Reddit users vote Welsh church in village home to legendary hound 'best place on Earth'

For years, tourists have visited a village hidden in the Welsh mountains of Eryri for its breathtaking beauty and a grave commemorating a faithful hound slain by his master in the 13th Century.

But Beddgelert, Gwynedd, has now won the hearts of admirers from across the world after its church was voted the "best place on Earth" in a Reddit poll.

St Mary's Church was the last place standing in a challenge that started with a world map, before internet users were asked over several rounds to vote out half of the map until a single location remained.

The church, set in Eryri National Park, also known as Snowdonia, won after 29 rounds, with some saying they now planned to visit.

"I might be biased saying this, but it definitely deserved to win," said the church's Reverend Kim Williams.

"We are always pleased to welcome visitors who come to enjoy the village, the landscape and the church."

The vote took place on the "Terrible Maps" subreddit - a popular channel with more than 30,000 weekly visitors.

As well as being popular for exploring Eryri, Beddgelert's best-known landmark is Gelert's grave, in memory of the faithful hound who, according to Welsh folklore, was killed by his master Llywelyn in the 13th Century.

According to the legend, Llywelyn returned from hunting to find his baby son missing and Gelert covered in blood - and killed the dog believing he had killed the child.

However, Llywelyn then discovered the baby unharmed beside the body of a wolf Gelert had slain.

People can find Gelert's grave a short walk from the church.

Reddit users praised both the village and the church, with one describing Beddgelert as "a gorgeous place". Another said it was a "beautiful church", adding it was "no wonder it won".

As the rounds went on and the places on the map narrowed, supporters rallied around the church and encouraged people to visit.

Williams said she was surprised but pleased to hear the result, saying the church had "served the local community for generations".

One Reddit user wrote: "All hail the victor. Long may her windows sparkle. As for holidays, I booked one on the basis of these votes."

Nestled in a mountain valley, the small village has fewer than 1,000 residents.

The Welsh Highland Railway travels through the village on its route between Caernarfon and Porthmadog.

It is known for its stone cottages, river views and access to popular trails to spots such as Aberglaslyn Pass.