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The Canine guide to Snowdonia holiday cottages

Destinations

The Canine guide to Snowdonia

Clare Willcocks 18 April 2023

Dog-friendly Snowdonia, in Gwynedd in Wales, is a magnet for adventure seekers, a haven for lovers of fresh air and fabulous landscapes, and one of the most spectacular places in the UK you can visit with your pet. Dog-friendly days out in Snowdonia abound, whether you love exploring incredible beaches or prefer rambling in the mountains.

Maybe you’re a family looking for dog-friendly activities in Snowdonia? Or a couple searching out the best places to visit in Snowdonia with dogs? Whatever is enticing you to this enchanting corner of North Wales, you’ll find plenty of dog-friendly inspiration in this article.

When you’re not making the most of the great outdoors, you can take advantage of the cosy indoors with a host of dog-friendly pubs in Snowdonia, not to mention a vast array of beautiful cottages to suit everyone.


Click to fetch the best…


Dog-friendly pubs in Snowdonia

The Bryntirion Inn, Bala

Dog in a pub by the fireplace

A traditional countryside pub, The ‘Bryn’, as it is fondly known, is well-stocked with a wide range of drinks, including local real ales and other Welsh tipples such as Penderyn whisky and Merlyn cream liqueur. A menu of mouth-watering dishes offers a hearty end to a day of walking in the surrounding Dee Valley.  

Monthly quiz nights and an open-mic night are yet another reason to visit the pub, which sits in a magical setting, surrounded by gardens and a woodland. Pups can relax in front of the roaring log fire and enjoy the atmosphere of the traditional bar area, and there’s even a family room with TV, pool table, dartboard, books and games.

  • Good to know: Food is served daily 12pm - 3pm and 6pm - 9pm, and 12pm – 8pm on Sundays.
  • Stay at: Bala Barn, Bala | sleeps 2 dogs and 2 humans

The Albion Ale House, Conwy

Bar person pulling a pint

An ale-only pub, in the coastal town of Conwy, The Albion Ale House is a top choice if you’re looking for dog-friendly pubs in Snowdonia. A handsome interior complete with original 1920s back bar, original hand pulls, and baronial fireplace, it’s a cosy setting for a drink in the company of your pup.  

Set up by four rival breweries, there is no TV and no music, just the murmur of conversation from the patrons and a convivial environment which we’re sure will make you want to linger for a while with your pet.

  • Good to know: Open daily 12pm – 11pm, and until 12am on Fridays and Saturdays.
  • Stay at: Dragonfly Lodge, near Conwy | sleeps 2 dogs and 4 humans

Dog-friendly cafes in Snowdonia

Moel Siabod Cafe, Capel Curig

Soup in a bowl

Close to the outdoor adventure hub of Betws-y-Coed, better known as the Gateway to Snowdonia, this true gem of a cafe is one that you’ll be delighted to discover on the first day of your holiday and visit every day henceforth!

As dog-friendly cafes in Snowdonia go, this one’s right up there with the best. Not only is it a great hub for meeting and planning your adventures, but it also serves delicious food, cakes and coffee to keep you nourished before and after your explorations. Find maps, tailored walks, and even packed lunches to fuel your hill climbs.

  • Good to know: Open daily 8am – 5pm
  • Stay at: Ysbugor Newydd | sleeps 1 dog and 4 humans

Conwy Falls Cafe, Betws-y-Coed

Conwy Falls

Designed by Sir William Clough Ellis to fit with the style of buildings in Portmeirion, Conwy Falls Cafe is set in wonderful surroundings, with lovely outdoor seating areas to make the most of good weather.

There is a nominal fee to walk up the gorge to see the spectacular Conwy Falls, so why not work up an appetite before tucking into a light lunch or coffee and cake?

  • Good to know: March – November open daily 9am – 5pm. November – March open 10am – 4pm Mondays, Tuesdays and Fridays, 9am – 5pm Saturday and Sunday. 
  • Stay at: Craig Y Nos, near Betws-y-Coed | sleeps 1 dog and 2 humans

Dog-friendly beaches in Snowdonia

Barmouth

Barmouth

There are a wealth of dog-friendly beaches in Snowdonia, with most having at least a section of the beach that you and your pup can enjoy all year round. The charming town of Barmouth is a good choice for families, and those who like their seaside experience full of traditional fun.

Cafes, restaurants, pubs and shops are all within walking distance of the sand, and while part of it has a seasonal dog exclusion zone, there’s a large area of this beautiful beach that is primed for zoomies at any time of year.

  • Good to know: Dogs are not allowed in the area of the beach between the leisure centre and river from 1 April to 30 September.
  • Stay at: Custard Cottage, Barmouth | sleeps 1 dog and 6 humans

Harlech

Harlech

This is one of the dog-friendly beaches in Snowdonia where you can combine a seaside walk with a slice of history in the form of a visit to dog-friendly Harlech Castle. There’s even a dog-friendly golf course – the stunning Royal St. David's links – amongst the dunes.

The beach itself is a playground for your pup and only a small section has seasonal bans for dogs. It’s a fantastic place to stretch your legs (and paws!). Never crowded, and showcasing spectacular views of the Snowdonia mountain range and the Llyn Peninsula, it’s a truly special spot in Cardigan Bay.

