Helyg
Grid Ref SH 691 601
Postal Address: Helyg, Capel Curig, Betws y Coed, Conwy LL24 OEU
No phone. Intermittent mobile phone and internet service.
Situation: the hut is located in the heart of the Ogwen Valley on the south side of the A5 main road from Capel Curig to Bangor, 4km from Capel Curig with superb views of Tryfan. Helyg is steeped in the history of British climbing. Opened in 1925, it was the Climbers’ Club’s first hut and main base for the pioneers of British climbing in the 1920s. It was used as a training base for the successful 1953 Everest expedition. The hut is laid out in as near to its original form as possible and retains the authentic atmosphere of those early times.
Accommodation: the hut has 13 bunk spaces in one dormitory. Exclusive booking of the whole hut is available to both CC members and guests, and outside groups. There is space for discreet camping for one or two small tents.
Access: the key to open the padlocked barrier across the car park entrance on the opposite side of the A5 is found in a box on the garage door. This box is opened with the key fob. Do not slam the door as this may dislodge the batteries in the lock and prevent it operating. Replace the key after use and keep the barrier locked. Front door also operated by key fob. HiViz garments have been placed in the hut lobby which visitors may wear to cross the A5.
Services: drinking water is supplied from a private borehole. In the event of an electricity power cut, contact Manweb Scottish Power and inform the custodian. Electric oven, hobs and microwave cookers, electric shower. Solid fuel burner (fuel supplied, replenish from store in garage). Cooking fat should be poured into worktop fat traps not flushed down sinks, then disposed with general refuse. Refuse in black bin bags ONLY in the large wheelie bin next to the car park barrier for collection. Take recycling home. Pillows are provided, use disposable pillow case covers provided and dispose of at the end of visit with refuse. No bed linen is provided.
Custodian: Kenny Atherton.
Email: helyg@climbers-club.co.uk