Pont-y-Pair Bridge: Historic Gateway over the Afon Llugwy
Historic medieval bridge with bubbling waterfall, scenic views, and rich cultural legacy in the heart of Betws-y-Coed.
Pont-y-Pair Bridge is a picturesque medieval stone bridge in Betws-y-Coed, North Wales, spanning the Afon Llugwy River. Built around the 1500s for packhorses, it was widened in the 19th century to accommodate stagecoaches. Known as the 'Bridge of the Cauldron' for the bubbling waterfall beneath, it remains a beloved landmark offering stunning views and access to scenic walks along the river valley.
A brief summary to Pont-y-Pair Bridge
- 0BN, B5106, Betws-y-Coed, Betws-y-Coed, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Be cautious when stopping for photos as the bridge carries both pedestrian and vehicle traffic without dedicated footpaths.
- Listen for the roaring waterfall beneath the arches—it’s a natural highlight of the site.
- Explore nearby walking trails such as the Tan Dinas Path for extended scenic views along the river valley.
- Visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the bridge’s architectural details and surrounding landscape.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take the local bus service from Conwy or Llanrwst to Betws-y-Coed, with a journey time of approximately 30 to 45 minutes. Buses run regularly but check schedules seasonally. The stop is a short walk from Pont-y-Pair Bridge. Tickets cost around £3-£5 one way.
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Car
Driving to Betws-y-Coed from nearby towns takes about 20 to 40 minutes depending on traffic. Limited parking is available near the village center; some parking areas are free but can fill quickly during peak seasons. Roads are well-maintained but narrow in places.
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Train
Use the Conwy Valley Line to Betws-y-Coed station, with connections from Llandudno or Blaenau Ffestiniog. The train journey offers scenic views and takes about 45 minutes from Llandudno. From the station, Pont-y-Pair Bridge is roughly a 15-minute walk.
Pont-y-Pair Bridge location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Windy Conditions
Discover more about Pont-y-Pair Bridge
Medieval Origins and Historic Role
Pont-y-Pair Bridge dates back to the 15th or early 16th century, originally constructed by the stonemason Hywel Saer Maen. Its primary purpose was to provide a safe crossing for packhorses transporting goods across the Afon Llugwy River. This sturdy five-arched stone bridge served as a vital link in a largely rural and undeveloped landscape, long before modern roads connected the region.19th-Century Expansion and Transportation Hub
In the 1800s, the bridge was widened to accommodate stagecoaches, reflecting its growing importance as part of the route connecting London to Holyhead. Following the completion of the nearby Pont-yr-Afanc bridge in 1808, coaches were diverted through Betws-y-Coed, increasing traffic over Pont-y-Pair. However, with the construction of Thomas Telford’s new A5 road in the 1820s, the bridge’s role in coach travel diminished, though it remained essential for local traffic and pedestrians.A Natural Wonder: The Cauldron Waterfall
The name Pont-y-Pair translates as the 'Bridge of the Cauldron,' inspired by the dramatic waterfall cascading beneath its arches. The bubbling, roaring waters of the Afon Llugwy create a spectacular natural feature that can be heard before it is seen. This waterfall, combined with the rugged gorge and surrounding woodland, makes the bridge a captivating spot for photography and nature appreciation.Artistic Inspiration and Cultural Significance
Since the 19th century, Pont-y-Pair has attracted artists and tourists alike. It became a popular subject for painters and postcard makers, symbolizing the scenic charm of Betws-y-Coed. The bridge helped establish the village as a cultural hub and tourist destination in Snowdonia, contributing to the development of hotels and an artist colony in the area.Visitor Experience and Surroundings
Today, Pont-y-Pair Bridge remains a bustling crossing for both vehicles and pedestrians. While it lacks dedicated pedestrian footpaths, visitors are drawn to its stunning views of the river, waterfalls, and the start of scenic walks such as the Tan Dinas Path. The bridge area offers a blend of historic architecture and natural beauty, making it a must-visit landmark in Betws-y-Coed.Preservation and Continued Legacy
Maintained as a cherished heritage site, Pont-y-Pair stands as a testament to medieval engineering and the evolving transportation history of North Wales. Its enduring presence enriches the cultural landscape and provides a tangible connection to the region’s past amidst the tranquil surroundings of Snowdonia National Park.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Pont-y-Pair Bridge
0.0 km
Historic medieval bridge with bubbling waterfall, scenic views, and rich cultural legacy in the heart of Betws-y-Coed.
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Unmissable attractions to see
Snowdonia National Park Authority
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Explore the heart of Snowdonia from Betws-y-Coed’s welcoming National Park Authority Visitor Centre, your gateway to Eryri’s natural and cultural treasures.
Betws y Coed Tourist Information Centre
0.3 km
Your essential gateway to Snowdonia’s natural wonders and Welsh heritage in the heart of Betws-y-Coed.
