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United Kingdom
Wales
South Wales
Risca West

Twmbarlwm Hill and Iron Age hillfort

Highlight • Historical Site

Twmbarlwm Hill and Iron Age hillfort

Hiking

4.8

(62)

This charming hill has much more than meets the eye and is an important part of the local community. Known as the ‘Twmp’, the ‘Nipple’ or the ‘Pimple’, you can find Twmbarlwm in South Wales, overlooking the town of Risca, north of Cardiff. Its nicknames are down to the Iron Age hillfort that rises like a lump on its summit.

Part of the Twmp’s popularity is simply down to its eye-catching and prominent form seen from nearby roads and towns. But the hill has been inhabited for thousands of years, first by pre-Roman tribes, then the Romans themselves and, later, by the Normans who built a fort overlapping the original. Today, it still plays a large role in the local communities with annual Good Friday hikes. Supposedly, a giant is buried here.

A historical hill with soaring views across South Wales

Twmbarlwm’s summit lies at 1,375 feet (419 m) and forms part of the hills sprawling out south of the Brecon Beacons. There are plenty of trails in the woodlands and hillsides surrounding it and you can reach the summit from several directions. Thanks to a large number of car parks in the area, you can make your adventure as short or as long as you like.

At the summit, you’ll find a trig pillar but it’s the hillfort at the eastern end of the top that’s the place to admire the views from. To the south, Cardiff Bay, Cardiff and Newport lie before you. To the north, the Brecon Beacons touch the sky, beckoning you to them.

Ascending the Twmp is fairly straightforward and a steady climb. There’s nothing technically challenging, and it’s a great day out for families. You can head to the top throughout the year, but dress appropriately and take extra care in snowy conditions.

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  • Location: Risca West, South Wales, Wales, United Kingdom

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    Tips

    November 23, 2020

    Hiking

    Twmbarlwm is a 1,375 foot (419 m) hill that is rich in beauty, history and folklore. From the summit, you are afforded wonderful views of the Severn Estuary. There is an Iron Age hill fort on the summit, too.

    November 12, 2020

    Hiking

    Beautiful little walk to take in a trig point and a fantastic Iron Age fort.
    Twmbarlwm, known locally known as 'the Twmp' (translation: hump), 'the Nipple' or the Pimple because …

    May 31, 2020

    Hiking

    Twmbarlwm, also known as Twm Barlwm, Twyn Barlwm or locally known as "the Twmp" or the Pimple because of the mound that lies at its summit, is a hill situated 2 km to the northeast of Risca in South Wales. It is often mistakenly referred to as a mountain but is actually a hill.
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    Nearby routes

    Best routes near Twmbarlwm Hill and Iron Age hillfort

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    5.0

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    #1.

    Twmbarlwm from Newport loop

    17.6km

    05:09

    440m

    440m

    Hike the difficult 10.9-mile Twmbarlwm from Newport loop, gaining 1443 feet for panoramic views and an Iron Age hillfort.

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    Hard
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    Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

    Moderate
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    Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

    Moderate

    Details

    Informations

    Elevation 470 m

    Good to know

    Family Friendly

    yes

    Wheelchair access

    no

    Dog Friendly

    yes

    Weather

    Powered by Foreca

    Friday 15 May

    13°C

    3°C

    78 %

    Additional weather tips

    Max wind speed: 20.0 km/h

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    Location: Risca West, South Wales, Wales, United Kingdom

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