BMC Hill Walking: Heritage Social Walk, North Wales

You are invited to join a peer-led walk, hosted and guided by BMC North Wales Area volunteer Owain Tomos. This social walk along the spectacular Nantlle Ridge will delve into the area’s rich and layered heritage — from ancient Celtic mythology and medieval Welsh literature to the deep-rooted history of slate quarrying that once defined life in the valley. We'll explore stories of legendary figures and place names linked to the Mabinogi, the industrial legacy of the nearby Nantlle slate quarries and the poetic and political significance the landscape has held for generations of Welsh writers and thinkers. Ideal for enthusiastic hillwalkers keen to develop a deeper connection with the landscape and particularly valuable for aspiring or qualified Mountain Leaders looking to broaden their cultural and historical understanding of this iconic ridge!

Circular walk – Garn, Drws-Y-Coed, Trum-Y-Ddysgl, Moel Lefn, Moel Yr Ogof.

Sections of this walk will involve grade 1 scrambling. It involves using hands and feet for short, technical sections while navigating exposed terrain.

We look forward to welcoming you for a memorable and insightful day in the outdoors.

Walk Details

Walk Grading: Challenging

Distance: Approx. 17 km (10.5 miles)

Ascent: 920 m (3,020 ft)

Duration: Approximately 5-7 hours

If you or anyone in your party can’t attend after booking, please let us know so we can offer the place to others

Meeting Details

Time: Saturday 27th September, 09:45 am for a 10:00 am start

Location: Rhyd Ddu Car Park, LL54 6TL

OS Grid Ref: SH 571 526

Google map pin: https://maps.app.goo.gl/iL4758XPdP21KUqD7

Parking: Pay and display; payment options include cash or the PayByPhone app. Free parking may be available elsewhere in the village

Please check out the BMC Liftshare service

Facilities: Public toilets are available at the car park

Public Transport: (North) Caernarfon: Bus S3 → Rhyd Ddu Station ~20–25 minutes

(South) Porthmadog: Bus S4 → Beddgelert, Bus S3 → Rhyd Ddu Station ~35 minutes

What to Bring

We’ll cover a range of terrains, so please ensure you are well-prepared with appropriate gear

Footwear: Sturdy, water-resistant hiking boots or shoes with good grip

Clothing: Dress in layers, including a warm layer and waterproofs, as conditions can vary; bring a hat and gloves for cooler areas

Food and Drink: Bring enough food and water for a full day’s hike; there will be no places to purchase refreshments en route

Other Essentials: Although we plan to finish within daylight hours, carrying a small torch or head torch is advisable for emergencies

Who Can Attend

Anyone, Under 18's must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Well behaved dogs are welcome but must be kept under close control at all times, please indicate on your booking if you will be bringing a dog

Health Precautions: If you have any health conditions that might impact your participation, please inform us in advance. Carry any required medications, and let the walk leader know if assistance may be needed in accessing them

Covid-19: Please do not attend if you feel unwell or have Covid-19 symptoms

BMC Participation Statement

The BMC recognises that climbing, hill walking and mountaineering are activities with a danger of personal injury or death. Participants in these activities should be aware of and accept these risks and be responsible for their own actions and involvement

Photographs may be taken by the leader for future communications about the programme. If you do not wish for your photograph to be taken please let the leader know in advance or at the start of the walk

By participating in this walk you agree to act in a kind and inclusive manner. Bullying, discrimination or the use of foul language will not be tollerated

Questions?

Feel free to contact Owain at owainrtom@gmail.com