Yesterday we took a walk through a small town in Wales. It was a very typical Welsh town—though I’m not entirely sure of the name, as it was a bit confusing when we arrived. We ended up hiking in the rain to Swallow Falls, which is probably what we were aiming for. By the time we reached the waterfall, it was already night. Even though we were completely soaked, we were still really happy. On the first day, we hadn’t planned for hiking, so we weren’t wearing proper waterproof gear, but the experience was still amazing. It was my first time doing a PhD trip in Wales, and today we’re heading to Snowdonia National Park, hoping to reach the summit. The weather doesn’t look very promising, but we’ll see how it goes.
Swallow Falls
2 photos
Leaflet © OpenStreetMap
12m
Waterfall height
Plan your visit to Swallow Falls
Please verify on the official website before you go
Why is Swallow Falls famous?
Swallow Falls (Rhaeadr Ewynnol in Welsh) is one of Wales's most visited waterfalls, famous for its dramatic series of cascades through a narrow wooded gorge on the River Llugwy. It has been a popular tourist attraction since Victorian times and remains an iconic Snowdonia landmark easily accessible from the A5.
Can you swim at Swallow Falls?
No — Swallow Falls is not designated for swimming; cold, fast-flowing water and rocky terrain make it unsafe. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Are dogs allowed at Swallow Falls?
Dogs allowed on-leash on the pathways and viewing areas. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Is Swallow Falls free? Do you need a permit?
Car park fee applies (typically a few pounds); no separate waterfall entry fee. Cash or card accepted at kiosk. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Is there parking at Swallow Falls?
Paid car park on-site (fee applies, pay at kiosk or machine). Parking is roadside along the A5 with direct access to viewing platforms. Please verify on the official website before you go.
How long is the hike to Swallow Falls?
Roadside attraction — no hike required. Short paved paths and steps lead from the car park to viewing platforms overlooking the falls (under 100 metres). Please verify on the official website before you go.
Swallow Falls hike difficulty
Roadside (no hike) — paved pathways with some steps to viewing platforms; accessible for most visitors. Please verify on the official website before you go.
When is the best time to visit Swallow Falls?
Autumn and winter (October–February) for highest flow after rainfall, or late spring (May–June) for good flow with greener surroundings. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Route and trail notes for Swallow Falls
From the car park, follow the short paved path down steps to the main viewing platform directly opposite the falls. Additional viewpoints accessible via pathways along the riverside offer different angles of the cascade through the wooded gorge.
Swallow Falls official website
Attractions near Swallow Falls
- •Betws-y-Coed — charming village 2 miles away with shops, cafes, and the Conwy Falls nearby
- •Fairy Glen — scenic gorge with pools and cascades along the River Conwy, short walk from Betws-y-Coed
- •Snowdonia National Park — vast mountain wilderness with hiking, Snowdon summit, and lakes
- •Pont-y-Pair Falls — picturesque falls in the centre of Betws-y-Coed village
- •Capel Curig — mountain village 3 miles south, gateway to Snowdon and Tryfan climbing
Safety information
Waterfalls can be unforgiving. Read these before you go — and please, use your judgement on the day.
Full safety guide →Questions & answers
No questions yet — be the first to ask.
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