GUIDED WALKS & EVENTS SUMMER 2019

Cymdeithas Parc Bannau Brycheiniog Beacons Park Society www.breconbeaconsparksociety.org GUIDED WALKS AND EVENTS SUMMER 2019 (JUNE-AUGUST)

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 16’s, the unemployed and students. Walks Enquiries to: Nic and Hilary, tel: 07711 604142 e-mail: [email protected]

MEMBERSHIP ENQUIRIES: SEE BACK PAGE REGISTERED CHARITY: 1075345 1 GUIDED WALKS & EVENTS SUMMER 2019

Welcome to the Summer 2019 Walks and Events Programme. Hilary and I are taking over from Anthea and Wally but they helped enormously with putting this together. Thank you too to all our leaders who we hope to get to meet in due course. Walks on most of our normal days with some long ones (21 miles with Rob Rees on 26 July) and short walks on the day of our AGM and a purely morning one on Sunday 11 August (pre jazz festival). nic groombridge

Snippets Summer 2019 AGM

This will be held at Theatr Brycheiniog on Saturday June 9th. The papers and notification have been sent out. There are walks on that day to in afternoon.

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.

In case you have missed out - we are now running a booking system for our talks in the Bear in due to lots 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.

Walking Festivals

Remember you need to book:

Hay on Wye have revived. It will be October 10-13th. Give them your support. https://www.haywalkingfestival.com/

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

For these navigation courses see back page of your programme and in walks section.

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).

Some dates for your diary:

1 September more Monk’s Trod walks – details in next issue.

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JUNE 2019

Title: Linear Walk along the Heritage Coast : Bridgend to Llantwit Major Date & Sat 1/6/19 Location: Llantwit Major railway station Time 09:22-17:30 Grid Ref/Map SS 971 689 / OS 151 Level Energetic Meet at Llantwit Major railway station in good time to Dist. 24km, 15 miles catch the 09:22 train to Bridgend, arriving 09:39. Ascent Friday, 10 May 2019 The route takes us out of the town past Merthyr Mawr, Ogmore Castle and St Brides Major, reaching the coast at Dunraven. We then follow the beach and cliffs back to Llantwit Major. Naturists welcome. Leader Richard Davies 07986562584

Title: Over The Edge Date & Sun 2/6/19 Location: near public toilets Time 10:00-16:30 Grid Ref/Map SO 075257 / OL12 or 160 Level Strenuous Circular walk from Llanfrynach taking in Fan y Bîg and Dist. 17km 11 miles Pen y Bryn with three ascents, one very steep Ascent 670m 2,200 feet descent, and crossing a quiet cwm. Walking poles useful. Not suitable for dogs. Leader Peter Robbins 07443119004

Title: SPECIAL INTEREST WALK: Invaders of the National Park and Watton Limekilns Date & Tue 4/6/19 Location: Scout Lane Car Park, Brecon Time 10:00-14:00 Grid Ref/Map SN 045283 / OL12 Level Moderate Following her evening talk on 15th MAY 2019, 7.30pm Dist. 7 km (4.5 miles) at THE BEAR HOTEL, CRICKHOWELL, Bev Lewis, Ascent 85m (279 ft) from the National Park Authority, will point out and discuss Invasive Non-Native Species as we walk along the and through the fields out of Brecon. As we go back by way of the canal and the Watton Limekilns, David Vine of the Canal & River Trust will tell us of their history and restoration. Note this a Tuesday Leader Janet Callear

Title: Explore Nant Crew with the National Trust Date & Wed 5/6/19 Location: Lay-by on the A470 by Cantref , Time 10:00-15:30 just south of Nant Crew bridge Grid Ref/Map SN 9935 1620 / OS Explore OL12 Level Moderate A joint walk with Geopark & National Dist. 9km / 5.6miles Trust ranger Huw Barrell. We will walk up Nant Crew, Ascent 450m / 1500ft passing many lovely waterfalls, to Blaen Crew & Craig Gwaun Taf, then follow Craig y Byllfa & Cefn Crew back down to the reservoir. All will be taken at a moderate pace with plenty of stops. Leader Dilys Harlow 01454775731

