Cadair Berwyn
Good walks are even better shared.
SJ0732 : View towards Llyn Lluncaws
Espresso Addict Photo source
Explore routes near Cadair Berwyn
Walks starting near this hill. Open a route to check its map, distance and full itinerary.
Aran Benllyn and Aran Fawddwy from LLanuwchllyn
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Cadair Idris - Pony Path
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Snowdon Pyg Track returning by Miner's Track
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Lightspout Waterfall via Carding Mill Valley Circular
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Route planning notes
These notes describe possible approaches. Check a route's map and access information when planning your walk.
Cadair Berwyn Circuit via Pistyll Rhaeadr
This popular circular route starts at the Pistyll Rhaeadr waterfall, one of the tallest waterfalls in Wales. The trail ascends steeply through scenic woodlands before opening out onto the ridge leading to Cadair Berwyn. From the summit, enjoy panoramic views of Snowdonia, the Shropshire Hills, and the Berwyn range. The return route loops back via the Nant y Llyn valley, passing Llyn Lluncaws, a picturesque mountain lake.
Cadair Berwyn and Cadair Bronwen Ridge Walk
This ridge walk begins at the car park near Llandrillo and follows the well-marked Berwyn Way, climbing steadily to Cadair Bronwen. From there, the trail continues along the ridge to Cadair Berwyn, offering stunning views throughout. The descent follows the same path, making it a straightforward yet rewarding out-and-back route.
Cadair Berwyn via Moel Sych
This route starts from Pistyll Rhaeadr and takes you up through the valley towards Moel Sych. After summiting Moel Sych, the trail continues to Cadair Berwyn, offering a chance to bag two prominent peaks in the Berwyn range. The return route descends via the Nant y Llyn valley, passing Llyn Lluncaws, making for a varied and scenic day out.
Cadair Berwyn from Cynwyd
Starting in the village of Cynwyd, this less-traveled route follows quiet paths and open moorland to reach the summit of Cadair Berwyn. The ascent offers a sense of solitude and wildness, with rewarding views from the top. The return route retraces your steps, providing a straightforward navigation experience.
Cadair Berwyn and Llyn Lluncaws Short Walk
This shorter route is ideal for those who want to experience the beauty of Cadair Berwyn without committing to a full-day hike. Starting at Pistyll Rhaeadr, it climbs steadily to Llyn Lluncaws, a serene mountain lake nestled below the summit. From here, the trail ascends to Cadair Berwyn before returning via the same path.
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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SJ0732 : View towards Llyn Lluncaws
Espresso Addict
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SJ0732 : View westwards from the Berwyn ridge
Jeremy Bolwell
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SJ0732 : Cadair Berwyn New Top
Bill Rowley
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SJ0732 : Below Cadair Berwyn
Gerald Davison
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SJ0732 : Bwlch Maen Gwynedd from the Berwyns
Jeremy Bolwell
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SJ0732 : On the Berwyn ridge
Jeremy Bolwell
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SJ0732 : Cairn on the Berwyn ridge
Jeremy Bolwell
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SJ0732 : Approaching Cadair Berwyn New Top
Trevor Harris
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SJ0732 : View from southern top of Cadair Berwyn
Espresso Addict
SJ0732 : Fences below the New Top of Cadair Berwyn
Richard Law
Hill facts and local notes
Classifications
Elevation
832m
2,730 ft
Prominence
347m
Coordinates
52.8806, -3.3810
SJ071323
OS Map
125
Explorer: 255
At the Summit
The summit features a large cairn and a trig point. On a clear day, you might even spot a few sheep admiring the view, pondering their next snack.
Terrain & Geology
Cadair Berwyn is primarily composed of sedimentary rocks, mainly mudstones and sandstones, formed during the Silurian period. The softer layers can create interesting rock formations and some boggier areas.
Views & Scenery
On a clear day, you can see across the shimmering waters of Bala Lake, the majestic peaks of Snowdonia, and the rolling hills of the Welsh countryside.
History & Heritage
Name Origin
The name 'Cadair Berwyn' translates to 'Chair of Berwyn', suggestive of its prominent status in the Berwyn range, perhaps a comfortable seat for the local wildlife.
Historical Significance
Cadair Berwyn holds cultural significance as a hub for ancient myths and legends. Many hikers feel a connection to the landscape, which has been a part of Welsh culture for centuries.
Getting There & Facilities
Parking
There is a small car park in Llangynog, which typically fills up quickly during busy weekends. Arrive early to snag a space!
Public Transport
Buses run to Llangynog from nearby towns, although service can be infrequent. Check with local transport providers for up-to-date schedules.
Nearby Facilities
There are a couple of quaint cafes in Llangynog where you can grab a cuppa and a slice of cake after your hike. Toilets are available in the village.
Safety Information
Known Hazards
- Be cautious of uneven terrain and boggy sections. Weather can change rapidly, so be prepared for a sudden downpour or a gust of wind that might just take your hat!
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 Cadair Berwyn?
Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Cadair Berwyn through the maps
Are there other walkers around Cadair Berwyn?
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 Cadair Berwyn search or of course create your own walk for Cadair Berwyn
Can I organise a walk to Cadair Berwyn?
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 Cadair Berwyn.
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 Cadair Berwyn?
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 Cadair Berwyn 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
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Location
View the hill's mapped position and surrounding paths.
Grid reference: SJ071323
View on OpenStreetMapOpens a map in a new tab, centred on the hill.
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