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Home , Beacons Reservoir, Beacons Way, Black Mountain (range), Caerfanell, Corn Du, Crug Hywel

GUIDED WALKS & EVENTS WINTER 2019/20

Cymdeithas Parc Bannau Brycheiniog Beacons Park Society www.breconbeaconsparksociety.org GUIDED WALKS AND EVENTS WINTER 2019/20 (November - February)

Most of these walks go into the hills. Participants are reminded that the following gear should be taken. Walking boots, rucksack, hats, gloves, warm clothing (not jeans), spare fleece, water and a hot drink, lunch, extra food and of course waterproof jackets and trousers. A whistle and a head torch (with spare batteries) should be carried, particularly during the winter months, and a hi- visibility garment would be very useful in case of poor visibility.

Participants must satisfy themselves that the walk is suitable for their abilities. You can take advice by ringing the walk leader whose telephone number is given. No liability will be accepted for loss or injury that occurs because of taking part. An adult must accompany those under 18.

MOST OF THESE WALKS ARE FOR EXPERIENCED WALKERS - IF YOU’RE NOT SURE OF YOUR ABILITY WHY NOT START OFF WITH A MODERATE WALK TO FIND OUT?

Please check the guided walks programme on the website for planned cancellations and changes to walks. Leaders may change or cancel the advertised route at their discretion due to adverse weather conditions or other problems on the day. You are strongly advised to check the Mountain weather forecast for the National Park before setting out for walks, on the Met Office website: www.metoffice.gov.uk. Finish times are approximate.

Strenuous walks require fitness and stamina to cope with several steep climbs and/or cover a good distance at a steady pace. Energetic walks generally involve two steep climbs but they will still require determined application. Moderate walks will seldom have steep climbs but if they do the climb will be taken at a relaxed pace.

Dogs (well controlled) are permitted unless stated otherwise in the programme. It should be noted that under the CROW Act, when taking dogs onto Open Access land they must be on a fixed lead, no more than two metres long, whenever livestock are near, and at ALL TIMES from 1st March to 31st July.

Non-members of the Park Society will be asked to make a donation of £5.00 each per walk. Half price for the under 16s, the unemployed and students.

Walks Enquiries to: Nic and Hilary, tel: 07711 604142 e-mail: [email protected]

MEMBERSHIP ENQUIRIES: SEE BACK PAGE A Charitable Incorporated Organisation Number 1180841

1 GUIDED WALKS & EVENTS WINTER 2019/20 Welcome to the autumn guided walks and events programme for Winter 2019/20.

A good mixture of old and new routes with some seasoned walks leaders and some newbies. You’ll see that a couple of walks haven’t yet been organized so keep looking at the website.

Snippets

Please take care - some of the car park maps on website are wrong - check using grid references or ring the leader but each walk should be clear.

If there is not a walk scheduled on any date keep an eye on the web in case a leader comes forward.

We now run a booking system for our talks in the Bear in due to the numbers of people wanting to attend. They are still free to members, but it is advisable to book. Details are sent out to members prior to any of our talks.

Local Walking Festivals

Crickhowell 7-15 March https://www.crickhowellfestival.com 7- 10 May https://talgarthwalkingfestival.org

Footpath Volunteers

BBPS have a group of volunteers who go out with the National Park to repair footpaths and help with conservation. If you may be interested contact [email protected]

Get Lost & Get Lost Again

We run navigation courses but have none planned for this quarter.

Walk Leaders Wanted

We are always looking for experienced walkers to lead walks for us. You choose the date and walk. Support and First Aid course given (free) Contact Iau Counsell for a chat (07976697495).

Important information about Rights of Ways issues and how you can help please see page 15.

Wednesday Wander Holiday

The Wednesday Wander Holiday for 2020 has been organised to go to Llangollen, Denbighshire. The dates are Tuesday 17 March until Thursday 19 March 2020, a two night break away. Accommodation is with the Hand Hotel in Llangollen. As in past years, rooms need to be booked in advance with a deposit taken.

3 walks are planned and all members are welcome. For further information please contact Fiona McBain on 07979037243.