3 GUIDED WALKS & EVENTS SUMMER 2019 Title: A very crooked Llanfrynach Horseshoe Date & Fri 7/6/19 Location: Llanfrynach near public toilets Time 10:00-18:00 Grid Ref/Map SO 075257 / OL12 or 160 Level Strenuous Route will include , , Carn Pica Dist. 26 km 16 miles and Pen y Bryn. Much of the walk will be off-path Ascent 1000m 3200feet dropping down from ridges to cross several isolated cwms with unusual and exceptional views depending on mist. Finish time (as with all walks) is an estimate, and in the event of high winds the ridges will be avoided. Note two walks today Leader Peter Robbins 07443119004

Title: Cairns of Cefn Car Date & Fri 7/6/19 Location: Southernmost lay-by beside Llwyn-on Time 10:00-16:00 Reservoir off A470 Grid Ref/Map SO 009 118 / Explorer OL12 Level Moderate A joint walk with archaeologist Edith Evans, biologist Dist. 9.5km / 6miles Michael Isaac & geologist Alan Bowring, visiting Ascent 280m / 920ft hillsides of the Taf Fawr/Taf Fechan watershed to view ancient burial & ring cairns, house platforms, enclosures & a wandering wall. We will investigate the ecology & geology too. Our route uses paths, sheep tracks, rough ground & some . End time approximate. Note two walks today Leader Dilys Harlow 01454775731

Title: AGM Date & Sat 8/6/19 Location: Theatr Brycheiniog Time 10:00-16:00 Level ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING 2019 10.30 am on 8th Dist. June at Brecon Theatre Ascent 2pm Walk 1: Bridges of Brecon and . John and William Gibbs. Walk 2: Up Pen-y-Crug. Beating the Bounds of the National Park along Cwm Honddu (11km/7mls – with a cut out half way around, if required). Nic Groombridge Leader AGM

Title: Up Pen-y-Crug, beating the bounds of the National Park by Afon Honddu Date & Sat 8/6/19 Location: Theatr Brycheiniog, Canal Wharf, Brecon Time 14:00-16:30 LD3 7EW Grid Ref/Map SO 047282 / OL12 Level Moderate Starting after the AGM/lunch walk along the Usk then Dist. 11k 7m up and down (a different way) Pen-y-Crug (trig point Ascent max 333m 1000' and iron age fort) and through to Priory Groves and up and down Afon Honddu - crossing the Park boundary - back through town to Theatr. It is possible to leave the walk at about half way and return to town. Leader nic groombridge 07711604142

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Title: The Monks' Trod, Pont ar Elan to Abbey Cwm Hir, a linear walk Date & Sun 9/6/19 Location: Village Hall, LD1 6PH Time 09:00-17:00 Grid Ref/Map SO 054 712 / Explorer 200 Level Energetic A joint linear walk with the Elan Valley Trust, guest Dist. 20km / 12.5miles leader Tudor Davies. Meet at Abbeycwmhir for Ascent 620m / 2030ft minibus transfer to Pont ar Elan - £5 donation please. Follow the routes of the medieval monks between the Elan Valley & Abbey Cwm Hir. Booking essential with the Elan Valley Estate Office 01597 810449, numbers limited. Ask Dilys re lifts from Brecon Leader Dilys Harlow 01454775731

Title: Mynydd Wander Date & Wed 12/6/19 Location: Llangors multi activity centre Time 10:00-15:00 Grid Ref/Map SO 148267 / OL 13 Level Moderate Meet at the far car park of the centre. Toilets Dist. 13km. 8miles available. A wednesday wander up onto Mynydd Ascent Llangors. One ascent and descent taken gently. Walk includes hill ,tracks, fields and lanes depending on the weather. Back for a cuppa in the centre cafe. Leader Anthea James 07967886497

