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Ystradfellte

Top 20 Waterfalls around Ystradfellte

Waterfalls around Ystradfellte are a prominent feature of the Brecon Beacons National Park, an area known as "Waterfall Country." This region is characterized by deep, wooded ravines and numerous cascades. The landscape offers a variety of trails that lead to these natural features. Ystradfellte provides access to several distinct waterfalls, making it a destination for exploring diverse water formations.

Best waterfalls around Ystradfellte

  • The most popular waterfalls is Sgwd Yr Eira, a waterfall that tumbles over a 15.2 meter tall cliff. Visitors can walk behind the waterfall, which is a notable feature.
  • Another must-see spot is Sgwd Gwladus Waterfall, a waterfall that drops 6 meters over a sandstone lip. Visitors can walk behind this waterfall and it is suitable for swimming in summer.
  • Visitors also love Sgwd Uchaf Clun-Gwyn Waterfall, a viewpoint comprising two sets of falls. The upper falls are the highest and flow into the River Mellte.
  • Ystradfellte is known for its diverse waterfalls, including those with paths behind them, multi-tiered cascades, and powerful single drops. The area offers a variety of waterfalls to see and explore, each with distinct characteristics.
  • The waterfalls around Ystradfellte are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 500 upvotes and over 300 photos shared across 12 highlights.

Last updated: May 22, 2026

Sgwd Yr Eira

Highlight • Waterfall

Sgwd Yr Eira is the star attraction of the Brecon Beacons' much-loved 'Waterfall Country' walk. Meaning 'fall of snow' in Welsh, it tumbles over the 50 foot (15.2 m) tall cliff like a beautiful veil of water. What makes the waterfall so special is that you can walk behind it for a truly incredible thing to experience. Do take care when walking behind the falls, though, as the path is rocky, wet and slippery. Make sure you have decent walking boots and waterproofs.

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Sgwd Uchaf Clun-Gwyn Waterfall

Highlight • Viewpoint

The first waterfall most hikers encounter when exploring 'Waterfall Country' in the Brecon Beacons is Sgwd Uchaf Clun-Gwyn, meaning ‘upper fall of the white meadow’. Comprising two sets of falls, a few hundred metres apart, the upper falls are the highest and thunder dramatically into the River Mellte below. The lower falls are a picturesque series of cascades that flow into the steep gorge below.

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Sgwd y Pannwr

Highlight • Waterfall

Sgwd y Pannwr - 'fall of the fuller' or 'fall of the woollen washer' in Welsh - is the lowermost of the three much-loved falls on the Mellte. Like something from a Jungle Book scene, this waterfall is as dramatic as it is beautiful.

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Sgwd Gwladus Waterfall

Highlight • Waterfall

This is just a beautiful walking area. If you do the 'full' 20km waterfall walk you can take in most of the waterfalls in this area that are on the rivers Mellte, Hepste and Nedd Fechan. You can start at a variety of points around the route that has car parking namely Ystradfellte, Porth Yr Ogof or Pontneddfechan. Otherwise just do the best sections of the walk. For full details of the route click here: komoot.com/tour/257832316

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Henrhyd Falls

Highlight • Waterfall

Henrhyd Falls is the highest waterfall in South Wales and is a breathtaking sight to behold. The stunning waterfall plunges 90 feet (27 m) into a wooded gorge. It is possible to walk behind the waterfall but take care as the rocks can be slippery.

Graig Llech Wood surrounds the waterfall and is home to much wildlife. Keep a lookout for birds such as woodpeckers, tree creepers, warblers and wrens. The damp and heavily wooded gorge is also a haven for mosses, liverworts and lichen. For this reason, it is designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). The area is managed by the National Trust.

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Tips from the Community

Clive G
October 31, 2025, Sgwd y Pannwr

The view you are most likely to see is from the top of the falls, to the side. There is a rock shelf that provides a good view for this view. In the summer you will also find people jumping off this shelf into the plunge pool below! There are other views that can be reached down a gully and then along a rough path that takes you to river level.

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Amazing place. Must visit in vacation. I am so excited to go there. Beautiful waterfall. https://www.my-milestonecard.com

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such a beautiful waterfall. Looks amazing and so peaceful weather. I loved it. https://www.my-milestonecard.com

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David Howells
February 19, 2024, Sgwd Yr Eira

Sgwd yr Eira is the most impressive waterfall in the Pontneddfechan area. It is a high, broad, and powerful waterfall that resembles a curtain of water when it is in full flow. The fact that you can walk behind it just adds to the beauty of this amphitheatre you find yourself in. To get there, however, you have to take around 170 steps that go down the steep side of the valley to the river bed. If this worries you somewhat, just take your time when you go down and when you come back up. In addition, at the bottom, the path that goes to the waterfall is rocky and slippery, and if you walk behind the waterfall, it will be a bit wet, so a waterproof might be necessary.

