9 West End

Blaenau Ffestiniog is a town in Gwynedd, Wales. Once a slate mining centre in historic Merionethshire, it now relies heavily on tourism, drawn to the Ffestiniog Railway and Llechwedd Slate Caverns. Its population reached 12,000 at the peak of the slate industry, and fell with the decline in demand for slate. The population of the community, including the nearby village Llan Ffestiniog, was 4,875 at the 2011 census – the fourth most populous in Gwynedd after Bangor, Caernarfon and Llandeiniolen. The population, not including Llan, is now about 4,000.

Nestled in the heart of Snowdonia National Park, Blaenau-Ffestiniog is a small town with a rich history and breathtaking scenery. The area is renowned for its slate industry, with the town’s former quarry now transformed into a unique tourist attraction known as the Llechwedd Slate Caverns.

If you’re a fan of outdoor activities, Blaenau-Ffestiniog is the perfect destination for you. With miles of hiking trails, the town offers a variety of adventures for all skill levels. Whether you want to explore the stunning Moelwyn range or take a leisurely stroll through the woodland trails of Coed y Brenin Forest Park, there’s something for everyone.