Sat in the heart of Llanberis, The Royal Victoria Hotel has been welcoming guests for generations, providing a comfortable base for discovering the area. Whether you’re visiting for a walking holiday, a relaxing escape or a chance to explore Eryri, in this guide we cover everything you need to know before booking your stay.
Why staying in Llanberis works as a base for exploring
Located in Gwynedd, North Wales, Llanberis sits between Llyn Padarn and Llyn Peris, on the edge of Eryri National Park. With the Llanberis Pass nearby, it’s a great starting point for exploring the surrounding mountains and countryside.
There’s plenty to enjoy close to the village, from lakeside walks and local railway journeys to walking routes towards Yr Wyddfa.
Llanberis is also within easy reach of several North Wales destinations. Caernarfon is around 15-20 minutes away by car, while Bangor takes approximately 20-25 minutes. Chester and Manchester are further afield, at roughly 1.5 hours and 2 hours, depending on traffic.
For more information on driving routes around Eryri, read our guide for places to visit by car in Eryri (Snowdonia).
Exploring Llanberis and the surrounding area
Which part of the village to stay in
Llanberis has a welcoming village feel, with its High Street providing a central hub for local shops, cafés and pubs. Further towards the lakes, the scenery becomes a bigger part of everyday village life, while the southern end offers a quieter setting surrounded by greenery and mountain views.
The Royal Victoria Hotel is situated at the southern end of the village, set within its own gardens and woodland. This gives guests a little more space to unwind, while still being close enough to enjoy the character and atmosphere of Llanberis.
How to get to Llanberis
Llanberis is easily reached by car, with the A4086 providing the main route into the village from Caernarfon and connecting the wider North Wales road network.
For those travelling by train, Bangor is the nearest mainline railway station, approximately 10 miles from Llanberis. From there, the local bus services and Sherpa’r Wyddfa connections provide links into the village, including services from Bangor and Caernarfon. It’s worth checking the latest timetables before travelling, particularly if you’re visiting outside the main summer season.
The Royal Victoria Hotel also offers on-site parking for guests, making arriving by car a convenient option.
What’s on your doorstep
One of the biggest advantages of staying in Llanberis is the choice of attractions and outdoor experiences right on your doorstep. From scenic railway journeys and lakeside walks to historic landmarks and mountain adventures, there’s plenty to discover without travelling far from the hotel.
| Attraction | What to expect |
|---|---|
| Llyn Padarn and Padarn Country Park | Beautiful lakeside scenery, woodland walks and opportunities to enjoy the outdoors |
| Dolbadarn Castle | A historic Welsh landmark overlooking Llanberis |
| National Slate Museum | Discover the area’s rich slate-mining heritage (currently closed for redevelopment) |
| Llanberis Lake Railway | Enjoy a scenic steam train journey alongside Llyn Padarn |
| Electric Mountain | Dinorwig Power Station, which is open for tours during the summer season |
| Snowdon Mountain Railway | Discover Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) by train and experience the beauty of local landscapes |
When to visit
Llanberis has something different to offer throughout the year, so the best time to visit depends on the kind of break you’re looking for. Whether you’re planning a summer walking holiday or a winter escape, staying in Llanberis offers something different throughout the year.
Spring (March-May)
Longer days, blooming countryside and fewer crowds than summer. Seasonal attractions begin reopening, making it a lovely time to explore.
Summer (June-August)
Warmer weather, longer daylight hours and a lively village atmosphere. A popular time for walking and family breaks, so booking ahead is recommended.
Autumn (September-November)
Beautiful autumn colours, quieter surroundings and scenic walking opportunities. Some attractions begin reducing their opening hours.
Winter (December-February)
Dramatic mountain scenery, peaceful surroundings and cosy escapes. Some attractions close for winter, while The Royal Victoria Hotel offers a welcoming setting for festive celebrations and winter breaks.
Eating and drinking
After a day exploring Eryri (Snowdonia), it’s lovely to return to somewhere you can enjoy a good meal and relax. At The Royal Victoria Hotel, there’s no need to look far for somewhere to eat and drink, with a choice of dining options available throughout your stay.
If you’re looking for something more informal, the Eryri Bar & Lounge offers a comfortable space to unwind. Enjoy a selection of drinks, light bites and meals, whether you’re settling in after a day exploring or catching up with friends and family.
For a relaxed dining experience, the Victoria Brasserie serves a selection of dishes inspired by local and seasonal ingredients. Overlooking the hotel’s gardens, it’s a welcoming setting to enjoy a leisurely meal during your stay. You can view our menus online before visiting.
Make The Royal Victoria Hotel your base in Llanberis
Whether you’re planning an outdoor adventure, a walking holiday or a relaxing escape, The Royal Victoria Hotel offers a comfortable and welcoming base for exploring Eryri. With a choice of accommodation and plenty to discover nearby, you can enjoy everything Llanberis and the surrounding area have to offer.