Cymdeithas Parc Bannau Brycheiniog Brecon Beacons Park Society www.breconbeaconsparksociety.org GUIDED WALKS AND EVENTS SPRING 2016
Most of these walks go into the hills. Participants are reminded that the following gear must 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 as a result of taking part. An adult must accompany young people (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.
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 16’s, the unemployed and students.
General Enquiries to: Anne Pritchard, tel: 029 2061 0397 e-mail: [email protected]
MEMBERSHIP ENQUIRIES: SEE BACK PAGE REGISTERED CHARITY: 1075345 GUIDED WALKS AND EVENTS SPRING 2016 FEATURES
Welcome to the Brecon Beacons Park Society Guided Walks and Events Programme for Spring 2016, we hope you enjoy it. In addition to the regular four walks per week, our volunteers bring you the following features:
Illustrated Talk: Trails of the South Caucasus, Wed 16th March – see page 4 for details.
CRICKHOWELL WALKING FESTIVAL Saturday 27th February to Sunday 6th March 2016. The Society is contributing a walk on every day of the Festival. Full details are on the website at www.breconbeaconsparksociety.org/walks/guided-walks/ . Booking is essential as numbers are limited. Book your places at http://www.crickhowellfestival.com/ where full details of the programme can also be found. Society Members do not have to pay for walks led by the Park Society, but do need to pay for all other walks and events in the Festival programme, and for transport on linear walks.
WEDNESDAY WANDER HOLIDAY, Oxwich, 15th - 17th March. See the Multi-Day Walks page of the website for details or contact Anthea Scott: [email protected] or 07967 886497.
CAMBRIAN WAY 2016. This year the Society’s long-distance trek will be the southern section of the Cambrian Way, from Cardiff to Rhandirmwyn, on the 2nd weekend of each month from May to October. Advance booking is essential as numbers will be limited. Details for May are on page 11. For full details and how to book see the Multi-Day Walks page of the website or contact Rose Davies by email: [email protected] or tel: 01873 855703 / 07807 304718.
A DATE FOR YOUR DIARY. The 24th Annual General Meeting of the Brecon Beacons Park Society will take place on Saturday 25th June 2016 near Hay-on-Wye, in Cusop Village Hall. The usual full day’s programme will be arranged. Members will be notified of details nearer the time.
Don’t forget to check the website for changes or cancellations of walks Whenever possible, any changes will be added to the Guided Walks Programme page for the current month on the website www.breconbeaconsparksociety.org , but the leader may also make changes at their discretion during the walk.
You are strongly advised to check the Mountain weather forecast for the Brecon Beacons National Park before setting out for walks, on the Met Office website: www.metoffice.gov.uk .
If in doubt consult the leader whose name and telephone number are given in the Guided Walks programme.
Start and Finish Times of Walks The Start time given in the programme is the time we will start walking. Please be at the meeting place in time to get kitted up for a prompt start. The Finish time given in the programme is a guide to the time by which we expect to end the walk. Please be prepared for this time to vary due to circumstances on the day.
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GUIDED WALKS AND EVENTS SPRING 2016
MARCH
WEDNESDAY WANDER: MYNYDD LLANGORS
Date: Wednesday 2nd March Meet at the Activity Centre, Gilfach Farm, Llangorse off Level: Moderate the B4560. Please use far car park (free toilets available) Dist: 11km (7miles) GR SO 148267 OS Map OL13. Time: 10.00am – 3.00pm A wander up onto Mynydd Llangors (at Wednesday Leader: ANTHEA SCOTT & Wander pace) to include the trig point and Pen Tir. BARNI Amazing views (we hope!). Back along lanes to the centre Contact: 07967 886497 for a cuppa.
JUST PAST THE PARK: COMMONS AND WOODS ABOVE THE WYE
Date: Friday 4th March From car park at west end of Glasbury bridge GR SO Level: Moderate 178392, just off A438, OS Map OL13. (Parking is also Dist: 18km (11miles) possible in the road near the village hall at SO 177393). Time: 10.00am – 3.30pm A short section of the Wye Valley Walk to Llowes, Leader: CHRIS PLAYFORD followed by a climb through woods and fields to the Contact: 01874 938397 Begwns which we cross to return via Cil Twrch and Ffynnon Gynydd commons.
A WANDER AROUND THE RHIANGOLL VALLEY
Date: Saturday 5th March Meet at Cwmdu village hall (£1 per car) GR SO 180239 Level: Energetic OS Map OL13. Dist: 21km (13miles) A wander up the western side o f the Rhiangoll valley Time: 9.30am – 4.30pm gaining elevation gradually to Pengenffordd before Leader: TIM COULSON returning via Pen Gloch-y-pibwr to Cwmdu. There will be Contact: 01291 641953 a lower level return if the weather is poor. 07778 852946
PAST THE PARK: TOUR de AFAN
Date: Sunday 6th March Meet at car park next to The Refreshment Rooms, The Level: Energetic Old Station, Cymer, Cwm Afan GR SS 860961 OS Dist: 19km (12miles) Explorer Map 166. Lovely walk in the area known locally Ascent: 760m (2500ft) as Little Switzerland, steady climb out of the valley onto Time: 9.30am – 5.00pm moorland (some rough ground in places) to discover a Leader: GARETH LEWIS hidden valley. Extensive views of Vale of Neath and Contact: 07977 537033 Brecon Beacons, returning via Foel Fawr.
