SO0320 : The summit of Fan y Big

Fan y Big

717m Elevation
28m Prominence
Wales Country
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SO0320 : The summit of Fan y Big

Philip Halling Photo source

Explore routes near Fan y Big

Walks starting near this hill. Open a route to check its map, distance and full itinerary.

Pen y Fan via Corn Du from Storey Arms

7.2 km ~3h Moderate

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Aircraft Crash Site - Wellington Bomber and Vampire Jet (Black mountains)

20.6 km ~6h Hard

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Lower Failand–Priors wood

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Locking Parklands–Hutton–Christon

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Route planning notes

These notes describe possible approaches. Check a route's map and access information when planning your walk.

Circular Walk via Cribyn and Pen y Fan

This popular circular route starts from the Taf Fechan Forestry car park near Neuadd Reservoirs. The trail ascends to Fan y Big, continuing along the ridge to Cribyn and Pen y Fan before descending via the ridge path back to the car park. It offers stunning views of the Brecon Beacons and is well-marked.

16 km ~6 hours Hard

Out-and-Back from Talybont-on-Usk

This route begins at Talybont-on-Usk and ascends via Talybont Forest to reach the summit of Fan y Big. After enjoying the views, follow the same path back down. This quieter route is ideal for walkers looking for a more secluded experience.

10 km ~4 hours Moderate

Fan y Big Horseshoe Walk

Starting from the Blaen y Glyn Uchaf car park, this horseshoe route takes in Fan y Big, Cribyn, and Pen y Fan before looping back via the ridge path. The walk offers dramatic views, especially around the 'Diving Board' rock formation on Fan y Big.

14.5 km ~5.5 hours Hard

Short Walk to Fan y Big from Blaen y Glyn

This is a shorter and more direct route to Fan y Big, ideal for those with limited time. Starting from Blaen y Glyn Uchaf car park, the trail ascends steadily to the summit via a well-defined path, offering fantastic views of the surrounding peaks.

7 km ~3 hours Moderate

Extended Ridge Walk from Pontsticill

This extended ridge route begins at Pontsticill and follows a scenic path to Fan y Big, continuing to Cribyn and Pen y Fan before looping back through Taf Fechan Forest. A longer but rewarding hike for experienced walkers.

20 km ~7.5 hours Hard
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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Nuttall Subsimm

Elevation

717m

2,351 ft

Prominence

28m

Coordinates

51.8762, -3.4010

SO036206

OS Map

160

Explorer: OL12E

At the Summit

The summit features a prominent cairn, which has been a meeting point for many hikers and offers a perfect photo opportunity.

Terrain & Geology

A mix of grassy slopes and rocky outcrops; be prepared for some boggy patches in wetter seasons.

Fan y Big is primarily composed of Old Red Sandstone, characterized by its striking red and orange hues, which can make for a spectacular sight, particularly at sunrise.

Views & Scenery

From the summit, you can enjoy sweeping views of the Brecon Beacons, with Pen y Fan to the south and beautiful valleys stretching out as far as the eye can see.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Fan y Big' translates to 'the big summit' in Welsh, a fitting description for its prominent position in the landscape.

Historical Significance

Fan y Big has been a pilgrimage for walkers and nature enthusiasts for generations, often celebrated in local folklore and poetry.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

The nearest parking is at the Taf Fechan Forest car park, approximately 5 km away from the starting point of the main ascent.

Public Transport

The nearest train station is in Merthyr Tydfil, and regular buses run to the Brecon Beacons from there.

Nearby Facilities

While on route, you'll find a few picnic spots, but facilities are limited; make sure to pack some snacks and water. Brecon, a short drive away, offers cafes and public toilets.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Be wary of changing weather conditions and be prepared for quickly descending fog. The ground can be slippery, especially after rain, so sturdy footwear is recommended.

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 Fan y Big?

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

Are there other walkers around Fan y Big?

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 Fan y Big search or of course create your own walk for Fan y Big

Can I organise a walk to Fan y Big?

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 Fan y Big.

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 Fan y Big?

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 Fan y Big 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

Location

View the hill's mapped position and surrounding paths.

Grid reference: SO036206

View on OpenStreetMap

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