Trail Guide: Pen y Fan via Cwm Gwdi Path

Overview:

This less-travelled route to Pen y Fan (886 m) starts from Cwm Gwdi, north of the main peaks, offering a quieter, more gradual ascent than the popular Pont ar Daf path. It provides spectacular views over the Neuadd Valley, Brecon, and the Black Mountains, and is ideal for walkers seeking a more peaceful climb.

Distance: Approximately 9.5 km (6 miles) round trip

Time: 3.5 to 4.5 hours

Ascent: Around 610 metres

Grade: Moderate to challenging – steady climb, exposed summit

Start/Finish: Cwm Gwdi car park (Grid Ref: SO024248 / Postcode: LD3 8LE)

Route Description

1. Start from Cwm Gwdi Car Park:
   
   Begin by heading through the gate at the end of the car park. The trail climbs gradually on a well-defined path through open moorland and rough grass, gaining height steadily as you approach the north ridge.
   
   
2. Climb Cefn Cwm Llwch Ridge:
   
   Follow the clear path onto the Cefn Cwm Llwch ridge, a long shoulder that offers expansive views across Cwm Llwch below. As you gain altitude, Pen y Fan’s broad summit dome comes clearly into view.
   
   
3. Final Ascent to Pen y Fan:
   
   The route steepens as it approaches the summit. At 886 metres, Pen y Fan is the highest point in southern Britain. The summit cairn and National Trust plaque mark the top and provide excellent photo opportunities with views over the Brecon Beacons, Usk Valley, and into mid-Wales.
   
   
4. Optional Extension to Corn Du:
   
   From the summit, it’s a short detour (about 500m each way) to Corn Du (873 m), Pen y Fan’s neighbouring peak, offering a slightly different perspective.
   
   
5. Return the same way:
   
   Retrace your steps down the ridge to Cwm Gwdi, enjoying the views on your descent.
   
   

Navigation Notes

• The path is well-defined, but the summit and ridge can become misty and disorientating — map and compass are essential.
  
  
• OS Map: OL12 (Brecon Beacons – Western Area)
  
  
• This route is more exposed and remote than the southern approaches — check weather and daylight hours carefully.
  
  

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Access and Facilities

• Parking: Cwm Gwdi car park (free, limited spaces; arrive early).
  
  
• Toilets: None at the car park — nearest facilities are in Brecon.
  
  
• Public Transport: Limited – best accessed by car. The nearest town is Brecon, 5 miles away.
  
  

Points of Interest

• Pen y Fan (886 m): Highest peak in the Brecon Beacons and all of southern Britain.
  
  
• Cefn Cwm Llwch Ridge: A peaceful and scenic ascent route with sweeping views.
  
  

Cwm Llwch Valley: Glacial valley with historic features and links to local folklore.

Photo credit: Samuel Thompson