2 GUIDED WALKS & EVENTS WINTER 2019/20

December 2019

Title: Ancient and Modern landscapes Date & Sun 1 Dec Location: Time 09:30-15:30 Grid Ref/Map SN 855 157 Level Strenuous From caving centre onto disused tramroad NE Dist. 18k 11m and N to . Across rough ground E to Ascent 450m valley, then S to pick up . Return via Ogof Ffynnon Ddu nature reserve Leader Helen Fletcher 07726242137

Title: Cwm Gwrelych Date & Wed 4 Dec Location: Pontneddfechan – roadside parking Time 10:00-15:30 near the Angel Inn. Grid Ref/Map SN 90040 07598 / Explorer OL12, Landranger 160 Level Moderate valley to Pont Walby and Brunel’s Dist. 14.9km (about 9.3 miles) viaduct. Up Cwm Gwrelych trail, a SSSI for its Ascent 500m (about 1,650 feet) geological features, then section of Tappenden’s Tramroad. North to farms at Trebanog Isaf and Tyle-morgrug and a permissive path to Clwyd- rhyd-fan. Down and back past Craig y Ddinas. Leader Ceri Jones 07429639546

Title: Fan Dance Date & Fri 6 Dec Location: car park or park Time 10:00-15:00 reservoir lay-bys if necessary Grid Ref/Map SN988181 / OL12 or 160 Level Energetic Walk cancelled on November 2nd due to poor Dist. 14km 9 miles weather conditions. Steady ascent to the pile of Ascent 400m 1300 feet stones and trig on Fan Fawr. Descending and returning via Nant Mawr, Nant y Gerddinen waterfalls, the Beacons Way and Bryn Du. Good sheep paths and some reed beds. Leader Peter Robbins 07443119004

Title: A wander both sides of the Date & Sat 7 Dec Location: Lay by next to Craig y Nos Castle Time 10:00-15:00 Grid Ref/Map SN 840 152 / OL 12 Level Moderate A stroll along both sides of the River Tawe, a Dist. 13mls/8mls series of stiles along the first section of walk. Ascent Leader Paula Ace 07484137031

Title: Some Black Mountains ridge walking Date & Sun 8 Dec Location: Priory Time 9:30-15:00 Grid Ref/Map SO 289 278 Level Strenuous From to Hatterall Ridge then Dist. 22.5 km 14 m Black Hill and back via the Vision Farm. Bring a Ascent 915 m 3000 ft torch, just in case. Leader Wiliam Milne 07528701952

3 GUIDED WALKS & EVENTS WINTER 2019/20

Title: Parc Penallta to Eglwysilian Date & Wed 11 Dec Location: Parc Penallta ST134956 Time 10:00-14:30 Grid Ref/Map ST134956 / Explorer Map 166 Level Moderate Follows some minor country lanes and FPs that Dist. 12.8km 8m pick up the Rhymney Valley Ridgeway. Some Ascent 300m 900ft steep sections, taken slowly, probably muddy and exposed on the Tops. Good views of Rhymney and Aber Valleys, across to the Taff Vale. (If weather poor, ring Phil to confirm going ahead) Leader Phil O'Shea/Stuart 07858627950 Campbell

Title: ILLUSTRATED TALK: Mining Cheese - The Blaenafon Cheddar Company Date & Wed 11 Dec Location: The Bear Hotel, Crickhowell Time 19:30-21:00 Have you seen that cheese down the Big Pit? Susan Fiander-Woodhouse and her husband Gerry will tell us about their business, the Blaenafon Cheddar Company, and just what that cheese is doing there! Cheeses and goodies will be available to purchase for Xmas Leader Janet Callear 01874636116

Title: Pathless Wanderings on the Black Mountains Date & Fri 13 Dec Location: Dragon's Back Inn, Pengenffordd (Car Time 10:00-16:00 Park £2) A479 Grid Ref/Map SO 173296/OL 13/Landranger 161 Level Energetic This walk will allow us to get "off piste" by seeking Dist. 16km / 10 miles out non-pathed routes on the high plateau and Ascent 500m / 1600' northern face of the Black Mountains. It will also be a good chance to practise your navigation skills so please bring map and compass if you wish to learn some new skills or hone your existing ones. Rob is one of the newly trained HMLA leaders. Leader Rob Rees 07914265654

Title: In the Shadow of Date & Sat 14 Dec Location: 1st Lay-by on left after Libanus A470 Time 10:00-15:00 (From Brecon direction heading towards Storey Arms) Grid Ref/Map SN989249 / OL12 Level Moderate Steady climb at moderate pace through woodland Dist. 13km 8.5 miles and pasture to Pen Milan and , Ascent 500m 1640 ft before fairly steep ascent to Tommy Jones Monument. Returning via and the . Shortened if weather dictates Leader Peter Robbins 07443119004