Title: Welsh Herefordshire - Borderlands Date & Fri 14/6/19 Location: Hay Common car park Time 10:00-16:00 Grid Ref/Map SO 239 373 / OL 13 / Landranger 161 Level Energetic This walk explored the hidden "Welsh Herefordshire" Dist. 15 km / 9 miles of the Olchon valley, nestling in the eastern Black Ascent 500m / 1600' Mountains. We will use the Offa's Dyke Path to access Black Hill and then will traverse the Cat's Back (slightly exposed) to descend to the Olchon. We'll then climb up the valley to Hay Bluff and return to ! Leader Rob Rees 07914265654

Title: "GET LOST" Navigation course Date & Sat 15/6/19 Location: Abercrave Time 09:30-17:00 Level The "GET LOST" Basic Navigation Course is aimed at Dist. the total beginner in the use of the map and compass, Ascent our aim is to provide you with the confidence and ability to safely plan and follow a route along good paths and trails. To book a place and/or for more information contact: Rob Pritchard [email protected] or phone 07773 713605. Leader Rob Pritchard 07773713605

Title: Cwm Taf Fechan and Llwyn On Date & Sat 15/6/19 Location: Cyfarthfa Castle bottom car park near Time 09:30-17:00 toilets Grid Ref/Map SO 040 070 / OL12 Level Energetic A varied walk including Faenor, Cwm Nant y Glais, up Dist. 22km (13.6miles) to Carn Ddu across the A470 to skirt Llwyn-On Ascent 741m (2431ft) reservoir and returning via the . Woods, fields, open hill and water all feature in this walk with some history thrown in. Not suitable for dogs. Leader Clive Counsell 07971649022

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Title: Crash Sites of the - Part 1 Date & Sun 16/6/19 Location: Lay-by next to The Gwyn Arms SN 846 166 Time 09:30-17:00 Grid Ref/Map SN 846 166 / OL12 Level Strenuous We start by walking up the Rotten Stone Trail above Dist. 17km 10.5 miles the Caves and visit two Wellington Crash sites, a Ascent 804m 2420ft Vampire and an Anson crash site, with varying degrees of wreckage. Much of the walk is on sheep tracks, with one river crossing. We return via . Be prepared for boggy patches! Leader Angela Morgan 07801915707

Title: Lowry's View of Bargoed Date & Wed 19/6/19 Location: Parc Cwm Darran Time 10:00-15:00 Grid Ref/Map SO113034 / Explorer 166 Level Moderate Meet in the car park (fee) by the visitor centre at Parc Dist. 13km 8m Cwm Darran - roughly midway between Deri and Ascent 400 m 1300 ft north of Bargoed. Lakeside, hillside, woodland and ridgeway, via the point where L S Lowry sketched his view of Bargoed for his painting of 1965. Ascents and descents are moderate. Leader Anne Pritchard 07748463545

Title: ILLUSTRATED TALK: Conservation, the Long View Date & Wed 19/6/19 Location: The Manor Hotel, Crickhowell, NP8 1SE Time 19:30-21:00 Level Joe Daggett, Countryside Manager for the National Dist. Trust will be talking about his work in the National Ascent Park, the challenges, the achievements and the satisfaction. Watch the website for more information. Leader Janet Callear

Title: Summer Solstice : Sunrise on Pen - y - Fan Date & Fri 21/6/19 Location: Pont ar Daf : Car Park Time 03:30-09:30 Grid Ref/Map SN 987199 / OL 12 Level Strenuous An early morning 3.30 start in order to enjoy Mid Dist. 14km : 9m Summer's Day in the Brecon Beacons. We gradually Ascent 915m : 3000ft climb up a good path on the to the summit of Pen- y-Fan, to celebrate sunrise. We continue East to the Gap Road & return via and Storey Arms. Please bring head torches, pyjamas & horlicks! Leader Stuart & Phil 07858627950

Title: Bryn Arw, Deri and Gaer Date & Sat 22/6/19 Location: Lay-by on road from Stanton to Forest Coal Time 09:30-17:00 Pit, about 400 yards W of junction with Llanthony valley road. Grid Ref/Map SO 309216 / OL 13 Level Energetic Beautiful walk over three hills on south-east edge of Dist. 19 km / 12 miles the Black Mountains - Bryn Arw, Deri and finally Gaer. Ascent 750 m / 2,500 ft Three ascents. Leader Alan Phear 07972197639

