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Pontypool Group

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

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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
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Overview

Leaving the Henderson Hall car park in Talybont-on-Usk we head south towards the village of Aber, using a short section on a quiet country lane & footpaths alongside the Caerfanell River. After stopping for a break at Aber Chapel, we continue across fields towards the reservoir. When we reach a farm track, parallel to the Dam, there is an opportunity for some to take a shorter (3 mile) walk back to the start, by crossing the dam & following the Taff Trail back to Talybont-on-Usk. For the rest, we continue across fields till we reach the entrance to Talybont Forest on the west side of the reservoir. A slow, gradual ascent to about 1,250ft, gives us the opportunity to take in the views across the reservoir to Tor y Foel and beyond. Descending, out of the forest we reach Abercynafon and then cross the Glyn Collwn, for a lunchtime stop, before we ascend to the eastern side of the reservoir. We then follow the Taff Trail, back to the dam, for a short break, before leaving the trail and following a picturesque path along the eastern side of the Caerfanell river. After crossing a footbridge, over the river, we return to the start.

Tuesday, 26 August 2025
Start time:
10:00 am
Estimated finish time:
4:00 pm
Difficulty:
Moderate
Distance:
17.7km / 11.0mi
Ascent:
609.6m / 2000ft
Type:
circular

The walk is mainly on good paths, with some short sections on quiet country lanes. However, some paths may be stony & rough in places. There are about 10 stiles to cross, but all are in relatively good condition.

There is the opportunity for those that would like a shorter (5.5 mile) walk to take a short cut back to start when we get near to the reservoir dam.

Please message the Walk Leader, Graeme C. (07751 754652) to book places on this walk.

Features

  • Refreshments available (Pub/cafe)
  • Toilets available
  • Accessible by public transport
  • Car parking available

Starting point

Grid reference:
SO 11256 22859
Nearest postcode:
LD3 7UZ
what3words:
valued.renew.caller
Start time:
10:00 am

Henderson Hall Car Park, Talybont-on-Usk. Suggested donation £5.

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