Gladstone Rock

The location is striking: a prominent isolated rock in the Cym-Llan next to the Watkin path, surrounded by the ruins of the 19th century slate industry, including buildings and tram lines that provided the inspiration and context for the path to the summit.
The plaque itself is a square marble slab with proportions that make an impression on an already monumental landscape. The text is bilingual, but not completely identical: Welsh above, English below.
(howardwilliamsblog)

The Watkin Path, named after its creator Edward Watkin (a friend of Gladstone’s), was the first designated footpath in Britain. At the time of its construction, there was no path to the actual summit of Snowdon, only a path just over a quarter of the way up to a quarry. Over 2000 people gathered on the side of Snowdon in 1892 to witness Gladstone opening the Watkin Path. From on top of an impressive 12ft boulder, the Prime Minister delivered a speech on Justice for Wales, not to mention sung some ‘Cymric hymns’ himself. A plaque fitted to the front of the boulder commemorates what was sure to have been a memorable occasion, announcing that indeed William Gladstone had stood upon the rock.

The Watkin Path is named after Sir Edward Watkin. Prime Minister William Gladstone stood on top of this rock to hold a speech in front of more than 2,000 people. Since then this stone is only known as The Gladstone.

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The Watkin Path is named after Sir Edward Watkin. He created this path as the first hiking trail in England in 1892. At the official opening, Prime Minister William Gladstone stood on this rock to give a speech to more than 2,000 people. Since then, this stone is known only under the name Gladstone.