Cymdeithas Parc Bannau Brycheiniog Beacons Park Society www.breconbeaconsparksociety.org GUIDED WALKS AND EVENTS SPRING 2020 (March - May)

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

GUIDED WALKS AND EVENTS SPRING 2020 (March - May) Welcome to the guided walks and events programme for Spring 2020.

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. Note an Easter Monday walk and even a short bilingual poetry walk.

Snippets

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 Brecon Beacons National Park to repair footpaths and help with conservation. The next day is in April and if you are interested contact [email protected]

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).

Car sharing

Sensible of our own carbon footprint we encourage car sharing. We have established embryonic BBPS car share groups that now need members. All you need in order to join is a smartphone, the “WhatsApp” phone application (free), and to join the BBPS group(s) that best suit your location. Members will have received an email about this.

You do this by sending a Message or email, or even a WhatsApp message, to Clive Counsell (07971 649022, [email protected]) saying which group(s) you wish to join but make sure that your mobile phone number is included.

Beacons Way 2020.

A guided 8-day trek is being organised from Sat 18th to Sat 25th July 2020. Places are limited and booking is essential. Please see the Short Breaks and Multi-day Walks page of the Guided Walks section on the BBPS website for further details, or contact Anne Pritchard at [email protected] / 07748 463545.

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GUIDED WALKS AND EVENTS SPRING 2020 (March - May) March 2020

Title: Cwm Oergwm from Brecon Date Sun 1 Mar Location: Dinas Rd Car Park, Brecon Time 10:00-16:00 Grid Ref/Map SO 043 285 / OL 12 What 3 words twist.pampering.riddle Level Energetic Brecon to Cantref and up Cwm Oergwm back down to Dist. 18.6 km 11.6 m and back via Abercynrig. Essentially the Ascent 456m 1415 ft same walk as next Wednesday Wander but extended up Cwm Oergwm. Car Park charges £4 for day.

Leader nic groombridge 07711604142

Title: Cantref, Llanfrynach and Abercynrig Date Wed 4 Mar Location: Theatr Brycheiniog car park Time 10:00-15:00 Grid Ref/Map SO 046 282 / OL 12 What 3 words flood.refills.brave Level Moderate Starting from Theatr Brycheiniog car park (charges) Dist. 8 m 13 km along Usk and over Llanfaes bridge past College and Ascent 280m / 920ft max up Cantref lane to Cantref. Coffee in churchyard then along Nant Menasgin to Llanfrynach, lunch in churchyard and visit Tŷ Bach (contributions welcome) then to Abercynrig Mill and woods to Brecon. If your dog can handle a couple of stiles come along.

Leader nic groombridge 07711604142

Title: ILLUSTRATED TALK: On (and Off!) the Map Date Wed 4 Mar Location: The Manor Hotel, Crickhowell Time 19:30-21:00 Level Mike Parker is author of numerous books, including Dist. the Rough Guide to , the bestselling Map Ascent Addict, The Wild Rover (a hymn of praise to the humble footpath), Real and his new book, On the Red Hill. In an illustrated talk, Mike will take us on a journey through the places and topics that have inspired him over the years. Leader Janet Callear 01874636116

Title: The Waterfalls Circuit Date Fri 6 Mar Location: On Road near The Angel Inn Time 09:30-17:00 Pontneddfechan (Do NOT park in their car park). what3words:- shoelaces.crispy.rash Grid Ref/Map SN 900 076 / OL12 Level Energetic We visit the Sychryd valley, follow the Afon Mellte to Dist. 19km (11.5m) the gunpowder factory and on to and under Sgwd yr Ascent 457m (1,500ft) Eira. Then more falls on the Mellte before a short, easy but muddy scramble. We return via the falls of the and Pyrddin rivers. A beautiful walk but requiring good, grippy soles and careful walking. No dogs. Bring a head torch Leader Clive Counsell 07971649022

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GUIDED WALKS AND EVENTS SPRING 2020 (March - May)

