Blaen y Glyn
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Blaen y Glyn Waterfalls

4.9
·21 reviews·, United Kingdom

Discover enchanting waterfalls and lush forests in the Brecon Beacons. A serene escape with free parking and invigorating wild swims.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring mornings

Lush greenery, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Blaen y Glyn

Blaen y Glyn Waterfalls

Best Time

Spring mornings

Lush greenery, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover enchanting waterfalls and lush forests in the Brecon Beacons. A serene escape with free parking and invigorating wild swims.

4.9
(21 reviews)

"A secret little hideaway in the Brecon Beacons, perfect for a refreshing dip and stunning views."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Free Parking Available

Two free car parks (Uchaf & Isaf) offer access. Arrive early to secure a spot!

🥾 Sturdy Footwear Essential

Trails can be muddy and uneven. Waterproof hiking boots are recommended for comfort and safety.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Main Cascade

The Main Cascade

Forest floor

A beautiful, impressive waterfall framed by eroded hills and impressive rocks. Climbable when water flow is low.

Forest Trails & Streams

Forest Trails & Streams

Talybont Forest

Winding paths through lush forests, alongside babbling streams and smaller cascades, offering a magical atmosphere.

Panoramic Brecon Views

Panoramic Brecon Views

Upper trails

Ascend from the upper car park for breathtaking vistas of the surrounding Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) landscape.

Wild Swimming Spots

Wild Swimming Spots

Pools near waterfalls

Invigorating cold water dips in natural pools, a popular 'dopamine hit' for the brave.

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Planning Your Visit

Choose Your Parking Wisely

Two free car parks, Blaen y Glyn Uchaf (upper) and Isaf (lower), offer different starting points. The upper car park leads to steeper climbs but potentially grander views, while the lower offers a shorter, less strenuous route to the falls. Arrive early, especially on weekends, as parking is limited.Instagram+2

Embrace the Elements

This is a natural, wild setting. Trails can be uneven and muddy, especially after rain, so wear sturdy footwear. Be prepared for changeable Welsh weather and consider waterproofs. The water can be very cold for dips, but exhilarating.Instagram+2

Best Times

When
Spring mornings
Why
Lush greenery, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Autumn afternoons
Why
Vibrant foliage, crisp air
Crowd
Medium
When
Winter days
Why
Magical icy scenes
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🥹🏴󠁧󠁢󠁷󠁬󠁳󠁿❤️ VC: @zoeelfreyah & her video of the Brecon Beacons! #beddgelert #snowdonia #northwales #gwynedd #visitwales #Wales #cymru #cymraeg #gogleddcymru #gelert #gelertthedog #walesaesthetic #uk #unitedkingdom #britain #british
@bfdavies
22.1K likes • 215.5K views

🚗 Free Parking Available

Two free car parks (Uchaf & Isaf) offer access. Arrive early to secure a spot! Instagram+2

🥾 Sturdy Footwear Essential

Trails can be muddy and uneven. Waterproof hiking boots are recommended for comfort and safety. Instagram+1

A secret little hideaway in the Brecon Becons 📍Danybryn Retreat a digital detox immersed in nature hidden away in the Woodlands. #breconbeacons #glamping #staycation #visitwales #hiddengems #exploringwales #wheretostay #traveltiktok
@xcarlydaviesx
16.9K likes • 508.4K views
Blaen y glyn uchaf is a stunning place in southern Brecon that doesn’t get as much attention as waterfall country but has a lot to offer. As you park up in the car park either top or bottom it’s a walk one way and then back on yourself. There is some fairly steep climbs though the walk itself is only around 4 miles there and back. This rockslide is located at the bottom of the hill towards the c...
iamezrabennett
52 likes • 3.3K views

💧 Cold Water Dip Ready?

