The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Bro Machno
4.5
(2559)
19,045
hikers
24
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails around Bro Machno are set within the Snowdonia National Park, offering a diverse landscape for outdoor exploration. The region features tranquil valleys, dense woodlands, and the Afon Machno river, providing picturesque riverside trails. Hikers can also find impressive mountain vistas from peaks like Moelwyn Mawr and Cnicht, alongside several lakes such as Llyn Elsi and Llyn Crafnant. The area's terrain includes a mix of gentle paths and routes with significant elevation gains.
Best family friendly hiking…
Last updated: July 1, 2026
4.3
(9)
25
hikers
21.2km
06:06
510m
510m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.7
(6)
17
hikers
7.97km
02:19
210m
210m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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3.3
(3)
11
hikers
13.9km
03:57
320m
320m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.5
(4)
11
hikers
14.2km
04:09
380m
380m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
1.0
(1)
2
hikers
11.0km
03:06
220m
220m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Often referred to as the "gateway to Snowdonia," Betws-y-CoedClick to open side panel for more information is a charming alpine-style village in North Wales that feels like it’s been plucked straight from a Victorian postcard. It’s a place where stone bridges cross bubbling rivers and the air always smells slightly of pine and rain. The Heart of the Village The town itself is centered around a large village green, perfect for a slow stroll or a picnic while watching the world go by. It’s lined with cozy independent shops, outdoor gear stores, and cafes that make it a favorite for both hikers and those looking for a quiet afternoon. Iconic Bridges and Waterfalls Betws-y-Coed is famous for its picturesque crossings and dramatic water features that are just a short walk from the center.
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You should pay the fee to visit. Plenty of signs and information to get here but no mention of a fee. £1 per person, £1 per car, 50p per child.... at this point we stopped reading as we don't carry cash. Woman came from the house to make sure we didn't slip in. Fully understand that it's private land and you have to pay to enjoy it. Just wish we'd known before we set off.
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Short but beautiful and more than worth a visit. Great place for food at entrance and a lovely gushing falls walk. Plenty of places to sit and enjoy the falls. We visited in July and the flow was impressive and definitely one to tick off the list for any waterfall chasers
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Caution is advised when descending to the waterfall. Entrance to the waterfall is through a turnstile, and costs £2. Card payments are accepted. For me, the short hike to this beautiful spot was worth it.
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A beautiful gorge, accessible via a short hike from the landowners' parking lot. The fee is £1 per person plus £1 for parking. You can drop your money into a box, and upon our arrival, an elderly lady with crutches appeared and offered change. The gorge is truly worth seeing. Even if you continue hiking along the river, you'll discover wonderful places to linger.
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Please donate if you use the trails
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Lovely local walk to Llyn Elsi. Betws-Y-Coed has plenty of places to eat and drink. Cracking day out.
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St Mary's Church, Betws-y-Coed, is in the village of Betws-y-Coed, Conwy, Wales. It is an active Anglican parish church of the Church in Wales, in the deanery of Arllechwedd, the archdeaconry of Bangor and the diocese of Bangor. The church is designated by Cadw ( Welsh version of The National Trust ) as a Grade II* listed building. The church was built between 1870 and 1873 to accommodate the increasing numbers of summer visitors to the area. It was designed by the Lancaster partnership of Paley and Austin, the commission being gained as a result of a competition won by Hubert Austin. The principal benefactor was the Liverpool businessman Charles Kurtz. The church was consecrated in July 1873, and provided seating for 150 people. It replaced a medieval church dedicated to Saint Michael, and cost £5,000 (equivalent to £560,000 in 2023). The tower was completed in 1907.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available in Bro Machno?
Bro Machno offers a fantastic selection of over 20 family-friendly hiking trails. These range from easy strolls perfect for younger children to more moderate routes for active families, ensuring there's something for everyone to enjoy in the beautiful Snowdonia National Park.
What are some easy, short walks suitable for families with young children?
For families seeking gentler options, consider routes like the Penmachno Village – Dolen Machno Fire Road Climb loop. While rated moderate, its fire road sections offer a steady path. The area also has numerous shorter, less strenuous paths through the woodlands of Gwydir Forest, perfect for a relaxed family outing.
Are there any circular family walks in Bro Machno?
Yes, many of the family-friendly routes in Bro Machno are circular, allowing you to start and end in the same location. For example, the Penmachno Village – Penmachno Trails loop from Cwm Penmachno and the Penmachno Village – Penmachno Trails loop from Penmachno are excellent circular options that showcase the local scenery.
Can we find waterfalls along family-friendly hiking trails in Bro Machno?
Absolutely! Bro Machno is known for its beautiful waterfalls. The Machno Falls on the River Machno are a local highlight. You can also explore nearby attractions like Swallow Falls and Conwy Falls, which are often accessible via family-friendly paths or short detours from main trails.
What kind of landmarks or points of interest can we see on these trails?
Beyond the natural beauty, you can discover fascinating historical and natural landmarks. The Machno Valley walk passes a 17th-century house and a medieval packhorse bridge. You might also encounter the remains of the Penmachno Woollen Mill or the Rhiwbach slate quarry village. For natural features, look out for the stunning Parc Mawr Waterfalls or the scenic Pont-y-Pair Bridge and Waterfall.
Is Bro Machno suitable for hiking with dogs?
Bro Machno is generally very dog-friendly, with many trails winding through woodlands and along rivers. However, as much of the area is within Snowdonia National Park and active farmland, it's crucial to keep dogs under close control, especially near livestock, and to follow the Countryside Code. Always check specific trail signage for any restrictions.
Where can we park when visiting Bro Machno for family hikes?
Parking is typically available in and around Penmachno Village, which serves as a common starting point for many trails. Specific car parks may be signposted near popular trailheads. It's always advisable to arrive early during peak seasons to secure a spot.
What is the best time of year for family hiking in Bro Machno?
Spring and summer are particularly lovely for family hikes in Bro Machno. In spring, the woodlands are vibrant with wild anemones and active birdlife. Summer offers warmer weather and longer daylight hours. Autumn brings beautiful foliage, while winter can be magical but requires more preparation for potentially colder and wetter conditions.
Are there any cafes or pubs near the family-friendly trails?
Penmachno Village, the heart of the area, offers local amenities including pubs and potentially cafes where you can refuel after your hike. For a wider selection, the nearby town of Betws-y-Coed is a popular hub with numerous eateries and shops.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the family-friendly trails in Bro Machno?
The komoot community highly rates the trails in Bro Machno, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the quiet woodlands, picturesque river valleys, and the sense of peaceful immersion in nature. Many appreciate the variety of trails suitable for different family abilities and the stunning views of the Snowdonia landscape.
Are there any buggy-friendly walks in Bro Machno?
While many trails in Bro Machno involve uneven terrain, some of the wider forest tracks and fire roads, particularly within Gwydir Forest, may be suitable for robust buggies. It's best to check the specific trail details and elevation profiles on komoot for routes like the Penmachno Village – Dolen Machno Fire Road Climb loop to assess their suitability for buggies.
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