Image shared for Dolaucothi Estate: Cothi Valley and Red Waymarked Circuit
Countryside Circular

Dolaucothi Estate: Cothi Valley and Red Waymarked Circuit

Dyfed

Distance
3.7 mi
Est. time
3h
Difficulty
Hard
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PaulWalkmates Route by PaulWalkmates

About this walk

Start at the entrance to the free Dolaucothi Woodland car park, opposite the gold-mine gates near Pumsaint. This car park is open 24 hours all year; the separate mine car park has restricted opening.

Follow the red Estate Trail: leave through the far end of the woodland parking, take the path above the River Cothi and cross the estate bridge. Pass the old walled garden and mansion grounds, then use the boardwalk and steps to reach the farm track. The waymarked climb continues through woodland and field gates to the estate trig point, 282m above sea level, overlooking the Cothi Valley.

Follow the fence and forest track before the very steep descent to the river. Return along the former timber railway, then the estate track to Pumsaint. Use the pavement over the road bridge and turn onto the gold-mines lane. Its final 350m has no pavement: watch for vehicles.

Allow about three hours. Expect steep slopes, steps, uneven tracks and winter mud; stout footwear is needed. Keep dogs on leads around livestock. Mine-yard toilets and refreshments depend on opening times; underground tours are separate.

Route and access information: National Trust Dolaucothi Estate Trail and estate visitor information, checked October 2026. The plotted circuit measures about 6km; the Trust quotes 7.2km for its trail.

Walk details

County
Dyfed
Walk type
Circular
Category
Countryside
Distance
3.7 mi (6.0 km)
Est. time
3h
Explorer
Yes, off the beaten track

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