Background

Coed y Brenin Forest Park: Wales' Premier Mountain Biking and Nature Escape

Explore Wales’ original mountain biking forest with diverse trails, rich history, and breathtaking natural beauty in Coed y Brenin Forest Park.

4.8

Coed y Brenin Forest Park, located near Dolgellau in North Wales, is Britain's first purpose-built mountain biking centre and a celebrated natural forest park within Eryri National Park. It offers a range of mountain biking trails from beginner to expert, extensive walking paths, and scenic picnic spots beside rushing rivers. Though the visitor centre and café closed in March 2025, the bike hire shop remains open, and trails, car parks, and outdoor facilities continue welcoming visitors year-round.

A brief summary to Coed y Brenin Forest Park

  • Coed Y Brenin Visitor Centre Dolgefeiliau, Dolgellau, Ganllwyd, LL40 2HZ, GB
  • +441341440747
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 1 to 6 hours
  • Mid ranged
  • Environment icon Outdoor
  • Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
  • Monday 10 am-4:30 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-4:30 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-4:30 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-4:30 pm
  • Friday 10 am-4:30 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-4:30 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-4:30 pm

Local tips

  • Plan your visit for daylight hours as the visitor centre is closed, but outdoor facilities and trails remain accessible year-round.
  • Rent bikes and get expert advice at Beics Brenin bike shop, open daily despite the visitor centre closure.
  • Bring suitable footwear and clothing for variable weather and terrain, especially if exploring walking trails.
  • Use the accessible trails and parking areas designated for Blue Badge holders to enjoy the forest comfortably.
  • Respect trail closures and safety signage, especially during maintenance or extreme weather conditions.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Car

    Driving from Dolgellau town centre, expect a 20 to 30-minute journey via the A470 and local roads. Ample parking is available at Coed y Brenin Forest Park car parks, with some spaces reserved for Blue Badge holders. Parking is free but can fill up during peak times.

  • Public Transport

    Take the train to Barmouth or Blaenau Ffestiniog stations, then use local bus services towards Dolgellau. From Dolgellau, taxi services provide a 20-minute ride to the forest park. Public transport options are limited, so plan accordingly.

  • Cycling

    Experienced cyclists can reach Coed y Brenin via regional cycling routes from nearby towns. The terrain is mixed and may be demanding, so suitable equipment and fitness are recommended.

  • Walking

    For those nearby, walking to the forest park is possible but involves rural roads and uneven paths. Expect a 1 to 2-hour walk depending on starting point, suitable for fit walkers prepared for natural terrain.

Coed y Brenin Forest Park location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather
  • Weather icon Clear Skies
  • Weather icon Windy Conditions
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures
  • Weather icon Cold Weather

Unlock the Best of Coed y Brenin Forest Park

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Coed y Brenin Forest Park

A Trailblazing Legacy in Mountain Biking

Coed y Brenin Forest Park holds the distinction of being the UK's original purpose-built mountain biking centre, pioneering the sport’s development. Nestled within the expansive Eryri National Park, the forest offers a diverse network of trails catering to all skill levels—from gentle family-friendly routes to challenging technical tracks for seasoned riders. The park’s terrain varies from dense woodlands to rugged ridges, providing exhilarating climbs and thrilling descents that attract mountain biking enthusiasts from across the UK and beyond.

Natural Beauty and Historical Echoes

Beyond biking, Coed y Brenin is a haven for walkers and nature lovers. Waymarked walking trails meander through ancient forests and along rivers such as the Afon Eden and Afon Gain, where the sound of tumbling water accompanies your journey. Visitors can explore historical sites like medieval ironworks known as 'Bloomeries,' with interpretive panels offering insights into the area's industrial past. The forest also features notable natural landmarks, including 'the King,' the tallest tree in the forest, and scenic viewpoints overlooking deep river gorges and the Rhinogydd mountains.

Visitor Facilities and Changing Services

Until March 2025, the Coed y Brenin Visitor Centre provided amenities including a café, information desk, and toilets. Since its closure, the visitor centre building no longer offers staffed services, but the adjacent outdoor toilets remain open 24 hours. The Beics Brenin bike shop and hire centre, operating within the former visitor centre premises, continues to serve visitors daily, offering bike rentals, repairs, and expert advice. Picnic tables and children’s play areas are scattered throughout the park, enhancing its family-friendly appeal.

Access and Safety in a Protected Landscape

Situated within the protected Eryri National Park, Coed y Brenin is managed to balance recreation with conservation. Visitors are encouraged to respect safety guidelines, stay on marked trails, and be mindful of wildlife and other users. The forest is open year-round, though extreme weather may prompt temporary closures of certain trails or facilities. Accessible trails and parking are available, including provisions for Blue Badge holders, ensuring inclusivity for a wide range of visitors.

Community and Future Prospects

The closure of the visitor centre and café in 2025 marked a significant change, but efforts by local groups and businesses aim to sustain Coed y Brenin’s role as a mountain biking and outdoor recreation hub. The UK MTB Trail Alliance and other organizations advocate for the maintenance and reopening of facilities to preserve the park’s legacy. Meanwhile, the extensive trail network remains open and well-maintained, continuing to offer a premier outdoor experience in North Wales.

Immersive Outdoor Experience

Visitors to Coed y Brenin can immerse themselves in a tranquil forest atmosphere punctuated by the energetic rush of mountain bikers and the soothing sounds of nature. Whether cycling through rugged trails, walking along riverside paths, or simply enjoying a picnic surrounded by towering trees, the park offers a unique blend of adventure, history, and natural beauty that defines the Welsh outdoor experience.

Busiest months of the year

Busiest hours of the day

Popular Experiences near Coed y Brenin Forest Park

Popular Hotels near Coed y Brenin Forest Park

Select Currency