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Bangor

Top 7 Waterfalls around Bangor

Best waterfalls around Bangor are found in a region characterized by its proximity to Snowdonia National Park and the Carneddau mountain range in North Wales. The area features a diverse natural landscape, including rivers, valleys, and coastal views. Waterfalls here are often set within scenic hiking routes, offering natural attractions for outdoor enthusiasts. This region is known for its dramatic geological formations and rich natural heritage.

Best waterfalls around Bangor

  • The most popular waterfall is Aber Falls, a waterfall that plunges 37 meters. It is a significant natural attraction suitable for various ages and abilities.
  • Another must-see spot is Aber Falls (Rhaeadr Fawr), a viewpoint for the stunning waterfall located in the foothills of the Carneddau range. This waterfall is a highly popular tourist destination within Snowdonia National Park.
  • Visitors also love Rhaeadr Bach (Small Waterfall Near Aber Falls), a smaller, quieter waterfall found further along the trail from the main Aber Falls. It offers additional scenic views and a more secluded experience.
  • Bangor is known for its prominent waterfalls, smaller cascades, and river features. The area offers a variety of waterfalls to see and explore, from powerful plunges to serene river sections.
  • The waterfalls around Bangor are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 190 upvotes and over 160 photos shared by visitors.

Last updated: May 18, 2026

Aber Falls

Highlight • Waterfall

At 120 feet (37 metres) high, Aber Falls is a spectacular sight indeed. Best seen on a rainy day, the water thunders over the cliff like a curtain of water; crashing to earth with an almighty spray. A great attraction for all ages and abilities. The rocks below can get a little slippery, though, so take care.

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Aber Falls (Rhaeadr Fawr)

Highlight • Viewpoint

Aber Falls (known in Welsh as Rhaeadr Fawr, meaning 'big waterfall') is a stunning waterfall located in the foothills of the Carneddau range, about 3 km south of the village of Abergwyngregyn in Gwynedd, North Wales. It's a highly popular tourist destination within Snowdonia National Park.
Beauty: The falls are beautiful in all seasons, but are particularly spectacular after heavy rain, especially in autumn and winter, when the water flow is at its most powerful.
Plunge Pool: There's a shallow rocky plunge pool at the base of the falls, where some brave visitors even take a dip (though the water is very cold!).
Rhaeadr Bach: A short distance to the west, there's a second, smaller waterfall called Rhaeadr Fach (or Rhaeadr-bach).

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Waterfalls on the River Ogwen

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There are several waterfalls along River Ogwen and this is the perfect spot to sit on the serene riverbank and see the water breaking over large slabs. This river travels from Llyn Ogwen north west to the sea at Bangor and has a wonderful cycle path along much of its length.

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Bridge at Aber Falls

Highlight • Waterfall

Takes you to one side or the other. Seriously!? Oh ok.... Beautiful places either side to sit and enjoy your lunch.... and also to watch people slip off the rocks and get wet. i.e. ME!!!

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If you take the trail further after crossing the bridge at the Aber main fall, and you walk a few minutes, not only you get great views on Aber falls, but as well you can discover another if smaller much quieter and charming falls

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Tips from the Community

Vik
August 9, 2025, Aber Falls (Rhaeadr Fawr)

Beautiful

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Aber Falls (known in Welsh as Rhaeadr Fawr, meaning 'big waterfall') is a stunning waterfall located in the foothills of the Carneddau range, about 3 km south of the village of Abergwyngregyn in Gwynedd, North Wales. It's a highly popular tourist destination within Snowdonia National Park. Beauty: The falls are beautiful in all seasons, but are particularly spectacular after heavy rain, especially in autumn and winter, when the water flow is at its most powerful. Plunge Pool: There's a shallow rocky plunge pool at the base of the falls, where some brave visitors even take a dip (though the water is very cold!). Rhaeadr Bach: A short distance to the west, there's a second, smaller waterfall called Rhaeadr Fach (or Rhaeadr-bach).

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Dave B
December 12, 2024, Bridge at Aber Falls

A very easy walk to Arber Falls from the car park

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MCW73
November 8, 2024, Bridge at Aber Falls

Takes you to one side or the other. Seriously!? Oh ok.... Beautiful places either side to sit and enjoy your lunch.... and also to watch people slip off the rocks and get wet. i.e. ME!!!

