SO1119 : Panoramic view north from Tor y Foel

Tor y Foel

551m Elevation
157m Prominence
Wales Country
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SO1119 : Panoramic view north from Tor y Foel

Gareth James Photo source

Explore routes near Tor y Foel

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

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Lower Failand–Priors wood

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Failand–Abbots Fish pond–Long Ashton

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Route planning notes

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

From the A470

A straightforward path leading from the A470, gently winding through scenic views of the rolling hills before ascending to the summit.

4.5 km ~2 hours Easy
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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Marilyn Dodd Dewey

Elevation

551m

1,808 ft

Prominence

157m

Coordinates

51.8670, -3.2874

SO114194

OS Map

161

Explorer: OL13S

At the Summit

The summit features a modest cairn and a stunning expanse of grassy moorland, with occasional rocky outcrops where one can enjoy a little snack break.

Terrain & Geology

Grassy and rocky with some sections potentially boggy after rainfall.

Tor y Foel is primarily composed of Old Red Sandstone, a sedimentary rock formed over 400 million years ago, which adds an interesting geological layer to the local landscape.

Views & Scenery

The views from the summit are stunning; you can spot the distant peaks of the Brecon Beacons and the rolling verdant hills of the surrounding countryside.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Tor y Foel' translates to 'hill of the mound' in Welsh, which reflects the geological features of the area.

Historical Significance

This region is steeped in Welsh history and folklore, often featuring in local legends and serving as a vital landscape for farming communities.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

There is a small layby along the A470 suitable for a few cars; arrive early to grab a spot!

Public Transport

Buses run regularly from nearby towns like Brecon and Merthyr Tydfil to the A470, making it a great option for those without a car.

Nearby Facilities

The nearest facilities, including public toilets and cafes, can be found in Brecon town.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Watch out for sudden weather changes typical of the British hills; a sunny day can quickly turn to drizzle. Also, some paths can be muddy and slippery after rain.

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 Tor y Foel?

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

Are there other walkers around Tor y Foel?

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 Tor y Foel search or of course create your own walk for Tor y Foel

Can I organise a walk to Tor y Foel?

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 Tor y Foel.

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 Tor y Foel?

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 Tor y Foel 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

View the hill's mapped position and surrounding paths.

Grid reference: SO114194

View on OpenStreetMap

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Nearby Hills

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Pen y Fan

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Carneddau

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Fan Gyhirych

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 Fan Brycheiniog - Twr y Fan Foel

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