Pont Yr Aber (Aber Swing Bridge)

A scenic swing bridge linking Caernarfon Castle with woodland paths, offering iconic views and a touch of maritime theatre as boats pass beneath.

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Pont Yr Aber, also known as Aber Swing Bridge, is a striking pedestrian swing bridge in Caernarfon, North Wales, linking the historic town with Coed Helen park across the River Seiont. Opened in 1973, it replaces earlier bridges and offers sweeping views of Caernarfon Castle and the Menai Strait. The bridge occasionally swings to allow boats through, adding a touch of maritime theatre. It’s a scenic, accessible walk for all ages, perfect for photos, a gentle stroll, or a cycle, and a peaceful gateway to woodland paths and coastal scenery.

A brief summary to Pont Yr Aber

Pont Yr Aber, Caernarfon, GB
Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
Free
Outdoor
Mobile reception: 5 out of 5

Local tips

Cross at different times of day to see how the light changes on Caernarfon Castle and the river; sunrise and sunset offer particularly dramatic views.
Check locally if the bridge is scheduled to swing; watching it open for boats is a unique and photogenic moment.
Combine your visit with a walk through Coed Helen park on the far side for woodland paths, picnic spots, and views back to the castle.
Wear comfortable shoes and bring a light jacket; the exposed river mouth can be breezy even on sunny days.

Getting There

On foot from Caernarfon town centre

From the town centre, follow signs towards the castle and the harbour; the bridge is a 5–10 minute walk along level, paved paths, suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs.
By local bus

Several local bus routes stop near Caernarfon town centre; from there, the bridge is a short, easy walk along the waterfront, taking about 5–10 minutes.
By bicycle

The bridge is fully cycle-friendly; cyclists can ride directly across from the town side to Coed Helen park, using the same level, paved approach as pedestrians.
From nearby parking

Public car parks in Caernarfon town centre are within a 5–10 minute walk of the bridge; the route is level and well signed, suitable for all ages and mobility levels.

Pont Yr Aber location weather suitability

Any Weather
Clear Skies
Mild Temperatures

Discover more about Pont Yr Aber

A Living Link Over the Seiont

Pont Yr Aber, commonly called Aber Swing Bridge, is a modern pedestrian swing bridge that gracefully spans the mouth of the River Seiont in Caernarfon, North Wales. Opened in July 1973, it stands on the site of earlier crossings, including a 19th-century swing bridge that once sparked disputes over lost ferry trade. Today’s bridge is a simple but elegant structure of concrete and steel, designed to swing open electrically to let boats pass between the town’s harbour and the Menai Strait. It connects the historic heart of Caernarfon, dominated by its UNESCO World Heritage castle, with the green expanse of Coed Helen park on the opposite bank.

Views That Define the Town

The bridge’s real magic lies in its vantage point. As you cross, Caernarfon Castle unfolds dramatically on the far side, its imposing stone walls and Eagle Tower reflected in the tidal waters below. The panorama stretches from the castle’s ramparts across the river to the open waters of the Menai Strait, with the Llŷn Peninsula beyond. At low tide, mudflats and channels reveal the river’s natural rhythm, while at high tide the water laps right up to the castle walls. This constant interplay of water, stone, and sky makes the bridge a favourite spot for photographers and anyone wanting to capture the essence of Caernarfon’s maritime and medieval character.

A Bridge with a Story

Before the swing bridge, a ferry once carried people and goods across the Seiont, and a small castle-like lodge was built in 1822 for the ferry operator. When the first swing bridge opened in 1899, it ended the ferry’s monopoly and led to arguments over compensation. The current bridge, built in the early 1970s, continues that legacy of connecting land and water, town and nature. It’s a working piece of infrastructure that also serves as a quiet monument to Caernarfon’s evolution from a fortified port to a modern town that still lives in harmony with its river and sea.

Walking, Cycling and Quiet Escape

Pont Yr Aber is fully pedestrian and cycle-friendly, with a level, smooth surface that’s suitable for wheelchairs, prams, and pushchairs. It’s a popular route for locals and visitors alike, whether for a short stroll, a jog, or a cycle ride between the town and Coed Helen. On the far side, woodland paths lead into the park, offering shady walks, picnic spots, and views back across the water to the castle. The bridge itself is a pleasant place to pause, listen to the lapping water, watch boats pass, and enjoy the fresh sea air, making it a peaceful escape within easy reach of the town centre.

When the Bridge Swings

The bridge’s swing mechanism is occasionally activated to allow taller vessels to pass, turning an ordinary crossing into a small spectacle. Watching the bridge slowly rotate on its central pivot, opening a channel for a boat, adds a touch of maritime theatre to a visit. The bridge keeper’s lodge on the southern bank is a reminder of the bridge’s operational life, and the sight of the bridge in motion connects visitors directly to Caernarfon’s working harbour and its long relationship with the sea. These moments, though infrequent, are a unique part of the experience and a reminder that this is not just a static monument, but a living, moving part of the town’s daily life.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Pont Yr Aber

0.0 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

0.1 km

Discover contemporary Welsh art and culture in Caernarfon’s inspiring Oriel Pendeitsh gallery, a vibrant creative hub above the Tourist Information Centre.

