'Abandoned' UK town that's 'perfect escape to nature' and offers world's fastest zip line

Located a mere five miles from the scenic city of Bangor, the quaint Welsh town of Bethesda provides an idyllic gateway to the rugged beauty of Snowdonia National Park, beckoning nature enthusiasts for an escape into the wilderness.

Bethesda's past is deeply rooted in the slate quarrying industry, which has left an indelible mark on the local culture and distinctive grey-slated architectural landscape. Despite being labelled as "abandoned" by a certain Reddit user, Bethesda is, in fact, a treasure trove of activities for intrepid explorers.

History buffs and curious visitors alike can delve into the town's industrial history at the Penrhyn Quarry, renowned as the world's largest slate quarry. Not only does it house this significant piece of heritage but also the acclaimed Zip World attraction, which since its 2013 inception, boasts of having the fastest zip line globally that soars courageous adventurers over the quarry lake with a breathtaking 500m high vantage point.

Cycling aficionados are given a warm welcome to the region via Lon Las Ogwen cycle path, tracing the historic railway route that once ferried slate from the storied quarry down to the coast.

On the outer edges of Bethesda's quarry lies the remnants of Penrhyn Quarry Hospitala poignant reminder of the bygone slate industry era. Here, visitors can venture back to the 1800s and imagine the lives of the quarrymen who would be rushed here for medical care, reports the Mirror.

The hospital continued to operate right up until the swinging sixties.

For hikers looking to fully immerse themselves in the area's heritage, the Penrhyn Quarry Hospital serves as a waypoint on the Llwybr Llechi Eryri (Snowdonia Slate Trail), an epic 83-mile exploration route that traces the slate's journey through history.

Bethesda is home to several key locations, including Cwm Idwal, a dramatic lake surrounded by mountains and recognised as Wales' first-ever National Nature Reserve.

In addition, Coed Bryn Meurig, a magnificent woodland near the town centre, offers visitors a chance to see a variety of wildlife, including otters, tawny owls and spotted woodpeckers. The site is protected by a tree preservation order due to its ancient trees.

Art enthusiasts can visit Mostyn gallery, which showcases the works of talented creators in six gallery spaces behind an impressive Edwardian terracotta facade.

A unique attraction in Bethesda is Britain's smallest house, known as the Quay House. This one-up-one-down red house measures only 3.05 metres by 1.83 metres.

For accommodation, Ogwen Bank Caravan and Lodge Park offers camping pods and lodges in a quiet woodland setting. Many of the lodges overlook a rushing river and feature modern decor and hot tubs for guests to relax in.

The town also boasts a wide range of food options, with takeaways and pubs scattered throughout the centre of Bethesda.