Embrace the 'dopamine hit' of wild swimming in the icy pools. Bring a towel! Instagram+1

🗺️ Two Trail Options

Upper car park offers steeper climbs & views; lower car park is a shorter, gentler route. Instagram+1

Waterfalls 😍😊 Start point 📍Blaen y Glyn Uchaf Car Park . . . This little waterfall walk is a lovely little gem tucked deep in the heart of Bannau Brycheiniog, Brecon Beacons, South Wales. Plenty of waterfalls to see, pools to dip in and trails to walk. And 2 car parks that are free! Also nearby is Talybont Reservoir which is worth a visit. Not far from Brecon Mountain Railway and The Old Barn Tea...
justaguythatwalks
18 likes • 574 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Free Parking Available

Two free car parks (Uchaf & Isaf) offer access. Arrive early to secure a spot! Instagram+2

🥾 Sturdy Footwear Essential

Trails can be muddy and uneven. Waterproof hiking boots are recommended for comfort and safety. Instagram+1

💧 Cold Water Dip Ready?

Embrace the 'dopamine hit' of wild swimming in the icy pools. Bring a towel! Instagram+1

🗺️ Two Trail Options

Upper car park offers steeper climbs & views; lower car park is a shorter, gentler route. Instagram+1

📸 Capture the Magic

The 'otherworldly' landscape is perfect for photography, especially after rain. Instagram+1

What Travellers Say

4.9
(21 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about Blaen y Glyn's idyllic setting, featuring streams, dense forests, and rolling hills with distant mountain views. The free parking and access to beautiful waterfalls and hiking trails are major draws. While not the largest falls, their charm and the opportunity for invigorating wild swims are highly praised. Some note the limited parking and the need for sturdy footwear on the uneven, potentially muddy paths.

"Idyllic, varied place with streams, thick forests, mossy hills, views of snow capped mountains in distance, ponies and sheep roaming.

Free parking at “Blaen y Glun Ucaf” - search on map south of here.

Parking lot has a big waterfall as you come in.

Go down from car park for forest & waterfalls.

Go up from car park for epic views & waterfalls.

Eat at the “old barn tea rooms” nearby."

Claudia G

"Waterfalls!
We visited Blaen y Glyn on beautiful crisp sunny winters day. The weather added to beauty of the falls.
As you walk up the path leading from the small carpark you see a series of smaller waterfalls eventually leading to the largest fall.
While not the biggest waterfall you could see it's still impressive. When the water flow is not high you can climb over the rocks and boulders right up to it. It's well framed by the hill the water has eroded over time and the base of the fall is littered with impressive rocks and boulders.
There's a bridge just below the main fall so you can make your way down the other side, although it's not a gravel path like the one on the opposite bank.
Well worth a visit if you're in nearby Brecon or Merthyr Tydfil. Get there early if you want a parking space."

Andy O'Brien

"Stunning walk for all levels pf experience. Easy to follow trails with lots to see from start to finish."

Alan Hole

What People Like

Idyllic forest setting
Beautiful waterfalls
Free parking and entry

What People Dislike

Limited parking
Uneven, muddy paths

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Blaen y Glyn Waterfalls are located in the Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) National Park. You can access them via two main car parks: Blaen y Glyn Uchaf (upper) and Blaen y Glyn Isaf (lower). Both offer free parking, but can fill up quickly. The routes from both car parks lead to the waterfalls and forest trails.Instagram+1

Yes, there are two free car parks: Blaen y Glyn Uchaf and Blaen y Glyn Isaf. The Uchaf (upper) car park is often mentioned as having a waterfall right as you arrive, and provides access to steeper, more scenic routes. The Isaf (lower) car park offers a shorter, less strenuous walk.Instagram+2

Yes, you can drive to the designated car parks. The roads leading to the car parks are generally accessible by car, but can be narrow in places. It's advisable to check local road conditions before your visit, especially during adverse weather.Instagram+1

Using a map app with offline capabilities is recommended, as mobile signal can be spotty. The trails are generally well-trodden, but having a map can help you explore different routes and ensure you don't miss any hidden gems.Instagram

