The exploding popularity of Watkin Pools beauty spot that claimed lives of two women

In summer the mountain water often looks inviting even for those not toiling up Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon). The waters are aqua blue and a series of tumbling water adds to the illusion of being somewhere else altogether more exotic.
Lying just a short hike from the A498, the Watkin Pools are perfect for Instagrammers wanting wild swimming photos without trying too hard. Until this week, their popularity was taken granted and their use unquestioned.
On Wednesday evening, two woman died in the pools. One was dragged from the water, the other was pulled out later by rescue teams but died despite desperate attempts to revive her. A police investigation is underway into an incident that's shocked and saddened the whole of Britain. You can read our story on the tragedy here
Any activity in the mountains carries a degree of inherent danger: on average eight people die each year on Yr Wyddfa, from a combination of falls, trips and health conditions. Few have fallen victim to the mountain's lakes, streams and pools.
While the cause of this week's tragedy has yet to be confirmed, wild swimming – or just taking a quick plunge – is not without risk, especially in ice-cold mountain waters where rocks can be slippery and jagged. This week the Royal Life Saving Society (RLSS) UK issued a special warning to Welsh residents and visitors to stay vigilant when in, on or around, water this summer.
It follows new figures showing that, in 2024, Wales had a drowning rate double the UK National average. During the year there were 18 accidental drownings and a further 19 involving water where the cause of death is yet to be officially confirmed.
Matt Croxall, interim charity director at RLSS UK, said: 'The high drowning rate reported in Wales emphasises just how important it is that families are aware of the importance of water safety and have the correct knowledge to be safe around water.' Join the North Wales Live Whatsapp community now
The popularity of Yr Wyddfa's Watkin Pools exploded in the wake of the Covid pandemic. Analysis of parking data from 2021 showed a dramatic 64% rise in the use of the Pont Bethania car park in Nant Gwynant compared with the pre-Covid year of 2019.
Some of these users will have been hikers ascending the Watkin Path, regarded as one of the toughest routes to the summit. But Eryri National Park officers believe much of the increase was due to 'trending social media posts' for the photogenic Watkin Pools.
At the time, one travel website described it as 'one of the most beautiful spots in the whole of Snowdonia and, maybe therefore, in the whole of the UK'. Since then, the superlatives have only become more gushing.
Guides describe the pools as a 'perfect cool-down' for walkers trudging up the mountain. In reality, many of those taking a dip do it purely to luxuriate in the surroundings and grab all-important photos before heading straight back down. It's been rated one of the best places in the UK to inspire 'Insta envy'.
Not so long ago the Watkin cascades were named the UK's second best 'hidden waterfalls'. Their ubiquity on social media suggests they are far from 'hidden' but it's easy to see why they are popular. 'Paradise found!' exclaimed one swimmer on YouTube.
If not aqua blue on cloudy days, the waters are always crystal clear. In some cascade sections, users imagine themselves in 'infinity pools', peering out over rocky outcrops to beautiful views of the Nant Gwynant valley below.
Dangling from a branch above a tree-lined pool is a makeshift rope swing. Between two others is a slab of rock that doubles as a slide. Hundreds of clips have been posted on TikTok where the cascades are increasingly being called 'Snowdon's fairy pools'.
One visitor said: '5-star turquoise waters – the kind of place that makes you feel like its summer on the darkest day. Crystal clear, ice cold, delicious. Children adore it.'
In recent years, solitude has become harder to find in the pools. Visitors advise it's best to arrive early to avoid the crowds as the waterfalls get busy after lunch. More often than not on sunny days, users end up sharing their 'paradise' with others.
However you don't have to get wet to enjoy the cascades and their iconic slab bridge. Picnics here have become ever more popular and the ground nearby increasingly worn.
All visits to the mountains come with a health warning, as this week's double tragedy starkly illustrates. Yet each year more than 600,000 people still head to Yr Wyddfa for the life-affirming challenge and beauty that it offers.