Caernarfon Tower

0.3 km

Explore Caernarfon Tower, a medieval fortress sentinel offering breathtaking views and rich Welsh history in a UNESCO World Heritage setting.

Caernarfon War Memorial

0.3 km

A dignified stone pillar in Castle Square honoring Caernarfon’s fallen heroes from the World Wars and beyond.

South African War Memorial

0.7 km

A wheel-headed Celtic cross honouring 173 Caernarfonshire soldiers lost in the Boer War, unveiled in 1904.

Bryn Gwyn Standing Stones

4.5 km

Discover the towering Neolithic Bryn Gwyn Standing Stones, ancient sentinels of Anglesey’s prehistoric past and ritual heritage.

Caer Leb (Prehistoric Castle Enclosure)

4.8 km

Explore Caer Leb, a prehistoric fortified enclosure with water-filled ditches that reveal ancient defensive ingenuity on scenic Anglesey.

Tafarn Snowdonia Parc

6.2 km

Discover the heart of Welsh culture at Tafarn Snowdonia Parc, where delicious food meets stunning natural beauty in Snowdonia National Park.

Cadair y Cythraul

8.6 km

Discover the mysterious 'Chair of the Devil' in Llanfairpwllgwyngyll, a historic landmark steeped in Welsh myth and ancient landscape charm.

Porth y Clochydd

8.8 km

Explore the historical landmark of Porth y Clochydd in Llanfairpwllgwyngyll, a captivating site steeped in rich Welsh heritage and scenic beauty.

Celtic cross

8.9 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.

Hen Eglwys Llanfihangel Ysgeifiog

10.8 km

Explore the evocative ruins of Hen Eglwys Llanfihangel Ysgeifiog, a medieval Welsh church steeped in history and nestled in tranquil Anglesey countryside.

Ynys yr Eglwys

11.8 km

Discover the serene charm and rich heritage of Ynys yr Eglwys, a peaceful island gem beside the iconic Menai Suspension Bridge.

Tŷ-Gwyn Menhir

13.7 km

Discover the ancient Tŷ-Gwyn Menhir near Menai Bridge, a prehistoric standing stone steeped in druidic mystery and Welsh heritage.

Zip World Penrhyn Quarry

14.7 km

Experience the thrill of Zip World Penrhyn Quarry – the ultimate adventure park in Snowdonia with breathtaking views and exhilarating activities.

Unmissable attractions to see

Hanging Tower

0.1 km

A haunting medieval tower in Caernarfon where justice was once served by execution, steeped in history and ghostly legend.

Caernarfon Castle

0.1 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

0.1 km

Explore centuries of Welsh military history within the majestic towers of Caernarfon Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Caernarfon Waterfront

0.2 km

Historic Caernarfon Waterfront: Where medieval heritage meets vibrant maritime charm on the Menai Strait.

Caernarfon Walks - Guided Tours

0.2 km

Discover Caernarfon’s rich history and hidden stories on expert-led walking tours through its medieval streets and iconic castle walls.

Historic Tours Wales

0.2 km

Explore Caernarfon’s rich history with passionate local guides on immersive walking tours that reveal hidden stories beyond the castle walls.

Bath Tower

0.3 km

Sleep in a 13th-century tower within Caernarfon's castle walls—where medieval history meets modern comfort.

Sir Hugh Owen

0.3 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 Castle Walls

0.3 km

Walk the nearly complete medieval walls of Caernarfon, a fortress town’s historic shield with panoramic views and rich Welsh heritage.

Town walls in caenarfon

0.3 km

Discover the historical significance and stunning views of the Caernarfon Town Walls, a must-visit landmark in Wales.

Welsh Highland Railway - Caernarfon

0.4 km

Historic steam journeys begin beneath Caernarfon Castle, winding through Snowdonia’s breathtaking landscapes on the UK’s longest heritage railway.

Aber Foreshore

0.5 km

A scenic coastal walk with iconic views of Caernarfon Castle and the Menai Strait, perfect for a peaceful stroll or a quiet moment by the water.

The Fun Centre

0.6 km

North Wales's largest indoor adventure play centre, blending historic charm with thrilling slides, mazes, and safe toddler zones for family fun all year round.

Caer Rufeinig Segontium / Segontium Roman Fort

0.9 km

Explore the ancient Roman military outpost of Segontium, where history and legend meet amidst scenic Welsh landscapes.

Caer Rufeinig Segontium / Segontium Roman Fort

Foel Farm Park

2.2 km

Discover a charming working farm with animal encounters, scenic views, and family fun on the beautiful Isle of Anglesey.

