Llanberis Slate Mines, Snowdonia

Sport climbing in the dystopian slate mines of North Wales

The slate mines of North Wales are vast and many. They offer both sport and traditional climbing and most (but not all!) sectors have a wide platform at the base of the crag from which you can set up camp. Nevertheless the slate mines are dangerous places and children must not be left unattended; there is the potential for both significant falls, and rockfalls. you must be vigilant and always assess the risks to your children.

For the sport climber the two most extensive areas are Australia (31 routes) and Serengeti (23 routes). Australia holds most climbs in the low-middle grades, whilst Serengeti has more to offer the hard climber.

Logistics:

Parking: Free parking at bus stop quarry but please be considerate of others when you park

Cost: Free but please donate £5pp to the North Wales bolt fund

Walk in: around 20 mins on variable paths

Grade range:

- Australia: 31 sport routes from f3+ to 6b+

- Serengeti: 23 sport routes from 4+ to 8a

Baby friendly: ****

Child friendly: **

Suitably for buggies: No - suggest using a sling or child carrier

Guidebook: North Wales Rockfax or North Wales Slate Rockfax

Climbing, hill walking and mountaineering are activities with a danger of personal injury or death.

Participants in these activities should be aware of and accept these risks and be responsible for their own actions and involvement.

If an area is listed here as baby- or child- friendly it simply means that it is convenient, and does not mean the area is safe. Parents must make their own assessment of risk.