4 GUIDED WALKS & EVENTS WINTER 2019/20 Title: Mince Pie walk Date & Sun 15 Dec Location: Bus Station Car Park Time 09:30-16:00 Grid Ref/Map SO 301 139 / OL13 Level Energetic Walk starts along to Llanwenarth Dist. 11 miles church. Having crossed the A40 we start to climb Ascent not given via fields, lanes and woods above St Mary's Vale onto slopes of Sugarloaf and summit weather permitting. Route back along Deri to Xmas lights in Abergavenny Leader Angela Woolley Dilys 07914973025 Harlow

Title: 70th Anniversary of the “National Parks and Access to the Countryside Act “ Celebration Date & Wed 18 Dec Location: Henderson Hall, Talybont- on - Usk Time 09:45-16:00 There are two walks (see programme) followed by cawl and drinks at 1pm. Then a talk by Julian Atkins and music from Lionel Elton, tea,cake and depart. Voluntary donation £10. Let us know if you are coming: which walk, any dietary needs by Fri, 6th December. (See contact) All welcome - come for food and celebration even if you aren’t walking. Leader Wally & Anthea James 07967886497

Title: Celebration - walk 1 Date & Wed 18 Dec Location: Henderson Hall, Talybont - on - Usk Time 09:45-13:00 Grid Ref/Map SO 113227 / OL 13 Level Moderate A Wednesday Wander stroll along the Brinore Dist. 9km. 6m Tramroad and up onto from the South Ascent 0 side. Ascent and descent at WW pace. Return is via lane and canal returning in time for refreshment and celebrations at 1.00pm. Please see events for details and make sure you book. Leader Phil & Stuart 07858627950

Title: Celebration - walk 2 Date & Wed 18 Dec Location: Henderson Hall, Talybont - on - Usk Time 10:30-13:00 Grid Ref/Map SO 113227 / OL 13 Level Moderate A Wednesday Wander stroll along the Brinore Dist. 5km. 3m Tramroad, fields, river and canal following the Ascent Henry Vaughan trail. No major ups but there are 5 stiles. Pace will be leisurely and include snippets of his life and poems. Return by 1.00 pm for refreshment, and celebrations. Please see events for details and make sure you book. Leader Anne Pritchard 077484635545

5 GUIDED WALKS & EVENTS WINTER 2019/20 Title: Circuit Date & Fri 20 Dec Location: Ystradfelte Public Car Park opposite Time 09:30-16:00 the New Inn Grid Ref/Map SN 929135 / OL 12 Level Energetic Energetic circular hill walk in the magnificent, Dist. 19km / 12m remote and verdant, area. We Ascent 650 m / 2135 ft gradually climb out of the Village , to the summits of & Fan Dringarth. We then descend along the ancient roman road, following Afon Llia back to the start. Leader Stuart & Phil 07858627950

Title: The North Side - A Festive Walk up Pen-y-Fan Date & Sat 21 Dec Location: Cwm Gwdi Car Park (below Allt Ddu) Time 09:30-15:00 Parking charges Grid Ref/Map SO 024 248 / Map: OL12 Level Energetic Ascend under Twyn Cil-rhew to Cefn Cwm Llwch Dist. 13km / 8 Miles before sharp ascent to Pen-y-Fan for coffee stop. Ascent 600m / 1900 ft Onto before dropping down over Craig Cwm Llwch for lunch. Return via Cwm Llwch and Three Rivers Ride with last mile along lanes to car park. Festive Hats and mince pies optional. Leader Nick Trew 07568396555

Title: Cwm Du, Mynyddoedd Troed a Date & 22 Dec Location: Cwm Du Village Hall Car Park Time 9:30-3:30 Grid Ref/Map SO 180239 Level Energetic A lovely two-summit walk with lots of possibilities Dist. 17 km 10.5 m for variation, starting up Cwm Sorgwm, Mynydd Ascent 760 m 2500 ft Troed, Cockit hill then on to Mynydd Llangors. Car park £1 collected by leader on the day. 3 words reference ///blogging.highly.wedge Leader Iau Counsell 07976697495