Public transport options directly to Blaen y Glyn are limited. It's best to travel by car. If relying on public transport, you would likely need to get to a nearby town like Brecon or Merthyr Tydfil and then arrange onward travel, possibly via taxi.Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Blaen y Glyn Waterfalls and the surrounding Talybont Forest are free to enter. The parking at both the Uchaf and Isaf car parks is also free, making it an excellent budget-friendly destination.Instagram+1

As an outdoor natural attraction, Blaen y Glyn Waterfalls do not have set opening or closing hours. You can visit at any time, though daylight hours are recommended for safety and enjoyment of the scenery.Instagram

No booking is required for Blaen y Glyn Waterfalls as it is a natural attraction with free entry and parking. However, due to limited parking, arriving early is advised, especially during peak seasons or weekends.Instagram

While there are no specific entry restrictions, visitors are encouraged to respect the natural environment, stay on marked trails where possible, and take all litter with them. Dogs are welcome but should be kept under control.Instagram

Yes, Blaen y Glyn Waterfalls can be visited in winter. The scenery can be particularly magical with frost or snow, but be extra cautious of icy paths and conditions.Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

The walk is varied, taking you through lush forests alongside streams and smaller cascades, leading to the main waterfall. From the upper car park, expect steeper climbs and more dramatic views, while the lower car park offers a gentler, shorter route. The total walk can be around 4 miles round trip.Instagram+2

The walk itself can take approximately 1 hour, but this doesn't include time for stops to enjoy the scenery, paddle, have a picnic, or take photos. Many visitors spend 2-3 hours exploring the area.Instagram+1

Yes, it's generally considered child-friendly, with easy-to-follow trails and plenty to see. However, there are deep pools near the waterfalls, so constant supervision is essential. The terrain can be uneven, making it less ideal for pushchairs or wheelchairs.InstagramReddit

Yes, many visitors enjoy wild swimming in the cold water pools. It's a popular spot for a 'dopamine hit' and cold water therapy. Be aware that the water is very cold and can be deep.Instagram+1

You can expect stunning views of waterfalls, mossy hills, thick forests, and, from the higher points, panoramic vistas of the Brecon Beacons. On clear days, you might even see snow-capped mountains in the distance.InstagramReddit

📸 📸 Photography

The main waterfall with its rocky base is a prime spot. The moss-covered trees and streams in the forest create an enchanting atmosphere. Higher viewpoints offer sweeping landscape shots of the Brecon Beacons.Instagram+2

Early morning or late afternoon light can create beautiful, soft lighting for photography. After rainfall, the waterfalls are more dramatic, and the mossy forest floor is particularly vibrant.Instagram

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the waterfalls and forest. A tripod can be useful for longer exposures to smooth out the water. Consider waterproof protection for your gear if visiting in wet weather.Instagram

The area around the main waterfall offers excellent framing. For wider shots, explore the higher trails accessible from the Uchaf (upper) car park. The forest paths themselves provide numerous picturesque scenes.Instagram+1

Drone usage in National Parks can be restricted. It's essential to check the latest regulations for Bannau Brycheiniog National Park before flying a drone to ensure you comply with all rules and guidelines.Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Blaen y Glyn is a fantastic spot for families looking for an adventure. The trails are generally easy to follow, and the presence of multiple waterfalls and streams provides endless fascination for children.InstagramReddit It's a great place for kids to explore and connect with nature. Remember to bring snacks and drinks, and be prepared for muddy conditions, so appropriate clothing is a must.Instagram

Crucially, constant supervision is required around the waterfalls due to deep pools. While the main paths are manageable, the terrain can be uneven, making it less ideal for pushchairs or very young children who need to be carried. The free parking and entry make it an accessible and budget-friendly family outing.Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts

For hikers, Blaen y Glyn offers a rewarding experience with varied terrain and stunning natural beauty. The option of starting from either the upper or lower car park allows for different levels of challenge, from a gentle stroll to a more vigorous hike with significant climbs.Instagram+2 The circular walk can be extended to explore more of the surrounding forest and hills, and it's even possible to link up with routes towards Pen y Fan from the Uchaf car park.Instagram

