The Canine guide to Snowdonia

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
• Dog-friendly cafes
• Dog-friendly beaches
• Dog walks
• Dog-friendly attractions

Dog-friendly pubs in Snowdonia

The Bryntirion Inn, Bala

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.

The Albion Ale House, Conwy

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.

Dog-friendly cafes in Snowdonia

Moel Siabod Cafe, Capel Curig

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.

Conwy Falls Cafe, Betws-y-Coed

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?

Dog-friendly beaches in Snowdonia

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.

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.

Dog walks in Snowdonia

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.

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 13^th 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.

Dog-friendly attractions in Snowdonia

Ffestiniog and Welsh Highland Railways

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.

Greenwood Family Park, Y Felinheli

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.

Conwy Water Gardens, Conwy

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.

Sygun Copper Mine, Beddgelert

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.

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.