  • Good to know: Dogs are not allowed in the small part of the beach in front of the holiday park from 1 April to 30 September.
  • Stay at: Erol y Mor, Harlech | sleeps 1 dog and 5 humans

Dog walks in Snowdonia

Snowdon

Mount Snowdon

One of the most iconic walks in Snowdonia is up its eponymous mountain. Tackling the summit of the highest mountain in Wales may not seem all that dog-friendly, but there are numerous routes to suit capable dogs. Llanberis Path is considered to be the ‘easiest’ way up, with a steep climb just before the summit.

There will be plenty of time to catch your breath at the top, gazing out at the (hopefully) mist-free view. Dog-walking in Snowdonia doesn’t get much more rewarding than this! Snap a few photos, then turn tail for the walk back down and well-earned refreshment in Snowdon’s dog-friendly pub, the Cwellyn Arms.

  • Good to know: There are areas where dogs need to be kept on a lead due to livestock. Bring enough water for you and your pup. Unfortunately, The Summit Café is not dog friendly.
  • Stay at: Mountain Escape, Bethesda | sleeps 1 dog and 2 humans

Beddgelert

Beddgelert

What could be more fitting when you’re looking for the best dog walks in Snowdonia than a route inspired by a faithful historical hound? This easy walk hugs the River Glaslyn, detouring across a field to take in Gelert’s Grave. Legend has it that in the 13th century, the dog was slain by his master, Prince Llywelyn, who mistakenly believed he’d killed his son.

This is a lovely route for spotting river wildlife. You may see dippers and herons, and wetland animals in the fields flanking the river.

  • Good to know: Head for the Saracen’s Head in Beddgelert, a dog-friendly pub with a lovely atmosphere and ‘Faithful Gelert’ ale on tap!
  • Stay at: The Lookout - South Snowdon Wharf, Porthmadog | sleeps 1 dog and 2 humans

Dog-friendly attractions in Snowdonia

Ffestiniog and Welsh Highland Railways

Ffestiniog Railway

Take a scenic ride on board a steam train, chugging sedately past majestic mountains, through magical forests and alongside twinkling lakes. Take your pick from the two routes, one climbing up to the former slate mining town of Blaenau Ffestiniog, the other meandering past the foot of Snowdon to the coastal town of Caernarfon.

It is one of the best dog-friendly attractions in Snowdonia for a rainy day, as you can enjoy the views from the carriage before hopping off at your chosen stop and ducking into a dog-friendly café for lunch! If the weather is good enough for a stroll, there are some lovely Snowdonia dog walks at various stops en route.

  • Good to know: Dog rover tickets £3. There are dog-friendly areas in the Tearooms at Tan y Bwlch Station, Spooners café/bar in Porthmadog and in the event space at Caernarfon station.
  • Stay at: Bryncir House, near Porthmadog | sleeps 1 dog and 2 humans

Greenwood Family Park, Y Felinheli

Little boy looking through binoculars with his Dad and dog in the woods

One of our favourite dog-friendly attractions in Snowdonia for families, Greenwood Family Park is packed with exciting rides. Roller coasters, water rides, adventure play areas, mazes and trails are nestled within the forest, providing hours of fun for kids young and old!

Dogs must be kept on leads, but they’ll love joining in with a family day out, combining a woodland walk with thrills for the children.

  • Good to know: Dogs are not permitted in the Woodbarn Café and indoor play area. There is an undercover eating area for picnics. Dogs must be supervised at all times. Prices start at £16.50 for adults, £16 for children over 3.
  • Stay at: On The Marina, Y Felinheli | sleeps 1 dog and 4 humans

Conwy Water Gardens, Conwy

Capybaras

Set in the picturesque Conwy Valley, Conwy Water Gardens offers something for the whole family, with a nature trail, animals including capybaras and ducks, an aquatic centre with fish, turtles and tortoises, and a Dutch Pancake House with a dog-friendly outdoor section.

  • Good to know: Dogs are welcome in the grounds.
  • Stay at: Canol, near Conwy | sleeps 2 dogs and 4 humans

Sygun Copper Mine, Beddgelert

Sygun Copper Mine

There aren’t many dog-friendly things to do in Snowdonia comparable to a visit to Sygun Copper Mine. Intrepid dogs and their owners are invited to explore the mine together on a self-guided tour. Wander through dimly lit tunnels, taking in impressive chambers with stalactites and stalagmites, and learn about life in a Victorian copper mine.

Outside, a children’s playground, museum of antiquities, and activities including panning for gold and metal detecting make this a fantastic experience for the whole family.

  • Good to know: Adult £10, child (aged 3-7) £7.50, family (2 adults, 2 children) £30.
  • Stay at: Cae Glaslyn Beddgelert | sleeps 2 dogs and 6 humans

Embark on a dog-friendly holiday in Snowdonia

Whether you’re looking for a cosy little bolthole for two and a pup, or a large cottage for a family gathering with the whole pack, you’ll find the perfect accommodation within our collection of dog-friendly cottages in Snowdonia.

Disclaimer: Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information at the time of writing, please ensure you check carefully before making any decisions based on the contents within this article.

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