WEDNESDAY WANDER PAST THE PARK: DORSTONE AND ARTHUR’S STONE
Date: Wednesday 9th March Meet at Dorstone shop car park GR SO 315416 OS Map Level: Moderate OL13, or on the road nearby if necessary. Dist: 11.5km (7miles) A walk to Merbach Hill with lovely views if f ine, down and Time: 10.00am – 2.00pm round to Bredwardine and back via Arthur’s Stone burial Leader: IAN STEAD chamber. A couple of ascents but nothing too strenuous. Contact: 07833 137096
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GUIDED WALKS AND EVENTS SPRING 2016
AROUND THE GRWYNE FAWR: CRUG MAWR AND GARN WEN
Date: Friday 11th March Meet at Pont Cadwgan car park GR SO 267251 OS Map Level: Energetic OL13. Dist: 19km (12miles) Ascend the southern side of the valley through forestry Time: 9.30am – 4.00pm then follow the ridge to Crug Mawr. Descend to Partrishow Leader: MIKE INGLEBY Church, cross the valley then ascend the northern side of Contact: 01594 562341 the valley to Y Gaer then along the ridge to Garn Wen and 07490 138413 (on the day) Bal Bach, finally descending to Pont Cadwgan.
ANOTHER WALK AROUND LLANTHONY
Date: Saturday 12th March From the car park at Llanthony Priory GR SO 288278 OS Level: Energetic Map OL13. Dist: 15km (9.4miles) Ascend to Bal -Bach, Beacons Way to Garn Wen. Ascent: 660m (2170ft) Continue to Cwmyoy, around the Graig & past Ty-hwnt-y- Time: 9.30am – 4.00pm bwlch & climb to Offa’s Dyke to return to Llanthony. Leader: FRANK SCOTT Contact: 01432 275388 07713 772499
BRO’R SGYDIAU – WATERFALL COUNTRY
Date: Sunday 13th March Meet at the car park next to the New Inn pub in Level: Energetic Ystradfellte GR SN 929134 OS Map OL12. Dist: 20km (12.5miles) We head out towards the ridge and the Iron Age hill fort Time: 9.30am – 5.30pm above Ystradfellte, down to the Nedd Fechan and follow Leader: RICHARD DAVIES its waterfalls to Pontneddfechan. Crossing the Afon Contact: 029 2084 2923 Hepste under Sgwd yr Eira we return along the Afon 07986 562584 Mellte and Porth yr Ogof.
WEDNESDAY WANDERPAST THE PARK: AN OUTING TO OXWICH
Date: Wednesday 16th March Meet at Oxwich Beach car park GR SS 502865 OS Level: Moderate Explorer Map 164. On lanes and paths to Oxwich Point Dist: 13km (8miles) then Wales Coast Path to Port Eynon Bay and ruins of old Time: 10.00am – 3.30pm Salt House. Returning on Wales Coast Path, fields and Leader: FIONA McBAIN lanes. Lovely coastal views. Part of the Wednesday Contact: 07979 037243 Wander Holiday – see Multi-Day Walks page of website. .
ILLUSTRATED TALK: TRAILS OF THE SOUTH CAUCASUS
Date: Wednesday 16th March Answering a call to adventure, Stephen Powell spent Time: 7.30pm much of 2015 in the South Caucasus, walking, riding and Place: Bear Hotel, Crickhowell communing with nature in one of the world’s great Speaker: STEPHEN POWELL mountain ranges. The beauty of the region beguiled him and in his talk he gives the flavour of travel in remote corners of Georgia, Armenia and Azerbaijan. Stephen, who moved recently to Crickhowell, is a veteran Reuters journalist with a passion for walking and wild places.
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GUIDED WALKS AND EVENTS SPRING 2016
OFF THE END OF THE BLORENGE
Date: Friday 18th March Meet in the car park on B4246 at Llanfoist GR SO 286133 Level: Moderate OS Map OL13. Dist: 14km (9miles) We last did this walk in early winter, so let’s see what it’s Time: 10.00am – 3.00pm like in spring. Up the incline, contour round to the Leader: ANNE PRITCHARD Punchbowl, up to the cattle grid, down into a seldom- Contact: 029 2061 0397 visited valley before returning along the canal towpath. 07748 463545
PANT MAWR & SARN HELEN
Date: Saturday 19th March Meet at lay-by at Craig-y-nos on the A4067 GR SN 8424 Level: Energetic 1513 OS Map OL12. Dist: 20km (12miles) Up to the National Nature Reserve, Ogof Ffynnon Ddu, Time: 9.30am – 3.30pm along Sarn Helen, returning via country lanes. Leader: PAULA ACE Contact: 07484 137031
PAST THE PARK: THE TWO OGWRS
Date: Sunday 20th March Park in the Cattle Market in Blackmill GR SS 933867 OS Level: Energetic Explorer Map 166. Parking is free. Turn in by the war Dist: 18km (11miles) memorial and follow the road around to the right and over Time: 9.30am – 4.00pm the bridge to the car park. The walk climbs out of Leader: ARNY WILLIAMS Blackmill and up Cwm Ogwr Fawr to Ogmore Vale, then Contact: 07976 483329 goes up Cwm Y Fuwch to drop down to Gilfach Goch in Cwm Ogwr Fach. We will return via the farmsteads of Maendy, Cae Rosser and Pant Y Gynt.