Savor authentic wood-fired pizzas in a cozy Caernarfon setting, blending traditional flavors with local charm every evening.

Four Alls

Authentic Indian flavors and tandoori specialties served in a spacious, friendly setting in the heart of Caernarfon.

Affordable fashion for men, women, and children in Caernarfon’s Caolfan shopping center.

A warm, family-friendly pub in Bontnewydd offering hearty Welsh fare, a lively bar, and a spacious beer garden with play area.

Nightclubs & after hour spots

Wellman's Sports & Social Club

12.6 km

Llangefni’s vibrant social hub with lively entertainment, spacious dance floor, and a welcoming community atmosphere.

Academi

13.8 km

Bangor’s beloved student nightclub, offering vibrant music, a welcoming atmosphere, and a central role in university social life.

Trilogy Nightclub

14.4 km

Experience Bangor’s vibrant nightlife at Trilogy Nightclub, where diverse music rooms and lively weekend parties create unforgettable nights.

Clwb Llyn Bach

25.5 km

Discover the lively spirit of Clwb Llyn Bach, a top pub in Porthmadog offering great drinks, vibrant events, and a friendly atmosphere.

The Cove

26.3 km

Experience the vibrant nightlife at The Cove in Hafan Y Mor, North Wales, where music, dancing, and unforgettable memories await.

Black Rock Beach Club

26.6 km

Experience the ultimate beachside retreat at Black Rock Beach Club with delicious grilled dishes and breathtaking coastal views.

Vics Boogie-Nights

26.9 km

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Vic's Boogie-Nights, Abererch's premier bar for music, dancing, and unforgettable memories.

The Queens Head

30.4 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

30.5 km

Experience authentic Welsh hospitality at Albert Vaults, a charming pub in Anglesey with a vibrant atmosphere and exceptional drinks.

The Buffs

30.5 km

A welcoming social club in Holyhead offering lively nights, friendly faces, and a true taste of local nightlife on Cambria Street.

Stag Inn

32.5 km

Experience the charm of Anglesey at The Stag Inn, where delicious meals and a cozy atmosphere await you.

Club 147

36.3 km

Llandudno’s energetic nightclub and sports bar offering electronic beats, pool, and a lively social scene in the town centre.

Broadway Boulevard

36.9 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

43.8 km

Experience vibrant nightlife and lively music at New Horizons, Dyffryn Ardudwy’s welcoming nightclub with spaces for all ages.

The Club Barmouth

48.7 km

Experience vibrant Saturday nights at The Club Barmouth, where stylish vibes meet lively music by the scenic Welsh coast.

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Pont Yr Aber (Aber Swing Bridge)

A brief summary to Pont Yr Aber

Local tips

For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you

Getting There

On foot from Caernarfon town centre

By local bus

By bicycle

From nearby parking

Pont Yr Aber location weather suitability

Unlock the Best of Pont Yr Aber

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Pont Yr Aber

A Living Link Over the Seiont

Views That Define the Town

A Bridge with a Story

Walking, Cycling and Quiet Escape

When the Bridge Swings

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Pont Yr Aber

CARN / Oriel Pendeitsh

Caernarfon Tower

Caernarfon War Memorial

South African War Memorial

Bryn Gwyn Standing Stones

Caer Leb (Prehistoric Castle Enclosure)

Tafarn Snowdonia Parc

Cadair y Cythraul

Porth y Clochydd

Celtic cross

Hen Eglwys Llanfihangel Ysgeifiog

Ynys yr Eglwys

Tŷ-Gwyn Menhir

Zip World Penrhyn Quarry

Unmissable attractions to see

Hanging Tower

Caernarfon Castle

Royal Welch Fusiliers Museum

Caernarfon Waterfront

Caernarfon Walks - Guided Tours

Historic Tours Wales

Bath Tower

Sir Hugh Owen

Caernarfon Castle Walls

Town walls in caenarfon

Welsh Highland Railway - Caernarfon

Aber Foreshore

The Fun Centre

Caer Rufeinig Segontium / Segontium Roman Fort

Foel Farm Park

Essential places to dine

The Old Courthouse, Caernarfon

Osteria

The Market Hall Brew Pub

Wal Restaurant

Caffi Maes

Tân Woodfired Pizza

Four Alls

Ouzo & Olive

Lizzy's Caernarfon

Black Boy Inn Four & Six Restaurant & Bar

Sheeps and Leeks

Tafarn Y Porth - JD Wetherspoon

Y Gegin Fach

Caffi Gisda

Caernarfon Tandoori Restaurants

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Craftcentre Cymru

Siop Y Ddraig

Tin of Sea

Lotti & Wren

YLP Fabric & Wool Shop

Siop Siafins

Siop iard Caernarfon

Castle Gift Shop

Cei Llechi: Artisan Shopping Village

Slate and Things

Mirsi