Top 20 Waterfalls around Hirwaun
Waterfalls around Hirwaun are a prominent feature of the region's natural landscape, offering 20 distinct waterfalls for exploration. Many of these are situated within the Brecon Beacons' 'Waterfall Country', an area known for its rivers and wooded gorges. The terrain often includes riverbeds and steep valleys, providing diverse natural water features. This destination is suitable for those seeking to explore various types of waterfalls.
Best waterfalls around Hirwaun
- The most popular waterfall is Sgwd Yr Eira, a waterfall that allows visitors to walk behind its 50-foot (15.2 m) curtain of water. The path behind the falls can be rocky and wet, requiring suitable footwear.
- Another must-see spot is Sgwd Gwladus Waterfall, a waterfall where it is possible to go around the back. This location is also noted as safe for swimming during the summer.
- Visitors also love Sgwd Uchaf Clun-Gwyn Waterfall, comprising two sets of falls a few hundred meters apart. The upper falls are the highest and flow into the River Mellte below.
- Hirwaun is known for its walk-behind waterfalls, cascading falls, and high waterfalls. The area offers a variety of waterfalls to see and explore, often within a single trail.
- The waterfalls around Hirwaun are appreciated by the komoot community, with over 530 upvotes and 360 photos shared across the highlights.
Last updated: May 6, 2026
Sgwd Yr Eira
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Sgwd Uchaf Clun-Gwyn Waterfall
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Sgwd y Pannwr
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Sgwd Gwladus Waterfall
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Henrhyd Falls
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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
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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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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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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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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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 are some unique waterfall experiences around Hirwaun?
The Hirwaun area is famous for its 'walk-behind' waterfalls. You can experience walking behind the curtain of water at both Sgwd Yr Eira and Sgwd Gwladus Waterfall. Henrhyd Falls, the highest waterfall in South Wales, also allows you to walk behind its impressive 90-foot drop.
Are there family-friendly waterfalls in the Hirwaun area?
Yes, several waterfalls are suitable for families. Sgwd Yr Eira, Sgwd y Pannwr, and Henrhyd Falls are all categorized as family-friendly. While the paths can be rocky and wet, with appropriate footwear and care, they offer memorable experiences for all ages.
What is the best time to visit the waterfalls around Hirwaun?
The waterfalls are beautiful year-round. During winter, higher rainfall often means the falls are at their most powerful and dramatic. Summer offers opportunities for swimming, particularly at Sgwd Gwladus Waterfall, which is noted as safe for swimming. Spring and autumn provide lush scenery and comfortable walking temperatures.
What should I wear for a waterfall walk near Hirwaun?
Given the often rocky, wet, and slippery paths, especially behind the falls, suitable walking boots with good grip are essential. Waterproof clothing, including a jacket and trousers, is highly recommended to stay dry, particularly if you plan to walk behind waterfalls like Sgwd Yr Eira or Sgwd Gwladus Waterfall.
Can I go wild swimming at the waterfalls?
Yes, wild swimming is possible at some locations. Sgwd Gwladus Waterfall is specifically mentioned as being safe for swimming during the summer months and is a popular spot for picnics.
Are there circular walking routes that include multiple waterfalls?
Yes, the 'Waterfall Country' in the Brecon Beacons offers extensive trail networks that allow for circular walks encompassing several waterfalls. For example, you can find routes like the Sgwd Gwladus Waterfall – Sgwd Yr Eira loop from Pontneddfechan or the Ystradfellte Waterfall loop from Pontneddfechan, which cover multiple falls along the rivers Mellte, Hepste, and Nedd Fechan.
What is the difficulty level of the waterfall trails?
Many trails are considered intermediate, involving varied terrain. For instance, reaching Sgwd Yr Eira involves descending around 170 steps. Paths near the falls can be rocky and slippery. While some sections are easy, longer loops can be moderate in difficulty, requiring a reasonable level of fitness.
Are there other outdoor activities to do near the waterfalls?
Beyond waterfall viewing and hiking, the Hirwaun area offers various outdoor pursuits. You can explore hiking trails of different lengths and difficulties, or try gravel biking routes around reservoirs and through forests.
Where can I find parking for the waterfalls?
Parking is available at various points around the 'Waterfall Country' trails, such as Ystradfellte, Porth Yr Ogof, or Pontneddfechan. From these car parks, you can access different sections of the waterfall walks. For example, Henrhyd Falls is about a 10-minute walk from its dedicated car park.
Are dogs allowed on the waterfall walks?
While specific rules for each waterfall may vary, the Brecon Beacons National Park generally welcomes dogs on leads. It's always best to keep dogs under control, especially near steep drops or slippery paths, and to clean up after them.
What natural features can I expect to see besides waterfalls?
The area is rich in natural beauty. You'll encounter wooded gorges, riverbeds, and diverse plant life. Graig Llech Wood, surrounding Henrhyd Falls, is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) known for its mosses, liverworts, and lichens, as well as various bird species like woodpeckers and wrens. The 'Celtic Rainforest' near Pontneddfechan also offers unique flora.
How long does it take to walk to the waterfalls?
Walking times vary depending on the specific waterfall and your starting point. For instance, Henrhyd Falls is approximately a 10-minute walk from its car park. Accessing Sgwd Gwladus Waterfall from Pontneddfechan takes about 30 minutes along a scenic trail. Longer circular routes can take several hours.
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