Getting the Train to Snowdonia | Stations, Routes & FAQs

Did you know that Snowdonia, the stunning national park nestled in the heart of North Wales, is easily accessible by train from various locations across the UK? Offering outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers an unparalleled playground of rugged mountains, serene lakes, and ancient woodlands, Snowdonia is a must-visit for anyone who appreciates nature. Below, we break down how to get there by rail, including the nearest train stations and popular routes, and discuss why it's such an unmissable spot.

Local train stations in Snowdonia

Bangor

Situated on the northern edge of Snowdonia National Park, Bangor is a major transport hub with direct train services from cities like London, Manchester, and Chester. From Bangor, visitors can easily access the park's northern attractions, including Mount Snowdon and the Ogwen Valley.

Ideal for people visiting: Bangor Pier, Penrhyn Castle, Anglesey

Betws-y-Coed

Located in the heart of Snowdonia, Betws-y-Coed is a charming village surrounded by lush forests and cascading waterfalls. The village is served by a train station with connections from Llandudno Junction, making it an ideal base for exploring the park's southern regions.

Ideal for people visiting: Swallow Falls, Fairy Glen, Conwy Valley Railway Museum

Llandudno Junction

Positioned on the northern periphery of Snowdonia, Llandudno Junction offers convenient rail access to the park from destinations like Chester, Manchester, and Liverpool. Travelers can transfer to local buses or trains to reach popular spots within Snowdonia.

Ideal for people visiting: Great Orme, Llandudno Promenade, Conwy Castle

Porthmadog

Situated on the western fringes of Snowdonia, Porthmadog is a coastal town with a scenic railway line connecting it to destinations like Blaenau Ffestiniog and Caernarfon. From Porthmadog, visitors can explore the park's western attractions, including Portmeirion and the Dwyryd Estuary.

Ideal for people visiting: Ffestiniog Railway, Portmeirion Village, Black Rock Sands

Blaenau Ffestiniog

Nestled in the heart of Snowdonia's slate mining region, Blaenau Ffestiniog is reachable by train from Llandudno Junction and Porthmadog. The town is a gateway to the stunning Ffestiniog Railway and offers access to rugged mountain landscapes and underground slate caverns.

Ideal for people visiting: Llechwedd Slate Caverns, Antur Stiniog Bike Park, Zip World Slate Caverns

Popular train routes to Snowdonia

London Euston to Bangor

Departing from London Euston, travellers can enjoy a scenic train journey to Bangor station, located near Snowdonia National Park. From Bangor, local bus services are available to reach various parts of the park.

Manchester Piccadilly to Bangor

Travellers coming from Manchester can take a direct train to Bangor station, providing convenient access to Snowdonia. From Bangor, local buses can transport visitors to popular destinations within the park.

Liverpool Lime Street to Bangor

Departing from Liverpool Lime Street, travellers can reach Bangor station by train, followed by a short bus ride to Snowdonia.

Birmingham New Street to Betws-y-Coed

Travellers from Birmingham can take a train to Betws-y-Coed station, situated within Snowdonia National Park. From Betws-y-Coed, visitors can explore the park's southern region and enjoy outdoor activities.

Chester to Bangor

Departing from Chester, travellers can catch a train to Bangor station, offering access to Snowdonia National Park. Local bus services from Bangor can transport visitors to various attractions within the park.

Why visit Snowdonia?

Snowdonia National Park beckons adventurers with its stunning landscapes and range of outdoor activities. The park's diverse terrain includes cascading waterfalls, serene lakes, and ancient forests, providing endless opportunities for exploration and nature appreciation.

Rising to 1,085 meters (3,560 feet) above sea level, Mount Snowdon is a majestic peak that attracts hikers and climbers from around the world and offers the park its namesake. The most popular route to the summit is the Llanberis Path, offering a gradual ascent with stunning views of the surrounding landscape. For a more challenging adventure, experienced climbers can opt for the Snowdon Ranger Path or the Crib Goch ridge, known for its exposed scrambling sections and views. At the summit, hikers are rewarded with panoramic vistas stretching across Snowdonia and beyond.

Beyond Mount Snowdon, Snowdonia National Park boasts a wealth of outdoor activities for all skill levels. You can explore the enchanting Swallow Falls near Betws-y-Coed, where cascading water tumbles through a lush, forested gorge, or embark on a cycling journey along the Mawddach Trail, which follows the picturesque estuary and offers views of the Cader Idris mountain range. Snowdonia truly offers something for everyone.

What else is there to check out in Snowdonia?

It's not all just mountain treks and stunning views! There are plenty of other ways to thrill seek or unwind and learn when visiting Snowdonia. Here are five lesser-known ways to stay busy when visiting Snowdonia:

Portmeirion Village: Visit the enchanting Italianate village of Portmeirion, designed by architect Sir Clough Williams-Ellis. Explore colorful buildings, beautiful gardens, and scenic coastal views reminiscent of the Mediterranean.

Electric Mountain (Dinorwig Power Station): Take a fascinating underground tour of Electric Mountain, a hydroelectric power station nestled inside Elidir Mountain. Learn about renewable energy and enjoy panoramic views of Snowdonia from the visitor center.

Llanberis Lake Railway: Embark on a scenic steam train journey aboard the Llanberis Lake Railway. Travel alongside the serene shores of Llyn Padarn and enjoy views of Snowdon and the surrounding mountains.

Zip World Velocity: Experience the adrenaline rush of Zip World Velocity, the fastest zip line in the world, located in Penrhyn Quarry near Bethesda. Soar through the air at speeds exceeding 100 mph and enjoy breathtaking views of the quarry and Snowdonia National Park.

Kayaking on Llyn Padarn: Explore the crystal-clear waters of Llyn Padarn by kayak. Rent a kayak from Llanberis and paddle across the tranquil lake, surrounded by stunning mountain scenery and the rugged landscapes of Snowdonia.