Snowdonia is the second largest National Park in the UK, after the Lake District; and the third to be designated (in 1951), after the Lakes and the Peak District. Snowdonia celebrated half a century as a protected landscape in 2001.
An estimated 6 million holidaymakers visit Snowdonia national park every year to enjoy a wide range of leisure activities. There is walking country to suit all tastes and abilities, as well as opportunities for rock climbing, off-road cycling and water sports.
The Snowdonia National Park has many buildings of architectural and historical importance, ranging from the castles built by the Welsh princes, such as Castell y Bere and Dolwyddelan,and Edward the I's fortress at Harlech, to substantial "Plasdai" (manor houses), farmhouses, tiny cottages and agricultural buildings .
Over 26,500 people live and work in the Snowdonia National Park. Most of the land there is privately owned and farmed.