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If you take the trail further after crossing the bridge at the Aber main fall, and you walk a few minutes, not only you get great views on Aber falls, but as well you can discover another if smaller much quieter and charming falls

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Аndris G
March 25, 2024, Aber Falls

Amazing waterfall stood there with my open mouth WOW

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Ray
November 27, 2023, Aber Falls

There's definitely a troll 🧌 under here

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Manny & Daisy
October 25, 2023, Aber Falls

Aber Falls is a waterfall located about two miles south of the village of Abergwyngregyn, Gwynedd, Wales. The waterfall is formed as the Afon Goch plunges about 120 feet over a sill of igneous rock in the foothills of the Carneddau range.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most popular waterfalls to visit around Bangor?

The most popular waterfall is Aber Falls, also known as Rhaeadr Fawr, which plunges 37 meters. It's a significant natural attraction in the foothills of the Carneddau range, suitable for various ages and abilities. Visitors also enjoy Rhaeadr Bach, a smaller, quieter waterfall found further along the trail from the main Aber Falls.

Are there family-friendly waterfalls near Bangor?

Yes, Aber Falls is considered family-friendly, with well-maintained trails suitable for various ages and abilities. The walk to the falls is generally easy. Additionally, the Waterfalls on the River Ogwen offer serene spots along the riverbank, which can be enjoyable for families.

What natural features can I expect to see around the waterfalls?

The waterfalls around Bangor are set within a diverse natural landscape, including rivers, valleys, and coastal views, especially given the proximity to Snowdonia National Park and the Carneddau mountain range. You'll encounter dramatic geological formations, lush surroundings, and the powerful flow of water, particularly after heavy rain. The area also offers viewpoints like Aber Falls (Rhaeadr Fawr) for stunning vistas.

What is the best time to visit the waterfalls around Bangor?

The waterfalls, particularly Aber Falls, are beautiful in all seasons. However, they are especially spectacular after heavy rain, particularly in autumn and winter, when the water flow is at its most powerful. Spring runoff also provides impressive views.

Are there hiking or running trails near the waterfalls?

Yes, there are numerous trails. The path to Aber Falls is a well-maintained trail. For more extensive activities, you can find various routes for running and hiking in the region. Explore options on the Running Trails around Bangor guide, which includes routes like the 'View of the Menai Strait – Porth Penrhyn loop'.

Can I go cycling near the waterfalls?

Absolutely. The River Ogwen, which features several waterfalls, has a wonderful cycle path along much of its length. For more dedicated cycling, you can find routes for gravel biking and mountain biking in the area. Check out the Gravel biking around Bangor and MTB Trails around Bangor guides for detailed routes.

What facilities are available at Aber Falls?

Near Aber Falls, you'll find parking options, including free parking just below the stone bridge and paid parking in the upper car park. Toilets are also available at the upper car park. There are also spots like the Bridge at Aber Falls where you can sit and enjoy your lunch.

What do visitors enjoy most about the waterfalls around Bangor?

Visitors frequently praise the spectacular sight of Aber Falls, especially its powerful flow after rain. The well-maintained trails and the overall natural beauty of the area are also highly appreciated. Many enjoy the serene atmosphere and the opportunity to discover quieter spots like Rhaeadr Bach.

Is there a smaller, quieter waterfall near Aber Falls?

Yes, if you continue on the trail past the main Aber Falls, you can discover Rhaeadr Bach (Small Waterfall Near Aber Falls). It offers a more secluded and charming experience with additional scenic views.

Are there any specific safety considerations when visiting the waterfalls?

While the trails to the waterfalls are generally well-maintained, the rocks below Aber Falls can get a little slippery, especially after rain. Always take care and wear appropriate footwear. The plunge pool at Aber Falls is also known for its very cold water if you consider taking a dip.

Can I find viewpoints to admire the waterfalls from a distance?

Yes, Aber Falls (Rhaeadr Fawr) is specifically highlighted as a viewpoint for the stunning waterfall. Additionally, the trail leading to the falls offers various spots with great views of the main waterfall and the surrounding landscape.

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