Gwynedd

Gwynedd is a principal area in northwest Wales that includes much of Eryri (Snowdonia) and the Llŷn Peninsula. The county contains Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon), reached by the Snowdon Mountain Railway from Llanberis, and coastal towns such as Caernarfon, Porthmadog and Pwllheli. Caernarfon Castle and Harlech Castle are on the stretch of medieval fortifications built by Edward I. The north coast meets the Irish Sea along a long shoreline and the Llŷn stretches into open water; Bardsey Island (Ynys Enlli) sits off the peninsula and is known for its seabird colonies and ruined priory.

The slate industry shaped large parts of inland Gwynedd; small-gauge lines such as the Ffestiniog Railway carried slate from quarries at Blaenau Ffestiniog to the harbour at Porthmadog. Hills, ridges and coastal paths draw walkers and climbers, and the area has one of the highest proportions of Welsh speakers in Wales, with communities using Welsh in daily life. Local markets, maritime harbours and quarry towns reflect the county’s patterns of work and settlement.