Pen y Fan Group Walks | Join a Walk
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Elevation
142m
466 ft
Prominence
136m
Coordinates
52.0329, -4.9090
SN005411
OS Map
145 157
Explorer: OL35E
The summit boasts a prominent cairn and a trig point, both favourite spots for selfies and a much-deserved snack break.
Primarily composed of Old Red Sandstone, forming impressive ridges and steep slopes. This ancient rock has weathered beautifully, giving rise to some stunning scenery and a few dodgy footings!
From its summit, expect breathtaking views of the Beacons, the Black Mountains, and on a clear day, even as far as the Bristol Channel.
The name 'Pen y Fan' translates to 'Head of the Hill' in Welsh, quite fitting for the highest peak in South Wales!
Pen y Fan holds significant historical and cultural value, often featured in tales of Welsh folklore and a pilgrimage site for hikers.
This is the most popular and straightforward route to Pen y Fan, starting from the Storey Arms Outdoor Centre. The path is well-maintained and offers a gradual ascent, making it suitable for walkers of all abilities. The trail takes you up to Corn Du first, before the final ascent to Pen y Fan. On a clear day, the views from the summit are spectacular, offering vistas across the Brecon Beacons and beyond.
For those looking for a more challenging and scenic circular walk, the Horseshoe Ridge Route starts at the Pont ar Daf car park. This trail takes you up to Corn Du, Pen y Fan, and Cribyn, creating a stunning horseshoe-shaped route. The descent from Cribyn leads back to the starting point, offering a variety of landscapes and panoramic views throughout.
This quieter route begins from the Cwm Gwdi car park and ascends through the scenic Cwm Llwch valley. It’s a less-travelled path, offering a peaceful climb with views of the Cwm Llwch lake below. The route eventually joins the main ridge path, leading you to the summit of Pen y Fan. It’s a rewarding walk for those looking to avoid the busier trails.
This route starts near the Neuadd Reservoirs and offers a challenging but rewarding circular hike. The trail includes ascents of Pen y Fan, Corn Du, Cribyn, and sometimes Fan y Big, making it ideal for experienced walkers. The route features ridge walks, steep climbs, and breathtaking views of the Beacons' dramatic landscape.
Part of the long-distance Beacon Way, this route to Pen y Fan starts from the Taf Fechan forest. The trail winds through woodlands before emerging onto the open moorland and joining the main ridge. It’s a longer route but offers a diverse landscape and a less crowded alternative to the more direct paths.
Storey Arms Car Park (SN 989 220), with ample spaces and a visitor centre. Check for seasonal parking fees.
Buses from Brecon to Storey Arms, but check the schedule - it may be a long wait between services.
Nearby facilities include the Storey Arms café for refreshments and toilet facilities.
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Some common questions about the hills answered
Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Pen y Fan through the maps
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 Pen y Fan search or of course create your own walk for Pen y Fan
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 Pen y Fan.
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.
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 Pen y Fan here
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Grid Ref: SN005411
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