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St Michael's Old Church (Betws-y-Coed)

St Michael's Old Church (Betws-y-Coed)

Highlight • Monument

St Michael's Old Church (Betws-y-Coed)

Name: St Michael's Old Church (Betws-y-Coed)
Rating: 2

Recommended by 4 hikers

This Highlight is in a protected area

Please check local regulations for: Parc Cenedlaethol Eryri

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Location: Betws-Y-Coed, Conwy, North Wales, Wales, United Kingdom

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Best Hikes to St Michael's Old Church (Betws-y-Coed)

4.8

(34)

106

hikers

1. Betws-y-Coed Village – Fairy Glen Gorge loop from Capel Garmon

13.5km

03:49

300m

Intermediate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Intermediate

4.6

(8)

hikers

2. Betws-y-Coed Village – Betws-y-Coed Railway Station loop from Betws-y-Coed

3.40km

00:54

30m

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Easy

4.8

(8)

111

hikers

3. Betws-y-Coed Village – Snowdonia Slate Trail loop from Betws-y-coed

11.6km

03:19

270m

Intermediate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Intermediate

Tips

Mike Cree

June 6, 2025

St Michael's Church in Betws-y-Coed, also known as St Michael's Old Church, is a significant historical building in the heart of Snowdonia, North Wales. Here's a breakdown of what makes it special:
Oldest Building: It is widely considered the oldest building in Betws-y-Coed, dating back to the 14th century. It likely replaced an even earlier prayer building, a "bede house" (or "betws" in Welsh), which gives the village its name.
Evolution: The original medieval church was a simple, rectangular structure. It underwent significant reconstruction in 1843, with additions like a northern chapel and a southern sacristy.
Decline and Restoration: With the growth of Betws-y-Coed as a tourist destination and the construction of the larger St Mary's Church in 1873, St Michael's fell into disuse and disrepair during the 20th century.

Mike Cree

June 6, 2025

Gruffydd ap Dafydd Goch Effigy: One of the most notable features inside the church is a life-sized stone effigy of Gruffydd ap Dafydd Goch. He was a local landowner and is believed to have fought for the Black Prince at the Battle of Poitiers in 1356. The effigy, dating from around 1380, depicts him in battle armour and is a fascinating piece of medieval sculpture.
Norman Font: The church also houses a Norman font, adding to its historical interest.
Simple Intimacy: Despite being redundant for regular worship, St Michael's is cherished for its simple and intimate atmosphere, offering a quiet place for reflection and prayer.

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Details

Informations

Elevation 70 m

Weather

Today

Wednesday 22 October

11°C

4°C

100 %

If you start your activity now...

Max wind speed: 7.0 km/h

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Location: Betws-Y-Coed, Conwy, North Wales, Wales, United Kingdom

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St Michael's Old Church (Betws-y-Coed)

1. Betws-y-Coed Village – Fairy Glen Gorge loop from Capel Garmon

2. Betws-y-Coed Village – Betws-y-Coed Railway Station loop from Betws-y-Coed

3. Betws-y-Coed Village – Snowdonia Slate Trail loop from Betws-y-coed

Other Popular Places to Check Out

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