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Clydach Gorge

4.4
·190 reviews·Gilwern, United Kingdom

Explore a dramatic landscape where industrial ruins meet wild waterfalls and ancient woodlands in Clydach Gorge.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Autumn

Magical autumn colors

CrowdLow
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Clydach Gorge - Image 1

Clydach Gorge

Best Time

Autumn

Magical autumn colors

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore a dramatic landscape where industrial ruins meet wild waterfalls and ancient woodlands in Clydach Gorge.

4.4
(190 reviews)

"A weird and wonderful mix of old industry --> nature --> new industry."

Vertical photo
TIP

Wear sturdy hiking boots

Paths can be overgrown and uneven. Good grip is essential for navigating the gorge safely. :athletic_shoe:

Pack out all your trash

There are no bins provided, so please take all rubbish home with you to preserve the beauty. :recycle:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Clydach Ironworks

Clydach Ironworks

Near Abergavenny

Explore the remnants of a 1790s ironworks, once a hub of industry powered by the river.

Waterfalls

Waterfalls

Throughout the gorge

Discover gushing waterfalls, especially powerful after rain, adding a dramatic element to the landscape.

Devil's Bridge

Devil's Bridge

Within the gorge

Experience the power and noise of the waterfall echoing through the gorge at this notable spot.

Abandoned Railway Tunnels

Abandoned Railway Tunnels

Along walking routes

Discover eerie, disused railway tunnels that add a unique, almost dystopian feel to the landscape.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Overgrowth

Paths can be overgrown, making some sections challenging. Wear sturdy footwear and be prepared for uneven terrain. Check local conditions before you go, especially after rain.

History Meets Nature

Clydach Gorge is a fascinating blend of industrial heritage and wild nature. Explore old ironworks and tunnels alongside waterfalls and woodlands. Plan your route to see both.

Best Times

When
Autumn
Why
Magical autumn colors
Crowd
Low
When
After rain
Why
Spectacular waterfalls
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

There’s no better feeling after a long hike 😂 What is the first thing you do? #Hiking #clydachgorge #Wales #lonelyshephard #nobetterfeeling #doyoufeelme #sundaywalks #bestfeeling #bootsoff #crockson #whatsyours #feelingfree #sundayfeeling #therelief #butilldoitagain
@dans.wales.adventures
1.8K likes • 40K views

Wear sturdy hiking boots

Paths can be overgrown and uneven. Good grip is essential for navigating the gorge safely. :athletic_shoe:

Pack out all your trash

There are no bins provided, so please take all rubbish home with you to preserve the beauty. :recycle:

Have you visited Clydach Ironworks near Abergavenny? Built over 200 years ago in the 1790s, there were as many as 1,350 people working here in its heyday, but production had ceased by 1877. The ironworks were powered by the fast moving River Clydach as it made its way through the narrow Clydach Gorge, before joining the Usk north-west of Abergavenny. Nowadays, the ruins stand as a testament to th...
visitmonmouthshire
64 likes • 1.4K views
The strange and bizarre Clydach Gorge A weird and wonderful mix of old industry --> nature --> new industry A kind of dystopian, end-of-the-world feel to the whole area. Where gushing waterfalls meet ironworks Where coal mines meet ancient beech woodlands Where abandoned train tunnels meet Shakespeare-inspired Puck's Valley, a magical place where Midsummer Night's Dream was borne Such a wonder...
loiskaraninalee
6 likes • 77 views

Check the car park height limit

The Clydach Ironworks car park has a 2m height restriction. :car:

Explore the old railway line

The side with beech trees and tunnels is often more enjoyable than routes through housing estates. :train2:

📍Clydach Gorge #love #nature #landscape #beautiful #adventure #wales #naturephotography #visitwales #history #ruins #waterfall
_lucy_lucy_lucy
16 likes • 579 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Wear sturdy hiking boots

Paths can be overgrown and uneven. Good grip is essential for navigating the gorge safely. :athletic_shoe:

Pack out all your trash

There are no bins provided, so please take all rubbish home with you to preserve the beauty. :recycle:

