The best waterfall hikes and walks around New Radnor
4.4
(125)
1,019
hikers
5
hikes
Waterfall hiking trails around New Radnor are primarily found within the Radnor Forest area, characterized by its rolling hills, deep valleys, and ancient woodlands. The landscape features numerous streams and rivers that create a series of cascades and waterfalls, notably Water-Break-Its-Neck. This region offers varied terrain, from gentle riverside paths to more challenging ascents through forested slopes. The area's geology contributes to the formation of these natural water features, providing distinct points of interest for hikers.
Best waterfall hiking trails…
Last updated: May 11, 2026
3.5
(4)
13
hikers
21.6km
06:22
620m
620m
This difficult 13.4-mile hiking route from Water-break-its-neck offers stunning views and a challenging climb through Radnor Forest.
4.2
(6)
48
hikers
5.22km
01:34
160m
160m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(3)
10
hikers
17.8km
05:21
590m
590m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
it's on the water breaks it neck byway
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The Whimble has a striking conical shape. The summit is 599m and on a clear day offers great voews with the hill dropping away steeply on all sides. To the southeast, Hergest Ridge and the Black Mountains visible to the south. To the west and north the higher, flat-topped summits of the Radnor Range. To the northeast, Bache Hill.
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The fine rainbow mist surrounding the unusually named Water-break-its-neck waterfall creates a humid micro-climate in this lush green gorge. There's a high and low path so you can enjoy both viewpoints.
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Rhos Fawr or Great Rhos is a mountain summit in the Radnor Forest (Mid Wales), a rather isolated dome of hills to the north of the village of New Radnor. The local rocks are sedimentary shales and mudstones with some Silurian limestone. With a height of 660 metres (2,170 ft), it is the highest point in the Radnor Forest and the historic county top of Radnorshire. The summit is located on a broad heathery plateau, which is separated from Black Mixen: the eastern plateau summit, by the cwm of Harvey Dingle. To the west is Drygarn Fawr and Gorllwyn, to the northwest Plynlimon, to the north Beacon Hill and the Clun Forest (Shropshire), and to the south the Black Mountains. There is a prominent trig point at the summit, and a very useful landmark for walkers on the broad and featureless summit plateau.
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Black Mixen is a subsidiary summit of Rhos Fawr or Great Rhos in the Radnor Forest. The summit is large peat bog plateau. The summit is marked with a cairn, and is next to a radio transmitter and its building. Black Mixen is the only UK registered Nuttall to have a communications mast on its summit.
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Bache Hill is a subsidiary summit of Rhos Fawr or Great Rhos, in the Radnor Forest in Wales. It is located to the east of Black Mixen. The summit is marked by a trig point built on an ancient burial mound, probably of Bronze Age date, like most of the summit cairns and round barrows in Wales. It is a UK registered Nuttall.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many waterfall hiking trails are there around New Radnor?
There are several dedicated waterfall hiking trails around New Radnor, with komoot featuring 5 distinct routes. These trails primarily explore the Radnor Forest area, offering various options to experience the region's cascades.
What do other hikers say about the waterfall trails in New Radnor?
The waterfall trails around New Radnor are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 100 reviews. Hikers often praise the natural beauty of the waterfalls, the varied terrain, and the well-maintained paths within the Radnor Forest.
Are there easy waterfall hikes suitable for families in New Radnor?
Yes, there are easy and family-friendly options. For instance, the Water-Break-Its-Neck Waterfall loop from New Radnor is an easy 1.7-mile (2.7 km) path, perfect for a shorter outing. Another accessible choice is the Water-Break-Its-Neck Waterfall – Water-break-its-neck loop from New Radnor, which is 3.5 miles (5.6 km) and also considered easy.
Are dogs allowed on the waterfall trails in New Radnor?
Generally, dogs are welcome on trails in the Radnor Forest area, including those leading to waterfalls. However, it's always advisable to keep dogs on a lead, especially near livestock, wildlife, or busy areas, and to follow the Countryside Code. Always check specific signage at trailheads for any local restrictions.
What is the best season to visit the waterfalls around New Radnor?
The waterfalls are beautiful year-round. Spring offers lush greenery and strong water flow from snowmelt and spring rains. Autumn provides stunning foliage colors. Winter can be magical with frosty landscapes, though trails might be muddier or icy. Summer is popular for pleasant hiking weather, but water flow might be reduced during dry spells.
Are there any circular waterfall walks in the New Radnor area?
Yes, many of the waterfall trails are designed as circular routes. For example, the popular Water-Break-Its-Neck Waterfall – Water-break-its-neck loop from New Radnor is an easy circular trail. For a more challenging option, the Radnor Range circular from Water-break-its-neck is a difficult 13.4-mile (21.6 km) route that also forms a loop.
What kind of terrain can I expect on waterfall hikes near New Radnor?
The terrain varies from gentle riverside paths to more challenging ascents through forested slopes. The Radnor Forest, where most waterfalls are located, features rolling hills, deep valleys, and ancient woodlands. Expect natural surfaces, which can be muddy or uneven, especially after rain.
Are there any longer or more challenging waterfall hikes available?
Yes, for experienced hikers seeking a longer challenge, the Radnor Range circular from Water-break-its-neck is a difficult 13.4-mile (21.6 km) trail, typically taking over 6 hours to complete. Another demanding option is the Breakneck Waterfall – Water-Break-Its-Neck Waterfall loop from New Radnor, which covers 11.4 miles (18.4 km).
What other natural attractions can I see near the waterfall trails?
Beyond the waterfalls themselves, the area around New Radnor offers several natural highlights. You can explore viewpoints like The Whimble, Bache Hill Summit, and Aberedw Hill Summit. The region is also home to other significant peaks such as Black Mixen Summit and Great Rhos (Rhos Fawr) — Summit Trig Point, offering expansive views of the Welsh landscape.
Is there parking available near the waterfall walks?
Yes, there are typically designated parking areas near the main access points for the waterfall trails, particularly around the popular Water-Break-Its-Neck waterfall. These are often small car parks within the Radnor Forest area. It's always a good idea to arrive early during peak times to secure a spot.
Can I reach the waterfall trails using public transport?
Public transport options directly to the trailheads in the Radnor Forest area are limited. While New Radnor itself may have some bus services, reaching the more remote waterfall starting points often requires a car. It's recommended to check local bus schedules for the most up-to-date information if you plan to rely on public transport.
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