Swallow Falls

Swallow Falls (Welsh: Rhaeadr Ewynnol) is a tiered waterfall on the River Llugwy, roughly two miles west of Betws-y-Coed in Conwy County Borough, in the heart of Snowdonia, North Wales. The river drops through a rocky wooded gorge in several steps, with a total fall reported at around 42 metres. It ranks among the most visited waterfalls in Wales.

Why is it called Swallow Falls?

There are two popular explanations. One says the Welsh word ewynnol, meaning foaming, was misheard as y wennol, the swallow. The other points to a rock that splits the flow and gives the water the look of a swallow's forked tail. Guidebooks repeat both, and neither is settled.

What will you see?

The Llugwy squeezes into a narrow gorge and tumbles down in a few separate streams. After heavy rain the falls are broad and loud; in a dry summer they thin out noticeably. There are two viewing areas: a lower platform reached by steps from the turnstile (under two minutes down), and an upper spot with a view of the top section.

The landowner gave the falls to the local council in 1913. Admission charges were introduced to pay off the debt from bringing water and electricity to the village, and the fee is still collected.

How do you get there and where do you park?

The falls sit beside the A5, about two miles from the centre of Betws-y-Coed. Park in the hotel car park opposite the entrance or in a nearby lay-by. Snowdon Sherpa buses (S1 and T10) also stop nearby. Walkers can follow a riverside path from the village, or take the woodland trail from the Ty'n Llwyn car park in Gwydir Forest to a viewpoint.

What does it cost and is it accessible?

Local sources list admission at £2 per person, paid at the turnstile with coins or a contactless card. The turnstile entrance is available around the clock all year. The route to the lower platform is by steps only, so it does not suit wheelchairs or pushchairs. Check current prices and hours before you go, as they can change.

When is the best time to visit?

Visit after rain, which in practice means spring, autumn or winter, when the flow is strong and bare branches leave the cascade in view. In summer foliage hides parts of the falls and crowds are larger. The viewing itself takes 20–30 minutes; combined with the walk from the village and a wander round Betws-y-Coed, it fills half a day.

Frequently asked questions

Is Swallow Falls the tallest waterfall in Wales? Some guides describe it that way, but sources differ, and heights quoted for Welsh waterfalls vary. What is certain is that it is one of the best-known cascades in the country.

How long should I allow? Around 20–30 minutes for both viewpoints. Walking in from the village adds an hour or more.

Can I bring children or a dog? Guidebooks report that children and dogs enter free. Keep in mind the steep steps, which get slippery in wet weather.

Can I see the falls for free? Some glimpses are possible from the road or from the riverside path, but the full view from the platforms requires a ticket.