Christmas Day

Title: Brecon, Cantref, , and Canal back Date & Fri 27 Dec Location: Car Park Theatr Brycheiniog, LD3 7EW Time 10:00-3:30 Grid Ref/Map SO 046282 Level Energetic An extended Wednesday Wander walk gentle Dist. 18 km 11 m uphill to Cantref, then down to Llanfrynach, along Ascent max 300 m 928 ft road to Pencelli (Royal Oak may be open) then back along Canal for tea and cake at Theatr or in town. Walk off that pud. Start point ///cleansed.cages.linguists Leader nic groombridge 07711 604142

6 GUIDED WALKS & EVENTS WINTER 2019/20 Title: Check website Date & Sat 28 Dec Location: Time Grid Ref/Map Level It is always worth checking the website to see if a Dist. walk is going to occur. This leaflet is put together Ascent in advance and walks may be added, amended or even cancelled or postponed.

Title: Check website Date & Sun 29 Dec Location: Time Grid Ref/Map Level It is always worth checking the website to see if a Dist. walk is going to occur. This leaflet is put together Ascent in advance and walks may be added, amended or even cancelled or postponed.

January 2020

Title: New Year on Top of the Table Date & Wed 1 Jan Location: Crickhowell High School, New Road, Time 11:00-15:00 Crickhowell (no charge!) Grid Ref/Map SO217185 / OL13 Level Moderate Let's welcome the New Year with a classic walk Dist. 9 km, 6 miles over Table Mountain. We climb gently out of Ascent 370m, 1200ft Crickhowell into the green meadows, copse and open moors which take us to the summit of Table Mountain. Lunch on or close to the summit with sweeping views over Crickhowell and the Usk Valley. Then we come back down the lovely valley of Cwm Cumbeth. Leader Roger White 01873811539

Title: Check website Date & Fri 3 Jan Location: Time Grid Ref/Map Level It is always worth checking the website to see if a Dist. walk is going to occur. This leaflet is put together Ascent in advance and walks may be added, amended or even cancelled or postponed.

Title: A wander Date & Sat 4 Jan Location: Lay-by next to The Gwyn Arms Time 10:00-15:00 Grid Ref/Map SN 846 165 / OL 12 Level Moderate A gentle climb onto Cribarth looking at some Dist. 13kms/8mls points of interest on the way. Ascent Leader Paula Ace 07484137031

7 GUIDED WALKS & EVENTS WINTER 2019/20 Title: Check website Date & Sun 5 Jan Location: Time Grid Ref/Map Level It is always worth checking the website to see if a Dist. walk is going to occur. This leaflet is put together Ascent in advance and walks may be added, amended or even cancelled or postponed.

Title: Not quite a mountain Date & Wed 8 Jan Location: Henderson Hall Talybont Time 09:30-15:00 Grid Ref/Map SO 112228 / OL13 Level Moderate A short section of the Taff Trail, then across the Dist. 12.5km (8 miles) to Aber Farm and Pwll-y-hwyaid. A Ascent 460m (1520ft) minor road and forest track to the open hill then a fairly gentle ascent to Bryn, at 562m not quite a mountain. We return via Coity Bach, Lower Cross Oak and canal. Leader Chris Playford 07906301095

Title: Llanthony to Capel y Ffin returning via Offa's Dyke Date & Fri 10 Jan Location: Llanthony Abbey CP SO 289 278 Time 10:00-16:00 Grid Ref/Map SO289278 / Explorer OL13 Level Energetic Ascending Bâl Bach from Llanthony, going north, Dist. 16.3km, 10.2m dropping down to Capel y Ffin and Vision Farm, Ascent 822m, 2,700ft for our 2nd ascent onto Offa's Dyke and return to Abbey - refreshments optional but recommended. (If weather looks poor, feel free to ring Phil the evening before to confirm if going ahead.) Leader Phil O'Shea/Stuart 07912943881 Campbell

Title: Check website Date & Sat 11 Jan Location: Time Grid Ref/Map Level It is always worth checking the website to see if a Dist. walk is going to occur. This leaflet is put together Ascent in advance and walks may be added, amended or even cancelled or postponed.