WEDNESDAY WANDER: BOTH SIDES OF THE VALLEY
Date: Wednesday 23rd March Meet at the Fro car park GR SO 292200 OS Map OL13 Level: Moderate (between Bettws and Forest Coal Pit) for a walk down to Dist: 11km (7miles) Five-ways and on up to Partrishow for a coffee stop. We Time: 10.00am – 3.00pm then cross the valley and pass two interesting chapels Leader: ROS GRANT and the Pant before returning to the cars on tracks and Contact: 01873 854894 lanes. Some ups and downs but at a lower level. 07773 262068
WALES MOST SOUTHERLY 2000ft PEAK
Date: Frid ay 25th March From parking space next to north end of Pontsticill Level: Moderate reservoir (just off Pontsticill – Talybont road) GR SO Dist: 17km (10.5miles) 054144 OS Map OL12. Time: 10.00am – 3.00pm Taff Trail through woods to Pontsticill, across dam to Leader: CHRIS PLAYFORD Merthyr common, past Inscribed stone and up to the Contact: 01874 938397 seldom visited Carn Felen trig point (617m, 2024ft). Return via quarries and Cwm Callan.
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GUIDED WALKS AND EVENTS SPRING 2016
CONTOURING AROUND CWM BANW
Date: Saturday 26th March Meet at Crickhowell High School GR SO 216185 OS Map Level: Strenuous OL13. Walking up onto the Black Mountains above Dist: 19.5km (12miles) Crickhowell and following the ridge around to Pen allt- Ascent: 952m (3125ft) mawr. Dropping back towards the Grwyne Fechan then a Time: 9.30am – 5.00pm final climb up to Table Mountain. Any climbs will be taken Leader: GARETH LEWIS at a relaxed pace mostly on good paths and sections of Contact: 07977 537033 the Beacons Way.
PAST THE PARK: ELAN RAIL, DROVER AND QUARRY TRACKS
Date: Sunday 27th March Joint walk with Elan Valley Trust. Level: Moderate / Energetic Meet at Elan Valley Visitor Centre (parking charge), 5km Dist: 20km (12.5miles) SW of Rhayader, GR SN 928646 OS Explorer Map 200. Ascent: 300m (985ft) Although this walk is mostly on tracks, some are rough Time: 9.30am – 4.30pm and there is a stream and wet patches to traverse. Leader: ANDREW LEONARD N.B. British Summer Time begins today. Contact: 01874 620186
THE EASTER MONDAY BASH
Date: Monday 28th March Park in the Dragons Back pub car park in Pengenffordd Level: Strenuous (charge) GR SO 174296 OS Map OL13. Dist: 29km (18miles) We walk from the pub to Talgarth, on to Felindre, Ros Time: 9.00am – 6.00pm Fawr, up Rhiw Cwmstab, down Y Grib and back to the pub Leader: MALCOLM WINNEY which is sure to be shut. Strenuous for its length rather Contact: 07971 296699 than ascent. 029 2062 8861
WEDNESDAY WANDER PAST THE PARK: WOODS & FIELDS ABOVE THE WYE VALLEY
Date: Wednesday 30th March Meet in the car park on Beacon Hill east of Trellech Level: Moderate GR SO 511052 OS Map OL 14 (From Trellech, take the Dist: 11km (7miles) road next to the Lion Inn signposted ‘The Narth’. After 0.9 Time: 10.00am – 2.30pm miles turn right. Car park on left after 0.5 miles). Leader: FRANK COOK A walk in the Wy e Valley AONB to enjoy, we hope, the Contact: 07789 165339 early arrival of Spring, a bit of nature and a bit of 01600 860582 history. Every likelihood of a pub stop.
APRIL
FELIX RETURNED
Date: Friday 1st April Meet at Black Hill car park GR SO 288328 OS Map OL13. Level: Strenuous Cross the Olchon Valley then ascend the Hatterrall Ridge Dist: 21km (13miles) then descend to Capel y Ffin. After an initial short steep Time: 10.00am – 4.30pm ascent, we follow a gently rising route through the Leader: MIKE INGLEBY delightful Cwm Nant Bwch. Then over Twmpa, Hay Bluff Contact: 01594 562341 and the Black Hill before Felix takes us back to the start 07490 138413 (on the day) where we remember the date.
