caernarfon.
Osteria
6.1 km
Experience authentic Tuscan cuisine in a cozy, welcoming Italian restaurant nestled in the heart of Caernarfon.
Ouzo & Olive
6.1 km
Discover authentic Greek tapas and warm hospitality in the historic heart of Caernarfon at Ouzo & Olive.
The Market Hall Brew Pub
6.1 km
Discover the essence of Welsh hospitality at The Market Hall Brew Pub in Caernarfon – where local brews meet delicious bites.
Lizzy's Caernarfon
6.1 km
A cozy, woman-owned café near Caernarfon Castle serving fresh, home-cooked British dishes with warm Welsh hospitality.
The Old Courthouse, Caernarfon
6.1 km
Historic neo-classical courthouse turned elegant bistro with stunning views of Caernarfon Castle and a modern British menu.
Four Alls
6.1 km
Historic charm meets delicious fare at The Four Alls, Caernarfon’s beloved pub and restaurant for great food, drinks, and community spirit.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Tesco Superstore
5.3 km
Your convenient and comprehensive supermarket in Caernarfon, offering fresh local produce and everyday essentials with extended hours.
Siop Hwylus Penygroes
5.4 km
Authentic Welsh flavors and everyday essentials await at Siop Hwylus Penygroes, your friendly local supermarket in the heart of Penygroes.
Life Style Express Sheena's Store
5.5 km
Your friendly neighbourhood convenience store in Caernarfon, offering essentials, local treats, and extended hours for all your daily needs.
Adra | Stylish Welsh gifts
5.5 km
Discover stylish, handcrafted Welsh gifts and homeware at Adra, nestled in the scenic Parc Glynllifon near Caernarfon.
Hampers Store
5.6 km
A versatile gift and general store in Penygroes offering sweets, hardware, stationery, pet food, and DIY supplies under one welcoming roof.
Ludicrous Allsorts
5.6 km
Quirky Welsh antique shop brimming with vintage treasures and nostalgic curiosities.
Blythe Farm Emporium
5.7 km
Discover vintage treasures and refurbished antiques at Blythe Farm Emporium, a charming hub of collectibles near Caernarfon.
West Coast Gifts
5.8 km
Discover unique handcrafted gifts and souvenirs in the heart of historic Caernarfon at West Coast Gifts.
Miss Sophie
5.9 km
Discover unique Welsh gifts and local treasures at Miss Sophie, a charming boutique in the heart of Caernarfon.
Orchid Fashion Store
5.9 km
Discover stylish, locally inspired fashion at Orchid Fashion Store in Caernarfon’s vibrant shopping heart.
The Original Factory Shop (Caernarfon)
5.9 km
Discover unbeatable bargains on fashion, beauty, and homeware at The Original Factory Shop in Caernarfon’s vibrant Pool Street.
Cei Llechi: Artisan Shopping Village
5.9 km
A vibrant artisan village in Caernarfon blending heritage slate quay buildings with local crafts, food, and culture by the harbour.
Castle Gift Shop
6.0 km
Explore the charm of Wales at Castle Gift Shop, your destination for unique souvenirs and local crafts in Caernarfon.
Na Nôg
6.0 km
Discover authentic Welsh culture through music, crafts, and unique gifts at Na Nôg, Caernarfon’s beloved boutique in Castle Square.
Peacocks
6.0 km
Affordable fashion for men, women, and children in Caernarfon’s Caolfan shopping center.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Newborough Arms
3.5 km
A warm, family-friendly pub in Bontnewydd offering hearty Welsh fare, a lively bar, and a spacious beer garden with play area.
Tafarn Pennionyn
3.6 km
A cosy, friendly village pub in Groeslon offering traditional Welsh hospitality, great drinks, and a welcoming community atmosphere.
The Goat - Yr Afr
5.8 km
A warm, community-focused pub in Penygroes offering good beer, friendly faces, and a lively traditional atmosphere.
The Eagles
5.8 km
A cozy and friendly Caernarfon pub offering local brews, hearty meals, live music, and a warm Welsh welcome.
Albert Inn
5.9 km
A cozy, family-friendly pub in Caernarfon serving homemade British classics with warm local hospitality.