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Title: Crash Sites of the Black Mountain - Part 2 Date & Sun 23/6/19 Location: Small clearing on the Old Road Time 09:30-17:00 (Minor road from A4067 to Trecastle) GR SN 852 217 Grid Ref/Map SN 852 217 / OL12 Level Strenuous Part 2 takes us to the forgotten crash site of the Dist. 15.3km 10m Liberator on Moel Feity, and the Lancaster below Fan Ascent 774m 2330ft Foel, before enjoying a walk around , up onto the Fans and back via Llyn y . Leader Angela Morgan 07801915707

Title: Back to Cats Back Date & Wed 26/6/19 Location: Black Hill Picnic Site Car Park (lower car Time 10:00-15:30 park if full) Grid Ref/Map SO288328 / OL13 Level Moderate Walk through Monnow Valley at Wednesday Wander Dist. 15km 9 miles pace then gentle ascent to Offa's Dyke Path and Ascent 310m 1000ft returning via Cat's Back. Lower route if poor weather conditions. Leader Peter Robbins 07443119004

Title: The Dragon and the Witch Date & Fri 28/6/19 Location: main car park Time 09:30-16:00 Grid Ref/Map SO 152337 / OL13 Level Moderate A gradual ascent to Pengenffordd via Trefecca and Dist. 17.5km (11m) the Long Cairn. A brief skirmish with the Black Ascent 560m (1850ft) Mountains as we ascend Y Grîb (Dragon's Back) and descend on a minor path from Y Das. Return via Pwll- y-Wrach. Leader Chris Playford 07906301095

Title: Escarpments on a Figure of 8 lunch at Fan-y-Big Date & Sat 29/6/19 Location: Upper Blaen y Glyn Car Park Time 09:30-15:30 Grid Ref/Map SO 056176 / Map: OL12 Level Moderate A steep climb up past waterfalls of Nant Bwrefwr to Dist. 14km / 9 mls Craig y Fan Ddu, Craig Fan Las, up onto Waun Rydd Ascent 450m / 1500 ft then stop for coffee on Carn Pica. We head south then west for a quick stop at the Wellington Bomber Memorial on Cwar y Gigfan then west on escarpments to Fan y Big for lunch. Return via Beacons Way over Gwaun Cerrig Llwydion and Craig y Fan Ddu. Leader Nick Trew 07568396555

Title: In Summertime on Bredon Date & Sun 30/6/19 Location: Eckington Bridge Car Park Time 09:30-16:30 Grid Ref/Map SO 922 422 / Explorer 190 Level Energetic A beautiful Summer walk starting in the Vale of Dist. 24km 15m Evesham beside the river Avon and climbing up on to Ascent 610m 2000ft Bredon Hill the largest of the outlying Cotswold hills. Leader William Milne 07528701952

7 GUIDED WALKS & EVENTS SUMMER 2019

JULY 2019

Title: Wander Along Date & Wed 3/7/19 Location: Blaen-y-cwm car park Time 10:00-16:00 Grid Ref/Map SO 267251 / OL 13 Level Moderate Climb up onto the ridge at Wander pace then follow it Dist. 16 km. 10 miles North to reach the trig. point at Rhos Dirion. Find the Ascent track back to the reservoir and back to the start. Top mileage for a Wander but we will be in no hurry. Leader Anthea James 07967886497

Title: Carn Pica from Llanfrynach Date & Fri 5/7/19 Location: Llanfrynach. Parking on road near the Time 09:30-16:00 village loos. (LD3 7AZ) . GR SO 075 257. OS Map OL12. Grid Ref/Map SO 075 257 / OL 12. Level Strenuous We will climb over Pen y Bryn to Rhiw y Dist. 20km. 12 m. Ddwyallt and East to Carn Pica, then down over rough Ascent 650m ground into Cwm Banw to pick up the . A small detour past the little church of Llanfeugan before a gentle return on lanes for tea and cake at Magpie Cottage. Leader Helen Fletcher 07726242137