Title: Sugar Loaf and Mynyd Pen y Fal Date Sat 7 Mar Location: Upper wide end Chapel Road Time 10:00-15:30 Grid Ref/Map SO291152 / OL13 Level Energetic A brisk early spring walk up St Mary’s Vale then Dist. 10 miles 16 km around the slopes of the Sugar Loaf before ascending Ascent 550m 1800feet Cwm Bwch to enjoy the panoramic views at the trig point if visibility is good. Leader Peter Robbins 07443119004

Title: check website to see if a walk added Date Sun 8 Mar Location: Time Grid Ref/Map Level Always worth looking on website to see if a walk has Dist. been organised for this date. Ascent Leader

Title: A Wander Around the Blorenge Date Wed 11 Mar Location: Keepers Pond (Pen-ffordd-goch Pond) car Time 10:00-15:00 park, B4246, near Abergavenny Grid Ref/Map SO284109 / OL13 Level Moderate The walk starts from the Pen-ffordd-goch Pond. We Dist. 8 miles 13km will ascend to Blorenge trig point at a Wednesday Ascent 250m 820 feet Wander pace then descend to the Punch Bowl and return to the car park along the old tramways. Leader Peter Robbins 07443119004

Title: The other Carneddau and lesser known Radnorshire hills Date Fri 13 Mar Location: Groe Car Park, Time 10:00-16:00 Grid Ref/Map SO 042511 (Meeting point) / 147 Level Energetic Using shared cars, we will begin 360m up on Gilwern Dist. 13km / 8 miles Hill, between Howey and Hundred House and walk Ascent 300m / 1000' over the Castle Bank hillfort and a series of volcanic hills that make up the Radnorshire Carneddau. They have superb views and make for easy walking as we descend to Builth Wells in the Wye valley. Leader Rob Rees 07914265654

Title: Twmbarlwm and Mynydd Maen Date Sat 14 Mar Location: Park next to the playing fields on the border Time 09:30-17:00 between Risca and Crosskeys. Grid ref ST226914 Grid Ref/Map ST226914 / Explorer OS 152 Level Strenuous The walk will climb to T Twmbarlwm and along Dist. 24km 15m Mynydd Maen, returning via Mynydd Twyn Glas and Ascent 2500 Cwmcarn Leader Arny Williams 07976483329

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GUIDED WALKS AND EVENTS SPRING 2020 (March - May) Title: check website to see if a walk added Date Sun 15 Mar Location: Time 10:00-00:00 Grid Ref/Map Dist. Always worth looking on website to see if a walk has Ascent been organised for this date.

Title: Wednesday Wander Holiday, Llangollen Date Tue/Thurs 17 – 19 Mar Location: The Hand Hotel, Bridge Street, Llangollen, Time UK Grid Ref/Map 0 / 0 Level Now in our fifth year. Staying at The Hand Hotel B&B Dist. A wander on Wednesday and shorter walks on the Ascent Tuesday afternoon and Thursday morning. Leader Fiona Mc Bain 07979037243

Title: Lord Hereford and the constable Date Fri 20 Mar Location: Car Park roughly NW of Hay Bluff (not the Time 10:00-16:00 Gospel Pass one!) Grid Ref/Map SO239373 / OL13 Level Energetic Taking in Twmpa, Rhos Dirion, Rhiw Cwnstab and a 3 Dist. 16K, 10m Rivers Ride return. Ascent 580m, 1900ft Leader Phil O'Shea/Stuart Campbell 07912943881

Title: Cwmdu Circuit Date Sat 21 Mar Location: Cwmdu Village Hall car park Time 09:30-15:30 Grid Ref/Map SO179238 / OL13 Level Strenuous Cwmdu. Pen Tir to Cockit Hill over Mynydd Troed to Dist. 17km 11miles Cwm Sorgwm back via Pen Tir to cars Ascent 1000m /3300 ft Leader Veronica Deacon/Ken Evans 01544318719

Title: - moorland and waterfalls Date Sun 22 Mar Location: Ystradfellte car park next to New Inn Time 10:00-04:30 Grid Ref/Map SN 929 135 / OL12 Level Energetic From the village the route takes us to the hill fort and Dist. 16km, 10 miles onto the Maen Madog standing stone. We then follow Ascent 500m, 1650ft and Afon Nedd Fechan, crossing over to Afon Mellte, Sgwd Clungwyn and Porth yr Ogof. Leader Richard Davies 07986562584