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Wales Online

11 hours ago

• Wales Online

This laid-back harbour town has dolphin views and lush seafood worth the drive

This laid-back harbour town has dolphin views and lush seafood worth the drive Come for the wildlife stay for the incredible food scene This small harbour town is a surprising goldmine for marine life-watching on the Pembrokeshire coast. (Image: Portia Jones ) Looking for a wildlife hotspot on the glorious Welsh coastline? The small harbour town of Fishguard is a surprising goldmine for marine life-watching on the Pembrokeshire coast. From the shoreline between Poppit and Strumble, porpoises slice through the waves with astonishing regularity. Dolphins aren't shy either; they're often spotted between Poppit and Fishguard, sometimes venturing right into the harbour or Newport Bay for a splashy appearance. Seals? They're adorable local celebs during pupping season when chunky pups haul out onto public beaches for a well-earned rest. ‌ Head to Strumble Head for one of Sea Trust Wales' porpoise watches and get clued up by local experts. Just down the road, their Ocean Lab visitor centre, near Fishguard and Goodwick station, lets you observe native sea creatures in a capture-and-release aquarium. ‌ If you fancy swapping your binoculars for a boat trip, there are regular wildlife-watching excursions along the coast, offering front-row seats to seabird colonies, playful dolphins, and dramatic cliffs. Between the marine life, epic views, and a small-town food scene that punches well above its weight, Fishguard isn't just a stop on the way to somewhere else. It's the destination. Here's how to make the most of a long weekend in Fishguard. Article continues below Wildlife watching trip There's so much wildlife here Fishguard, Wales, offers excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing, particularly marine life. According to Visit Pembrokeshire, common and bottlenose dolphins are frequently spotted in Fishguard Bay, sometimes even popping into the harbour, much to the delight of residents and tourists. You can also spot harbour porpoises, minke whales, and even fin whales with specialised boat trips that depart from Fishguard. ‌ North Pembrokeshire Tours offers fun boat trips to Strumble Head running from April to October, weather permitting. On this brilliant wildlife trip, you'll see the landing place where French forces made the historic last invasion of mainland Britain en route to the dramatic Strumble Head lighthouse. Your trusty skipper will also take you to Emerald coves and secret beaches, hidden from view, where seals bask in the sun, and porpoises feed at the turn of the tide. ‌ Book here Coastal Walks and History There are loads of lovely walks around Fishguard (Image: Portia Jones ) Before diving into Fishguard's wildlife and culinary offerings, it's worth building up an appetite with a bracing coastal hike. A short walk from the town centre takes you to Fishguard Fort, an old defensive site with sweeping views across the bay. ‌ Built in the 18th century to protect against French invasions, the fort is now a peaceful spot to watch the ferry from Ireland glide into the port. The real local legend, though, is how Fishguard's women, dressed in distinctive red cloaks and black hats, helped repel the last invasion of Britain in 1797. Their formidable appearance supposedly tricked the French into thinking a much larger army awaited them. After exploring the town, it's time to dive into Fishguard's thriving food scene, starting with a banging brunch. ‌ Visit The Last Invasion Tapestry Before your next meal, take a short walk to Fishguard Town Hall, where the impressive Last Invasion Tapestry is displayed. The last time Britain was invaded, it happened right here in Fishguard. On February 22, 1797, French troops landed just outside town in a chaotic attempt to stir up rebellion. It didn't last long. Local resistance, led by the legendary Jemima Nicholas, quickly brought the invasion to an end. It was over almost as soon as it began, but Fishguard still holds the title for the last invasion of Britain and wears it with pride. ‌ This short but dramatic campaign was the last time a hostile foreign force set foot on mainland Britain, and you can relive the story through the stunning Last Invasion Tapestry. This award-winning masterpiece, stretching an impressive 30 metres, was designed and stitched by around 80 talented local women in 1997 to mark the bicentenary. With intricate details that bring history to life, alongside storyboards and artefacts, you can understand how a small Welsh town became the setting for a momentous chapter in British history. ‌ Fishguard is one of my favourite places in Pembrokeshire (Image: Portia Jones ) Gorsedd Circle In 1936, Fishguard hosted the National Eisteddfod, Wales' legendary festival of music and poetry. To mark the occasion, the Gorsedd Circle was built. Just a short five-minute stroll from Fishguard Square, this historic stone circle is well worth a visit. Stand among the stones and picture the poets, musicians, and bards who once gathered here. It's got a bit of a mystical feel, perfect for soaking up