Title: Circuit of Cwm Crawnon Date & Sat 6/7/19 Location: Village Car Park Time 10:00-16:00 Grid Ref/Map SO155197 / OL 13 Level Energetic A walk via Court Farm onto Pant Llwyd along ridge Dist. 12miles,20km via cairns to Quarries at Blaen Dyffryn Crawnon then Ascent 400m,1200ft open to Pen Bwlch Glascwm then . Leader Ken Evans 01554820691

Title: Valleys, slopes and ridges Date & Sun 7/7/19 Location: Dragons Back Inn, Pengenffordd (parking Time 10:00-16:30 charge) Grid Ref/Map SO 174296 / OL13 Level Energetic Mynydd Bychan, Y Grib, slopes of Pen Trumau & Dist. 18.5km, 11.5miles Mynydd Llysiau, and the Valley. Direction of Ascent 750m, 2460ft walk will depend on the weather. Leader Ceridwen Coulson 07912 849079

Title: A stroll in a secluded part of the Monnow Valley. Date & Wed 10/7/19 Location: Skenfrith Castle car park. Time 10:00-15:00 Grid Ref/Map SO 457 202 / OL 189 Level Moderate A gentle amble down the Monnow passing Sand Dist. 7 miles (11.3 km) House before visiting the isolated church of Llanrothal. Ascent 125 m (400 ft) Crossing the river at Tregate bridge we return via Clappers wood before passing Ruthlin Mill and climbing Coed Angrhed hill. Then follows a sharp descent to the Bell Inn for optional refreshments.

Please note that there are two walks on this date in different areas of the park. Leader Phil Harris 07770951298

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Title: Extended Epynt in reverse Date & Wed 10/7/19 Location: Shoemakers Arms, Pentre-bach, Brecon Time 10:00-14:30 LD3 8UB - park in pub car park. Please car share and park pretty Grid Ref/Map SN 909 330 / OL12 Level Moderate This walk is a slight extension of previous ones with Dist. 12k 7.5m slightly less tarmac and in other direction up on Epynt. Ascent max 350m 1200' Pub usually open.

Please note that there are two walks on this date in different areas of the park. Leader nic groombridge 07711604142

Title: to Llangadog on the Heart of Wales Line Trail Date & Fri 12/7/19 Location: Llandovery Station Time 09:30-16:00 Grid Ref/Map SN 763346 / OL 12 Level Strenuous This is one section of the new Heart of Wales Line Dist. 19km/12 miles Trail which runs from Craven Arms to Llanelli. We will Ascent 300m begin the walk from Llandovery Station and head to Myddfai for a refreshment stop in the Hall cafe, and then on to Llangadog to catch the 15.42 train back to Llandovery. Terrain is varied with footpaths, forest tracks and minor roads. Leader Robin Barlow 01550721238

Title: Wye and Elan Circular Date & Sat 13/7/19 Location: Gilfach Nature Reserve car park, just off the Time 10:00-17:00 A470, 3 miles north of Grid Ref/Map SN 954 715 / Explorer 200 Level Energetic A joint walk with the Elan Valley Trust, guest leader Dist. 18.5km / 11.5miles Tudor Davies. We walk through the Radnorshire Ascent 350m / 1150ft Wildlife Trust reserve along the Afon Marteg, follow ancient routes across the hills between the Wye & the Elan & return along the Wye Valley Walk. Ask Dilys re possible lifts from Brecon. Leader Dilys Harlow 01454775731

Title: Two Churches from the Priory Date & Sun 14/7/19 Location: Llanthony Priory car park Time 09:30-17:00 Grid Ref/Map SO 288278 / OL 13 Level Strenuous From the Priory we climb Bal-Bach then descend to Dist. 22km (14 miles) Cwm Nânt Bran and via Fford-las-fawr to Patrishow. Ascent 940m (3085 feet) On to via Gaer and then return by way of Hatterrall Hill. Leader Frank Scott

