Penglais
Good walks are even better shared.
SN5983 : Sheep Pasture near Bryncarnedd
Mick Garratt Photo source
Explore routes near Penglais
Walks starting near this hill. Open a route to check its map, distance and full itinerary.
Cadair Idris - Pony Path
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Snowdon Pyg Track returning by Miner's Track
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Route planning notes
These notes describe possible approaches. Check a route's map and access information when planning your walk.
Penglais Hill Walk
A popular loop starting from the accessibility of Aberystwyth University and winding through wooded paths and fields, suitable for the whole family.
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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SN5983 : Sheep Pasture near Bryncarnedd
Mick Garratt
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SN5982 : Field boundary
Ian Capper
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SN5983 : Penglais
Rude Health
Hill facts and local notes
Classifications
Elevation
152m
497 ft
Prominence
106m
Coordinates
52.4284, -4.0667
SN595831
OS Map
135
Explorer: 213
At the Summit
At the summit, you'll find a grassy plateau with a few benches for resting, offering a perfect picnic spot while admiring the views.
Terrain & Geology
Primarily composed of sandstone and mudstone, with stratification visible in many places. The geological history tells a tale of ancient sea beds that have uplifted over millennia.
Views & Scenery
You can glimpse Cardigan Bay to the west, the historic town of Aberystwyth, and even as far as Snowdonia on a clear day. Nature lovers will enjoy spotting local wildlife, including birds of prey.
History & Heritage
Name Origin
The name 'Penglais' translates to 'the head of the grove' in Welsh, fitting for a hill adorned with natural greenery.
Historical Significance
Historically, Penglais was significant as a site of early human activity, and its strategic position has made it notable throughout Welsh history.
Getting There & Facilities
Parking
There is a car park at Aberystwyth University, which is just a short walk from the trailhead.
Public Transport
Regular bus services operate from nearby towns to Aberystwyth, with nearby Ceredigion Coastal Path providing further access to the area.
Nearby Facilities
Public toilets are located at the university and various cafes in Aberystwyth offer refreshments and snacks for the journey ahead.
Safety Information
Known Hazards
- Watch out for uneven terrain in some places, especially when wet. The pathways can be muddy and may make for slippery footing, so wear sturdy footwear!
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 Penglais?
Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Penglais through the maps
Are there other walkers around Penglais?
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 Penglais search or of course create your own walk for Penglais
Can I organise a walk to Penglais?
Yes. If there arenβt 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 Penglais.
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 Penglais?
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 Penglais 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
Comments
Location
Grid reference: SN595831
View on OpenStreetMapOpens a map in a new tab, centred on the hill.
Nearby Hills
Pumlumon Fawr [Plynlimon]
752m
Cadair Idris - Penygadair
893m
Y Garn
629m
Rhinog Fawr
720m
Aran Fawddwy
906m
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