Afon Gwyrfai facts for kids

The Afon Gwyrfai is a short but interesting river in Gwynedd, Wales. It flows through some beautiful parts of the country, including a large section of Snowdonia National Park.

The Afon Gwyrfai River

The Afon Gwyrfai starts its journey from a lake called Llyn y Gader. From there, it flows north, passing through the small village of Rhyd-ddu. It then enters the southeastern end of another lake, Llyn Cwellyn.

Where Does It Flow?

After leaving Llyn Cwellyn, the river continues to flow northwest. It goes past a place called Betws Garmon. At this point, it leaves the national park. The river then reaches the southern edge of Waunfawr.

Next, the Afon Gwyrfai turns slightly west. It flows towards Bontnewydd. After Bontnewydd, it turns a little south. Finally, it flows into a bay called Foryd Bay (also known as Y Foryd). The water in this bay is affected by the tides. This tidal channel then flows north into the western end of the Menai Strait.

River Friends: Tributaries

A river often has smaller streams that flow into it. These are called tributaries. The Afon Gwyrfai has several important ones. One main tributary is the Afon Treweunydd. This stream brings water from a reservoir called Llyn Ffynnon-y-gwas. It also collects water from other lakes like Llyn Glas, Llyn Coch, and Llyn Nadroedd. These lakes are found in an area called Cwm Clogwyn, which is just west of the top of Snowdon.

The tidal channel of the Gwyrfai in Foryd Bay also receives water from other streams. These include the Afon Foryd, Afon Rhyd, and Afon Carrog.

What's in a Name?

The name "Gwyrfai" might give us a clue about the river itself. It could mean "river of curved places." This makes sense because the river has a winding or "meandering" path.

A Railway Companion

For much of its length, the Afon Gwyrfai flows alongside the Welsh Highland Railway. This railway line follows the river's path quite closely. The railway even crosses the river four times during its journey!