No Climbing in North Wales yet
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From slate quarries to soaring sea cliffs, North Wales climbing serves up proper adventure.
North Wales, mate, it's not just hills – it's a climber's playground. Forget the manicured holds of your local wall; we're talking about the raw grit of slate quarries, the sheer granite of the Llanberis Pass, and the exposed limestone sea cliffs of the Great Orme. This isn't climbing, it's an experience.
What makes it special? Variety, pure and simple. One day you could be tackling multi-pitch trad routes on Dinas Cromlech, the next bouldering in the Ogwen Valley, and the next sport climbing above the crashing waves at Gogarth. The weather? Unpredictable, like a Welsh rugby match. Sunshine can turn to drizzle in minutes, so you need to be prepared.
Who's it for? Everyone, really. There's beginner-friendly stuff at Tremadog (famous for its sunny aspect) and the indoor walls like Beacon Climbing Centre. But if you're chasing a proper challenge, the Pass and Gogarth will test your nerve and skill. Just remember, North Wales climbing is serious business. Be prepared, know your limits, and respect the mountains. And always, always have a backup plan for that inevitable downpour. Learning about climbing north wales will be one of the greatest experiences you can encounter.
Best Spots for Climbing in North Wales
8 spots ranked by our team. Each one researched, visited, and honestly reviewed.
Flying Buttress, Dinas Cromlech, Llanberis Pass
A classic multi-pitch trad route on immaculate granite. Expect sustained climbing with fantastic exposure. The views from the top are breathtaking, overlooking the entire Llanberis Pass. A true North Wales climbing experience.
Best for: Experienced trad climbers looking for a memorable day out.
Pay-and-display parking at the Cromlech Boulders car park. Get there early, it fills up fast (especially on weekends).
Get directions to Cromlech Boulders Car ParkInsider tip: Check the Cromlech Boulders for a warm-up before tackling the route. And bring plenty of water, it's a long day.
Dream of White Horses, Gogarth
A legendary sea cliff route on the Great Orme. Stunning position above the Irish Sea, with challenging and varied climbing. Expect exposure to the elements. This one’s a north wales climbing must.
Best for: Experienced climbers comfortable with sea cliff environments.
Pay-and-display parking at South Stack RSPB reserve, then a 20-30 minute walk.
Get directions to South Stack RSPBInsider tip: Check the tide times! Some sections of the route are only accessible at low tide. Also, be aware of nesting seabirds.
Christmas Curry, Tremadog
A popular and relatively easy multi-pitch route on Craig Bwlch y Moch (Tremadog). A good introduction to trad climbing in a beautiful setting. Often climbed as two pitches, though it can be three.
Best for: Beginners to intermediate trad climbers.
Park carefully along the roadside in Tremadog village. Be respectful of residents.
Get directions to Tremadog VillageInsider tip: Grab a pasty from the bakery in Tremadog village afterwards. Perfect post-climb fuel.
Vaynol Slab, Llanberis Pass
A series of easier slab climbs, perfect for beginners and those looking for a mellow day out. Good for practicing footwork. Can be a bit polished in places. Vaynol Slab provides stunning views of the Llanberis pass.
Best for: Beginners and families.
Small layby near the base of the slab. Can fill up quickly.
Get directions to Layby near Vaynol SlabInsider tip: Combine it with a walk along Llyn Peris for a full day out.
Main Cliff, Craig y Forwen
A quieter crag compared to the Llanberis Pass, with a good mix of trad and sport routes. Less polished than some of the more popular venues. Often a good option when the Pass is crowded.
Best for: Intermediate to experienced climbers looking for a less crowded venue.
Park responsibly in the small village of Pentre Uchaf, near the Vaynol Arms.
Get directions to Pentre Uchaf VillageInsider tip: The Vaynol Arms in Pentre Uchaf is a great spot for a post-climb pint. And check out the old quarry workings nearby.
Mur Y Niwl, Great Orme
Offers a range of single pitch sport and trad climbs. The limestone is varied, some polished, some sharp. Stunning views of the Irish Sea.
Best for: Sport and trad climbers looking for a variety of routes.
Park in the Great Orme Summit Car Park, or along the Marine Drive.
Get directions to Great Orme Summit Car ParkInsider tip: Bring binoculars to spot seals basking on the rocks below.
Indoor Walls - Beacon Climbing Centre
Great for learning the ropes, training, or escaping bad weather. Offers a wide range of routes for all abilities, plus bouldering areas. Full cafe and gear shop on site.
Best for: All climbers, especially beginners and those looking for indoor training.
Ample free parking at the centre.
Get directions to Beacon Climbing CentreInsider tip: Check their website for special events and courses.
Indoor Walls - Indy Climbing Wall
A popular indoor wall in Llanfair PG. Wide range of climbing grades to suit beginners right through to experts. Caters for both climbers looking to train and those trying the sport for the first time.
Best for: All climbers, especially beginners and those looking for indoor training.
Ample free parking at the centre.
Get directions to Indy Climbing WallInsider tip: Great cafe on site for post session snacks.
Need to Know
Weather
The weather in North Wales is notoriously unpredictable. Mountain weather can change rapidly, so be prepared for all conditions, even in summer. Check the forecast before you go and be prepared to bail if the weather turns.
Gear Checklist
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Local Gear Shops
Joe Brown's
Menai Hall, Llanberis LL55 4EN
Legendary climbing shop, stocking everything you need for climbing and mountaineering. Known for its knowledgeable staff and wide selection.
V12 Outdoor
22-24 High St, Llanberis LL55 4ER
Well-stocked outdoor shop with a focus on climbing and mountaineering gear. Offers a good range of brands and expert advice.
Cotswold Outdoor
Unit 3A, Betws-y-Coed, LL24 0AY
Large outdoor retailer with a wide range of clothing and equipment for various activities, including climbing.
Events & Races
BMC International Climbing Festival
July • festival • £60
A celebration of climbing, with workshops, talks, and competitions.
More info →