Standardised Welsh Place-names list

Bala, Y

Standard form
Bala, Y
English form
Bala, Y
Type
Settlement
Postcode
LL23
Grid reference
SH9235
Local authority
Gwynedd

Notes

The Welsh definite article (y/yr) is an integral part of this name.

Definite article

The Welsh definite article (y/yr) should be included in full and capitalised when preceding this name on signage where the place-name is the main focus of the sign. Further advice on how to display place-names on signage can be found in the technical guidance on our website. 

When writing this name as part of a Welsh sentence, the definite article should be shown in lower case (e.g. ‘yn y Bala’ (in Bala). It can also be contracted following a vowel in accordance with the rules of Welsh grammar, e.g. ‘mynd i’r Bala’ (going to Bala). 

Although it is expected that a single form including the definite article be displayed on signage, there is no need to precede the name with the definite article within an English sentence, e.g. ‘going to Bala’.  

Image of Bala, Y