Llyn Padarn is a glacial lake at Llanberis in Eryri (Snowdonia), and one of the most popular open-water swims in Wales. Designated bathing water with a backdrop of Snowdon and the Elidir ridge, it draws swimmers from gentle dippers to long-distance trainers.
What to expect
A large, clear, cold lake with a mountain backdrop that is hard to beat. As designated bathing water it is monitored for quality, and there are gentle shoreline entries as well as deep open water for distance swimming. The lake is glacial-cold even in summer, so a wetsuit and tow float are sensible. It can be busy on warm weekends; mornings are quieter.
Getting there car-free
This is one of the more accessible Welsh mountain swims. The nearest mainline station is Bangor, with regular buses on to Llanberis, and the lake sits right beside the village with lakeside parking and the Llanberis Lake Railway running along its shore.
Is Llyn Padarn good for beginners?
Yes, near the shore, but it is deep, cold open water, so go prepared with a wetsuit and a tow float and stay within your depth and ability.
When is the best time to swim here?
May to September for the least-cold water and longest days, though the lake is swum year-round by acclimatised swimmers.