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GUIDED WALKS AND EVENTS SPRING 2016
LINEAR WALK: UP HILL AND DOWN DALE
Date: Saturday 2nd Apr il Meet Abergavenny Bus Station GR SO 301140 OS Map Level: Strenuous OL13, in time to catch the 09.30 bus to Hereford (there is Dist: 21km (13miles) a parking charge here, but there is free parking nearby). Time: 9.30am – 5.00pm Alight ing at Llanvihangel Crucorney we make our way Leader: WENDY WINNEY back to Abergavenny walking up some hills and down Contact: 029 2062 8861 some dales. Well behaved dogs only, and strictly by prior 07773 389561 arrangement.
MYNYDD PEN-CYRN
Date: Sunday 3rd April Start in Park Road by Llangatwg Park GR S0 212177 OS Level: Moderate Map OL13. Dist: 16km (10miles) Walk to the summit of Mynydd Pen-Cyrn via the Time: 10.00am – 4.00pm Llangatwg Escarpment and quarries and returning along Leader: ROBERT SHORT an old parish road, footpaths, canal and fields to Contact: 01495 718254 Llangatwg. 07976 885132
WEDNESDAY WANDER PAST THE PARK: LLANDEGFEDD RESERVOIR TRAIL
Date: Wednesday 6th April Meet at the East car park (above Visitor Centre) GR ST Level: Moderate 329985 OS Explorer Map 152 for a clockwise circuit of Dist: 10.5km (6.5miles) Llandegfedd Reservoir. Through woodland, fields and on Time: 10.00am – 2.30pm lanes and tracks. Binoculars may be handy for a spot of Leader: ROS GRANT bird watching and dogs will need to be kept on a lead Contact: 01873 854894 most of the time. The Visitor Centre has a cafe with a view 07773 262068 for a cuppa at the end.
BOTH SIDES OF THE USK VALLEY
Date: Friday 8th April Park in Crickhowell main car park behind CRiC GR SO Level: Energetic 218184 OS Map OL13. Walk proceeds through Dist: 21km (13miles) Llangattock, the canal and Usk Valley Walk before Time: 10.00am – 4.30pm descending to Glan Usk Estate. Across the A40 we Leader: JILL TAYLOR ascend, via Cwm Gu, onto the Beacons Way where we Contact: 01873 840668 head north and up, off-piste, to Pen Gloch-y-Pibwr. Back via Pen Cerrig-Calch.
BEACONS HORSESHOE
Date: Saturday 9th April Meet st the Upper Blaen y Glyn car park GR SO 056176 Level: Strenuous on the Merthyr to Talybont road OS Map OL12. Dist: 19km (12miles) Over rough ground to the Lower Neuadd Reservoir Ascent: 1100m (3600ft) followed by a steepish ascent onto the Craig Fan Ddu Time: 9.30am – 5.30pm ridge. The route takes in the peaks of Corn Du, Pen y Leader: RICHARD DAVIES Fan, Cribyn and Fan y Big. If time allows we will return by Contact: 029 2084 2923 way of the aircraft memorial site, Cwar y Gigfran and 07986 562584 Caerfanell waterfalls.
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GUIDED WALKS AND EVENTS SPRING 2016
THE ROUND PART 1
Date: Sunday 10th April Park near the cricket ground in Avenue Road Level: Strenuous Abergavenny GR SO 292150 OS Map OL13. Dist: 21km (13miles) Up and across the Deri, down to Bettws, up and over Bryn Time: 9.30am – 5.00pm Arw, down to Forest Coal Pit, up The Sugar Loaf, along Leader: MALCOLM WINNEY Llanwenarth Breast, down into St Mary’s Vale and back. Contact: 07971 296699 029 2062 8861
WEDNESDAY WANDER: VALE OF GLAMORGAN MILLENNIUM HERITAGE TRAIL (continued from 2015 programme) Part 5: LLANTWIT MAJOR to MONKNASH
Date: Wednesday 13th April Meet outside the Plough & Harrow pub at Monknash GR Level: Moderate SS 920705 OS Explorer Map 151 post code CF71 1QQ. Dist: 12km (7.5miles) As ever, we will car share to the start point. Time: 10.00am – 3.00pm A varied route encompassing town, country and coast, Leader: PETER HATHERLEY with much of historical interest – three medieval churches, Contact: 01656 662196 two medieval dovecotes, one castle, an iron-age fort, and 07742 067247 one of Wales’ great pubs to finish.
THE BRYN
Date: Friday 15th April Meet at the car park halfway along Talybont Reservoir GR Level: Energetic SO 099197 OS Map OL12. Initially a gentle stroll across Dist: 17km (10.6miles) the dam and along the Brinore Tramroad, before crossing Time: 10.00am – 4.30pm the river and climbing steadily through fields and woods, Leader: DAVID THOMAS with lovely views of the Usk Valley. Then heading north up Contact: 01873 812011 to the summit of the Bryn, with its panoramic view of the 07711 647381 Black Mountains. Back down via woods, a lane and fields.
