North Wales is famous for its mountains, but it is just as rich in waterfalls. From thundering cascades in spate after rain to gentle falls tucked into mossy woodland, they make some of the most rewarding days out in the region — whether you want a quick roadside stop, a family-friendly stroll or a longer walk into the hills. Here are ten of the best waterfalls in North Wales, what each one is like, and everything you need to know before you go.
1. Swallow Falls, Betws-y-Coed
Swallow Falls is one of the most famous waterfalls in Wales and a must-see if you are visiting Betws-y-Coed. The falls sit on the Afon Llugwy, where the river crashes over dark rocks in a series of powerful cascades. It is a great choice if you want a dramatic waterfall without a long walk — the paid viewing area gives quick access to the main viewpoints, ideal as a short stop while exploring Betws-y-Coed, Capel Curig and the wider Eryri area. The sound of the water is part of the experience, especially after heavy rain.
2. Aber Falls (Rhaeadr Fawr), Abergwyngregyn
Aber Falls, also known as Rhaeadr Fawr, is one of the classic waterfall walks in North Wales. Set in the foothills of the Carneddau, it is a wonderful choice if you want big mountain scenery without a difficult hike. The clear path follows the Aber Valley past open views, woodland and streams before reaching the main waterfall — a dramatic curtain of water dropping from the cliffs into a rocky pool. It is one of the best falls in the region for families, couples and first-time visitors to Eryri.
3. Fairy Falls (Rhaeadr y Tylwyth Teg), Trefriw
Fairy Falls, or Rhaeadr y Tylwyth Teg, is a lovely waterfall in the village of Trefriw in the Conwy Valley. It is smaller and gentler than Aber Falls or Swallow Falls, and that is part of its charm. The falls sit close to the village among riverside paths, woodland and old stone surroundings — a good choice for visitors who like discovering prettier, less obvious spots. It works as a short stop, or you can extend your visit with a walk around Trefriw, a look at the Trefriw Woollen Mills, or a longer route towards Llyn Crafnant and Llyn Geirionydd.
4. Dolgoch Falls, near Tywyn
Dolgoch Falls is a beautiful series of waterfalls set in a wooded ravine near Tywyn, on the southern edge of Eryri — a lovely mix of woodland paths, mossy rocks, bridges and tumbling water. One of the nicest ways to visit is by combining the falls with a ride on the Talyllyn Railway, as Dolgoch station is close to the walk, which makes it great for families and railway enthusiasts. The lower falls are the easiest to reach, while the full route climbs further into the ravine.
5. Dyserth Waterfall, Denbighshire
Dyserth Waterfall is one of the easiest waterfalls in North Wales to visit, especially if you are staying near Rhyl, Prestatyn or the North Wales coast. The Afon Ffyddion drops through a rocky gorge in the village, creating a surprisingly dramatic natural attraction close to local facilities. It is a great stop for families and casual walkers who want a waterfall without a mountain walk — keep it simple with a short visit, or extend your time with the Dyserth circular walk and nearby countryside trails.
6. Rhaeadr Ddu, Coed Ganllwyd
Rhaeadr Ddu — the “Black Falls” — is a beautiful woodland waterfall near Ganllwyd, close to Dolgellau, set within a peaceful National Trust walking route through Coed Ganllwyd. This is a great choice if you like a more natural, woodland-based walk: the route follows the River Gamlan through trees, rocky sections and riverside scenery, with the waterfall one of the highlights. It feels quieter than the better-known falls around Betws-y-Coed and Llanberis, making it ideal if you want somewhere atmospheric and less crowded.
7. Ceunant Mawr (Llanberis Falls), Llanberis
Ceunant Mawr, also known as Llanberis Falls, is a dramatic waterfall tucked away close to the centre of Llanberis — a place that feels surprisingly wild for how near it is to the village. The water drops into a steep wooded gorge and can be viewed from paths and vantage points above. It is a favourite with photographers, and it makes a good addition to a Llanberis day out alongside Llyn Padarn, the Snowdon Mountain Railway, Dolbadarn Castle or the village cafés.
