Burfa Bank
Good walks are even better shared.
Overview
Burfa Bank: A Hidden Gem in the Welsh Countryside
Overview
Burfa Bank is a delightful Marilyn located in the rolling hills of Wales, specifically just a stone's throw from the town of Kington. It rises to 455 meters and provides splendid views over Herefordshire and the Black Mountains. Ideal for a day hike, it is perfect for both seasoned trekkers and casual walkers wanting to stretch their legs.
Geology
The geology of Burfa Bank consists of primarily sedimentary rocks, with limestone and sandstone playing prominent roles in shaping its character. The unique geological formations make for interesting exploration opportunities—and might even make your geology teacher proud!
Routes
The most popular route is the Burfa Bank Circular, starting from Kington. This 6 km loop allows you to savour the fresh Welsh air over approximately 2.5 hours. The route traverses both lush woodland and glorious open fields, accommodating moderate fitness levels.
Summit Features
Upon reaching the summit, hikers are greeted by a charming cairn and trig point. It’s the perfect place to catch your breath—and perhaps ponder your life choices (like why you decided to climb a hill on a Saturday morning!).
Terrain Type
Expect a combination of grassy patches and rocky outcrops. Good hiking boots are your best friends here; they’ll save you from doing an unplanned dance on the slippery rocks!
Views
The summit offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. Look south for the striking silhouette of the Black Mountains and eastward for the undulating hills of Herefordshire. The best seasons for enjoying these views are spring and autumn, when wildflowers bloom and the foliage turns to vibrant hues, thus making every moment worth its weight in snapshots.
Hazards
Like any true hill, Burfa Bank can catch you off guard. Be aware of quick shifts in weather; it can change from sunny to ‘where did this rain come from?’ in a jiffy. Watch your footing on the trails, particularly after rainfall, as slippery bits are known to surprise even the most seasoned hikers.
Nearby Summits
While you’re out wandering, consider exploring nearby summits like Hergest Ridge and Great Rhos. They offer additional adventure and stunning vistas worth climbing for.
Access
Kington is your gateway to Burfa Bank. There’s parking available nearby and regular bus services provide easy access from Hereford. Essential facilities like cafes and toilets are abundant, perfect for your pre- or post-hike refuelling needs.
History
The name 'Burfa' has deep roots in Old Welsh, possibly translating to 'barrow'. This hill played its part in history as part of Offa's Dyke, built in the 8th century to defend Mercia from the Welsh. A hike here is not just a walk in the park; you're treading on historic ground!
In conclusion, Burfa Bank is an inviting destination for all, laced with natural beauty, intriguing history, and the kind of views that make you feel grateful to be outdoors. Don’t forget your camera—these sights are too lovely to be left only to memory!
Happy hiking!
Explore routes near Burfa Bank
Public walks starting within 80 km of this hill. Nearby does not mean a route reaches the summit; check its map and access before setting out.
Croft Castle: Fishpool Valley and the Gothic pumphouse
View route
Berrington Hall: woodland, lake and Windmill Hill
View route
Mortimer Forest Lower Evens Circuit
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Ludlow Town Walls and Castle Walk
View route
Route planning notes
These notes describe possible approaches, not verified navigable routes or permission to cross land. Check current paths, local access rules and conditions before setting out.
Burfa Bank Circular
A popular circular route starting from the nearby village of Kington, offering a mix of woodland trails and open hills.
Make a day of it, together
Find someone to share the walk with, or organise a day out along a route you like.
Photo Gallery
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SO2861 : Burfa Camp
Richard Webb
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SO2860 : Path, Burfa Bank
Richard Webb
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SO2860 : Burfa Bank
Richard Webb
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SO2860 : Burfa Bank
Rude Health
Hill facts and local notes
Classifications
Elevation
313m
1,027 ft
Prominence
104m
Coordinates
52.2424, -3.0520
SO282609
OS Map
137 148
Explorer: 201N
At the Summit
At the summit, you'll find a well-built cairn and a trig point that offers a perfect photo opportunity, if not a bit of a struggle to reach after all that climbing!
Terrain & Geology
The area features a mix of sedimentary rocks, primarily limestone and sandstone, which contribute to the varied topography and rich biodiversity in the surrounding region.
Views & Scenery
From the summit, enjoy panoramic views of the Black Mountains to the south and the rolling hills of Herefordshire to the east.
History & Heritage
Name Origin
The name 'Burfa' is believed to derive from Old Welsh, possibly meaning 'barrow' or 'burial mound'.
Historical Significance
The area is steeped in history, part of the ancient boundary known as Offa's Dyke, which was built by King Offa of Mercia in the 8th century.
Getting There & Facilities
Check current local access restrictions, parking rules and transport timetables before travelling. These notes do not confirm public access to the summit.
Parking
There is a small parking area in Kington, just a short walk from the start of the Burfa Bank Circular route.
Public Transport
Regular bus services run to Kington from Hereford, making it accessible for those relying on public transport.
Nearby Facilities
Kington offers various amenities, including cafes, toilets, and shops for any last-minute supplies.
Safety Information
Known Hazards
- Watch out for sudden changes in weather; the hills can be notoriously fickle. Also, slippery patches may occur after rain—so mind your step!
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
Hills
Some common questions about the hills answered
Are there group walks up Burfa Bank?
Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Burfa Bank through the maps
Are there other walkers around Burfa Bank?
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 Burfa Bank search or of course create your own walk for Burfa Bank
Can I organise a walk to Burfa Bank?
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 Burfa Bank.
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 Burfa Bank?
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 Burfa Bank 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
Community Discussion
Comments
Location
Grid reference: SO282609
View on OpenStreetMapOpens a map in a new tab, centred on the hill.
Hills within 30 km
Straight-line distance, not a walking route or confirmation of access.
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