some Welsh culture. ‌ You'll also get splendid views over Lower Town and Fishguard Fort across the bay. A little history, a little scenery, what's not to love? Lower Town Harbour and kayaking Wander down to Lower Town Harbour, a postcard-perfect fishing port that's been used as a filming location for movies like Moby Dick. (Image: Getty ) Wander down to Lower Town Harbour, a postcard-perfect fishing port that's been used as a filming location for movies like Moby Dick. ‌ If you're lucky, you'll find pop-up seafood stalls serving freshly caught crab or lobster sandwiches here. The simplicity of ultra-fresh seafood, a squeeze of lemon, and a touch of salt is a food lover's dream. Want an adventure while you're here? Kayaking in Pembrokeshire is hands down one of the best ways to explore this jaw-dropping coastline. With 220 miles of rugged cliffs, secret caves, and golden beaches, it's a paddler's paradise. And let's not forget, this is Britain's only coastal National Park, so you're in for some seriously epic views! Hop in a kayak with Kayak King in Fishguard, and you'll be treated to an unforgettable tour of the Pembrokeshire coast. Glide through crystal-clear waters, weave in and out of hidden sea caves, and get up close to incredible marine life. ‌ Keep your eyes peeled for the resident seals lounging on the rocks or bobbing in the waves, and if you're lucky, you might even spot a playful porpoise! No experience? No worries! Kayak King's expert guides ensure everyone feels right at home, from total newbies to confident paddlers. Their stable, sit-on-top kayaks are extremely easy to handle, and they are best suited for sheltered waters, making it a fun and stress-free adventure for all ages. Where to eat in Fishguard Pembrokeshire is having an absolute moment when it comes to food. (Image: Portia Jones ) ‌ With waters full of diver-caught scallops, St Brides Bay crayfish, plump mussels, lobsters, bass and mackerel, Pembrokeshire serves up a serious coastal bounty. And Fishguard? It's holding its own with an impressive food scene that makes the most of all that local bounty. Independent cafés, cosy pubs and clever kitchens are turning out gastro-delights from just-landed seafood to creative plates you'd expect in a much bigger town. Here are a few of our top picks. From superstar gigs to cosy pubs, find out What's On in Wales by signing up to our newsletter here Cresswell's Café ‌ For a properly comforting Welsh lunch, Cresswell's Café is a must. This local haunt is famous for its Sunday lunches and traditional Welsh cawl. Their homemade soups and generously filled sandwiches are excellent options if you're looking for something lighter. Mannings Ffres With a welcoming ambience and a creative menu, Mannings Ffres is always a good breakfast choice. This café-greengrocer hybrid is a firm favourite with locals and uses quality ingredients sourced from Pembrokeshire's best producers. ‌ Their new breakfast stack is loaded with sausage patty, crispy bacon, black pudding, flat mushroom, and a perfectly cooked Trebover egg. Don't forget to try their locally roasted coffee—it's strong, smooth, and the perfect way to wake up before a day of exploring. Mannings Ffres is always a good breakfast choice (Image: Independent Coffee Guide ) The Gourmet Pig ‌ If you're looking for a quick yet high-quality breakfast, head to The Gourmet Pig. This award-winning deli stocks artisan Welsh cheeses, fresh pastries and local produce. Their sausage rolls and Pembrokeshire butter croissants are dangerously good, making it hard to choose just one item. If you're going on a long coastal walk, grab a freshly made baguette with local cheese and chutney for a top-tier picnic. Janes Fishguard – Coffee Shop ‌ If you love a cosy café with homemade treats, you'll adore Janes. This family-run spot is a charming blend of coffee shop and haberdashery, making it a unique place to unwind with a steaming cup of coffee. They serve Segafredo coffee (rich, smooth, and just the right level of indulgence) alongside a menu of homemade cakes, light lunches, and hearty bites. If you're after a proper Welsh treat, their bara brith (a traditional fruit loaf) is a must-try, moist, lightly spiced, and perfect with a slather of butter. ‌ Hooked @31 Fish and chips might be a classic, but it's an art form in Fishguard. At Hooked @31, you'll find some of Pembrokeshire's crispiest, freshest fish and chips. Their beer-battered cod, homemade tartar sauce, and double-cooked chips are nothing short of perfection. They also serve loaded fries with toppings like pulled pork, Welsh rarebit, and fresh seafood. Ffwrn ‌ Named after the Welsh word for oven, Ffwrn is a one-of-a-kind spot in a beautifully converted 1930s church hall. With its mix of vintage and industrial curiosities, lush greenery, open-plan space, and cooking centred around a roaring Fire, it's a must-visit dining spot in Pembrokeshire. On the menu? Crisp wood-fired pizzas, Middle Eastern-inspired sharing plates, and plenty of vegan and gluten-free options. Pair with local ales, hand-picked wines or a cheeky cocktail. Ffwrn isn't just about great food—it's also a buzzing event venue that hosts live performances and themed