Title: - Usk Valley. Date Wed 25 Mar Location: Llangynidr Village Car Park on B4558 Time 10:00-15:00 Grid Ref/Map SO 155196 / OL 13 Level Moderate We gradually climb out of the Village, on the Beacons Dist. 13km / 8miles Way to the summit of Tor -y -Foel. The return is via Ascent 512m / 1680 ft the and the Canal. An excellent spring walk ,at an easy pace, with a wonderful mixed variety of scenery. Leader Stuart /Phil 07858627950

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GUIDED WALKS AND EVENTS SPRING 2020 (March - May) Title: Gaer Pont Cadwgan circuit Date Fri 27 Mar Location: Forestry car park 500m up lane opposite Time 10:00-16:00 The Queens Head pub on the road Grid Ref/Map SO 307222 / OL13 Level Energetic The walk will include Gaer, Upper House, Pont Dist. 18k 11m Cadwgan, , and New Inn. Ascent 600m There is hill, stream and forest en route. Leader Jill Taylor 01873840668

Title: AGM - more details to follow Date Sat 28 Mar Location: St Michaels Centre 10A Pen-Y-Pound, Time Abergavenny NP7 5UD Level Business in morning Dist. Walks in afternoon Ascent 1 A brisk 'Sugar Loaf Walk'. A walk of around 5 miles will start after the AGM and lunch break lead by Peter Robbins

2 Paddy Beynon is leading a very easy walk to Linda Vista Gardens

Title: My celebration walk Date Sun 29 Mar Location: Cwmdu Village Hall car park Time 10:00-17:00 Grid Ref/Map SO 180239 / OL13 Level Energetic Some or all of: Pen Tir, Mynydd , Cockitt Hill, Dist. 16km / 10miles Mynydd Troed, depending on conditions. Tea in the Ascent not given hall afterwards. NO cards, balloons etc. Parking £1 per car. Leader Dilys Harlow 01454775731

April 2020

Title: Date Wed 1 Apr Location: Boathouse Car Park in Brecon Time 10:00-15:00 Grid Ref/Map OL 12 / SO 037 290 What 3 words //slave.fries.shredder Level Moderate Visit the original Y Gaer roman fort after which the Dist. 12 km / 7.5 Miles Museum in Brecon is named. Sadly museum not open Ascent 330m 1082ft on Wednesday currently. Start at Boathouse Car Park in Brecon (charges)

Walk to Llyn Gludy then to Y Gaer through farmyard (probably coffee) then over fields to Battle, down road (sorry) to Cradoc and along road (sorry) then up Pen- y-crug an Iron age fort for such and views of Beacons and Black Mountains and back to Priory Groves, Cathedral (Agincourt Archers etc) and back

Leader nic groombridge 07711604142

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GUIDED WALKS AND EVENTS SPRING 2020 (March - May)

Title: Around Big Cwm Date Fri 3 Apr Location: Llanfrynach. Parking on road near the Time 10:00-16:00 village loos. (LD3 7AZ) . GR SO 075 257. Grid Ref/Map SO 075 257 / OL 12. Level Strenuous We walk from my cottage in Llanfrynach. Dist. 16km (10m) We will start with a long, steady climb of just over Ascent 650m 600m up to y Ddwyallt. We track westwards around the huge rim of Craig Cwm Oergwm and to Fan y Bîg. With good visibility the views are stupendous. We descend quite gently and return to Llanfrynach over flelds, for tea and cake at my home. Leader Helen Fletcher 01874665623

Title: Views from Carn Pica Date Sat 4 Apr Location: Llanfrynach village, assemble at Tŷ Bach Time 10:00-17:30 Llanfrynach Community toilets Grid Ref/Map SO 075 258 / OL12 Level Energetic From Llanfrynach we take a lane to Pencelli then join Dist. 18 km / 11.5 miles the Usk Valley Walk to Aber. A short section on the Ascent 839 m / 2752 ft road to the bridleway leading to the ridge and steep ascent to Carn Pica for lunch. We continue along to Waun Rydd before dropping down and around Bryn and a steep descent back to the lanes and Llanfrynach. Leader Nick Trew 07568396555