BBPS/BBNP FOOTPATH VOLUNTEERS DAY – WORK AND WALK!
Date: Saturday 16th April Meet at Llanthony Priory car park GR SO 289278 OS Map Time: 9.30am OL13 at 9.30 to collect tools for footpath repair in the Leader: ROS GRANT Llanthony Valley. After a morning working we hope to fit in Contact: 01873 854894 a short walk in the afternoon. 07773 262068 Booking is necessary by email or phone as numbers are [email protected] limited to 8.
PAST THE PARK: THE LLYNFI AND GARW VALLEYS
Date: Sunday 17th April Park in the Cattle Market in Blackmill GR SS 933867 OS Level: Energetic Explorer Map 166. Parking is free. Turn in by the war Dist: 22.5km (14miles) memorial and follow the road around to the right and Time: 9.30am – 5.00pm over the bridge to the car park. The walk climbs out of Leader: ARNY WILLIAMS Blackmill and up the Llynfi valley, crossing over to the Contact: 07976 483329 steep sided Garw valley and up on to Mynydd Llangeinor before dropping down to Blackmill.
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GUIDED WALKS AND EVENTS SPRING 2016
WEDNESDAY WANDER: SPRINGTIME AROUND CRICKHOWELL
Date: Wednesday 20th April Meet outside the Crickhowell Resource and Information Level: Moderate Centre (CRiC) GR SO 218184 OS Map OL13. Dist: 11km (7miles) This Springtime walk follows lanes and fields above Time: 10.00am – 2.30pm Crickhowell before returning via Glanusk Estate and the Leader: FIONA McBAIN Brecon and Monmouthshire Canal. Contact: 07979 037243 Refreshments on return at the Bear.
CARREG GOCH
Date: Friday 22nd April Meet at the lay-by off A4067 alongside The Gwyn Arms Level: Energetic GR SN 846165 OS Map OL12. Dist: 18km (11.5miles) A steady climb onto Carreg Goch and onto Tyle Garw Time: 9.30am – 4.00pm returning over the Cribarth. Some rough ground. Leader: PAULA ACE Contact: 07484 137031
FAN HIR AND CEFN CUL FROM GLYNTAWE
Date: Saturday 23rd April Meet at the lay-by off A4067 alongside The Gwyn Arms Level: Strenuous GR SN 846165 OS Map OL12. Dist: 21km (13miles) At the start of this walk a steep ascent leads us onto Fan Time: 9.30am – 5.00pm Hir where you will be rewarded with spectacular views of Leader: ROB PRITCHARD Y Mynydd Du, from here a descent to Llyn Y Fan Fawr Contact: 07773 713605 and a visit to find the source of the River Tawe before ascending Cefn Cul then returning along a section of the old Neath and Brecon railway will end the day.
CWM TAF FECHAN & LLWYN-ON
Date: Sunday 24th April Meet Cefn-coed-y-cymmer car park New Church St GR Level: Energetic SO 032080 OS Map OL12. Dist: 19km (12miles) A varied walk including Faenor, Cwm Nant y Glais, up to Time: 9.30am – 4.00pm Garn Ddu, across A470 to skirt Llwyn-On reservoir, Leader: CLIVE COUNSELL returning by Taff Trail. Contact: 07971 649022
WEDNESDAY WANDER: WILDLIFE AROUND USK RESERVOIR
Date: Wednesday 27th April Meet at the picnic tables on the SE corner of the Usk Level: Moderate Reservoir dam GR SN 834286 OS Map OL12. Dist: 11km (7miles) A mixture of open water, moorland and conifer. Bring Time: 10.00am – 3.30pm binoculars. Leader: IAN ROWAT Contact: 07794 939944
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GUIDED WALKS AND EVENTS SPRING 2016
WALK ON THE SKYLINE
Date: Friday 29th April Car park opposite Tafarn-y-Garreg GR SO 848172 OS Level: Energetic/Strenuous Map OL12. Walk North then West below the escarpment Dist: 19km (12miles) on rough and sometimes boggy ground, to pass Llyn y Time: 10.00am – 4.00pm Fan Fawr and Llyn y Fan Fach. Climb onto the ridge and Leader: HELEN FLETCHER return along the top of the magnificent escarpment. Contact: 01874 665623 Hoping for good visibility to enjoy the best views in the 07726 242137 Park. Possibility of a drink afterwards at the Tafarn.
LLANGYNIDR TO BRECON LINEAR
Date: Saturday 30th April Meet at Brecon Bus Interchange GR SO 048285 OS Map Level: Energetic/Strenuous OL12 to take the 8.56 Stagecoach 43 service to Dist: 23km (14miles) Llangynidr arriving 9.23. The route back to Brecon will be Ascent: 900m (2952ft) over Tor y Foel and Pen y Bryn. Time: 8.45am – 5.30pm Please check on Traveline Cymru or with the leader Leader: SOO TURNBULL before the day in case bus times change. Bring Welsh Contact: 01874 622136 bus pass/cash.