La Marina Cei
5.9 km
Experience the vibrant social heart of Caernarfon at La Marina Cei, where lively bar vibes and welcoming atmosphere meet.
The Morgan Lloyd
6.0 km
A traditional Welsh pub in Caernarfon offering good beer, friendly service, and a lively local atmosphere near the historic castle.
Bar Bach
6.1 km
Discover Bar Bach, Wales’ tiniest bar in Caernarfon, where local brews and cozy charm create an unforgettable intimate pub experience.
Twthill Vaults
6.1 km
A cozy, traditional Welsh pub in Caernarfon offering local ales, hearty food, and a welcoming community atmosphere every day from noon till late.
Palace Vaults
6.1 km
A cosy, historic pub opposite Caernarfon Castle offering hearty fare, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Gwynedd.
The hole in the wall
6.1 km
Authentic Welsh pub with historic charm, lively events, and welcoming locals in the heart of Caernarfon.
Market Hall
6.1 km
Historic Market Hall in Caernarfon offering excellent pints, authentic kebabs and curries, plus lively open mic nights in a vibrant local setting.
Anglesey Arms
6.1 km
Historic harbourfront pub and inn in Caernarfon offering cozy rooms, hearty Welsh fare, and stunning views of Menai Strait and Caernarfon Castle.
Ship & Castle
6.2 km
A lively and welcoming pub in Caernarfon, where friendly locals and traditional charm create the perfect spot to relax and socialize.
Tŷ Glyndŵr Bunkhouse & Su's Cocktail Bar
6.2 km
Cozy Georgian hostel with a lively cocktail bar, local flavors, and live music just steps from Caernarfon Castle in the heart of North Wales.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Academi
16.3 km
Bangor’s beloved student nightclub, offering vibrant music, a welcoming atmosphere, and a central role in university social life.
Trilogy Nightclub
16.8 km
Experience Bangor’s vibrant nightlife at Trilogy Nightclub, where diverse music rooms and lively weekend parties create unforgettable nights.
Wellman's Sports & Social Club
18.4 km
Llangefni’s vibrant social hub with lively entertainment, spacious dance floor, and a welcoming community atmosphere.
The Cove
21.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at The Cove in Hafan Y Mor, North Wales, where music, dancing, and unforgettable memories await.
The Queens Head
36.1 km
Experience the heart of Amlwch at The Queens Head, a welcoming pub with local ales and hearty meals in a cozy atmosphere.
Albert Vaults
36.3 km
Experience authentic Welsh hospitality at Albert Vaults, a charming pub in Anglesey with a vibrant atmosphere and exceptional drinks.
The Buffs
36.3 km
A welcoming social club in Holyhead offering lively nights, friendly faces, and a true taste of local nightlife on Cambria Street.
Club 147
37.3 km
Llandudno’s energetic nightclub and sports bar offering electronic beats, pool, and a lively social scene in the town centre.
Broadway Boulevard
37.6 km
Llandudno’s largest nightclub, Broadway Boulevard pulses with vibrant music, themed events, and a lively party atmosphere in the heart of town.
New Horizons
37.9 km
Experience vibrant nightlife and lively music at New Horizons, Dyffryn Ardudwy’s welcoming nightclub with spaces for all ages.
Stag Inn
38.5 km
Experience the charm of Anglesey at The Stag Inn, where delicious meals and a cozy atmosphere await you.
The Club Barmouth
42.8 km
Experience vibrant Saturday nights at The Club Barmouth, where stylish vibes meet lively music by the scenic Welsh coast.
Bentley’s Sports Bar & NightClub
51.9 km
Experience Towyn’s vibrant nightlife at Bentley’s Sports Bar & NightClub, where music, dancing, and great vibes come alive every weekend.
The Wings Club
55.0 km
Discover the charm of Denbigh at The Wings Club, a vibrant social hub offering a taste of local culture and community spirit.
Hidden Nightclub
55.3 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Hidden Nightclub in Rhyl, where electrifying music and an energetic atmosphere create unforgettable nights out.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Romantic
- Scenic
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
- Protected Area
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Myth & Legends
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
- Seasonal Only
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