Check the car park height limit

The Clydach Ironworks car park has a 2m height restriction. :car:

Explore the old railway line

The side with beech trees and tunnels is often more enjoyable than routes through housing estates. :train2:

Wild swimming potential

The river is accessible for a dip, but be cautious climbing down slopes and swim at your own risk. :woman_swimming:

Embrace the 'end of the world' vibe

The mix of industry and nature creates a unique, almost dystopian atmosphere. :rocket:

What Travellers Say

4.4
(190 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Clydach Gorge for its unique blend of industrial history and natural beauty, with many enjoying the waterfalls and atmospheric ruins. However, some find the paths overgrown and poorly signposted, suggesting improvements are needed for a smoother experience.

"Nice little walk or bigger walk if you want. Car park has a height limit of 2m.
There is also picnic benches where you could us dispose BBQ. No bins so please take all your rubbish home."

Ryan Abbott

"Great waterfall after all the rain this week. Beautiful autumnal beech trees along the old tramway walk."

Cath Hammond

"Autumn was definitely a good time to go. A bit wet but the red and the orange and the trees was lovely to see."

Ryan Lewis

What People Like

Fascinating industrial ruins
Beautiful waterfalls
Atmospheric tunnels

What People Dislike

Overgrown paths
Poor signage

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Clydach Gorge is accessible by car, with parking available at the Clydach Ironworks car park. Be aware of the 2m height limit. Public transport options might involve buses to nearby towns like Abergavenny or Brynmawr, followed by a walk or taxi. Reddit

Yes, there is a car park at Clydach Ironworks, but it has a height restriction of 2 meters. Reddit

While direct public transport to the heart of the gorge might be limited, you can reach nearby towns like Abergavenny or Brynmawr by bus or train and then embark on a walk or arrange local transport. Instagram

The Clydach Ironworks car park is a common starting point. From there, you can follow various footpaths, though signage can be inconsistent. Reddit

Waterfalls are scattered throughout the gorge. Some are visible from the main paths, while others might require a short scramble down slopes to reach the riverbank. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Clydach Gorge is a natural landscape and historical site, and generally does not require an entrance fee. Access to the area and its trails is free. Instagram

As an outdoor natural area, Clydach Gorge is accessible at all times. However, it's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and to fully appreciate the scenery. Instagram

The Clydach Ironworks are historical ruins and are generally accessible without an admission fee, as part of the wider Clydach Gorge landscape. Instagram

The main restriction is the 2m height limit for the Clydach Ironworks car park. Always be mindful of the natural environment and historical significance of the site. Reddit

Yes, Clydach Gorge can be visited year-round. However, the experience can vary significantly with the seasons, with autumn offering beautiful foliage and after rain providing spectacular waterfalls. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can explore the historic Clydach Ironworks, hike along the river to see numerous waterfalls, discover old railway tunnels, and enjoy the unique blend of industrial heritage and nature. Instagram+1

Some paths can be very overgrown and difficult to pass, especially after periods of rain. Signage can also be inconsistent, so it's advisable to have a map or GPS. Reddit

It can be, but be prepared for challenging terrain and overgrown paths. Shorter, more accessible sections might be better for younger children. Reddit

The gorge is a habitat for various wildlife, with woodlands and river ecosystems. Keep an eye out for birds and other woodland creatures. Instagram

Absolutely! The dramatic waterfalls, industrial ruins, and ancient woodlands offer fantastic photographic opportunities, especially during autumn. Instagram+1

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There are no dining facilities directly within the gorge itself. It's recommended to bring a picnic to enjoy at the designated picnic benches, or plan to eat in nearby towns like Abergavenny. Reddit

Picnic benches are available, and you could potentially use a disposable BBQ, but it's crucial to ensure it's safely managed and completely extinguished. Remember to take all your waste with you. Reddit

The nearest towns, such as Abergavenny and Brynmawr, offer a selection of pubs, cafes, and restaurants. Instagram