Title: Straight ahead from Capel-y-ffin Date Sun 5 Apr Location: Park on the side of the road by the bridge at Time 10:00-15:00 Capel-y-ffin. Grid Ref/Map SO 255314 / OL13 Level Moderate We climb up the nose of Darren Lwyd, steep but taken Dist. 11 km, 7 miles at a moderate pace, and on up the open moorland of Ascent 375 m, 1230 ft the ridge to Twmpa (Lord Hereford's Knob). After (hopefully) enjoying the sweeping views, we drop down to the col and down the beautiful long valley of Nant Bwch with its tumbling waterfalls, taking us back to Capel-y-ffin. Leader Roger White 01873811539

Title: Contouring Cwm Sere Date Wed 8 Apr Location: Cwm Gwdi old army camp, National Trust Time 10:00-14:30 car park, free to NT members Grid Ref/Map SO 024 248 / OL12 Level Moderate Low level walking in the heart of the beacons with a Dist. 10km (6m) view of the north faces of Penyfan and Cribyn from Ascent 200m (650ft) below. The valley has lovely waterfalls, we return through farmland and lanes. No stiles, no steep climbs. Dogs must be under control at all times Leader Iau Counsell 07976697495

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GUIDED WALKS AND EVENTS SPRING 2020 (March - May)

Title: Golden Valley. Date Fri 10 Apr Location: Dorstone Village shop car park. Time 10:00-17:00 Grid Ref/Map SO 314418 / OL 13 Level Energetic This walk explores the Border Marches and the Dist. 19km / 12m splendid Golden Valley. We leave Dorstone and cross Ascent 600m / 1970ft. the valley to "Arthur's Stone" and then drop down into the Wye Valley. We return via Merbach Hill, Windle Park and Little Mountain Nature Reserve. Leader Stuart Phil 07858627950

Title: War Horse Date Sat 11 Apr Location: Pont Cadwgan, Valley Time 09:00-17:00 Grid Ref/Map SO 267 251 / OL13 Level Strenuous Gaining the Gadair Ridge via Mynydd Du Forest, Dist. 13miles, 21km (Tarzan Style), we drop down into a nameless Cwm to Ascent 1000m / 3200ft locate a sheep track that takes us all away around to Cwm Milaid. Climb up to Crug Mawr and down Cwm Beusych to then contour around towards Partrishow, we drop down into Grwyne Fawr valley towards Coed Dias to find a little sting in the tail. Leader Jason Winney 07798521550

Title: Cwm Taf fechan a Llwyn Onn Date Sun 12 Apr Location: Cyfarthfa Castle, bottom car park near Time 09:30-17:00 toilets ///bolt.flying.modern Grid Ref/Map SO 040 070 / OL12 Level Energetic A varied walk including Faenor, Cym Nant y Glais, up Dist. 22km (13.6m) to Garn Ddu, across A470 to skirt Llwyn Onn Ascent 741m (2431ft) reservoir, and returning via the . Woods, fields, open hill and water all feature in this walk with some history thrown in. Dogs must be kept under control. Leader Iau Counsell 07976697495

Title: Three Castles, Footpaths Galore and a Trig Date Mon 13 Apr Location: Skenfrith Castle start, (park in car park or Time 09:00-18:30 lay-by) Grid Ref/Map SO457201 / OS189 Level Strenuous A longer walk Bank Holiday walk for those who would Dist. 22 miles 35.5km like to stretch themselves! Meadows, hidden valleys Ascent 610m 2000 feet and woodland with an extra refreshment stop and water supplies at White Castle. We will pass the Norman Castles of Skenfrith, Grosmont and White Castle and return via the Cider Orchards. Not the Classic Route. NB this a Monday. Note not suitable for dogs Leader Peter Robbins 07443119004

