Brecon Beacons Horseshoe Circular Walk

If you have ever spent some time exploring the Brecon Beacons, you will know that the trails here are well-trodden; however, the mountainous terrain is also rugged. If you plan on exploring the Brecon Beacons Horseshoe Circular Walk, be sure to wear proper walking boots with good support.

Additionally, you should always bring a compass and map when exploring this part of Wales, as it can be easy to lose your way amongst the numerous mountain peaks. As this is a bit of a strenuous walk, you should also bring plenty of water and snacks to stay fuelled for your journey.

While this route is a bit of a lengthy and strenuous undertaking, the breathtaking mountain scenery is more than enough of a reward for your efforts. In addition to having the chance to summit Pen-y-Fan, the highest peak in Southern Britain, you will also be treated to sweeping views across Brecon Beacons National Park and the Welsh countryside further afield. This is an exceptional walking route if you are looking to explore the natural beauty of the beacons.

Setting out from the Neuadd car park, you will make your way to the northwest along the track for 0.6mi, keeping left until you arrive at the building next to the old Lower Neuadd Reservoir. Picking up the footpath on the left, you will follow it across two footbridges and climb up the hillside to the west, working alongside a stretch of forest until you arrive at the top of Twyn Mwyalchod.

From here, you will follow the trail north as it traverses the Craig Ddu Ridge over the next 2.7mi, offering some amazingly scenic views of the surrounding mountains and the valley below, before arriving at the summit of Corn Du. Following the path to the northeast, you will make the brief climb up to the summit of Pen-y-Fan, which is the highest point in Southern Britain. Here, you will experience breathtaking views of the surrounding beacons and have a sightline that stretches out across the Bristol Channel on a clear day.

After taking in the views, you will make your way down the rugged terrain of Jacob’s Ladder to the southeast, traversing the summit of Cribyn and the Cribyn Plateau, before arriving at the beautifully scenic and well-photographed site of the diving board rock formation at Fan-y-Big.

Once you have grabbed your fair share of amazing photos in the Brecon Beacons, you will continue along the trail to the southeast to descend the mountainside. Here, you will eventually meet up with the banks of Nant Bwrefwr and follow along the water’s edge as you take in views of trickling waterfalls and the nearby woodland terrain of Blaen-y-Glyn. Turning to the southwest, you will follow along the road as it passes by the Torpantau railway station and cuts across the forested hillside to the west on the return to the Neuadd car park where you began the Brecon Beacons Horseshoe Circular Walk.

Trail Highlights

Pen-y-Fan

Situated within Brecon Beacons National Park, Pen-y-Fan (Welsh for “the top peak”) can be found in the Central Brecon Beacons range of mountains and is one of the most popular walking destinations in Wales. It is the highest peak in both South Wales and Southern Britain, as well as the 20th highest in the entirety of Wales, with an elevation of 2907ft above sea level. The summit of Pen-y-Fan features panoramic views that sweep across the Welsh landscape, extending out to the Bristol Channel and Exmoor in the south, and the Cambrian Mountains to the north.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you need walking boots for Pen-y-Fan?

The trails in the Brecon Beacons are well-traversed; however, it is always a good idea to wear proper walking boots, as the terrain is very rugged and in some cases quite steep.

Are dogs allowed to walk on Pen-y-Fan?

Yes, dogs are permitted on the trails leading up Pen-y-Fan, but be sure to keep them under control the entire time and make sure they’re prepared for the trail just as much as you are. You can read this guide on things to have in a first aid kit for dogs.