Cardiff group logo.

Cardiff Group

We are the Cardiff Ramblers. We open the way for everyone in our local community to enjoy the pleasures of walking.

Join the Ramblers and enjoy

  • unlimited free access to 50,000 Ramblers group walks
  • a library jam-packed with thousands of tried-and-tested routes
  • a welcome pack teeming with top tips plus our Walk magazine
  • exclusive discounts from our partners
  • knowing your support is opening up more places to walk and helping more people discover the joy of walking

Overview

The walk climbs from Machen and turns NE of Mynydd Machen and drops down to Pontymister, crosses the Afon Ebwy and the Brecon canal and climbs to approach Twmbarlwm from the east. On the return, it recrosses the canal and river to go through Risca and climbs to the coal tip on the Sirhowy Valley walk and drops down to Machen via Blaen y cwm.

Wednesday, 21 January 2026
Start time:
9:00 am
Estimated finish time:
3:30 pm
Difficulty:
Strenuous
Distance:
19.3km / 12.0mi
Ascent:
762m / 2500ft
Type:
circular

Local Grade: A

Features

  • Car parking available

Starting point

Grid reference:
ST 20959 89086
Nearest postcode:
CF83 8NU
what3words:
person.champions.poorly
Start time:
9:00 am

Park in the car park of Machen Village Hall

Join the Ramblers and enjoy

  • unlimited free access to 50,000 Ramblers group walks
  • a library jam-packed with thousands of tried-and-tested routes
  • a welcome pack teeming with top tips plus our Walk magazine
  • exclusive discounts from our partners
  • knowing your support is opening up more places to walk and helping more people discover the joy of walking