SO0121 : On the summit plateau of Pen y Fan in the Brecon Beacons

Pen y Fan

886m Elevation
672m Prominence
Wales Country
Find walking friends Explore routes

Good walks are even better shared.

SO0121 : On the summit plateau of Pen y Fan in the Brecon Beacons

Jeremy Bolwell Photo source

Explore routes near Pen y Fan

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

View route

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

20.6 km ~6h Hard

View route

Lower Failand–Priors wood

View route

Locking Parklands–Hutton–Christon

View route

Route planning notes

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

The Storey Arms Route

The most popular route to Pen y Fan, starting at the Storey Arms Outdoor Centre. The path is well-defined and steadily ascends the southern slopes of Corn Du before continuing to Pen y Fan. This route is perfect for beginners or families seeking a manageable yet rewarding hike.

6.4 km ~2.5 hours Moderate

The Horseshoe Ridge Walk (via Corn Du, Pen y Fan, and Cribyn)

A classic circular ridge walk that takes in the peaks of Corn Du, Pen y Fan, and Cribyn. Starting at Pont ar Daf car park, this route offers breathtaking views and varied terrain. The descent from Cribyn completes the loop, making it a favourite for more experienced walkers.

10 km ~4 hours Hard

The Cwm Llwch Route

This scenic route begins near Cwm Gwdi car park and ascends Pen y Fan via Cwm Llwch. The climb passes through a stunning glacial valley and offers more solitude compared to the busier Storey Arms path. Suitable for those seeking a quieter experience.

7.5 km ~3 hours Moderate

The Neuadd Reservoir Circuit

A longer and more challenging circular walk starting at Neuadd Reservoir. The route ascends via Graig Fan Ddu, traverses the ridge to Corn Du, Pen y Fan, and Cribyn, before descending back to the reservoir. This route rewards hikers with spectacular ridgeline views.

13 km ~5.5 hours Hard

The Taf Fechan Forest Route

Starting near the Taf Fechan Forest, this route ascends Pen y Fan via the lesser-travelled eastern approach. It passes through picturesque woodland and open moorland, offering a more tranquil alternative to the busier routes. Best suited for those seeking a more remote adventure.

9 km ~3.5 hours Moderate
Browse more walks on the map

Make a day of it, together

Find someone to share the walk with, or organise a day out along a route you like.

Find walking friends Plan a walk here
Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Marilyn Simm Hewitt Nuttall High Hills of Britain Historic County Top (pre-1889) Administrative County Top (1889 to 1996) Current County/UA Top

Elevation

886m

2,907 ft

Prominence

672m

Coordinates

51.8840, -3.4368

SO012215

OS Map

160

Explorer: OL12E

At the Summit

The summit features a prominent trig point and a large stone cairn, making it a perfect spot for that all-important Instagram photo.

Terrain & Geology

A mixture of rocky paths and grassy slopes with some boggy areas to keep your boots interesting.

Pen y Fan is primarily composed of Sandstone, dating back to the Old Red Sandstone period, which gives the mountain its rugged beauty and fascinating rock formations.

Views & Scenery

From the summit, you can see the Black Mountains to the east and the vast landscape of South Wales, including the Severn Estuary on a clear day.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name Pen y Fan translates to 'Top of the Beacon' from Welsh, highlighting its prominent position in the Brecon Beacons.

Historical Significance

Pen y Fan has a rich history dating back to prehistoric times, with various archaeological sites in the vicinity, hinting at its cultural importance.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

The nearest parking is at the Storey Arms Centre, which has a designated parking area and facilities for visitors.

Public Transport

Buses run from Cardiff and surrounding areas to the nearby village of Libanus, though services may be limited on weekends.

Nearby Facilities

There are toilets at the Storey Arms Centre and several cafes in Brecon for post-hike refreshments.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Sudden weather changes, muddy conditions, and steep drops in places; always be mindful of your footing and bring suitable clothing.

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 Pen y Fan?

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

Are there other walkers around Pen y Fan?

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

Can I organise a walk to 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.

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 Pen y Fan?

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

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

Pen y Fan location map

Grid reference: SO012215

View on OpenStreetMap

Opens a map in a new tab, centred on the hill.

Nearby Hills

Cribyn

Cribyn

795m

Fan Gyhirych

726m

 Fan Brycheiniog - Twr y Fan Foel

Fan Brycheiniog - Twr y Fan Foel

802m

Carneddau

445m

Pumlumon Fawr [Plynlimon]

752m
See 5 more nearby hills