The Real Ale Trail Near Betws-y-Coed: Then and Now
Betws-y-Coed sits close to some of the finest pubs in Eryri. For years, the real ale trail near Betws-y-Coed let visitors reach eight pubs in one day. Sadly, that organised trail no longer runs. The bus tour that once carried drinkers from the coast to the mountains has quietly stopped, and its founders have not published a new date in years. Every pub on the old route still pours a good pint, though, and this guide tells you where to find each one today.
How the Trail Began
The Snowdonia Real Ale Trail started small and grew fast. Demand pushed it to run twice a year at its peak. A hired bus carried passengers through Eryri National Park’s finest scenery. It travelled from the coastal town of Porthmadog, through the slate country around Blaenau Ffestiniog, and back down to Criccieth. Riders swapped driving worries for pint glasses and photographs instead. Local breweries such as Purple Moose, based in Porthmadog, supplied much of the ale, alongside guest beers from further afield. Nobody needed to drive, which made the whole day far more relaxed.
Eight Pubs Along the Way
The trail opened at The Ship in Porthmadog, a nineteenth century pub full of character. It then continued to the Australia on the High Street, known for beers from four local breweries. Next came the Union Inn in Tremadog, a village pub known equally for its food and its open fire. The Ship Aground in Talsarnau and Y Pengwern in Ffestiniog followed. Y Pengwern is famous for a beer garden with views worth the detour alone. Y Manod in Blaenau Ffestiniog, once a miners’ tavern, came next. Then the trail reached the historic Oakeley Arms in Maentwrog, full of period charm. The final stop was the Lion Hotel in Criccieth, a family run pub that sent everyone home happy.
Why the Trail Stopped Running
Real ale trail events depend on volunteers, sponsors and a bus company willing to commit a full day. When any of those fall away, the event usually follows. The original organisers have not updated their listings for several years, and their event page still shows a 2017 date. A separate operator, the Real Ale Trail Company, has since talked about reviving the event. It describes the return as coming “after a rather long pause.” However, nobody has published a confirmed date. The last listed prices, around £22 in advance, look more like a placeholder than a current offer. Until that changes, treat the trail as on hold rather than confirmed to return.
Finding Real Ale Near Betws-y-Coed Today
You do not need an organised trail to enjoy these pubs. Every one of them still welcomes visitors, and several sit along the Conwy Valley railway line. Catch a train from Betws-y-Coed to Blaenau Ffestiniog, then continue on the Ffestiniog Railway’s Quarryman service through to Porthmadog. That single journey reaches several of the original eight stops without a car in sight. We covered this route in more detail in our guide to travelling to Betws-y-Coed by train. For current opening hours, check CAMRA’s own listing for the Lion Hotel first. Its other North Wales entries are worth a look too.
Stay Close to the Trail at Bryn Bella
Bryn Bella Guest House sits in Betws-y-Coed, within easy reach of every pub on the old trail. Our five ensuite rooms each come with a hearty Welsh breakfast. That makes good fuel before a day out, or a gentle way to recover from the one before. Browse our rooms and rates to check availability. Get in touch if you would like help planning a pub focused trip around Eryri instead. We can suggest realistic routes, honest timings and the friendliest stops along the way.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Snowdonia Real Ale Trail still run?
No. The original bus tour stopped some years ago, and no organiser has confirmed a return date.
Can I still visit the pubs from the old trail?
Yes. All eight pubs remain open, from The Ship in Porthmadog to the Lion Hotel in Criccieth. You will need your own transport, or public transport, instead of the old shared bus.
How do I get between the pubs without driving?
The Conwy Valley line and the Ffestiniog Railway’s Quarryman service link Betws-y-Coed, Blaenau Ffestiniog and Porthmadog. Together, they cover several stops on the original route.
How far is Bryn Bella from these pubs?
Betws-y-Coed sits roughly 30 to 40 minutes by car from Porthmadog and Criccieth. Blaenau Ffestiniog and Maentwrog are even closer.
Does Bryn Bella offer parking for a day out?
Yes. We provide private car parking on site for our staying guests, plus garage parking for bikes and motorbikes if you would rather explore on two wheels.