Merthyr Common

Merthyr Common

Merthyr Common Group Walks | Join a Walk

531m Elevation
0m Prominence
Wales Country

Join group walks, find walking companions and friends, or organise your own!

Classifications

County Top (Current)

Looking for walking companions?

Don't walk alone! Find friendly walkers to explore Merthyr Common together. Join scheduled group walks or start your own.

Elevation

531m

1,742 ft

Prominence

0m

Coordinates

51.7903, -3.3350

SO080110

OS Map

160

Explorer: OL12E

At the Summit

At the summit, you'll find a modest cairn and breathtaking panoramic views over the valleys of Merthyr and beyond. A great place to catch a breather and take a selfie!

Terrain & Geology

Mixed terrain; predominantly grassy hills with some rocky sections.

Merthyr Common is primarily composed of Old Red Sandstone, characteristic of the region, which contributes to its rugged landscapes and unique ecosystems. The area is also rich in coal deposits, a nod to its industrial past.

Views & Scenery

From the summit, you can spot the peaks of the Brecon Beacons, the distant Black Mountains, and on clear days, even the snowy summits of Pen y Fan.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Merthyr' originates from the Welsh word 'merthyr', meaning martyr, reflecting its ecclesiastical history.

Historical Significance

The Common has historical value tied to the industrial era of South Wales, having been used for grazing and recreation for centuries.

Popular Routes

Merthyr Common Circular

Moderate

A delightful circular route starting from the Merthyr Tydfil area, encompassing scenic views and varied terrain of the Common and its surroundings.

8 km 2.5 hours

From Cefn Coed

Easy

A straightforward path offering a gentle ascent, ideal for families and less experienced walkers. Perfect for a morning stroll with the pooch!

5 km 1.5 hours

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

The nearest parking is available at the Merthyr Tydfil Leisure Centre, approximately 5 km from the main trailheads.

Public Transport

Regular bus services operate from Merthyr Tydfil station to various points around the area; check local schedules for times.

Nearby Facilities

Merthyr Tydfil has a variety of amenities, including cafes, shops, and public toilets. The local brew is worth a stop!

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Potential for uneven ground; be cautious on wet or boggy days. Keep an eye out for livestock, as the Common is grazed.

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

Find Walking Companions

Join friendly walkers exploring Merthyr Common and surrounding area

Can't find a walk? Organise your own!

Create a walk and let others join you. It's free and easy!

Hills

Some common questions about the hills answered

Are there group walks up Merthyr Common?

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

Are there other walkers around Merthyr Common?

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 Merthyr Common search or of course create your own walk for Merthyr Common

Can I organise a walk to Merthyr Common?

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 Merthyr Common.

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 Merthyr Common?

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 Merthyr Common 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