9 GUIDED WALKS & EVENTS SUMMER 2019 Title: Llandegfedd reservoir round Date & Wed 17/7/19 Location: Main car park at visitor centre Time 10:00-15:00 Grid Ref/Map ST 328984 / OS 152 Level Moderate An undulating stroll around the reservoir on footpath Dist. 10.5 km. 7 miles and tracks. Cuppa in the visitor centre afterwards. Ascent There may be a payment for parking. Leader Anthea James 07967886497

Title: to Western Fans Date & Fri 19/7/19 Location: Pont ar Wysg Car Park SN820272 Time 10:00-16:00 Grid Ref/Map SN820272 / OL12 Level Energetic Open moorland, climbing to , along Dist. 19Km (12m) ridge to , Bannau Sir Gaer, down to Llyn y Ascent 820m (2689 ft)Explorer Fan Fach and a valley walk return. Leader Phil O'Shea/Stuart Campbell 07912943881

Title: Lunch at the Goose and Cuckoo Date & Sun 21/7/19 Location: Llanfoist car park on B4246 on Western Time 09:30-16:30 edge of Llanfoist Grid Ref/Map SO 286133 / OL13 Level Energetic We take a back route to the Punchbowl and walk past Dist. 21k 13m quiet farms, using tracks, lanes and a short stretch of Ascent the canal and passing through woodland. As well as a drink some of us order filled rolls made with home- made bread, or soup. I place the orders before we leave the car park. Leader Jill Taylor 01873840668

Title: Upper Grwyne Fawr Date & Wed 24/7/19 Location: Cadwgan Car Park SO 266 251 Time 10:00-15:00 Grid Ref/Map SO 266 251 / OL13 Level Energetic Walking south through Mynydd Du forest crossing the Dist. 9.5 miles valley with a steep climb up to Gaer join the Beacons Ascent 1600ft Way and then walking back down to the forest. Leader Ian Rowat 07794939944

Title: ILLUSTRATED TALK: The Restoration of Llwyn Celyn Date & Wed 24/7/19 Location: Henderson Hall, Talybont LD3 7YQ Time 19:30-21:00 Level Kasia Howard, Engagement Manager for the Dist. Landmark Trust will take us through the restoration of Ascent Llwyn Celyn, from the initial funding to its final living presence within the National Park. Watch the BBPS website for further information. Leader Janet Callear

Title: A Black Mountains Rollercoaster Date & Fri 26/7/19 Location: Dragon's Back Inn, Pengenffordd Time 08:30-18:30 Grid Ref/Map SO 173 296 / 161/ OL 13 Level Strenuous This very challenging walk crosses the four major Dist. 33 km / 21 miles valleys and traverses the four main ridges of the Black Ascent 1150m / 3800' Mountains before returning to Pengenffordd below the Allt Shelf. With 3 major ascents, over twenty miles and the possibility of hot weather, this is not a walk for the faint hearted! Rob's always wanted to try this - join him if you dare! Leader Rob Rees 07914265654 10 GUIDED WALKS & EVENTS SUMMER 2019

Title: Crickhowell Mountain Circular Date & Sun 28/7/19 Location: Main Car Park behind Crickhowell Time 10:00-16:00 Resource & Information Centre (CRic). Parking charges apply. Grid Ref/Map SO 218184 / OL13 Level Energetic Through Crickhowell on main road to pick up Beacons Dist. 14km / 9 mls Way following Cwm Cumbeth to Table Mountain for Ascent 670m / 2200ft coffee. On up to north Pen Cerrig Calch; Pen Allt- Mawr before turning back south to Pen Gloch-y-Pibwr for lunch. Our return route takes us down west of the Darren to pick up the Beacons Way back to the main road in Crickhowell. Leader Nick Trew 07568396555

Title: Wander Date & Wed 31/7/19 Location: Layby on left after Libanus (heading to Time 10:00-15:00 Storey Arms) Grid Ref/Map SN989249 / OL12 Level Moderate Following NT Permssive paths along the Afon Tarell, Dist. 13km 8 miles then ascending Cambrian Way to Y Gyrn at a Ascent 393m 1290 feet Wednesday Wander pace. Returning via the woodland waterfalls. Leader Peter Robbins 07443119004

