Rainy Day Activities in Eryri (Snowdonia) 

Nestled in the heart of North Wales, Eryri (Snowdonia National Park) is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, rugged mountains, and stunningly beautiful lakes. As the wettest region in Wales it’s also known for its unpredictable weather and frequent rainy days, but don’t let that dampen your spirits. Rainy days offer an opportunity to explore a different side to this stunning area, from enjoying thrilling underground adventures to embracing the outdoors in all its soggy splendour. 

So read on for our guide to making the most of rainy days in Eryri. 

History and Culture

Rainy days offer the perfect opportunity to head indoors and explore Eryri’s history and culture. Browse boutique art galleries such as Galeri Harlech and Galeri Betws-y-Coed or delve into local history at the National Slate Museum in Llanberis. Located in the original Victorian workshops, the museum provides insight into the life of slate workers and their families and is a fascinating way to spend a rainy day. At Inigo Jones Slate Works near Caernarfon enjoy a self guided audio tour before wandering through the historical and geological exhibitions and shaping your very own slate memento. 

Underground Adventures

While the rain falls on Eryri’s majestic mountain peaks, why not escape underground? Dig deep into the past with a visit to Sygun Copper Mine in Beddgelert, try the Deep Mine Tour at Llechwedd Slate Caverns, or venture into the Corris Mines for a mine exploration trip that will bring history vividly alive. Enter a mythical world of dragons and giants at King Arthur’s Labyrinth near Corris, a unique storytelling adventure for all the family.

For the more intrepid, Zip World Llechwedd provides an atmospheric underground playground in the form of Bounce Below, six huge trampoline nets suspended in the disused slate mine, and Caverns, an underground endurance test that includes zip lines, rope bridges, tightropes and more. For those seeking the ultimate adrenaline-fueled experience, Go Below offer some seriously thrilling subterranean challenges including zip-lining through caverns, paddling across an underground lake and abseiling to the deepest point of the UK. Adrenaline pumping, heart thumping fun, whatever the weather. 

Local Food, Drink & Crafts

For a more laid back day, seek refuge in one of  Eryri’s charming cafes or traditional village pubs, or visit one of the many food and craft centres in the area, such as the Corris Craft Centre or Bodnant Welsh Food Centre. Enjoy tasting sessions, cooking demos, and the opportunity to buy locally made crafts and foods. If real ale is your thing the Purple Moose Brewery in Porthmadog opens for tours once a week, or if you fancy creating your very own bespoke gin Aber Falls, near Llanfairfechan, offer a distillery tour and gin distiller experience.

Steam Train Rides

Experience the romance of a bygone era by hopping aboard one of Eryri’s iconic steam trains, there’s plenty to choose from including the The Ffestiniog and Welsh Highland Railway, Llanberis Lake Railway, Talyllyn Railway and of course, the Snowdon Mountain Railway. These fabulous trains run through some of the most stunning landscapes in Wales and offer a unique way to enjoy the misty mountains and valleys without getting wet; just sit back, relax and enjoy the views.

Embrace the Elements

If you’re still itching to get outdoors, then just go with it. For those who don’t mind getting a bit wet, exploring Eryri in the rain can be an invigorating experience, with the bonus of fewer crowds, so don your waterproofs and hiking boots and embrace the misty charm. The paths around Betws-y-Coed or the gentle walks around Llyn Padarn offer particularly beautiful rainy day strolls, and Eryri’s mountains, waterfalls and woodlands appear almost magical on drizzly days. 

For the more intrepid, many outdoor activities can be just as enjoyable in the rain. White water rafting, kayaking, gorge walking and sailing are all guaranteed to get you wet, a rainy day makes no difference, so just go with it!

A rainy day in Eryri is far from a lost day. Whether you choose to explore its history and culture indoors, enjoy the landscape from the comfort of a train, or venture into the wet wilderness, Eryri has plenty to offer on even the wettest of days with a wealth of experiences that promise to make your rainy day a memorable one. 

To read more about exploring Eryri’s mountain scenery by steam train click here