Conwy Valley Railway Museum
0.4 km
Discover railway heritage and enjoy scenic miniature train rides in the heart of Betws-y-Coed’s charming village setting.
Rhaeadr Ewynnol / Swallow Falls Waterfall
2.8 km
Experience Wales’ highest continuous waterfall, a dramatic 42-meter cascade through a narrow chasm in Snowdonia’s scenic wilderness.
Ffos Anoddun
3.1 km
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Gwydir Forest Park
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Rhaeadr Y Graig Lwyd
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Ty Hyll
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National Trust - Ysbyty Ifan
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National Trust - Tŷ Mawr Wybrnant
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Fairy Falls Waterfall
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Plas y Brenin - National Outdoor Centre
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Essential places to dine
Grill Room at The Royal Oak Hotel
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Llugwy River Restaurant
0.2 km
A refined dining experience celebrating Welsh seasonality and local produce in the heart of Betws-y-Coed’s historic Royal Oak Hotel.
Y Stablau - Stables Bar
0.2 km
A lively bar and restaurant in Betws-y-Coed offering fresh local food, Welsh ales, live entertainment, and a welcoming atmosphere year-round.
The Dragon Hotel and Restaurant
0.4 km
A cozy, convenient base in Betws-y-Coed offering comfortable stays, hearty breakfasts, and a unique Chinese dining experience near Snowdonia National Park.
Hangin' Pizzeria
0.4 km
Savor wood-fired pizzas and local charm at Hangin' Pizzeria, a cozy spot nestled in Betws-y-Coed’s stunning Snowdonia National Park setting.
The Old Ship
6.6 km
Traditional Welsh pub in Trefriw offering homemade food, real ales, and a cozy log fire in the heart of Snowdonia.
De Niros
14.0 km
Cozy and affordable café-restaurant in Blaenau Ffestiniog serving hearty meals and vegan-friendly options in a welcoming atmosphere.
DRAGONFLY TEA ROOMS AND FISHERY LTD
16.5 km
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Caffi Gwynant
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Vaynol Arms
18.6 km
Traditional Welsh pub nestled in Nant Peris with hearty fare, local ales, and a cozy atmosphere at Snowdon’s doorstep.
Bwyty Blondin Restaurant
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Casual dining with hearty breakfasts and friendly service nestled in the historic Penrhyn Quarry adventure hub.
Bryn Arms
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The Grapes Hotel, Bar & Restaurant
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The Jackdaw
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Platform Grill
21.1 km
Enjoy delicious grilled meals at Platform Grill near Snowdon Mountain Railway – a perfect pitstop for tourists in stunning Snowdonia.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Candy Hut
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Discover a delightful mix of American and traditional British sweets in the heart of Snowdonia at Candy Hut, Betws-y-Coed.
Craftcentre Cymru
0.1 km
Authentic Welsh knitwear and crafts in the heart of Snowdonia's most charming village.
Anna Davies (Betws-y-Coed) Ltd
0.1 km
A premier lifestyle and fashion store in Betws-y-Coed blending heritage charm with quality menswear, womenswear, homeware, and gifts.
Mountain Warehouse
0.4 km
Equipping your Snowdonia adventures with quality outdoor gear and expert advice in the heart of Betws-y-Coed.
Flips
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Discover timeless vintage fashion and unique ladies’ clothing in the heart of Betws-y-Coed’s charming village setting.
Village Crafts
0.4 km
Discover unique gifts and quality homewares in the heart of Betws-y-Coed’s charming village setting.
Judges
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Explore the charm of Wales at Judges Gift Shop in Betws-y-Coed, where unique gifts and local crafts await every visitor.
Ellis Brigham - Capel Curig
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Maricraft Slate World
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Co-op Food - Blaenau Ffestiniog
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Siop y Gloddfa
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The Knight Shop
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Snowdon Trading Post
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Snowdon Railway Station Shop
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Siop Awyr Acored The Outdoor Shop
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Pont Y Pair Inn
0.0 km
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The Eagles Bunkhouse
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Meirion Vaults
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Y Manod
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Y Siôr
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Eryri Bar & Lounge
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The Heights
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Y Ddraig
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Prince Llewelyn Hotel
21.8 km
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Tanronnen Inn
21.8 km
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The Brondanw Arms
23.2 km
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The Queen's Head
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Penrhyn Arms
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The Ascot Tapproom
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Cask and Apple
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Broadway Boulevard
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Trilogy Nightclub
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Club 147
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Academi
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Bentley’s Sports Bar & NightClub
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Black Rock Beach Club
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Bar Bach
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Palace Vaults
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Tŷ Glyndŵr Bunkhouse & Su's Cocktail Bar
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Hidden Nightclub
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Ellis's Bar
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The Tiki Room
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Victory Club
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Esplanade Social Club
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