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GUIDED WALKS AND EVENTS SPRING 2020 (March - May) Title: Winning Words - Poetry Trail Brecon Date Tue 14 Apr Location: Theatr Brycheiniog, Canal Wharf, Brecon Time 10:30-13:30 LD3 7EW Grid Ref/Map SO 045283 / OL 12 Level Moderate A stroll round town from Theatr to Y Gaer taking in all Dist. less than 5k (3 miles) ten poems in the Poetry Trail and hearing about the Ascent virtually nil history and culture of the town. Half the poems are in Welsh. A local welsh-speaker who volunteers with the Tourist Information Centre and the Museum will accompany us. The poems have a lightly sports related theme as they were part of the Cultural Olympics. Note this is a Tuesday. AND numbers will be limited to 12 so please let Nic know by email. If successful it will be held again. Leader nic groombridge 07711 604142

Title: Begwns figure of 8 Date Wed 15 Apr Location: Lay-by @ SO182445. Car share if possible. Time 10:00-14:30 Grid Ref/Map SO182445 / OL13 Level Moderate Leisurely, figure of 8, walk around Begwns, taking in Dist. 11.25K, 7m. 'The Roundabout' for morning break. Nice views with Ascent 230m, 760ft minimal ascent! Leader Phil O'Shea/Stuart Campbell 07912943881

Title: Pontypool to Abergavenny linear walk Date Fri 17 Apr Location: Abergavenny Bus Station Time 09:20-17:00 Grid Ref/Map SO 302 140 / OL13 Level Energetic Arrive at the bus station in good time to catch the X3 Dist. 20km, 12miles bus to Pontypool which departs at 9:20. Ascent not given The walk begins at historic Pontypool Park. The route back to Abergavenny is at high level passing The Folly Tower and then along the open moorlands of Mynydd Garnclochdy, Mynydd y Garn Fawr and Y Blorens. Leader Richard Davies 07986562584

Title: Circuit Mynydd Troed Date Sat 18 Apr Location: Cwmdu Village Hall Time 09:30-17:30 Grid Ref/Map SO179238 / OL13 Level Strenuous Cwmdu, Mynydd Llangors, Mynydd Troed then to Dist. 23km/15m Pengenffordd up to Macnamaras road, down via Ascent more than 500m to the cars. Leader Veronica Deacon/Ken Evans 01554820691

Title: Mossy walls, woods and water - Dyffryn Crawnon Date Sun 19 Apr Location: Llangynidr Car Park Time 09:30-17:00 Grid Ref/Map GR SO 154197 / OL 12 OL 13 Level Strenuous Climb up to Mynydd Llangynidr and across to Dyffryn Dist. 13 miles, 21 km. Crawnon. Then down past the waterfall to explore the Ascent 750m/ 2400 feet head of this quiet valley. Back climbing and down to Llangynidr.

Leader Charles/Helen Henderson 07532362872 01594 542473 9

GUIDED WALKS AND EVENTS SPRING 2020 (March - May)

Title: Craig Cerrig Gleisiad and Fan Frynych Date Wed 22 Apr Location: Craig Cerrig Gleisiad NNR picnic site lay-by Time 10:00-15:00 on A470 Grid Ref/Map SN 971222 / OL12 Level Moderate Up through the nature reserve, at Wednesday Wander Dist. 10km (6miles) pace, to Fan Frynych, along the ridge, down to the Ascent 410m (1350ft) Drovers’ Road and back via Twyn Dylluan-ddu. Leader Anne Pritchard 07748463545

Title: ILLUSTRATED TALK: Breconshire Stones Date Wed 22 Apr Location: The Bear Hotel, Crickhowell Time 19:30-21:00 Level A wander through the landscape of Breconshire, Dist. looking at the ancient stones that mark our landscape Ascent and the way humans have used stones to commemorate, to inspire and to control the landscape. Leader Janet Callear 01594 542473

Title: Blaen-y-Gwyn - Pen-y-Fan Circuit Date Fri 24 Apr Location: Blaen-y-Glyn Uchaf Time 09:30-15:30 Grid Ref/Map SO 0564 176 / OL12 Level Strenuous From the Car Park up Craig y Fan Ddu following the Dist. 17km / 11 miles to Fan y Bîg and onto Cribyn, Pen-y- Ascent 1090m / 3570 ft Fan and . Returning via R Rhiw yr Ysgyfarnog, down to the reservoir and back to Car Park via Taf Trail and road. Leader Mark Curtis 07484813073

