Brecon Basin to Brynich Aqueduct: Canal Towpath Walk

Start at the pay-and-display Theatr Brycheiniog car park on Canal Road, beside Brecon canal basin. The start pin is at the northern pedestrian exit beside the basin; leave the car park on this side and follow the basin frontage onto the towpath. Walk east with the canal beside you, passing Gasworks Bridge and the double-arched Watton Wharf Bridge. Stay on the towpath beneath the A40 bypass and Brynich Bridge, then follow the canal bends to Brynich Lock and the northern end of Brynich Aqueduct over the River Usk. Turn here and retrace the same towpath to the basin and car park.

This is a mostly level out-and-back walk on paved and compacted towpath, with narrower sections under bridges and occasional muddy patches. The water edge is often unprotected. Share the path considerately with cyclists, keep children close and dogs under control, and take care around working boats and lock gates. The mapped turnaround is before crossing the aqueduct. Allow about 2 hours 15 minutes for walking and short pauses. The basin has benches and Theatr Brycheiniog has a cafe and toilets when open.

Parking charges apply all day; the theatre currently lists a daytime four-hour tariff of £3.25. Check the machine and venue opening times on arrival. Canal & River Trust has scheduled navigation works at Brynich from 9 to 27 November 2026; check its latest notices before visiting and follow on-site instructions. A separately listed towpath closure at Llanfrynach is beyond this route.

Route and heritage information: Canal & River Trust, Step by Step - Brecon Basin and Brecon Basin visitor map. Parking information: Theatr Brycheiniog visitor information. Access notices checked 4 October 2026.