Aberllefenni Quarry Walk
This walk takes you around the Aberllefenni Slate Quarry in the village of Aberllefenni in Gwynedd, North Wales.
The route offers a unique opportunity to explore one of the oldest working slate quarries in Wales, where you can see the enduring remnants of centuries of slate mining and industrial heritage up close.
As you wander around the quarry, you will encounter the distinctive stone faces and old tramways that once supported the extraction of slate, providing a tangible insight into traditional quarrying methods and the region’s rich industrial past.
The surrounding landscape is equally impressive, with rugged hills and patches of native woodland adding to the scenic beauty. The flora in the area is typical of upland environments, featuring hardy species such as heather, bilberry, and wild primroses in the open rocky areas, while the woodland zones burst into colour with bluebells and wildflowers during the spring.
Local wildlife is abundant; birdwatchers may spot woodland birds such as blue tits, chaffinches, and woodpeckers, while raptors like kestrels occasionally soar overhead. Small mammals, including rabbits and foxes, are also known to inhabit the area, enhancing the natural charm of the landscape.
The walk combines industrial archaeology with natural beauty, offering panoramic views of the surrounding Gwynedd countryside and the distant peaks of Snowdonia on clear days.
You can continue your walking in the area by heading west to climb the famous Cadair Idris.