The Best Waterfalls in North Wales: A Local's Guide
Perhaps we never thought we’d say this, but the amount of rain we get in North Wales is a good thing. A great thing, in fact, because as well as keeping our lands lush and our lakes full, it also means our many waterfalls are a stunning sight to behold. From sinewy streams that trickle down rock faces to thundering cascades worthy of a Herbal Essences advert, North Wales is teeming with waterfalls, making them an essential part of any itinerary. Below, we’ve listed some of the very best waterfalls in North Wales.
Want to see them? We might be biased, but we truly believe that the best way to do so is from the comfort of an Oyster Holiday Cottage.
North Wales Waterfalls Map
Want to get the lay of the land? Take a look at our map of the different North Wales waterfalls in this list below:
The Best Waterfalls North Wales
Want to experience the must-see waterfalls on offer here in North Wales? Make sure to add these to your itinerary.
Aber Falls, Gwynedd
Aber Falls (Rhaeadr Fawr) is perhaps the most famous waterfall in North Wales, potentially thanks to having an entire whisky distillery named after it. Located just outside of the village of Abergwyngregyn, this 120ft waterfall is relatively accessible to all, with a mostly gravel path all the way along the approach.
Swallow Falls, Snowdonia
Swallow Falls (Rhaeadr Ewynnol) is one of Wales’ highest waterfalls, dropping 137ft in a dramatic multi‑tier cascade on the River Llugwy. Located just off the A5 near Betws‑y‑Coed, it’s one of Snowdonia’s most photographed waterfalls, with powerful flows that look especially impressive after heavy rain. A well‑maintained trail through Gwydir Forest leads to elevated viewpoints across the gorge, while a shorter path from the visitor centre offers easier access for families.
Watkin Pools, Snowdonia
Perhaps the second thing on everyone’s Snowdonia bucket list (just below summiting Yr Wyddfa itself) is the Watkin Pools. Set on the mountain’s lower slopes, the Watkin Pools are formed by the Afon Cwm Lan as it descends into the Nant Gwynant Valley. With an unbelievably vivid blue colour, the pools are especially appealing thanks to their mineral-rich waters and amazing views. If you’re visiting the Watkin Pools and planning a dip, please prepare for slippery terrain and cold waters, and be extremely careful around fast-moving water and jagged rocks. We recommend visiting the pools only in summer.
Useful Welsh Terminology: Waterfalls
‘Rhaeadr’ – waterfall
‘Pistyll’ – spout, spouting water or slender waterfall
‘Ffrwd’ – fast-moving stream
‘Fawr / mawr’ – big
‘Afon’ – river
‘Nant’ – stream or brook
‘Llyn’ – lake
‘Pwll’ – pool or pit
‘Goleuan’ – rapids
Ceunant Mawr Waterfall, Caernarfon
Ceunant Mawr is a dramatic twin‑cascade waterfall near Llanberis, fed by the Afon Goch as it plunges over 100ft into the valley below. Despite its impressive scale, it’s reached via a short, relatively easy walk from Llanberis town centre, making it a great option for visitors wanting a big‑impact waterfall without a long hike. The trail winds through woodland and alongside the river before opening up to viewing areas above the falls and pools, with the best displays after sustained rainfall – just make sure you’re wearing waterproof shoes with good grip!
Conwy Falls (Fairy Glen), Snowdonia
Conwy Falls, often linked with the nearby Fairy Glen walk, is a picturesque waterfall on the River Conwy close to Dolwyddelan, just a short drive from Betws‑y‑Coed. The falls drop through a narrow, tree‑lined gorge, creating a series of frothy cascades and deep pools that feel surprisingly wild given how accessible they are. A gentle circular route takes you through the Fairy Glen’s mossy rocks and twisting paths before reaching the falls, making it a popular family‑friendly outing with plenty of photo opportunities.
Cwmorthin Waterfall, Snowdonia
Cwmorthin Waterfall is a lesser‑known but rewarding cascade near Tanygrisiau and Blaenau Ffestiniog, set within a rugged upland landscape shaped by slate mining. The falls tumble down rocky steps into clear pools, framed by open hillsides and remnants of the area’s industrial past. Access is via a moderate walk from the Cwmorthin or Tanygrisiau side, giving the rhaeadr a ‘secret’ feel that rewards those who explore on foot.
Merlin’s Pool, Snowdonia
Merlin’s Pool is a deep, rocky pool on Eryri’s higher slopes, often visited as part of the Snowdon Massif walks. Though not a waterfall in the traditional sense, it’s a beautiful woodland spot with streams and small cascades feeding into it from above. It’s located on the historical Dinas Emrys trail, where you can walk in the footsteps of Merlin himself and visit the Princess of Gwynedd centre at Craflwyn. It’s also just a short distance from the village of Beddgelert, where more folklore, a bustling village and the beautiful Aberglaslyn Gorge await.
Waterfalls in North Wales: FAQs
A mountain village with an alpine spirit, Betws y Coed is within easy reach (just a few miles) of Conwy Falls, Swallow Falls, the Watkin Pools and Merlin’s Pool. The Afon Llugwy also runs through the village, with lots of beautiful spots to sit and enjoy the sight and sound of running water.
Absolutely – in fact, all of the waterfalls in our list below include some stunning waterfall walks in North Wales. We’ve linked a walk with each one!
We couldn’t possibly name a favourite – as all of our waterfalls are appealing for different reasons. For example, Conwy Falls is perfect for pairing with a visit to Betws y Coed, Aber Falls is relatively accessible for both big and little visitors, and Merlin’s Pool offers a beautiful pitstop along the legendary Dinas Emrys Trail.
If we told you that, it wouldn’t be much of a secret! Due to the nature of overtourism in parts of Snowdonia, we believe that allowing some detective work to take place can help control crowding in some of our beauty spots. If you want to get a rough idea, take a look at this hidden waterfalls in North Wales guide – Finding Snowdonia’s Secret Waterfall.
The tallest single-drop waterfall in North Wales drops 305ft down the Clogwyn y Geifr cliffs in Cwm Idwal, and is called ‘Devil’s Appendix.’ We haven’t included it in our line-up below due to it only really being accessible for experienced climbers and mountaineers. It’s also not a stereotypical grand cascade of water, but rather a slim torrent that descends over, under and alongside the rocks – so if it’s picture-perfect falls you’re after, we think the ones in this list below are the best.
Due to Anglesey’s fairly flat terrain, there are no waterfalls per se, but plenty of low-lying streams and picturesque spots. To get your waterfall fix while staying on Anglesey, though, you can visit Aber Falls at Abergwyngregyn, Llanfairfechan LL33 0LP, which is just 27 minutes by car from Menai Bridge.
Stay in a Snowdonia Cottage with Oyster Holiday Cottages
All of our North Wales properties have waterfalls within easy reach, but a stay in Snowdonia offers the chance to sleep at the beating heart of North Wales’ National Park, where natural wonders reign supreme. Full of wonder in any season, we have a particular soft spot for autumn and winter in Eryri, when the foliage turns all shades of orange and amber, and the (often) wet and wild weather makes for cosy evenings in front of the fire.