MAY
THREE VALLEYS & PEAKS
Date: Sunday 1st May Meet Cwm Gwdi (old army camp) car park GR SO 024248 Level: Strenuous OS Map OL12. Dist: 15km (9.5miles) Into Cwm Sere, steeply up to Bryn Teg – Cribyn, then Pen Ascent: 940m (3082ft) y Fan, Corn Du & back via Cwm Llwch’s waterfalls. Some Time: 10.00am – 4.30pm steep rough ground, good paths & some poorer tracks. Leader: CLIVE COUNSELL Contact: 029 2048 9061 07971 649022
BANK HOLIDAY PAST THE PARK: CHAPELS’ CIRCUIT
Date: Monday 2nd May Meet at the Village Hall at Upper Chapel on the B4520 Level: Moderate halfway between Brecon and Builth GR SO 007406 OS Dist: 18km (11miles) Explorer Map 188, parking on South side of minor road to Time: 10.00am – 4.30pm the West of village. Leader: ANDREW LEONARD Paths and tracks either side of the Honddu linked by Contact: 01874 620186 some minor road walking.
WEDNESDAY WANDER: AROUND CWM SERE BENEATH PEN Y FAN
Date: Wednesday 4th May Meet Cwm Gwdi (old army camp) car park GR SO 024248 Level: Moderate OS Map OL12. Dist: 10km (6miles) Contour round Allt Ddu to Cwm Sere. Back through Time: 10.00am – 2.30pm farmland and lanes. Spectacular views of Pen y Fan & Leader: IAU COUNSELL Cribyn from this little-visited valley. Contact: 07976 697495 No steep climbs.
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GUIDED WALKS AND EVENTS SPRING 2016
A TALYBONT HORSESHOE
Date: Friday 6th May Meet at Upper Blaen-y-glyn car park GR SO 056176 OS Level: Energetic/Strenuous Map OL12. Head over Cefn Tarenni Cochion, descend Dist: 22.5km (14miles) Pen Bwlch Glasgwm and follow broad ridge to Tor y Foel. Time: 10.00am – 4.30pm Descend to cross valley by reservoir dam then ascend to Leader: MIKE INGLEBY Carn Pica and cross Waun Rydd. Continue along the Contact: 01594 562341 edge of Graig Fan Las and Craig y Fan Ddu, finally 07490 138413 (on the day) descending along the Beacons Way to Blaen-y-glyn.
THE THREE DARRENS
Date: Saturday 7th May From the car park at Llanthony Priory GR SO 288278 OS Level: Energetic Map OL13. Dist: 19km (11.8miles) Follow the valley south to Daren-uchaf & the Cwmyoy Ascent: 660m (2170ft) Darren. Ascend Hatterrall Hill & follow Offa’s Dyke path Time: 9.30am – 4.30pm north. Descend to Black Darren & Red Daren then climb Leader: FRANK SCOTT back up to Offa’s Dyke path & back down to Llanthony. Contact: 01432 275388 07713 772499
CAMBRIAN WAY DAY 1: CARDIFF to MACHEN
Date: Saturday 7th May Meet at Machen village hall car park, The Crescent, Level: Energetic Machen GR ST 209891 OS Explorer Map 152, CF83 8ND, Dist: 27km (17miles) to arrange car share to C aerphilly Railway Station, we will Ascent: 480m (1600ft) then catch the train to Cardiff Bay Railway Station. Time: 9.00am – 6.00pm The walk will start from Pier Head following the Taff Trail, Leaders: GARETH LEWIS passing along the way Cardiff Castle, City of Llandaff and ANDREW LEONARD the Cathedral, Castell Coch and later joining th e Rhymney Contact: 07977 537033 Ridgeway Path. (Please bring rail passes and/or Welsh Concessionary Travel pass). Booking essential. All walkers are expected to participate in car sharing, which will be arranged on the day. To book and for further information contact Rose Davies [email protected] 07807 304718.
CAMBRIAN WAY DAY 2: MACHEN to PONTYPOOL
Date: Sunday 8th May Meet at Pontypool Leisure Centre car park GR SO Level: Energetic 286006 OS Explorer Map 152 NP4 8AT, for car-share to Dist: 18km (11.2miles) Machen village hall (as above). Ascent: 770m (2526ft) From Machen to Pontypool, the high points being Mynydd Time: 9.30am – 5.00pm Machen, Twmbarlwm and ‘Mountain Air’. Leaders: ANNE PRITCHARD Booking essential. All walkers are expected to ANDREW LEONARD participate in car sharing, which will be arranged on Contact: 029 2061 0397 the day. To book and for further information contact 07748 463545 Rose Davies [email protected] 07807 304718.
