SH7075 : Brundrit's East Quarry

Penmaen Mawr

385m Elevation
30m Prominence
Wales Country
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SH7075 : Brundrit's East Quarry

Jonathan Wilkins Photo source

Explore routes near Penmaen Mawr

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

Snowdon Pyg Track returning by Miner's Track

12.3 km ~5h 30m Hard

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Aran Benllyn and Aran Fawddwy from LLanuwchllyn

17.5 km ~9h Moderate

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Cadair Idris - Pony Path

9 km ~3h Hard

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Route planning notes

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

Penmaen Mawr Circular via Foel Lus

This popular circular route begins in the village of Penmaenmawr and climbs steadily towards Foel Lus. From there, ascend Penmaen Mawr itself, enjoying stunning views of the Irish Sea and the Carneddau range. The descent follows a well-defined path back to the village.

8.5 km ~3.5 hours Moderate

Western Ridge Ascent from Capelulo

Starting from Capelulo, this route takes you along the scenic western ridge towards Penmaen Mawr. The path offers breathtaking coastal views and a sense of remoteness despite its proximity to civilization. Return via the same route or explore connecting trails.

6 km ~2.5 hours Moderate

Northern Coastal Path Approach

Follow the North Wales Path from Penmaenmawr along the coastal edge before turning inland to ascend Penmaen Mawr. This route combines dramatic sea views with a satisfying hill climb. The descent can retrace the same path or loop back through inland trails.

9 km ~3 hours Moderate

Penmaen Mawr and Druid's Circle Loop

This scenic route includes a visit to the prehistoric Druid's Circle stone circle before ascending Penmaen Mawr. The trail offers a mix of history, sweeping landscapes, and excellent photography opportunities. The route loops back to the starting point via a different path.

10 km ~4 hours Moderate

High Carneddau Link Route

For experienced walkers, this challenging route combines Penmaen Mawr with nearby peaks in the Carneddau range, such as Foel-ganol and Drum. Starting from Penmaenmawr, the route demands good navigation skills and fitness but rewards with panoramic views and a true mountain experience.

16 km ~6 hours Hard
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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

300-399m hill

Elevation

385m

1,262 ft

Prominence

30m

Coordinates

53.2626, -3.9475

SH702757

OS Map

115

Explorer: OL17E

At the Summit

The summit features a prominent trig point and a large cairn, both of which provide excellent backdrops for those all-important summit selfies.

Terrain & Geology

The path varies from grassy hillsides to rocky outcrops giving hikers a taste of everything the great outdoors has to offer—except perhaps a five-star hotel.

Penmaen Mawr is primarily composed of sedimentary rock, specifically gritstone and sandstone, which were formed during the Devonian period. This geological history provides a fascinating insight into the processes that shaped the landscape we see today.

Views & Scenery

From the summit, you can see the stunning vistas of the Snowdonia range, Anglesey, and the Irish Sea beyond. On a clear day, keep your eyes peeled for the distant hills of the Llyn Peninsula.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Penmaen Mawr' translates to 'the big rock head' in Welsh, a fitting description given its imposing rocky summit.

Historical Significance

The area has historical significance dating back to ancient times, with evidence of early human activity and connections to local folklore.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

There is ample parking available in Llanfairfechan, just a stone's throw from the Coastal Path starting point.

Public Transport

Llanfairfechan is served by regular train services from Bangor, and there are bus connections available as well.

Nearby Facilities

There are various cafes and pubs in Llanfairfechan where you can refuel after your hike, as well as public toilets near the seafront.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Loose rocks on the ascent can cause slips, so watch your step. Weather can change suddenly, so bring a good jacket—no one enjoys getting soaked to the bone whilst taking in the sights.

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 Penmaen Mawr?

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

Are there other walkers around Penmaen Mawr?

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 Penmaen Mawr search or of course create your own walk for Penmaen Mawr

Can I organise a walk to Penmaen Mawr?

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 Penmaen Mawr.

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 Penmaen Mawr?

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 Penmaen Mawr 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

Penmaen Mawr location map

Grid reference: SH702757

View on OpenStreetMap

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

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