Title: Some Lesser Walked 'Western Fans' Date & Sun 12 Jan Location: Meet at the car park in Ystradfellte Time 09:30-16:00 Grid Ref/Map SN 930 135 / OL 12 Level Strenuous We will walk NW and then N onto Fan Llia and Dist. 18km 11miles then Fan Dringarth. Then descend W over rough Ascent 700m ground (no path) to the road. Passing the ancient standing stone of Maen Llia, we will then climb up onto . The descent from there is also rough and may be boggy. We meet the Roman road again before returning to Ystradfellte Leader Helen Fletcher 077262421137

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Title: A Wintery Walk Date & Wed 15 Jan Location: Car park at the rear of the Crickhowell Time 10:00-15:00 Resource and Information Grid Ref/Map SO 218184 / OL 13 Level Moderate A Winters Walk in the lovely countryside of Dist. 13 Km 8 miles and . This walks uses the river Ascent bank, fields and lanes up to Gilwern, returning along the canal for refreshments in Crickhowell. Hopefully some lovely winter scenery to be viewed. All ascents and descents to be taken at WW pace. Leader Fiona McBain 07979037243

Title: Around Cwm Llwch Date & Fri 17 Jan Location: Pont ar Daf free car park near the Time 09:30-15:30 Storey Arms. Grid ref SN 987199 Grid Ref/Map SN 987199 / OL12 Level Strenuous The route climbs from the start to Corn Du and Dist. 16km 10miles Pen Y Fan. It drops off Pen Y Fan on Cefn Cwm Ascent 700m 2300ft Llwch and contours around to and up Cwm Llwch. It returns to the start via Y Gyrn. Leader Arny Williams 07976483329

Title: Pencelli, Aber, Talybont-on-Usk and back Date & Sat 18 Jan Location: Layby on B4558 just outside Penelli Time 10:00-3:00 Grid Ref/Map SO 097247 ///button.indoor.fatigued Level Energetic An extended Wednesday Wander up and round Dist. 13.5 km 8.3 m Allt Feigan then round to Coity Mawr, down to Ascent max 305 m 1000 ft Aber village and along road to Talybont Reservoir dam and back along tramway to Talybont and back along canal. Leader nic groombridge 07711 604142

Title: Carreg Cennen Roundabout Date & Sun 19 Jan Location: Time 10:00-16:00 Grid Ref/Map GR SN 666193 / OL12 Level Moderate Through farmland up on to the . Dist. 11km (7 miles) Visit pillow mounds, farm enclosures, burial Ascent 503m (170ft) and a trig point, before returning through farmland again to Carreg Cennen Castle. Car park at Carreg Cennen is owned by the National Park and there are tea rooms at the castle. Please note - the toilets in the car park are closed. Leader Angela Morgan 07801915707

9 GUIDED WALKS & EVENTS WINTER 2019/20 Title: Shake Holes and Chartist Cave (Ogof Fawr) Date & Wed 22 Jan Location: free cark opposite village Time 10:00-14:30 hall and public toilets Grid Ref/Map SO155195 / OL14 Level Moderate Ascending Llangynidr mountain by a gentle route Dist. 12km 8 miles at a Wednesday Wander pace with a picnic lunch Ascent 400m 1300 feet at the Chartist Cave. The walk passes Neolithic burial cairns and shake holes, then returns via farmland. Leader Peter Robbins 07443119004

Title: Above and through Nant Bwch Valley Date & Fri 24 Jan Location: Gospel Pass Car Park Time 09:30-15:30 Grid Ref/Map 236 351 / OL13 Level Energetic Ascend to Twmpa then up to the Trig Point above Dist. 16km / 10 miles Rhos Dirion for coffee. Along the ridge to Ascent 615 m / 2000 ft Blacksmith Anvil before descending to Capel y Ffin. We ascend under Darren Lwyd to pick up main track through Nant Bwch valley stopping for lunch at Nant Isaf waterfall. A long climb up through the valley brings us back to Twmpa and down to car park. Leader Nick Trew 07568396555

Title: a Fan Fawr Date & Sat 25 Jan Location: Lay-by at the A470 entrance to Craig Time 09:30-15:30 Cerrig Gleisiad Grid Ref/Map SN 972 222 / OL12 Level Energetic Visit the Craig Cerrig Gleisiad National Nature Dist. 13km, 8miles Reserve and the Fan Frynych and Fan Fawr trig Ascent 650m, 2100ft points. Return along Cefn yr Henriw, Bryn Du and the Beacons Way. Leader Richard Davies 07986562584

Title: Check website Date & Sun 26 Jan Location: Time Wed 29 Jan Grid Ref/Map Level It is always worth checking the website to see if a Dist. walk is going to occur. This leaflet is put together Ascent in advance and walks may be added, amended or even cancelled or postponed.