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David Howells
February 11, 2024, Sgwd Yr Eira

The Four Waterfalls Walk is my idea of heaven. Hidden away in a quiet corner of the Brecon Beacons, there is a famous waterfall trail that takes in four great waterfalls, it is located near the quaint village of Ystradfellte. The trail has stunning scenery, and the main access to it is from the car park at Porth yr Ogof, or the Cwm Porth car park, to give it its proper name. The Four Waterfalls are all spectacular in their own different ways, and they are Sgwd Clun-Gwyn, Sgwd Isaf Clun-Gwyn, Sgwd y Pannwr, and Sgwd yr Eira.

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FARID L
January 24, 2024, Henrhyd Falls

Henrhyd Falls in the Brecon Beacons National Park, Wales, is the tallest waterfall in southern Wales with a drop of 90 feet. It lies on National Trust land, in the traditional county of Brecknockshire. The nearest settlement to it is Coelbren, on the road between Glynneath and Abercraf.

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hopsi
August 12, 2023, Sgwd y Pannwr

With a bit of luck, you will see groups of brave people throwing themselves into the waterfall from above. Spectacular!

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Great views of the waterfall from here

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the famous Four Waterfalls Walk in Ystradfellte?

The Four Waterfalls Walk is an iconic circuit in Waterfall Country, featuring four distinct cascades. It's considered a moderate walk with some steep and potentially slippery sections. The highlights include Sgwd Uchaf Clun-Gwyn Waterfall, which comprises two sets of falls, and Sgwd y Pannwr, known for its dramatic beauty.

Can you walk behind any of the waterfalls in Ystradfellte?

Yes, several waterfalls in the area offer the unique experience of walking behind the cascade. Sgwd Yr Eira is particularly famous for this, allowing you to feel the spray and hear the roar from a different perspective. Henrhyd Waterfall, the tallest in South Wales, also allows visitors to walk behind its impressive 90-foot plunge.

What is the tallest waterfall in the Ystradfellte area?

The tallest waterfall in South Wales, located within Waterfall Country, is Henrhyd Falls. It plunges 90 feet into a wooded gorge and is also known as a filming location for 'Batman: The Dark Knight Rises'.

Are there family-friendly walks to waterfalls in Ystradfellte?

Many of the trails in Waterfall Country are suitable for families, though some sections can be steep and slippery. Waterfalls like Sgwd Gwladus Waterfall are easily accessible from Pontneddfechan and offer opportunities for picnics and even swimming in summer, making them popular for families. Always wear appropriate footwear and supervise children closely.

What is the best time of year to visit the waterfalls?

The waterfalls are particularly spectacular after periods of heavy rain when the water flow is at its strongest. This often means late autumn, winter, and early spring. During these times, the cascades are at their most powerful and dramatic. However, paths can be very slippery, so caution and appropriate gear are essential.

What kind of natural features can I expect to see in Waterfall Country?

Beyond the waterfalls themselves, Waterfall Country is characterized by deep, wooded ravines and ancient native woodlands. The area is a haven for mosses, liverworts, and lichen, especially in the damp gorges. You might also spot various birds like woodpeckers, tree creepers, warblers, and wrens.

Where can I park when visiting the Ystradfellte waterfalls?

There are several car parks available around the Waterfall Country area, serving different starting points for the walks. Common starting points with parking include Ystradfellte, Porth Yr Ogof, and Pontneddfechan. It's advisable to arrive early, especially during peak seasons, as parking can fill up quickly.

Are there options for wild swimming near the waterfalls?

Yes, wild swimming is possible at some locations. Sgwd Gwladus Waterfall is known as a great place for picnics and is considered safe for swimming in the summer. Always exercise caution, check water levels, and be aware of slippery rocks if considering a swim.

What outdoor activities can I do near the Ystradfellte waterfalls?

Beyond exploring the waterfalls, the region offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can find numerous easy hikes, running trails, and road cycling routes. Some adventurous individuals even kayak off certain waterfalls when water levels are suitable.

What should I wear for a waterfall walk in Ystradfellte?

Given the potentially wet and slippery conditions, especially behind waterfalls or after rain, it's crucial to wear decent walking boots with good grip. Waterproof clothing, including jackets and trousers, is highly recommended to stay dry from spray and rain. Layers are also advisable for changing weather conditions.

Are there pubs or cafes near the Ystradfellte waterfalls?

Yes, the village of Pontneddfechan, a common starting point for many waterfall walks, has pubs and a bistro where you can find refreshments and food after your exploration. Other nearby villages may also offer options for dining and accommodation.

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Happy to travel a little further afield? Then browse these guides for the best waterfalls around Ystradfellte:

GlynneathLlywelSeven SistersOnllwynMaescarCrayTawe-UchafCymer And GlyncorrwgBlaengwrachResolvenLlanfrynachYstradgynlaisCrynantGlyn TarellLlanfihangel Cwmdu With Bwlch And CathedineLlangynidrGwynfi And CroeserwTalybont-On-UskNeath Port TalbotClyne And MelincourtPelennaCilybebyllLlangorsCeredigionBreconRhondda Cynon TafYstalyferaCwmavonBrynPontardaweMonmouthshire

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