Rhaeadr y Benglog

Rhaeadr y Benglog (Benglog Falls, also known as Ogwen Falls or Rhaeadr Ogwen) is a waterfall in Gwynedd, North Wales, inside Snowdonia National Park (Eryri). It sits on the Afon Ogwen beside the Pont Pen-y-benglog bridge, where water leaving Llyn Ogwen begins its drop into the Nant Ffrancon valley.

What kind of waterfall is it?

The river leaves the western end of Llyn Ogwen and tumbles through a rocky chasm in a series of steps. A Victorian gazetteer describes three cataracts with a combined fall of roughly 100 feet, around 30 metres. It is a stepped cascade rather than a single sheer curtain, so it is best appreciated from a couple of angles.

How do I get there?

The falls lie beside the A5 between Bethesda and Capel Curig. Most visitors park at the pay car park by Ogwen Cottage and walk a short way. For a mountain location the facilities are good: there is a tourist information point, toilets and a small cafe. The land around Llyn Ogwen is looked after by the National Trust, so check current parking rules and charges before you go.

Where are the best views?

The easiest view is from the cliff edge next to the bridge. Underneath, you can spot remains of an earlier stone arch bridge; the present Pont Pen-y-benglog was built as part of Thomas Telford's London-to-Dublin mail road. A steep, slippery path leads down to a lower viewpoint, which is not suitable for young children or anyone in poor footwear. The upper view is good enough that the descent is rarely worth the risk.

When should I visit?

The falls are at their most impressive after rain, which is rarely in short supply here. After a dry spell the flow can be noticeably weaker. Summer and weekends are the busiest times, so aim for early morning or the off-season.

What else is nearby?

• Llyn Ogwen - a glacial lake at about 310 m between the Carneddau and the Glyderau, and the source of the Afon Ogwen.
• Nant Ffrancon - a broad glacial valley running down towards Bethesda.
• Walks from Ogwen Cottage - a short but steep route to Llyn y Cwn, the ascent of Pen yr Ole Wen, or the demanding Glyderau circuit over Glyder Fawr and Glyder Fach. These need fitness and proper mountain gear.
• Devil's Appendix - a separate, much taller waterfall near the bridge.

Frequently asked questions

Is there an entry fee? The falls can be seen from public ground by the road. The parking near Ogwen Cottage is what you pay for.

Is it suitable for families? The view from the edge by the bridge is fine, but the way down to the lower viewpoint is steep and not recommended for children. Watch the traffic on the A5 as well.

Are Rhaeadr y Benglog and Ogwen Falls the same place? Yes. Benglog refers to the Pen-y-benglog bridge area, while Rhaeadr Ogwen and Ogwen Falls name it after the river.

How long should I allow? Looking at the falls takes 15 to 30 minutes. Combined with a stroll around Llyn Ogwen, plan on about two hours.