Title: ILLUSTRATED TALK: The Wye and Usk Foundation Date & Wed 29 Jan Location: The Bear Hotel, Crickhowell Time 19:30-21:00 Colette Mooney, the ‘Salmon Lady’ and Head of Education, brings the rivers into schools and communities to advance understanding of these environments. Share Colette’s experience and knowledge and reserve your seats for the talk. Leader Janet Callear 01874636116

10 GUIDED WALKS & EVENTS WINTER 2019/20 Title: Roundabout and Begwns Date & Fri 31 Jan Location: P.C. Time 09:30-16:00 Grid Ref/Map SO 178392 / OL 13 Level Energetic A superb circular walk above the Wye Valley, Dist. 19km / 12m incorporating panoramic views from the Begwns Ascent 490m / 1500ft & the Roundabout . Come & enjoy a top class walk in the Heart of . Leader Stuart & Phil 7858627950

February 2020

Title: Llandew and Slwch from Brecon Date & Sat 1 Feb Location: Time 10:00-1:00 Grid Ref/Map Level Energetic A Wednesday Wander length and ascent but Dist. 10.6 km 6.6 m taken at a higher pace and back in time for pub Ascent Max 234 m 780ft lunch in Brecon. Along Prom, into the Groves by Cathedral and up to Llandew (glimpse of St David's ruined bishop's palace) down through Bishops Meadows and then up and round Slwch for views of Brecon and into town. Leader nic groombridge 07711 604142

Title: A day for leaders Date & Sun 2 Feb Time 09:00-16:00 A day for the leaders. Socialise, have fun and learn a bit

Title: British Camp Date & Wed 5 Feb Location: Park at British Camp car park £4. Time Grid Ref/Map SO 764404 Level Moderate Walk south to Chase End Hill and return. Dist. 11 km 7.2 m Ascent Leader Ian Rowat 07794939944

Title: Date & Fri 7 Feb Location: Bus Stop, B4350. Plenty of Time 10:00-16:00 street parking. Grid Ref/Map SO 130385/OS Explorer 188/Landranger 148 Level Energetic Catch the 10.15 am bus to and then Dist. 20 km / 13 miles follow the Wye Valley Walk back to Boughrood. Ascent 500m / 1800' This walk involves some fairly steep climbs and sections along with scenic riverside paths amidst the sylvan beauty of the upper Wye. Rob will discuss the local geology and geomorphology of the area with anyone who's interested! Leader Rob Rees 07914265654

11 GUIDED WALKS & EVENTS WINTER 2019/20

Title: and Date & Sat 8 Feb Location: Llanbedr Church GR 240:204 Time 10:00-15:00 Grid Ref/Map GR SO 240:204 / OL13 Level Energetic Meet outside Llanbedr Church, park considerably Dist. 13.5km 8.5m in the village, Walk joins the Beacons Way to Ascent 640m ascend Crug mawr, descending to Blaenau and up again to Crug Hywel. Hopefully good views from the summits. Leader Ros Grant

Title: Gu Date & Sun 9 Feb Location: Crickhowell High School Car Park Time 9:30-16:00 Grid Ref/Map Level Strenuous From Crickhowell we walk out to the secretive Dist. 13 m Cwm Gu, ascend steeply to Pen Gloch y Pibwr, Ascent 1000 m 3200 ft cross over to Pen Allt Mawr and then descend to walk along side the wild Cwm Banw to then walk around to Table Mountain. Leader Jason Winney 077985215550

Title: Redbrook to Newland Date & Wed 12 Feb Location: Lower Redbrook car park Time 10:00-16:00 Grid Ref/Map SO 537 097 / OL14 Level Moderate From Redbrook route takes us in a southerly Dist. 14km, 8.5miles direction onto Offa's Dyke Path with views over Ascent 0 the Wye Valley before we head towards the village of Newland. At Newland we can visit the Cathederal of the Forest and the Ostrich Inn before returning to Redbrook along the picturesque Valley Brook, the former channel of the river Wye. Leader Richard Davies 07986562584

Title: to 'Western Fans' Date & Fri 14 Feb Location: Pont ar Wysg CP SN820272 Time 10:00-16:00 Grid Ref/Map SN820272 / Explorer Map OL12 Level Strenuous Open moorland climbing to Fan Foel along ridge Dist. 17.5km, 11m to , Bannau Sir Gaer, descending to Ascent 890m, 2690ft returning along source of Usk. This is my 3rd attempt at leading this walk which has been cursed with bad weather. So in the event of a possible repeat of bad weather, feel free to ring Phil the night before! Leader Phil O'Shea/Stuart 07912943881 Campbell

