I went with a day-trip group to Aber Falls in North Wales — it's west of Manchester, facing out toward the North Atlantic (keep heading west across the water and you'd hit Dublin), but we were there for one thing: the falls. We got lucky with the weather — full sun, clear skies. We hadn't been walking long before we could already see the falls in the distance. It's not tucked deep in the mountains or boxed in by huge peaks, and the trees around it aren't especially dense either, so there's no lingering mist hanging around it. It's a simple, open scene — blue sky, white water. The Walk The path is flat and easy the whole way — my kids were running and laughing the entire time, and we reached the falls without any real effort. We happened to visit during one of the UK's heatwaves, and getting up to the falls with the water crashing down in front of us was instantly refreshing. The kids waded straight into the stream and had a great time splashing around — I touched the water for about two seconds and felt like I was about to turn into an ice cube. If you feel the cold easily, my advice: enjoy the view, don't force yourself in. Round trip, with kids in tow, took us about two hours. If you don't have little ones slowing you down, you could probably do it quicker. Once you're up there, it's worth bringing a few snacks and just sitting in the valley taking in the view for a bit — genuinely more relaxing than sitting in any café. Practical Tips Navigate straight to Aber Falls Car Park. If you don't set that as your destination, GPS has a habit of routing you down odd little side roads instead. Trail is suitable for all ages — very beginner- and family-friendly. Best seasons: spring, summer, and autumn are all good — summer gives you green scenery plus the falls, autumn brings golden leaves. Winter can get slippery, so wear proper grippy shoes if you go then. Bring snacks and water — the valley at the top makes for a great little picnic spot. If you're after a walk that's easy enough for kids and beginners but still leaves you feeling recharged, Aber Falls is worth the trip.
Aber Falls
Waterfall height
Plan your visit to Aber Falls
Please verify on the official website before you go
Why is Aber Falls famous?
Aber Falls (Rhaeadr Fawr in Welsh) is one of Wales' most accessible and dramatic waterfalls, plunging 37 meters down a sheer cliff face in the Carneddau range. It's beloved for its spectacular setting in Coedydd Aber National Nature Reserve and as a classic family-friendly Snowdonia walk.
Can you swim at Aber Falls?
No — the plunge pool is dangerous with strong currents and cold water. Swimming is not recommended. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Are dogs allowed at Aber Falls?
Dogs allowed on-lead on the trail and in the wider Coedydd Aber National Nature Reserve. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Is Aber Falls free? Do you need a permit?
Free — no entry fee or permit required to visit Aber Falls or walk the trail in Coedydd Aber National Nature Reserve. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Is there parking at Aber Falls?
Free parking at the Bont Newydd car park (postcode LL57 3LX), which holds approximately 30 cars and can fill quickly on busy days. The walk to the falls begins from here. Please verify on the official website before you go.
How long is the hike to Aber Falls?
About 3.2 km / 2 miles return from Bont Newydd car park to the falls viewpoint. The route follows a well-marked path. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Aber Falls hike difficulty
Easy to Moderate — mostly flat with gradual incline, some uneven rocky sections near the falls, and can be muddy after rain. Suitable for families. Please verify on the official website before you go.
When is the best time to visit Aber Falls?
Spring and autumn (March–May, September–November) offer good flow after rainfall with fewer crowds than summer. Winter can be dramatic but icy. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Route and trail notes for Aber Falls
From Bont Newydd car park, cross the stone bridge and follow the wide path south alongside Afon Goch river through woodland. The path becomes rockier as you approach the falls. Stay on the main trail; multiple viewpoints allow you to see the falls from different angles. The path can be slippery near the base.
Aber Falls official website
Attractions near Aber Falls
- •Carneddau Mountains — rugged mountain range ideal for hillwalking and climbing
- •Llanfairfechan Beach — seaside town with beach and coastal walks, about 4 km north
- •Bwlch y Ddeufaen (Roman Road) — ancient mountain pass with historic stone route
- •Conwy Castle — UNESCO World Heritage medieval castle, about 20 km east
- •Zip World Penrhyn Quarry — adventure park with zip lines, about 15 km south
Safety information
Waterfalls can be unforgiving. Read these before you go — and please, use your judgement on the day.
Full safety guide →Questions & answers
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