events. ‌ The Royal Oak Royal Oak Inn, Fishguard (Image: Wales Online ) For a cosy, atmospheric dinner, The Royal Oak is frankly unbeatable. This pub is where the surrender treaty was signed after the 1797 French invasion and it still holds its historic charm today. ‌ Expect filling portions, a fantastic selection of local ales, and a lively crowd of locals and visitors. Live folk music nights (usually on Tuesdays) are a great way to experience Pembrokeshire's musical heritage while enjoying a locale ale. Hot Chilli Indian Restaurant If you're craving richly spiced, comforting Indian food on the Welsh coast, Hot Chilli Indian Restaurant is a spot worth visiting. This family-run Bengali and Welsh eatery serves flavour-packed curries, sizzling tandoori dishes, and homemade desserts in a warm and welcoming setting. ‌ The extensive menu features all the beloved classics—from creamy kormas to rich, slow-cooked rogan josh—alongside a few house specials crafted by the chefs. However, if you still have room after your main course, it's worth saving space for dessert. Traditional Indian kulfi, flavoured with mango or pistachio, is a perfect way to end the meal—refreshing, sweet, and indulgent. JT at the Abergwaun Hotel ‌ JT at the Abergwaun Hotel is a must-visit spot (Image: Portia Jones ) The restaurant at The Abergwaun Hotel offers a contemporary twist on European cuisine, celebrating the finest Welsh produce. Expect carefully crafted dishes that balance bold flavours with fresh, local ingredients. Typical starters include crispy teriyaki pork belly with a zingy yuzu ponzu dressing or sticky king prawn bao buns packed with marinated cucumber and a punchy lime dressing. ‌ Mains are just as impressive, expect perfectly cooked Welsh ribeye, fillet steak with house chips, a rich peppercorn sauce, or teriyaki-glazed salmon with fennel-roasted new potatoes and charred broccoli. Vegetarians will also be well-served, with dishes like the spring vegetable medley featuring crispy nut bites, halloumi, and a fresh herb sauce. Late night drinks and ents The Ship Inn ‌ If you're not ready to call it a night, head to The Ship Inn for a proper old-school pub experience. Tucked away in Lower Town, Fishguard, right by the mouth of the River Gwaun, The Ship Inn is a popular alehouse with roots stretching back to the late 18th century and is brimming with character, sea-faring tales, and a cracking selection of real ales. Inside, walls are decked with old maritime photos, maps, and quirky memorabilia, adding to its wonderfully unspoiled charm. It's a Free House and a proud feature in the Good Beer Guide, so you know you're in for a top-notch pint. ‌ Theatre Gwaun If you're looking for an offbeat venue, Theatre Gwaun is a community-run theatre and cinema that offers indie films, live performances, and occasional comedy nights. It's an unexpected but fantastic way to round off the evening. Stay at the Abergwaun Hotel The Abergwaun Hotel is a boutique bolthole where the food is the real star. (Image: The Abergwaun Hotel ) ‌ The Abergwaun Hotel is a boutique bolthole where the food is the real star. Once a derelict building that stood empty for a decade, local couple Dan and Lois, who both have a background in high-end hospitality, gave it a new lease on life in 2020. The result? A stylish, contemporary 4-star hotel with five luxury en-suite rooms, a two-bedroom apartment, and a restaurant that's putting Fishguard on the foodie map. ‌ The rooms are bright and airy, with simple, elegant décor that uses neutral tones and soft textures. They are where minimalism meets comfort—nothing too fussy, just a relaxing space to crash after a day of eating and epic coastal walks. One of the rooms is even dog-friendly, so your adventure-loving pup doesn't have to miss out. When the hotel appeared on Channel 4's Four in a Bed in 2024, the visiting contestants praised the spotless rooms and cloud-like beds. ‌ One guest flopped onto the mattress and declared, "It's like lying on a cloud", while another couple admitted: 'This is going to be hard to beat.' Dan and Lois, owners of the Abergwaun Hotel in Fishguard. The couple and the hotel featured in an episode of Four in a Bed. (Image: Channel 4 ) The Real Star: The Food ‌ While the rooms are lovely, the real reason to stay here is the food. The hotel's restaurant, JT at The Abergwaun, is run by co-owner Dan, a chef who turns local ingredients into bold, inventive dishes. Here you'll find European flavours with a Pembrokeshire twist, all served in a laid-back, intimate setting. The menu changes with the seasons, and the quality is consistently high, whether you opt for the full-tasting menu or simply stop by for a well-crafted cocktail. The restaurant has received a Good Food Award for Gastro Pubs (Gold Seal) and is quickly establishing a reputation as one of the best places to eat in this part of Wales. Article continues below If you need proof, look no further than the reactions on Four in a Bed. Confident in his breakfast skills, Dan served up a morning feast that left one guest saying: 'I've eaten in restaurants all over the world, and that's probably one of the best breakfasts I've ever had.' High praise, indeed.