8. Nantcol Waterfalls, near Llanbedr
Nantcol Waterfalls sits inland from Llanbedr, surrounded by the rugged beauty of the Rhinogydd. It is a brilliant choice if you want a wilder-feeling waterfall setting with river scenery, mountain views and a real sense of being away from it all. The falls are part of the Nantcol Waterfalls site, with walking routes and river access nearby. It is popular with campers and families, though the approach roads are rural and narrow — so the journey is part of the adventure. A lovely spot for a slower day out if you are staying near Harlech, Llanbedr or Barmouth.
9. Pistyll Cain & Rhaeadr Mawddach, Coed y Brenin
For a proper forest waterfall adventure, head to Coed y Brenin and follow the trail towards Pistyll Cain and Rhaeadr Mawddach. These waterfalls are set deep in woodland, with rivers, bridges, old gold-mine history and a more adventurous walking feel. It is one of the best choices in North Wales if you want to escape the busier spots and enjoy a longer forest walk — the scenery feels remote and atmospheric, especially after rain when the rivers run strongly. Because the trail is longer and more involved than places like Dyserth or Swallow Falls, it suits visitors who are comfortable with woodland walking and uneven ground.
10. Conwy Falls, near Betws-y-Coed
Conwy Falls is another excellent waterfall near Betws-y-Coed, with a different feel to Swallow Falls. Rather than one open viewpoint beside the road, it is reached through a short woodland trail, giving the visit a more tucked-away atmosphere. The waterfall sits where the Afon Conwy squeezes through a rocky gorge, creating a powerful, atmospheric scene that is especially lovely in autumn — though it is worth visiting at any time of year.
Map of the 10 waterfalls
All the places featured in this guide, mapped — tap a pin for the name.
Quick tips for visiting waterfalls in North Wales
Waterfalls are usually at their best after rainfall, but that is also when paths, rocks and wooden steps are most slippery. Wear proper footwear, keep children close near drops and rivers, and avoid climbing barriers or scrambling onto wet rocks for photos. Parking can fill quickly at popular locations such as Aber Falls, Swallow Falls, Llanberis and Betws-y-Coed, so arriving early or later in the day makes the experience much more relaxed. It is also worth checking café and attraction opening times before you travel, as some are seasonal and rural mobile signal can be patchy.
Where to stay for a North Wales waterfall trip
Most of these falls are in or around Eryri (Snowdonia), so it makes a natural base. There are welcoming B&Bs and guest houses, self-catering holiday cottages and comfortable hotels and inns right across the area — browse places to stay in Snowdonia to be close to Betws-y-Coed, Llanberis and the southern falls. For more ideas once you are here, see our guide to things to do in Snowdonia, and if you are bringing the dog, our guide to dog-friendly North Wales.
Find your base for exploring North Wales' waterfalls
Browse independent cottages, B&Bs, caravans and hotels across Snowdonia and North Wales — many bookable direct with the owner.
Frequently asked questions
- What is the best waterfall in North Wales?
- It depends on what you want. Aber Falls (Rhaeadr Fawr) is the best all-round walk to a dramatic single drop; Swallow Falls is the most famous and the easiest dramatic waterfall to reach near Betws-y-Coed; and for woodland adventure, Pistyll Cain and Rhaeadr Mawddach in Coed y Brenin are hard to beat. All ten in this guide are well worth a visit.
- Are North Wales waterfalls free to visit?
- Many are completely free, including Aber Falls, Ceunant Mawr and Rhaeadr Ddu. A few are paid-entry attractions or have a small charge — including Swallow Falls, Conwy Falls and, sometimes, Dyserth — so it is worth carrying a little change.
- Which North Wales waterfalls are easiest to reach?
- Swallow Falls, Conwy Falls and Dyserth Waterfall are among the easiest, with short access from the car park or road. Aber Falls is a longer but gentle and well-made walk, making it a good choice for families and first-time visitors to Eryri.
- Are the waterfall walks dog-friendly?
- Many of the routes welcome dogs, but they should be kept on a lead near livestock, water and steep drops. See our dog-friendly North Wales guide for more, and always check signs locally.
- When is the best time to see the waterfalls?
- Waterfalls are at their most powerful after heavy rain, and many are quietest early in the morning or later in the day. Take extra care on wet, slippery paths and rocks, and wear sturdy footwear whatever the season.