12 GUIDED WALKS & EVENTS WINTER 2019/20 Title: Fan Frynych Circuit Date & Sat 15 Feb Location: Brecon Mountain Centre car park Time 09:30-15:30 Grid Ref/Map SN 978263 / OL 12 Level Energetic From Mountain Centre over common up to Twyn Dist. 12miles/21 km Dylluan Ddu, along Taff Trail to Storey Arms then Ascent 1900ft. Fan Frynych to Centre. Leader Veronica Deacon and Ken 01554820691 Evans

Title: A Winter Circuit in the Central Beacons Date & Sun 16 Feb Location: Llanfrynach outside the Church. Time 09:30-16:30 Grid Ref/Map GR SO 075258 / OL 12 Level Strenuous Weather permitting, a circuit up to Fan y Bîg and Dist. 16km 10m then back down via Cantref Church and its Ascent 600m/1900ft snowdrops ( if they are out ). If weather or road conditions are bad, please telephone the leaders the evening before the walk on 01594 542473. Leader Charles and Helen 07532362872 Henderson

Title: A Winter Wednesday Wander Date & Wed 19 Feb Location: Car park alongside Talybont reservoir Time 10:00-15:00 (not by the dam wall) Grid Ref/Map SO 099197 / OL 12 Level Moderate Amid high hills we will enjoy lower level walking Dist. 14 km. 8.5 miles around the reservoir using tracks and lanes. Ascent Wednesday Wander pace and stops to admire the views. Leader Anthea James 07967886497

Title: and Ysgyryd Fach Date & Fri 21 Feb Location: Time 9:30-16:30 Grid Ref/Map SO 328164 / OL13 Level Energetic An Early Spring Walk linking Large and Little Dist. 19 km 12 m Skirrid Ascent 731 m 2400 ft Leader William Milne 07528701952

Title: Waterfalls, Ridges and Wellington Bomber Crash Site Date & Sat 22 Feb Location: Pont Blaen-y-Glyn Car Park Time 09:30-02:30 Grid Ref/Map 063 171 / OL12 Level Energetic Initially up past waterfalls of Blaen-y-Glyn then a Dist. 12 km / 7.5 miles narrow and muddy path to the open valley. We Ascent 540 m / 1800 ft head east on boggy ground to path and steep ascent to Gwalciau’r Cwm for Coffee Stop. We continue on ridge to Carn Pica then head to crash site for lunch. Return via ridges of Graig Fan Las and Craig Fan Ddu then forest trail to cars. Leader Nick Trew 07568396555

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Title: Rhondda Wander Date & Wed 26 Feb Location: Penpych Woodland Car Park Time 10:00-14:30 Grid Ref/Map SS 924 991 / Explorer 166 Level Moderate This is a varied walk with Spectacular views of Dist. 9 km / 6 m the Rhondda Fawr Valley. We will visit dramatic Ascent waterfalls, an iron age settlement , pine forests ; look at former industrial landscapes. Leader Stuart & Phil 07858627950

Title: Craig y Llyn Date & Fri 28 Feb Location: Dare Valley Country Park – car park Time 09:30-17:00 adjacent café/visitor centre Grid Ref/Map SN 98513 02633 / Explorer 166, Landranger 170 Level Strenuous Footpaths to upland moorland then a scenic Dist. 25km 15.5 miles stretch of the Rhondda Fach. Forestry tracks to Ascent 600m 2,000 ft Craig y Llyn escarpment and fine views of lakes below and Brecon Beacons to the north. Track above Tarren y and more fine views, over Cefn y Llethr Hir then hill farmland and back to Dare Valley Country Park. Please bring a head torch in case of delay. Leader Ceri Jones 07429639546

Title: Pen Allt Mawr / Pen Cerrig-calch Date & Sat 29 Feb Location: Outside CRIC building, Crickhowell Time 09:30-16:30 Grid Ref/Map SO 218184 / OL13 Level Strenuous A steady walk out of town, stopping at the Crug Dist. 19km, 12miles Hywel hillfort and then ascend the Pen Allt Mawr Ascent 950m, 3100ft / Pen Cerrig-calch ridge by way of Cwm Banw and Pen Twyn Glas. Return along Nant Cumbeth. Leader Richard Davies 07986562584