AUGUST 2019

Title: Talybont Reservoir circuit via Carn Pica Date & Fri 2/8/19 Location: Talybont village car park Time 09:30-17:00 Grid Ref/Map SO114227 / OL 13 Level Strenuous Bryn Oer Tram road to Pen Bwlch Glasgwm over Dist. 14.5miles 24km moorland to Blaen Y Glyn, Carn Pica and return. Ascent 800m Leader Ken Evans 01554820691

Title: The Kerry Ridgeway Date & Sat 3/8/19 Location: Kerry village public car park Time 10:00-16:30 Grid Ref/Map SO 146900 / Explorer 214 Level Energetic Come & enjoy the stunning views, on this ancient Dist. 18km : 11m Drovers Route, saddling the border of Wales & Ascent 305m : 1000feet England. We have a steady climb out of the village up to Kerry Pole & across the ridgeway to Kerry Hill. Leader Stuart & Phil 07858627950

Title: Canal, river and streams round Brecon Date & Sun 4/8/19 Location: Theatr Brycheiniog, Canal Wharf, Brecon Time 10:00-15:00 LD3 7EW Grid Ref/Map SO 042 287 / OL12 Level Moderate Wednesday wander pace and inclines but weekend Dist. 17 kms 11 miles length. Along Mon Brecon Canal to , back Ascent max 283 m 1000 feet road to Llanfrynach up by Nant Menasgin to Cantref and back down hill over fields by Usk. Leader nic groombridge 07711604142

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Title: All around the Usk Reservoir Date & Wed 7/8/19 Location: Car park near South edge of dam Time 10:00-15:00 Grid Ref/Map SN 833286 / OL12 Level Moderate A complete circuit of the reservoir with lots of variety, Dist. 14km (8.5miles) woodland, mountainsides and history. Ascent 260m (850ft) Leader Iau Counsell 07976679495

Title: Gower; 3 Cliffs Bay and Cefn Bryn Date & Fri 9/8/19 Location: Meet Penmaen Car Park Time 10:00-15:30 Grid Ref/Map SS 532 887 / Explorer 184 Level Moderate A beautiful walk with the promise of magnificent views, Dist. 15km (9.5miles) taking in high, open moorland, Arthur's Stone, Ascent 109m (357ft) woodland, a castle, a Georgian mansion, marsh and beach. Leader Clive Counsell 07971649022

Title: Hills south of Hay-on-Wye Date & Sat 10/8/19 Location: Oxford Road Car Park, Hay-on-Wye (Fee). Time 10:00-17:00 Grid Ref/Map GR SO 230422 / Map OS 13 Level Energetic From Hay we will cross to Cusop Church then climb Dist. 13.5miles. 23kms. steeply up Cusop Hill to Three Rivers Ride. After this Ascent we cross Vagar Hill before stopping at the ancient remains of Grandmontine Priory. The next climb takes us to the base of Hay Bluff before returning to the start via Offa’s Dyke path. Leaders Veronica Deacon and Ken 01544318719 Evans

Title: Pre - Jazz Festival Brecon Walk Date & Sun 11/8/19 Location: The Boathouse Car park Brecon Time 10:00-13:00 Grid Ref/Map SO 036290 / OL 12 Level Moderate A short morning walk in Brecon taking in the Groves Dist. 11k 7m and Slwch leaving afternoon to sample the Ascent max 283 m 1000 feet atmosphere of Brecon during the Jazz Festival. Leader nic groombridge 07711604142

Title: Country House, National Nature Reserve, Tramways, Quarries & Mines Date & Wed 14/8/19 Location: Loop off east side of A4059 just north of Time 10:00-15:30 Penderyn distillery SN 95085 08468 Level Moderate Passing listed Bodwigiad we cross open moorland to Dist. 15.2 km (9.5 miles) Twyn-y-Glog. On through Cwm Cadlan NNR and its Ascent 520m (1,700 feet) hill farms, we then follow an old tramway past former quarries. We use forestry tracks and footpaths to reach Cwm Sychryd with its lovely river and remains of once busy silica mines. Return via Moel Penderyn and St Cynog’s church.

