In 1959 a group of enthusiasts got together and rented a small barn at Capel Curig, North Wales, calling themselves The Barn Committee. The building provided the most basic accommodation which, at that time, was acceptable. Due to the death of the farmer in 1981, the lease was foreclosed and the building reverted back to farming use.

We continued to raise funds and seek suitable accommodation. In May 1984 we leased a derelict slabbed floor cottage from a farmer near Llanberis, North Wales. The committee of unpaid volunteers worked very hard to renovate the building and completely modernised the interior to form two kitchens, washing, showering and toilet facilities, a lounge and two dormitories.

Over the years we have become increasingly aware, not only for the need of a permanent establishment maybe in the form of ownership or partnership to ensure that future generations of young people will have access to a facility such as ours, also that young peoples expectations with regard to the standards of accommodation has progressively become greater.

In the late nineties we applied to the Lottery Fund and were successful in being awarded funding to bring our dream to reality. As we have been so highly successful in the North Wales area we did not consider elsewhere. We have now overcome many obstacles and purchased The Woodlands at Betws-y-Coed, North Wales, which is ready made to suit our requirements, we are operating with a resident Warden, and thus ensuring full and proper control at all times.

The cottage we used to have in Llanberis.

Woodlands opening event in 2002