The mysterious landscape of Eryri has captivated the imagination of our ancestors and inspired stories throughout the ages.

Giants, fairies and creatures of all shapes and sizes have inhabited this land for as long as humans.

It is hard to find a mountain, river or lake in Eryri with no mythological or folkloric connection.

Folklore and mythology would be passed on by word of mouth, and they have evolved over the centuries. Legends and tales all over Britain share the same type of imagery and structures.

Mythology teaches us that we are custodians of the landscape.

A view of Snowdon's summit
Yr Wyddfa—Rhita's grave
Yr Wyddfa's name likely comes from the word 'Gwyddfa', another word for 'grave' or 'burial-ground'. The summit of Yr Wyddfa is said to be where the medieval Welsh king Rhita Gawr was buried after a fierce battle with King Arthur.
The Mabinogi
The medieval masterpiece, the Mabinogi, is one of Britain's earliest examples of prose. Some of the best-known stories of the Four Branches of the Mabinogi are set within the National Park's boundaries, including 'Branwen ferch Llŷr' and 'Math fab Mathonwy'.
The mythologies and folklore of Eryri
The Red Bandits of Mawddwy

A band of red-haired robbers and highwaymen feared by the people of Dinas Mawddwy during the 16th century.

Red Bandits of Mawddwy

Branwen, daughter of Llŷr

A tale of pride and jealousy which includes some of the most iconic scenes in Welsh folklore.

Branwen, daughter of Llŷr

Blodeuwedd

One of the defining characters of Y Mabinogi, Bloduwedd was a mythical woman made of flowers.

Blodeuwedd

Idris Gawr

One of Eryri’s most famous giants lends his name to one of the National Park’s most popular peaks, Cader Idris.

Idris Gawr

Seithenyn

The story of the mythical city of Cantre’r Gwaelod—drowned due to the drunken antics of Seithenyn.

Seithenyn

Gelert

The story of Gelert is one of the most famous tales in Eryri and is the inspiration behind one of the most popular villages in the National Park, Beddgelert.

Gelert

Ceridwen

This tale, situated in the Bala area, has it all—witches, giants, potions and mythical transformations.

Ceridwen