Discover the Snowdonia and North Wales lakes used for leech farming during the Victorian period.

Wales has a rich and varied history, and one of the lesser-known parts of that history involves the breeding of medicinal leeches in the country's lakes and pools. In fact, Wales was once known as the leech-farming capital of Europe, with several lakes across the country used for breeding these fascinating creatures.

During the Victorian era, leeches were in high demand for medical blood-letting in Britain. According to some estimates, around 42 million leeches were used each year during this time. Wales was a major player in this industry, with several lakes in Snowdonia and North Wales used for leech collection and breeding.

Here are a few of the most notable:

Llyn Gwynant - This beautiful lake is located in the heart of Snowdonia National Park. Its clear waters made it an ideal location for collecting leeches used for medical purposes.

Llyn Idwal - Another lake situated in the Ogwen Valley of Snowdonia, Llyn Idwal was also a popular location for leech collection during the Victorian era.

Llyn Dinas - Located in the Nant Gwynant Valley of Snowdonia, Llyn Dinas was known for its diverse population of leeches used for medical purposes.

Llyn Padarn - Situated near the town of Llanberis in Snowdonia, Llyn Padarn was another lake used for leech collection during the Victorian era. It had a large population of leeches.

Pwll y Gele - This six-acre lake, located at a height of seven-hundred feet between two minor roads running south from Llanfachreth, is known as "Pool of the Leeches" in Welsh. It is one of several lakes in Wales that were used for breeding leeches for medical use.

Although leeches are no longer commonly used in medicine today, these lakes played an important role in the history of medicine. They are a testament to the ingenuity of our ancestors in their pursuit of medical knowledge.

If you're planning a visit to Snowdonia or North Wales, consider adding one or more of these lakes to your itinerary. While you won't find any leeches there today, these lakes are still beautiful natural wonders that offer stunning views and a glimpse into Wales' unique history.