Views & History, 17th September: Brecon Mountain Railway & Guided Walk to Cwm Criban

Duration: 5 Hours

About

Join us for a captivating day in the Brecon Beacons National Park, blending stunning landscapes, ancient history, and a scenic train ride. You will be led by Sarah Price who is a qualified and fully insured Lowland Walk Leader.

Starting with a journey on the iconic Brecon Mountain Railway, we’ll ride through breathtaking mountain scenery and alongside shimmering reservoirs to the end of the line, where our 7.5-mile guided linear walk begins. You will be led by Sarah Price who is a qualified and fully insured Lowland Walk Leader. Sarah, who operates Walk Hay, will ensure that every step of your adventure is safe, enjoyable, and enriching.

This medium-grade route takes us along forest tracks and footpaths on the eastern side of the reservoirs, offering spectacular views of the mountains and water below. The trail climbs through forest to reach a high moorland at 473 meters above sea level, where we’ll visit Cwm Criban, an early medieval Christian monument featuring an inscribed Ogham stone. From here, we’ll follow the ridge, passing fascinating geological features like “shake holes,” limestone outcrops, and old quarry sites, before descending back to the start of the train line at Pant Station.

Details:

• Distance: 7.5 miles
• Grade: Medium (includes uneven paths and a steady climb)
• Walk Duration: Approximately 5 hours
• What to Bring: Sturdy walking boots, weather-appropriate clothing, snacks, water, and a packed lunch.

This walk offers a perfect blend of history, geology, and panoramic views, making it an unforgettable experience for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike. Book your spot today and explore the beauty and heritage of the Brecon Beacons with us!

Q&A’s about the Guided Walks:

• Are dogs allowed? Dogs aren’t able to walk with us as not everybody likes them

• Can children come? Children are welcome to walk as long as they are able to walk the distances/terrains involved, (children also need to wear good footwear with tread on the soles). As a guide a child over the age of 7 usually will be able to walk all of the different walks on offer

• Can we bring a baby in a sling or backpack? Babies are welcome in backpacks or slings and do not need a ticket, (parents must be confident about their ability to carry the child the distance and over the terrain stated, and that the child has appropriate clothing for the weather)

• Will it be a fast walk? No, all walks are guided at a steady easy pace with plenty of time for enjoying the views, chatting, and stopping for snacks and lunch.

• Can a wheelchair user come? Unfortunately, not at the moment, but some of the routes are suitable for off-road wheelchair users, so do get in touch with Sarah from Walk Hay and she will be able to advise, or perhaps lead you on a privately guided walk: info@walkhay.co.uk

• Are there toilets on the walk? There are toilets at the start of your adventure in the Pant Station building, but after that, there are no toilets. It is normal and acceptable to have a ‘wild wee’ and there will be opportunities pointed out along the route to do this.

• I don’t normally ‘hike’, will I be ok? Yes, as long as you have an average fitness level, you don’t have to be super fit on these walks!

• Is there food & drink provided? No, you will need to bring enough water and snacks to last the day, and also a packed lunch. The cafe at Pant station has plenty of options available, and a 'Welsh Walkers' lunch will be offered in advance to purchase.