Beddgelert

Beddgelert is a charming village located in the heart of Snowdonia National Park in Wales, UK. It is a place steeped in history, with legends dating back centuries. From the stories of Gelert the faithful hound to the industrial revolution, Beddgelert has played an important role in Welsh history.

The Legend of Gelert

According to the legend, Gelert was the beloved hound of Llywelyn the Great, a Welsh prince who lived in the 13th century. Llywelyn had been hunting with Gelert one day and returned home to find his infant son’s crib overturned and the house in disarray. To his horror, he discovered that Gelert was covered in blood and assumed that the dog had killed his son.

In a fit of rage, Llywelyn drew his sword and killed Gelert on the spot. As the dog lay dying, Llywelyn heard the cries of his son and saw that the baby was unharmed. Llywelyn realised that Gelert had not killed his son, but had instead fought off a wolf that had attacked the child. The blood on Gelert’s fur was from the wolf, not the baby.

Llywelyn was filled with remorse and buried Gelert in a spot overlooking the village. From that day on, he never smiled again and was haunted by the memory of Gelert’s loyalty and sacrifice.

The tale of Gelert’s loyalty and tragic end has become a beloved legend in Wales. The village of Beddgelert is named after the faithful hound, and a statue of Gelert stands in the village square. The grave of Gelert can also be visited by tourists and locals alike, and his story is a testament to the bond between humans and their animal companions.

The Industrial Revolution

Beddgelert’s history is also tied to the industrial revolution, which brought significant changes to the region. The village was a hub of mining activity in the 19th century, with copper mines located nearby in Nant Gwynant and Cwm Bychan. These mines were an important source of employment for the local community, but they also had a significant impact on the landscape and environment.

In the 20th century, tourism became the main source of income for the village. The stunning natural beauty of Snowdonia National Park attracted visitors from around the world, and Beddgelert became a popular destination for hikers, climbers, and outdoor enthusiasts.

Today, Beddgelert is a thriving village with a population of just over 400 people. It has managed to retain much of its historic character, with traditional Welsh cottages lining the streets and a sense of community that is rare in modern times.

Visitors to Beddgelert can explore the village’s rich history by visiting the Gelert’s Grave site, the Sygun Copper Mine, and the Beddgelert Heritage Centre. There are also plenty of opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors, with hiking trails, mountain biking routes, and outdoor adventure activities available in the surrounding area.

In conclusion, Beddgelert is a fascinating place with a rich history that spans centuries. From the legend of Gelert to the industrial revolution and beyond, the village has played an important role in Welsh history. Today, it is a popular destination for visitors to Snowdonia National Park, who come to explore its natural beauty and immerse themselves in its history and culture.

If you would like to see a video of what Beddgelert offers, a good place to start would be with Helen and Karl’s video of their trip. Please leave them a comment and let them know we sent you: