The station lies off the B4410 former turnpike road from Maentwrog to Llanfrothen and Beddgelert, which the railway crosses on a fine cast-iron skew bridge (made at Boston Lodge foundry in 1854 and surmounted by 'gothic' balustrades).

From 1863 until 1873, the only regular passing station for trains was at the former horse stage at Hafod y Llyn, located a few hundred yards down the route (southwest) from Tan-y-Bwlch.

In the 1930s and again in the 1950s and 1960s, the late Bessie Jones gained world-wide fame as the station-mistress wearing traditional Welsh costume and serving teas in the station house.

The former stone built goods shed now serves as a shop, café and information centre, with modern extensions housing kitchens and passenger amenities.

Tourist facilities include a nature trail through woodlands leading to Llyn Mair ("Mary's Lake") as well as longer signposted walks.