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GUIDED WALKS AND EVENTS SPRING 2016
AROUND CWMWYSG
Date: Sunday 8th May From Pont ar Wysg car park GR SN 8200 2715 OS Map Level: Moderate OL12. Dist: 14km (9miles) A circular walk around the Usk Reservoir , along country Time: 10.00am – 4.00pm roads and fields, skirting the edge of the mountain Leader: ANGELA MORGAN before returning through the forestry to the car park. Contact: 07801 915707
WEDNESDAY WANDER: VALE OF GLAMORGAN MILLENNIUM HERITAGE TRAIL Part 6: MONKNASH to EWENNY PRIORY
Date: Wednesday 11th May Meet outside Ewenny Priory GR SS 912777 OS Explorer Level: Moderate Map 151. Car share to start point. Dist: 14.5km (9miles) The route continues along the spectacular Glamorgan Time: 10.00am – 3.30pm Heritage Coast and then turns inland to cross the ancient Leader: PETER HATHERLEY Ffordd y Gyfraith in St Bride’s Major, finishing at Contact: 01656 662196 the fortified priory church in Ewenny. 07742 067247
LINEAR BETWEEN HAY-ON-WYE AND TALGARTH
Date: Friday 13th May Meet in Talgarth car park GR SO 154337 OS Map OL13, Level: Energetic walk to bus stop near town square to take 9.31am Dist: 18-21km (11-13miles) Stagecoach bus, arriving in Hay at 9.51am. Walk on Time: 9.15am – 4.30pm Offa’s Dyke path, Three Rivers Ride then tracks to Pen Leader: JILL TAYLOR Rhos Dirion. Descend to east of Cwm Cwnstab. Distance Contact: 01873 840668 dependent on weather. PLEASE CHECK WEBSITE IN MAY IN CASE OF BUS TIMETABLE CHANGES
EXPLORE THE WAUN FIGNEN FELEN AREA WITH ARWEL MICHAEL
Date: Saturda y 14th May Meet at Craig-y-nos Country Park GR SN 840155 OS Map Level: Energetic OL12 (free parking in lay-by south of castle). Follow the Dist: 16km (10miles) Rottenstone workings around base of Carreg Goch, a dry Time: 10.00am – 5.00pm valley to Waun Fignen Felen, Cefn Rhudd, cross the Afon Leaders: DILYS HARLOW Giedd to Carnau Gwys to a disappearing stream, Bronze ARWEL MICHAEL Age cist & Sinc y Giedd. Finally climb Disgwylfa & Carreg Contact: 01454 775731 Goch to return over Cribarth. Rough walking guaranteed.
WEST OF THE RHIANGOLL
Dat e: Sunday 15th May Meet at the Dragons Back Inn car park Pengenffordd Level: Strenuous (parking charge) GR SO 174296 OS Map OL13. Dist: 21km (13miles) Mynydd Llangorse, Clwydygraig, Cwm Sorgwm and the Time: 9.30am – 4.00pm shoulders of Mynydd Troed. Exact route will depend on Leader: CERIDWEN COULSON conditions. Contact: 01291 641953 07912 849079
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GUIDED WALKS AND EVENTS SPRING 2016
WEDNESDAY WANDER: A SCRATCH ON THE CAT’S BACK
Date: Wednesday 18th May Meet at the Black Hill picnic site GR SO 288328 OS Map Level: Moderate OL13. Initially after a steep ascent onto the ridge known Dist: 10km (6.5miles) as the Cat’s Back, this walk will continue along the ridge Time: 10.00am – 2.30pm and out to the Trig Point at 640m (2101ft). The walk will Leader: FIONA McBAIN then descend into the Olchon Valley and return to the Contact: 07979 037243 picnic site via a bridle way and quiet lanes. Some paths may be rocky. All ascents and descents to be taken at WW pace.
TALYBONT RESERVOIR ROUND
Date: Friday 20th May Park in the Upper Blaen-y-glyn car park GR SO 056175 Level: Strenuous OS Map OL12. Dist: 21km (13miles) A high level circuit of the lake with (potentially) great Time: 9.30am – 4.30pm views!! Leader: TIM COULSON Contact: 01291 641953 07778 852946
PAST THE PARK: GORLLWYN AND DRYGARN FAWR
Date: Saturday 21st May Meet at Llanerch y Cawr car park, 10km SW of Rhayader, Level: Energetic/Strenuous GR SN 901616 OS Explorer Map 200. Dist: 20km (12.5miles) Walking over varied terrain in the Elenydd. Today is this Ascent: 450m (1480ft) leader’s last walk for the Society; it will end with a Time: 9.30am – 5.00pm (voluntary) celebratory visit to the Llanerch y Cawr Leader: ANDREW LEONARD longhouse. Contact: 01874 620186
SGWD DDU AND SINC Y GIEDD
Date: Sunday 22nd May Meet at the lay-by off A4067 alongside The Gwyn Arms Level: Energetic GR SN 846165 OS Map 012. Dist: 14km (9miles) A steady climb over Dan Yr Ogof to Sgwd Ddu waterfall Time: 9.30am – 3.30pm and Sinc Y Giedd returning over Cribarth. Leader: PAULA ACE Contact: 07484 137031
WEDNESDAY WANDER PAST THE PARK: CAERWENT CIRCULAR
Date: Wednesday 25th May Meet in the car park at the western end of the village GR Level: Moderate ST 467906 OS Map OL14. Dist: 11km (7miles) A walk into the countryside to the south of the village Time: 10.00am – 3.30pm followed by a circuit of the walls and a visit to the Roman Leader: RICHARD DAVIES remains. Contact: 029 2084 2923 07986 562584
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GUIDED WALKS AND EVENTS SPRING 2016
AROUND THE BIG CWM
Date: Friday 27th May Start from my cottage in Llanfrynach, y ou will need to park Level: Energetic/Strenuous on the road nearby GR SO 075258 OS Map OL12. Dist: 16km (10miles) Start with a long, steady climb of just over 600m up to Time: 9.30am – 4.00pm Bwlch y Ddwyallt. Then westwards around the huge rim o f Leader: HELEN FLETCHER Craig Cwm Oergwm to Fan y Big with stupendous views. Contact: 01874 665623 Then descend very carefully along Cefn Cyff and back 07726 242137 across fields to Llanfrynach. At the end of the walk there will be a choice of tea and cake at Magpie Cottage, and/or a drink at the White Swan.
