Swansea Canal: Coed Gwilym Park to Pontardawe Aqueduct

Start at the public car park in Coed Gwilym Park, Clydach, off Pontardawe Road. Follow the park paths past the sports courts to the canal, then turn upstream towards Trebanos. This return walk follows the valley floor to the Upper Clydach Aqueduct in Pontardawe.

The canal runs beside woodland and the River Tawe valley. Pass the carved tree and the two Trebanos locks, separated by their old bridge. Beyond the locks, continue beside the canal to the point where the water enters a culvert. Keep on the old towpath towards Pontardawe when the cycle route bends away towards the river. Follow the established path and short shared access lane, then the path under the bypass. The canal emerges again beside the Upper Clydach Aqueduct. Turn around just beyond the aqueduct and return by the same route to the park.

Allow two hours for the walk and brief stops at the locks and aqueduct. Most of the route is fairly level, with compacted gravel and paved sections, but there are short inclines near Pontardawe. Wet weather can make the towpath muddy or slippery. Keep children close beside open water, give space to cyclists, and keep dogs under control. The Heritage Centre and seasonal canoe hire have their own opening times; do not rely on them for refreshments or toilets. Check the car park signs for current arrangements.

Route checked against Swansea Council's Coed Gwilym Park walk and the Canal & River Trust / Swansea Canal Society Step by Step Clydach to Pontardawe guide. Check Canal & River Trust notices before setting out and follow any local work signs.