March 2020

Title: Wednesday Wander Holiday, Llangollen Date & Tue 17 – Th 19 Mar Location: The Hand Hotel, Bridge Street, Time Llangollen, UK Level Moderate Now in our fifth year. Staying at The Hand Hotel B&B £45 per person per night or £65 to include dinner. Talk to Fiona or to other Wednesday Wanderers about how fab these mini-breaks are. A wander on Wednesday and shorter walks on the Tuesday afternoon and Thursday morning. Leader Fiona Mc Bain 07979037243

14 GUIDED WALKS & EVENTS WINTER 2019/20

Announcements of new procedures involving Rights of Way changes

In view of The Brecon Beacons National Parks Association’s (NPA) introduction of changes to methods for reporting Rights of Way (ROW) issues to them and notifying us of changes, together with the website www.rowmaps.com becoming outdated, The Society has had to rethink our response. Our own website has been updated, introducing the changes shown below.

Reporting a ROW issue. We prefer that you do not make the report directly to NPA. The benefit of me making the report on your behalf is that I will receive a reference number enabling me to liaise with NPA to monitor progress for you. I can also post the information on our website, conveying the problem to other members, especially Leaders who will find it helpful. It requires you to undertake a little work for the benefit of all members. You will recognise the frustrations of negotiating a damaged stile, a fallen tree, vicious farm dogs, or a locked and barb-wired gate, just a few of the hazards we encounter!

1, It is important to be able to identify the site of the problem. (NPA) have created a ‘ PROW Explorer’ which gives all ROW a code number. You can access the PROW Explorer and definitive map by following this link -https://rightsofway.beacons-npa.gov.uk/?lng=en . On doing so, you will be asked - “Have you had trouble with a public right of way you'd like to tell us about? Using our explorer, navigate to the place in question as accurately as possible and report it. We will then look into this issue”. Clicking on ‘Next’ will take you to Terms & Conditions. By accepting the T&Cs, it will allow you to see the map with details of all ROW in Beacons.

2, In the top left corner, are + and – symbols. Clicking + enables you to focus more on the offending ROW. By clicking on that ROW, you will see a message, an example of which is below. Bridleway Public right of way code 4/22/2 Report issue here

Although you are entitled to report the issue directly to BBNPA, we ask you please, not to. By moving the cursor to the exact spot on the ROW, you will see that in the bottom right of your screen, it will show a 10-digit grid reference. Make a note of both the ROW code, (in the above prompt it is 4/22/2) and the 10-digit grid reference. A 10-digit reference identifies 1-metre square.

3, With that information, visit the Brecon Beacons Parks Society (BBPS) website https://www.breconbeaconsparksociety.org and look for the menu ‘ROW issues’. You will be invited to Report a Footpath (ROW) Problem. Complete the form providing the required information and include the ROW code and the 10 digit grid reference. This form will then go to the ROW officer. Should you experience a problem, complete the form as best you can and the ROW officer will contact you. If you are happy to, include your phone number also. To access details of temporary ROW issues. From time to time, NPA announces temporary changes to ROW for a variety of reasons and these can be viewed by following this link. https://www.beacons-npa.gov.uk/environment/planning-access-and-row/temporary-rights-of-way- closures/ Additionally, I receive directly from NPA applications and notices and I post these on our own website. They usually come to me in 3 A4 pages which I summarise for our website and invite members to contact me if they would like the full documents forwarded to them.

Phil O’Shea ROW officer

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MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION

The Brecon Beacons Park Society

About the Society Membership is open to anyone who is interested in enjoying and in caring for the Brecon Beacons National Park. We work with the Park Authority and like-minded bodies on issues where we have something to contribute – the extent of which is largely up to our members. Planning & development, archaeology, geology, flora & fauna, night skies, dry stone walls, footpaths – whatever your interest – do come and join us. Who can join? Anyone over the age of 18 can join. Younger members are also welcome, but a responsible adult must accompany them on all activities. Membership Annual Membership. Individual: £15.00 per annum. Family: £22.00 per annum.

Life membership is available.

Members receive our half-yearly magazine, The Beacon and a quarterly Programme of Guided Walks and Events. Both are free to Members.

How to join Our website sets out the procedure for membership, with the annual sub being paid by direct debit. Payment by cheque is also available.

Membership enquiries to: Ben Sladen Tel: 01568 612556 email: [email protected]