The area is a haven for nature lovers, with its lush forests, diverse flora, and the ever-present sound of running water. Photographers will find ample opportunities to capture the dramatic waterfalls and serene forest scenes.Instagram The chance for a bracing wild swim adds another dimension for those seeking an active and immersive outdoor experience.Instagram

📸 Photographers

Blaen y Glyn is a dream location for photographers seeking dramatic natural landscapes. The main waterfall, with its rugged rocks and powerful flow (especially after rain), is a must-capture subject.Instagram+1 The surrounding Talybont Forest offers a more intimate, atmospheric setting with moss-covered trees and winding streams, perfect for capturing the magic of the woods.Instagram

For expansive shots, the higher trails accessible from the Uchaf car park provide breathtaking panoramic views of the Brecon Beacons.Instagram+1 Consider visiting during the golden hours of early morning or late afternoon for the best light. A tripod can be beneficial for capturing smooth water effects, and waterproof gear for your camera is advisable given the often-damp conditions.Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating the Trails and Parking

Blaen y Glyn offers a choice of starting points, primarily dictated by the two free car parks: Blaen y Glyn Uchaf (upper) and Blaen y Glyn Isaf (lower).Instagram+1 The Uchaf car park is often cited as having a waterfall visible upon arrival and leads to routes with steeper climbs and potentially more dramatic, expansive views of the Brecon Beacons.Instagram+1 Conversely, the Isaf car park provides a shorter, less strenuous walk to the waterfalls, making it a good option for those seeking a more relaxed experience.Instagram+1

Regardless of your starting point, the trails are generally described as easy to follow, winding through the enchanting Talybont Forest. Be prepared for uneven and potentially muddy terrain, especially after rain, so sturdy, waterproof footwear is highly recommended.Instagram+1 The entire circular walk can be around 4 miles, but many visitors extend their stay to fully appreciate the numerous cascades, pools, and scenic viewpoints.Instagram+1

It's worth noting that parking is limited, particularly at the Uchaf car park. Arriving early, especially on weekends or during peak seasons, is crucial to secure a spot and avoid disappointment.InstagramReddit While mobile signal can be unreliable in the area, having an offline map can be beneficial for navigation and exploring the various paths.Instagram

The Allure of the Waterfalls and Wild Swimming

The star attraction at Blaen y Glyn is undoubtedly its series of waterfalls. While not as grand as some of the more famous 'waterfall country' locations, they possess a unique charm and beauty, especially after rainfall when the water flow is more impressive.Instagram The main cascade, framed by eroded hills and scattered with large rocks and boulders, is a particularly striking sight.Reddit Visitors can often get close to the base of the falls, climbing over the rocks when water levels permit.Reddit

Beyond the main falls, the forest is dotted with smaller cascades and pools, creating a magical, almost otherworldly atmosphere.Instagram These pools have become a popular spot for wild swimming, offering an invigorating 'dopamine hit' for those brave enough to plunge into the icy Welsh waters.Instagram+1 It's a chance to connect with nature in a raw and exhilarating way, though caution is advised due to the cold temperature and potential depth of the water.Instagram

Photography and Capturing the Scenery

Blaen y Glyn offers a photographer's paradise, with its diverse and captivating scenery. The main waterfall, with its textured rocks and cascading water, provides a dramatic focal point.Instagram+1 The surrounding Talybont Forest, with its moss-covered trees, dappled light, and babbling streams, creates an enchanting, almost fairytale-like ambiance perfect for capturing intimate nature shots.Instagram

For broader vistas, venturing up the trails from the Uchaf (upper) car park rewards photographers with panoramic views of the rolling hills and valleys of the Bannau Brycheiniog National Park.Instagram+1 The 'otherworldly' feel of the landscape, as described by some visitors, lends itself well to creative photography, evoking a sense of ancient wonder.Instagram Early mornings and late afternoons often provide the most flattering light, while the vibrant greens after rain enhance the natural beauty of the area.Instagram

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