Title: A Brecon Beacons Rollercoaster Date Sat 25 Apr Location: Layby on left after Libanus (heading to Time 10:00-17:00 Storey Arms) Grid Ref/Map SN989249 / OL12 Level Energetic Crossing farmland and climbing up through woodland Dist. 11.5 miles 18.5km then ascending to Tommy Jones Monument. Ascent 700m 2300feet Descending the with a further ascent up the Beacons Way before returning through Craig Cerrig-Gleisiad and National Trust paths. Leader Peter Robbins 07443119004

Title: check website to see if a walk added Date Sun 26 Apr Location: Time 10:00-00:00 Grid Ref/Map Level Always worth looking on website to see if a walk has Dist. been organised for this date. Ascent Leader

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GUIDED WALKS AND EVENTS SPRING 2020 (March - May)

Title: Merbach Hill amp; Arthur's Stone Date Wed 29 Apr Location: Village Hall / Old Post Office, Dorstone Time 10:00-15:00 Grid Ref/Map SO 313417 Sat Nav : HR3 6AN / OL 13 Level Moderate We climb out of the Golden Valley to Merbach Hill Dist. 11.4 km (7 miles) giving us views of the Brecon Beacons, Radnor Hills Ascent 318m / 1000 ft amp; Malvern Hills. We then descend to Bredwardine, resting place of Victorian diarist Francis Kilvert. The route then visits Arthur's Stone a Neolithic burial chamber before returning to the Pandy Inn for liquid refreshments. Leader Phil Harris 07770951298

May 2020

Title: Hay linear to Talgarth Date Fri 1 May Location: Talgarth car park Time 09:15-16:30 Grid Ref/Map SO154337 / OL 13 Level Energetic Meet in Talgarth CP to walk to bus stop near town Dist. 18-21k 11-14 miles square for bus 39 at 9.29 Ascent (weather related) On arrival in Hay at 9.51 we walk Offa’s Dyke path, 3 700 m Rivers Ride, unmarked track just below Twmpa and up onto Pen Rhos Dirion. Descent will be through Cwm Cwnstab or from Mynydd Bychan. Leader Jill Taylor 01873840668

Title: El dos de Mayo Date Sat 2 May Location: Talgarth Car Park SO153337 Time 10:00-17:00 Grid Ref/Map SO153337 / OL13 Level Energetic Though not Energetic, perhaps a little more Dist. 19.7km, 12.25m challenging than moderate. A gradual ascent from Ascent 900m, 2942ft (total ascent) Talgarth before beginning to climb Y Grîb, onto Pen y Manllwyn, Waun Fach, dropping down via Pen Trumau to and back to car. Leader Phil O'Shea/Stuart Campbell 07912943881

Title: /Fan Gyhirych Circuit Date Sun 3 May Location: Craig-y-nos Castle lay-by Time 09:30-18:00 Grid Ref/Map SN840152/OL12 / OL 12 Level Strenuous Craig-y-nos to on to Sarn Helen viaBeacons Dist. 26km/16miles Way to cattle grid then FanNedd over to Fan Gyhirych Ascent 800m ,2400ft return to cars Leader Veronica Deacon/Ken Evans 01554820691

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GUIDED WALKS AND EVENTS SPRING 2020 (March - May) Title: Cadair Fawr and Llwyn-Onn Reservoir Date Wed 6 May Location: Garwnant Visitor Centre car park - pay and Time 10:00-15:00 display £2 all day, coin only. Toilets, café. Grid Ref/Map SO 00240 13165 / Outdoor Leisure 12 Level Moderate Forest tracks give fine views of Llwyn-onn reservoir Dist. 14.2km (8.8 miles) and Cwm Taf. Open moorland takes us near old Ascent 430m (1,410ft) limestone workings and traces of old settlements. More fine views from Cadair Fawr summit, we cross a limestone pavement and descend through Coed Taf Fawr crossing the dam before returning to Garwnant. Leader Ceri Jones 07429639546

Title: Those Blue Remembered Hills Date Fri 8 May Location: Church Stretton Railway Station Time 10:00-17:30 Grid Ref/Map SO 455 935 / Explorer 217 Level Energetic A day in the Shropshire Hills from Church Stretton, up Dist. 24km 15m the lovely Carding Mill Valley to walk The Long Mynd, Ascent 685m 2250ft Ridgway Hill and Basford Hill to Craven Arms for return train. \nTrain times, Cardiff 07:50, Abergavenny 08:30, Hereford 08:57, Leominster 09:10, Ludlow 09:21, Craven Arms 09:29, arrive Church Stretton 09:38. Return 17:39 or 18:04.

