Plan Ahead for a Safe and Enjoyable Visit
Ogwen and Cwm Idwal are among Eryri’s most popular destinations, known for their dramatic mountain scenery and rich natural heritage. With high visitor numbers—especially during weekends and holidays—planning ahead is key to enjoying this special place while protecting its environment.
Traffic on the A5 through the Ogwen Valley increases by an average of 20% in the summer months, leading to congestion and limited parking. Help us protect the area by planning your journey, using sustainable transport options, and respecting local guidelines.
Getting to Ogwen and Cwm Idwal
Public Transport
Choosing public transport helps reduce your carbon footprint and eases pressure on the narrow valley roads and limited parking areas.
Bus services run regularly to Ogwen from Bangor and Betws-y-Coed.
You can catch the T10 bus, which runs regularly between Bangor (including the train station), Bethesda and Betws-y-Coed, with a stop right at Ogwen.
There is parking available at Bethesda Football Club, just a short walk from the T10 bus stop. From there, you can catch the bus straight to Ogwen – a great option if you’d prefer not to drive further into the valley and to ease congestion.
Visit Traveline Cymru or call 0800 464 0000 for the most up-to-date timetables and route information.
Driving to Ogwen
If you must travel by car, allow extra time and travel during off-peak hours when possible.
Inspect your vehicle before setting off to avoid delays. Real-time traffic updates are available from Traffic Wales or follow @TrafficWalesN on social media.
Recommended Routes:
– From North-West England: M56 → A55 → Junction 11 → A5 via Bethesda to Ogwen.
– From Holyhead/Anglesey: A55 → Junction 11 → A5 through Bethesda.
– From South England: M40/M6/M54 → A5 via Shrewsbury and Llangollen → Ogwen.
– From South-West Wales: A40 → A483 → A5 via Oswestry and Betws-y-Coed → Ogwen.
– From South-East Wales: A470 via Brecon and Dolgellau → A5 eastbound → Ogwen.
Parking Information
Parking is extremely limited in the Ogwen Valley, especially during peak times. Please park only in designated bays. Vehicles parked on clearways, double yellow lines, or obstructing roads may be removed at the owner’s expense. This is essential to ensure emergency vehicle access and public safety.
To avoid congestion, consider arriving early or using public transport.
Be Prepared – Stay Safe
Mountain conditions can change rapidly. Whether you’re walking around Llyn Idwal or climbing nearby peaks, always:
– Check the weather forecast in advance.
– Wear suitable clothing and bring enough food and water.
– Carry a map and know your route.
– Keep within your physical limits and turn back if unsure.
If you find yourself in trouble, call 999 and ask for Mountain Rescue.
North Wales Police:
“We appreciate people coming to enjoy Eryri’s scenery, but we urge motorists to be responsible. Irresponsible parking at Llyn Ogwen puts lives at risk and blocks emergency access. Please use public transport and designated parking areas.”
“We all have an individual and collective responsibility to take care if heading into the mountains. Good preparation is key. Please plan in advance and bring the right equipment. We want everyone to return home safely with happy memories.”
Protect the Landscape
Ogwen and Cwm Idwal are designated conservation areas.
Please help protect their unique ecosystems by:
– Sticking to marked paths to prevent erosion.
– Taking all litter home.
– Keeping dogs on leads, especially near livestock and during bird nesting seasons.
– Avoiding loud music and drones to preserve the peace and wildlife.