Leader Live

12 hours ago

• Leader Live

There are lofty Euros aims for Wales and manager Wilkinson

At 1,085 metres above sea level, climbing Yr Wyddfa is not for the faint-hearted. But Wilkinson trekked to the top in under 90 minutes – 'I was listening to political podcasts that were getting me angry so I stormed up,' she said – and hopes the breath-taking vistas overlooking the Eryri National Park will be matched by on-pitch sights in Switzerland. Wales may be entering their first major tournament next month as the competition's lowest-ranked team in 31st spot, but Wilkinson – the 181-times capped Canada international with Welsh ancestry – insists her players are ready to conquer 'their Everest'. 'We've used the mountain as a theme and an image throughout this campaign,' said Wilkinson, whose ties to Yr Wyddfa run deep as her parents honeymooned in the area and her family held a ceremony on the mountain in memory of her late father. 'It (qualifying) was always going to be an uphill battle with little setbacks. As we've moved towards the Euros we've talked about the summit, the Everest part of it. That something is impossible until it isn't. 'Outside Wales people can think whatever they want. Our goal is to show up and deliver to the best of our ability. I am sure people will be looking up Wales on a map very soon.' Wilkinson's squad is a mixture of young and old, with seven players having fewer than 20 caps. There also four centurions present, with star forward Jess Fishlock – 'the face of Wales', according to Wilkinson – skipper Angharad James, Sophie Ingle and Hayley Ladd. Ingle's inclusion was the main talking point as the 141-times capped former captain has not played since suffering anterior cruciate ligament damage in September. The 33-year-old midfielder has completed her recovery work at Chelsea, although she left the Women's Super League champions last month after seven years and is among five unattached players in the squad. Wales open their campaign against the Netherlands in Lucerne on July 5 before playing France and England. Three unnamed players will be part of the training camp in Switzerland, with the squad first preparing for the Euros with a week-long stay in Portugal. 'It's felt a bit heavy,' Wilkinson said about squad selection. 'You know when you've those big decisions looming you're going to hurt someone. 'It's the worst part of a dream job. For these people it's their dream and can push them onto great things.'

