Llanuwchllyn is a small village on the southern edge of Bala Lake (Llyn Tegid) in Gwynedd, North Wales. The village is home to the headquarters of Bala Lake Railway and indeed there are regular journeys throughout the day from Llanuwchllyn to the town of Bala some 4.5 miles away (seasonal).

Walks, Cycle Trails and Other Activities

The area is popular for walkers being close to the Cambrian range of mountains including Aran Benllyn and Aran Fawddwy with Arenig Fawr being some 6 miles to the north west. If the mountains seem like too much hard work then there are alternatives walks and bicycle rides on the quiet lanes around the beautiful Bala Lake. Water sports enthusiasts are well catered for with sailing, canoeing, rowing and windsurfing being available on Bala Lake.

If White Water Rafting is your thing then the National White Water Centre (Canolfan Tryweryn) is close by at Fron Goch, with white-water rafting all year round on the steep and rocky mountain river.

Anglers are able to buy permits for fishing both the lake and the surrounding rivers with courses available for newcomers to experience the sport of fly fishing.

History

Llanuwchllyn itself has a long history. Close by is the site of the Roman fort of Caer Gai, occupied from 75-150 AD. It was positioned on an important strategic route near sources of gold and lead. Tradition has it that it was later the home of Sir Hector of the Arthurian legends and the name commemorates his son Cai Hir (Long Kay)– the Sir Kay of the legends.

Churches

Llanuwchllyn Church, now unfortunately abandoned by the Church in Wales, is a very old foundation that was rebuilt in 1872. It contained a 14th Century recumbent effigy of a mail-clad knight and an interesting old communion plate that is believed to have once belonged to Cymmer Abbey. Just a few miles along the lane there is another now abandoned church. The atmospheric church of Llangower sits alongside the lake among interesting gravestones and an ancient Yew tree.