Leader William Milne 07528701952

Title: Waterfalls, Cliffs and Cymoedd Date Sat 9 May Location: Llanfrynach (park near toilets) Time 10:00-18:00 Grid Ref/Map SO075257 / OL12 or 160 Level Strenuous Much of this walk is off-path in quiet valleys with at Dist. 14miles 22.5km least one steep ascent and descent. There are Ascent 900m 2900 feet streams to cross and gulleys to climb but a more sheltered route in the event of gale force winds. Note not suitable for dogs Leader Peter Robbins 07443119004

Title: check website to see if a walk added Date Sun 10 May Location: Time 10:00-00:00 Grid Ref/Map Level Always worth looking on website to see if a walk has Dist. been organised for this date. Leader

Title: Some historic villages in the Vale of Glamorgan Date Wed 13 May Location: Llancarfan, car park is over the stream Time 10:00-15:30 behind church. Grid Ref/Map ST 052 703 / EXplorer 151 Level Moderate The walk takes in the villages of Llancarfan, Dist. 12km, 7.5 miles Llanbydderi, Llancatal, Fonmon and Penmarc. Ascent 230m, 750ft Passing a couple of castles, Iolo's birthplace and a chance to see the recently restored Llancarfan medieval murals. Leader Richard Davies 07986562584 12

GUIDED WALKS AND EVENTS SPRING 2020 (March - May) Title: Chepstow - Tintern Circuit Date Fri 15 May Location: Chepstow Leisure Centre Time 09:00-16:00 Grid Ref/Map ST 529 943 / OL14 Level Energetic From the Car Park we go down past the Castle and Dist. 19.8 km / 12.25m over the bridge picking up the Offa's Dyke path, then Ascent 677m / 2237ft on to Tintern, thereafter following the back to the Car Park. Leader Mark Curtis 07484817073

Title: Physician's Well Date Sat 16 May Location: Myddfai Community Hall SN 773302, OL 12 Time 10:00-15:00 Grid Ref/Map SN 773302 / OL12 Level Energetic A walk to the well, reputedly used by the Physicians of Dist. 11km 7 miles Myddfai. A steepish ascent for the first 2km, then open Ascent 330m 1200ft moorland and tracks. Some minor roads. Post-walk refreshments available in Myddfai Community Hall cafe. Leader Robin Barlow 01550 721238

Title: Above Dyffryn Crawnon amp; a bit of the Beacons Way Date Sun 17 May Location: Main Car Park in Llangynidr on B4558 Time 10:00-05:30 Grid Ref/Map SO 155 196 / OL13 OL12 Level Energetic We take the lanes up to Pantllwyd and walk through Dist. 20.6 km / 13 miles the disused quarries of Clo Cadno. We stay above Ascent 702 m / 2303 ft Darren Ddu picking up a track through the forest and Dyffryn Crawnon Nature Reserve. We pick up The Beacons Way at Pen Rhiw-Calch and lunch below Tor Y Foel. Return on The Beacons Way to Pen-y-Beili, over the canal and back lanes to Llangynidr. Leader Nick Trew 07568396555

Title: The Ups and Downs of Fownhope Date Wed 20 May Location: Recreation ground in Fownhope (located Time 10:00-15:30 just past St Mary's Parish Church) Grid Ref/Map SO 583343 / 189 Level Moderate Following lanes, fields, riverside paths, woodland and Dist. 14Km 8.5 miles farmland this walk meanders along on part of the Wye Ascent 183m 600ft Valley Walk Path and visits a Church and the remains of a Iron Age fort, before returning to Fownhope through a delightful Nature Reserve. All ascents and descents to be taken at WW pace. Leader Fiona McBain 07979037243

