Black Mountain

Black Mountain

Black Mountain Group Walks | Join a Walk

448m Elevation
63m Prominence
England Country

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Classifications

400-499m Tump

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Elevation

448m

1,470 ft

Prominence

63m

Coordinates

52.4412, -3.1903

SO191832

OS Map

136

Explorer: 214E 216

At the Summit

The summit is marked by a trig point that stands as a beacon for hikers. You'll also find several stone cairns built by fellow adventurers who've trodden these paths.

Terrain & Geology

Varied with rocky outcrops grassy slopes and some sections of boggy ground especially after a rain.

The mountain primarily consists of Old Red Sandstone, which is much older than its surrounding formations. Erosion has sculpted the terrain, resulting in rugged cliffs and deep gorges.

Views & Scenery

On a clear day, you can see as far as the Brecon Beacons, the Black Mountains, and even the distant peaks of the Pembrokeshire Coast.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Black Mountain' is derived from the Welsh 'Myneddu Du', reflecting the dark, rugged terrain.

Historical Significance

Black Mountain has a rich history tied to local folklore and ancient paths often used by sheep herders and traders.

Popular Routes

Hay Bluff and Black Mountain Circular

Moderate

This popular circular route starts at the Gospel Pass car park and leads you to Hay Bluff before ascending to the ridge of Black Mountain. The walk offers stunning views across the Wye Valley and the Brecon Beacons. The route then follows the Offa's Dyke Path along the ridge before looping back to the start point.

13 km 4.5 hours

Black Hill and Cat's Back Ridge

Moderate

Starting from the car park near Llanthony, this route takes you up the iconic Cat's Back ridge (Hatterrall Ridge) to Black Hill and then onto Black Mountain. The ridge walk offers breathtaking views over Herefordshire and Wales, with a gradual descent back to the start point.

12 km 4 hours

Offa's Dyke Path Linear Route

Moderate

This route follows a section of the famous Offa's Dyke Path, starting at the Gospel Pass and heading southwards along the ridge of Black Mountain. The linear nature allows for a car shuttle or public transport at the end. The walk showcases expansive views and historical landmarks along the way.

10 km 3.5 hours

Twmpa (Lord Hereford's Knob) and Black Mountain

Moderate

This route begins at the Gospel Pass car park, ascends Twmpa (also known as Lord Hereford's Knob), and continues along the ridge to Black Mountain. The route is a shorter option but still delivers spectacular views and a sense of remoteness in the Brecon Beacons.

8 km 3 hours

Long Circular via Llanthony Priory

Challenging

Starting at Llanthony Priory, this longer circular route ascends the ridge to Black Mountain and follows it northwards along Offa's Dyke Path. The route then loops back via the valleys and offers a mix of ridge walking and woodland trails, with a chance to explore the priory at the end.

16 km 6 hours

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

There is a car park at SO 193 830, which provides access to various trails leading up the mountain.

Public Transport

The nearest bus service runs from Brecon, though check the latest timetable as services may vary.

Nearby Facilities

Facilities in Llandovery include supermarkets, cafes, and public toilets. There are also local pubs serving hearty meals to fuel your adventures.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Muddy paths in wet weather, sudden changes in weather conditions, and steep drops at certain viewpoints.

General Safety Tips

  • Check weather conditions before setting out
  • Carry appropriate clothing and equipment
  • Let someone know your planned route
  • Take a map, compass, and GPS device
  • Carry emergency supplies: food, water, first aid kit, torch

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Hills

Some common questions about the hills answered

Are there group walks up Black Mountain?

Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Black Mountain through the maps

Are there other walkers around Black Mountain?

Activity varies by location and time, but Walkmates lets you see whether others have shared walks or shown interest in this area. Find other people through the walking friends search walking friends for Black Mountain search or of course create your own walk for Black Mountain

Can I organise a walk to Black Mountain?

Yes. If there aren’t any walks listed already, you can create a walk and make it available for others to join.

If you're signed up to Walkmates, you can create a walk to Black Mountain.

How do I find a walk up this hill?

There are often multiple ways to walk this hill, depending on experience and route preference. Walkmates helps you explore walks and routes that others have shared.

Can I suggest a new route up Black Mountain?

Yes. You can suggest or create routes to share with others. Walkmates focuses on the social side of walking, so routes are used to help people organise walks and explore areas together, rather than as detailed navigation tools or route libraries.

Other uses really appreciate knowledgeable walkers sharing their routes. Share your favourite route to Black Mountain here

The is an error or something incorrect about this hill. How do I let you know?

We always strive to keep the information on Walkmates as accurate as possible. If you find an error, please let us know through the contact form and we'll aim to correct it as quickly as possible