Daily Mirror

13 hours ago

• Daily Mirror

TUI family holiday ruined after raunchy behaviour and finding ‘vomit in pool'

A family looking forward to a two-week holiday at a five-star hotel in Jamaica were left shocked after an adults-only festival hosted by the resort led to 'all hell breaking loose' Liverpool mum Katie had been eagerly looking forward to her TUI holiday in Jamaica, but says her stay there was ruined by raunchy guests who exhibited "sexual behaviour [...] for all to see". During an appearance on BBC's Rip Off Britain, Katie and her sister Rachel spoke of Jamaica as their "second home", and somewhere where they regularly take their children to visit relatives. ‌ According to Katie, whose husband lives in the Caribbean island nation, it's important for her children to stay connected to their dual culture. She shared: 'Jamaica is our second home. We're really, really proud of the island and love the culture.' ‌ Sadly, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the children hadn't been able to visit their grandparents in Jamaica for two years. And so, the family booked a two-week stay at the Luxury Grand Palladium Resort and Spa in Montego Bay. The group of 24 family and friends spent approximately £15,000 on their booking, which should have been a dream holiday. Unfortunately, things allegedly took a turn. At first, the five-star hotel appeared perfect, with the group impressed by the delicious food, gorgeous grounds, and the great service provided by members of staff. The resort advertised plenty of family-friendly facilities, including watersports and a kids' pool, and felt like the ideal place to bring little ones. Then, four days into their stay, the tone changed when the group learned the hotel was hosting a four-day music festival, Fantasy Island. Marketed as an adults-only festival, Fantasy Island was attended by some 700 revellers, who apparently "didn't care" whether or not their antics were suitable for children. ‌ The sisters shared: 'All hell broke loose. The main pool was overtaken. People were drinking like fish. It's fine if it's in a nightclub, not morning time around a pool with children. There was sexual behaviour going on at the pool bar for all to see. They didn't care if there were children there.' After Katie complained to the hotel manager and TUI rep, she was offered four free nights by the hotel, while TUI offered them £150 per person in vouchers or £100 in cash. They believe this compensation just wasn't enough. Katie and Rachel weren't the only guests to take issue with the Fantasy Island event. NHS worker Emma Owen and her family were drawn to the hotel due to its family-friendly appeal, and paid £7,000 for an 11-night all-inclusive break. She recalled seeing attendees 'vomit in the pool' as the festival got underway. ‌ Travel expert Lisa Minot stated: 'It really is down to the tour operator to inform their guests that there is going to be a significant change or impact on their holiday.' A TUI spokesperson previously told the Daily Express: "We're very sorry that some of our customers' holidays were impacted by this unexpected event at the Grand Palladium Resort and Spa in August 2021. ‌ "While the hotel did not make us aware in advance, we understand how upsetting this was, and have offered a refund for the full four days, along with our sincere apologies. We'd like to reassure customers that this hotel will no longer be hosting this event."