Yes, it's highly recommended to bring your own food and drinks, especially if you plan on a longer walk or picnic, as amenities are scarce within the gorge. Reddit

Amenities are limited within the gorge itself. You'll find more options in the surrounding towns like Gilwern or Brynmawr. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The waterfalls, especially Devil's Bridge, the atmospheric abandoned railway tunnels, and the historic Clydach Ironworks ruins are prime photography locations. Instagram+2

Early morning or late afternoon light can create dramatic shadows and highlight the textures of the ruins and woodlands. After rain, the waterfalls are at their most impressive. Instagram

Generally, there are no specific photography restrictions for personal use. However, always be respectful of the environment and any private property. Instagram

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes and tunnels, while a telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details of the waterfalls. A tripod can help with low-light conditions or long exposures of water. Instagram

Yes, the juxtaposition of decaying industry with wild nature lends itself to atmospheric shots. Focus on textures, shadows, and the scale of the ruins against the natural elements. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Clydach Gorge offers a unique adventure for families, blending history with nature. While the industrial ruins and old tunnels can spark imagination, be prepared for overgrown paths that might be challenging for very young children or strollers. Reddit Opt for shorter, well-trodden sections near the Clydach Ironworks car park for a more manageable experience. The chance to see waterfalls and explore the remnants of the past can be exciting, but always supervise children closely, especially near the river and any steep slopes. InstagramReddit

🚶 Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts

For those who love a good hike, Clydach Gorge presents a rewarding challenge. The Clydach Gorge walk can be extended into longer routes, incorporating the old railway lines and exploring deeper into the woodlands. Instagram Be prepared for variable path conditions, from well-defined trails to sections requiring careful navigation due to overgrowth. Reddit The waterfalls are a highlight, and the autumn colours offer a particularly stunning backdrop for photography and immersion in nature. TikTokInstagram

📸 Photographers and History Buffs

Clydach Gorge is a photographer's and history enthusiast's dream. The Clydach Ironworks provide a rich subject for capturing industrial decay, while the waterfalls and ancient woodlands offer stunning natural beauty. Instagram+1 The abandoned railway tunnels add an atmospheric, almost eerie element, perfect for dramatic shots. Instagram Consider visiting after rain for the most impressive waterfalls and during autumn for vibrant foliage. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Industrial Heritage and Nature's Reclamation

Clydach Gorge is a striking example of how nature reclaims industrial sites. The Clydach Ironworks, established in the late 1790s, was once a major employer, with up to 1,350 people working there at its peak. The fast-flowing River Clydach powered the furnaces, but production ceased by 1877. Instagram Today, the remnants of this industrial past – including old buildings and disused railway tunnels – are interwoven with ancient beech woodlands and dramatic waterfalls. This unique blend creates a landscape that some describe as having a 'dystopian, end-of-the-world feel,' a testament to the power of nature's resilience. Instagram

Exploring the abandoned train tunnels offers a glimpse into a bygone era, adding an element of mystery to the gorge. These tunnels, often found along walking routes, are a popular feature for visitors seeking a more adventurous experience. Reddit The contrast between the man-made structures and the encroaching natural beauty is a key element that draws visitors to Clydach Gorge, offering a rich tapestry for exploration and photography. Instagram

Navigating the Trails and Waterfalls

The Clydach Gorge walk offers a variety of routes, from short strolls to more challenging hikes. While the scenery is beautiful, it's important to be aware that paths can become very overgrown, making some sections difficult to navigate. Reddit Visitors often recommend sticking to certain sides of the gorge, particularly those with beech trees and old railway tunnels, as these routes tend to be more enjoyable and better maintained than those that cut through housing estates. Reddit

The waterfalls are a major draw, especially after rainfall, when they put on a spectacular show. Instagram+1 While some waterfalls are easily visible from the main paths, reaching others might involve a scramble down slopes to the river. For those seeking a dip, the river is accessible for wild swimming, but caution is advised when descending to the water's edge, and swimming is at your own risk. Reddit Proper footwear is essential, as the terrain can be uneven and slippery. Reddit

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