The Watkin Path ascent of Snowdon

Everyone has their favourite walks and places, and this is one of mine. I've climbed Snowdon - the highest peak in England and Wales - several times, but for me this route is by far the best for a sense of achievement, for fantastic views, and for being the least busy (so you can achieve some sense of freedom!).


The Watkin Path is named after the 19th Century railway magnate and Liberal MP Sir Edward Watkin, and the path was formally 'opened' by the Prime Minister Gladstone (then 83) in 1892.


This is labelled by some as the most strenuous ascent, as it climbs 3,300ft (1,000m) in just 4 miles (6km): technically, it is rather easier and safer than that via the Grib Goch ridge. Although the path is easy to follow for most of its length, there are some sheer drops towards the end, and the last 300 ft (100m) is a nasty scree slope. You need some experience of mountain walking to climb this, but no special equipment beyond the obvious good boots and appropriate clothing. It's best avoided in fog or low cloud unless you are a confident and experienced walker (and I'm assuming you would be sensible enough not to attempt it in winter with ice and snow). Allow about four hours each way.


The route begins near a car park close to the hamlet of Bethania, on the A498 three miles east of Beddgelert. Close by is the beautiful lake of Llyn Gwynant, also the location of a good youth hostel. The ascent is gentle at first, although as with all of Wales, you will inevitably share the track with sheep (and on my last visit with cattle at one point -including a rather angry looking bull).


Early on are beautiful views of the waterfalls at Coed-yr-Allt, followed by the remains of the quarrying and mining operations undertaken here in the 19th century and the rock on which Gladstone stood in 1892 (together, incredibly, with 2,000 invited guests). The path then begins to climb steeply, on the lower slopes of Y Lliwedd ('The Viewpoint' in Welsh, one of the lower peaks of the Snowdon massif) before following the ridge of Bwlchysaethau - the 'Pass of the Arrow'. (Don't try to pronounce that on your own.) The path then turns upwards towards the summit of Snowdon proper (Yr Wyddfa - the Grave).


At the summit you'll find lots of people - courtesy of the other paths and the mountain steam railway. They are rebuilding the summit cafe soon, to replace the current eyesore. (Prince Charles famously called it the highest slum in Britain, though it's not quite that bad). But just buy a cup of tea, open your sandwiches, and step out to admire the magnificent views - if you can see anything, that is, through the cloud. But the photos here prove that there are sunny days to be had, and then it's magnificent.


An alternative return route is to follow the ridge along Bwlch Main ('the Narrow Pass') towards the summit of Yr Aran (the Height), and turn left at the col back towards the Watkin Path. It's a fairly straightforward descent, and the path along the ridge is good - though again, best in clear weather.


Back at Bethania, reward yourself with another cup of tea and some Welsh cakes at the restored chapel, now a splendid cafe. And try practising those Welsh names again...

Excellent day out with breathtaking views. Exceptional place, just make sure you wear sturdy walking shoes and bring a packed lunch!

A great way to spend a day. Walking this mountain you will see a great view. The total distance of this path is 4 miles each way so 8 miles return. The average time it takes people to walk these 8 miles is 6 hours. When you are walking the mountain it is essential that you wear boots or strong shoes. At the summit of the mountain there is a cafe.

Fantastic views and great if you love walking... obviously, but very tiring... and no so great on a cold windy wet day... and your not wearing wellys or waterproofs. learn from me, be prepared!!!!!!!