Leader Ceri Jones 07429639546

12 GUIDED WALKS & EVENTS SUMMER 2019 Title: A Nature Reserve, a Lake, a Hillfort and a Leaning Church Date & Fri 16/8/19 Location: Car Park opposite the Queens Head on the Time 10:00-16:00 Llanthony road. Small charge. Grid Ref/Map SO 311222 / OL13 Level Moderate We start via Stanton Manor Farm and flank Bryn Arw. Dist. 16km 10m Thence through the Coed-y-cerrig nature reserve and Ascent via New Inn Farm to Gaer. We cross from Revenge Stone to Cwmyoy and head back past Coed Farm and Coed Cwn Iou. Leader Jill Taylor 01873840668

Title: Waterfalls and 4 Peaks Bypass Date & Sat 17/8/19 Location: Beacon's Reservoir Car park Time 10:00-16:30 Grid Ref/Map SN988181 / OL12 Level Strenuous A4059 Hirwaun Road, and meet at the reservoir car Dist. 19km 12 miles park on right. We will cross Nant Crew and ascend the Ascent 1100m 3600 ft Nant Ddu waterfalls, then join the Beacons Way above Nant y Gloesydd. After bypassing the summits of Fan y Big, , and we will follow Craig Fan Ddu and descend via the waterfalls of Nant Crew. Leader Peter Robbins and Richard 07443119004 Davies

Title: Heather in bloom on Hatterrall Hill Date & Sun 18/8/19 Location: Walkers car park (small charge) opposite Time 09:30-16:30 the Queen's Head pub,Stanton. Grid Ref/Map GR SO 312221 / OL13 Level Energetic An ascent of Hatterrall Hill via the hillfort and a walk Dist. 16km 10m through the heather on top of the hill, where we will Ascent pass through a little known . Return via the crooked church at Cwmyoy and the Twyn y Gaer (hill fort). Leader Charles and Helen 01594542473 Henderson

Title: A Wander to and above Date & Wed 21/8/19 Location: Layby on Trecastle to Tafarn y Garreg Time 10:00-15:30 Road at Bwlch Cerrig Duon (Spot height 476) 1km north of standing stones Grid Ref/Map SN856 223 / OL12 Level The two steep climbs will be taken at a very GENTLE Dist. 10km (6 miles) PACE. After a steady climb to the magnificent lake Ascent 330m (1082ft) and a rest, we climb steeply to Bwlch Giedd. A bit more climbing to Fan Brycheiniog, our highest point. High walking then quite steeply down to return to the east of the lake and back. Leader Iau Counsell 07976697495

13 GUIDED WALKS & EVENTS SUMMER 2019 Title: From Wye to High Part 2 Date & Fri 23/8/19 Location: Bridge End Inn, LD3 0YB (Park on Time 10:00-16:00 main road, not in pub car park. Plenty of room across Bridge.) Grid Ref/Map SO 129384 / OL 13 / Explorer 188 / Landranger 161 Level Energetic This time we will be on the Brecknock side of the Dist. 16km / 10 miles upper Wye Valley. From Llyswen we will ascend up Ascent 500m / 1600' through the forest to reach the open commons of Brechfa and Mynydd Fforest. Then a descent to the Sgithwen Brook will see us emerge on the Wye Valley walk for a gentle walk back alongside the sylvan banks of Wales' most beautiful river! Leader Rob Rees 07914265654

14 GUIDED WALKS & EVENTS SUMMER 2019

NAVIGATION COURSES

The Brecon Beacons Park Society is again offering navigation courses covering navigation

for hill walkers – from understanding maps and using a compass to more advanced skills such as relocation strategies, thanks to Rob Pritchard. The two day Get Lost Course (15/16

June) is for beginners and the Get Lost Again Course (5/6 October) is for the more

advanced.

There are limited places on these courses and in the past, they have filled up some time in

advance.

To book a place and/or for more information contact:

Rob Pritchard on [email protected] or phone 07773 713605.

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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]