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GUIDED WALKS AND EVENTS SPRING 2020 (March - May) Title: Pontneddfechan - Waterfalls. Date Fri 22 May Location: Dinas Rock car park Time 10:00-16:30 Grid Ref/Map SN 911079 / OL 12 Level Energetic Come and join us in the magnificent Waterfall Countr, Dist. 14km / 9m. we start with a gradual climb around Dinas Rock and Ascent 500m / 1640ft proceed on the Sgwd yr Eira trail. Our route passes behind this iconic waterfall (Speedos and Bikinis optional) and we then travel North on the Four Falls Trail. We return on the Elidir trail alongside the Afon Nedd Fechan. Leader Stuart Phil 07858627950

Title: Canal, gentle hills and views and a different side of the Usk Date Sat 23 May Location: Theatr Brycheiniog car park Time 10:00-16:00 Grid Ref/Map SO 046 282 / OL 12 What 3 words flood.refills.brave Level Energetic Starting from Theatr Brycheiniog car park (charges) Dist. 10m 16k Along Mon and Brecon canal up through Groesffordd Ascent max 262 metres to Llechfaen along lane and track to Llanywern then Talyllyn and Llanhamlach, past Peterstone Court along Usk and back to Brecon. A Wednesday Wander style walk but a bit longer. If your dog can handle a couple of stiles come along. Leader nic groombridge 07711604142

Title: Cefn Merthyr and the Trevithick Trail Date Sun 24 May Location: Taff Vale Estate, Quakers Yard – roadside Time 09:30-16:30 parking near Quakers Yard railway station (which is signposted from the main road). Meet roadside at the station entrance. Grid Ref/Map ST 08600 96594 / Explorer 166 Level Energetic East on Trevithick Trail (1802 Penydarren tramroad), Dist. 22km 13.7 miles under Brunel’s Taff Vale viaduct, on to Parc Taf Ascent 670m 2,200 ft Bargod. Past hill farms to open moorland, follow Cefn Merthyr past Mynydd y Capel cairn field to Mynydd Cilfach yr Encil. Fine views of Beacons and Taff valleys. Down to Taff valley, follow Trevithick Trail River Taff to Quakers Yard. Leader Ceri Jones 07429639546

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GUIDED WALKS AND EVENTS SPRING 2020 (March - May) Title: Llyn Cwm Llwch, Obelisk and Pen Milan Date Wed 27 May Location: Parking area near Nant Cwm Llwch, not Time 10:00-14:00 shown as P on newer maps. From Brecon, and B4601, turn South on Ffrwdgrech road (also Taff trail for a bit) pass industrial site on right then take the middle rd of a three-way fork. Stay on this rd until a T junction Grid Ref/Map SO 006 245 / OL12 Level Moderate A mountain walk with a steep climb mostly on good Dist. 9.5km (6m) paths. We will take this slowly and enjoy the view Ascent 400m (1,300ft) should there be any. We pass the lake via waterfalls and ascend to the Tommy Jones memorial, return over Pen Milan and across farmland. About 7 stiles, most now with dog gates Leader Iau Counsell 07976697495

Title: Llanfoist and Goose and Cuckoo Date Fri 29 May Location: Llanfoist CP on western edge of village on Time 10:00-16:30 the B4246 Grid Ref/Map SO286133 / OL13 Level Energetic We start with a steep climb onto the Blorenge and Dist. 21k. 13m walk via the WT station across Mynydd Garn-fawr to Ascent 650m The Goose and Cuckoo for lunch (good soup and filled rolls available) The return is over varied terrain. Leader Jill Taylor 01873840668

Title: Cliffs, Cairns, a Trig and the Lonely Shepherd Date Sat 30 May Location: Llangattock - Park Drive (please leave Time 10:00-16:30 driveways clear) Grid Ref/Map SO212178 / OL13 Level Energetic Scenic ascent of Craig y Cilau National Nature Dist. 12miles 19km Reserve and Darren Cilau (winds permitting), then Ascent 460m 1500m crossing to the Twr Pen-cyrn Bronze Age Cairns and the Lonely Shepherd. Returning through woodland. Note not suitable for dogs. Leader Peter Robbins 07443119004

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GUIDED WALKS AND EVENTS SPRING 2020 (March - May)

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]

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