PAST THE PARK: CROSSING THE GREAT DIVIDE
Date: Saturday 28th May Park where convenient and meet at Chepstow Bus Station Level: Strenuous GR ST 531938 OS Map OL14 in time to catch the 10.10 Dist: 26km (16miles) bus to Monmouth. Alighting at Redbrook we take a Time: 10.00am – 6.30pm circuitous route using paths on both sides of the Wye Leader: WENDY WINNEY Valley. Contact: 029 2062 8861 Well behaved dogs only and strictly by prior arrangement. 07773 389561
PAST THE PARK: THE COTSWOLDS RE-VISITED
Date: Sunday 29th May Park in Wotton-Under-Edge free car park GR ST 756933 Level: Energetic/Strenuous OS Map 167. Dist: 24km (15miles) A lovely walk in The Cotswolds from Wotton to D ursley, Time: 9.30am – 5.30pm on to Uley and back. This time last year the woods were Leader: MALCOLM WINNEY white with wild garlic, a terrific site and worth bringing a Contact: 07971 296699 camera. 029 2062 8861
BANK HOLIDAY PAST THE PARK: UP THE HILL FORTS BACKWARDS
Date: Monday 30th May Meet Dinedor Village Hall (£2 car park fee) GR SO Level: Moderate 537367 OS Explorer Map 189. A reverse repeat of last Dist: 14km (8.5miles) summer’s walk. Two gentle ascents, lovely views if fine. Time: 10.30am – 3.30pm From Dinedor to Aconbury hillfort, along the Ridgeway Leader: IAN STEAD then up to Dinedor Camp hillfort and back to the village. Contact: 07833 137096 Tea and cakes in the village hall afterwards for a small donation.
This programme is available to view or download from the website. If you no longer wish to receive a posted hard copy, please advise Ben Sladen on [email protected] .
The Park Society’s walks and events programme, details of changes to walks, links to mountain weather forecasts, and much more, can be found on: www.breconbeaconsparksociety.org.
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GUIDED WALKS AND EVENTS SPRING 2016
COURSES
The Brecon Beacons Park Society offers a series of two-day courses, which cover the basics of navigation for hill walkers – from understanding maps and using a compass to more advanced skills such as GPS potential and relocation strategies.
COURSES 2016
GET LOST – Saturday 18 th June and Sunday 19 th June
A two-day basic navigation course From 10:00am to 5:00pm Saturday and Sunday. The Get Lost Course is limited to 10 places. This usually gets filled up some time in advance so it is essential to check for availability and to reserve a place on the course as early as possible
GET LOST AGAIN – TO BE ARRANGED
A two-day more advanced navigation course From 10.00am to 5.00pm Saturday and 1pm to 8pm Sunday
The cost of either course is £20 per person for Members of the Society or £30 per person for Non-Members. The balance of £20 per person to be paid on the first day of the course to cover room hire, administration and the provision of tea and coffee. Any surplus will go to Park Society funds. Members should provide their Membership Number (Family Membership and Under 18 applies) when booking. Non-Members need to send a non-refundable cheque for £10 for each person made out to “The Brecon Beacons Park Society” and sent to:
Ian Smith 5 Challacombe Place Newton Swansea SA3 4TN
Further information about Navigation Courses can be found on: www.breconbeaconsparksociety.org
For more information or to reserve a place: Telephone: Ian Smith on 01792 368609 or e-mail: [email protected]
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GUIDED WALKS AND EVENTS SPRING 2016 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, Hon. Treasurer 2 Presbytery Close, Leominster HR6 8QP Tel: 01568 612556 email: [email protected]
Further information about the Park Society can be found on: www.breconbeaconsparksociety.org
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