
Sgwd yr Eira Waterfall Wales
A breathtaking waterfall in Wales where you can walk behind the cascading water, offering a truly unique and immersive natural experience.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful

Sgwd yr Eira Waterfall Wales
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking waterfall in Wales where you can walk behind the cascading water, offering a truly unique and immersive natural experience.
"The view from behind the waterfall is one of the most magical things I've ever seen."

Wear Sturdy Footwear
Trails can be steep and slippery. Good hiking boots are a must! :athletic_shoe:
Consider the Four Falls Trail
It's a beautiful circuit, but you can go straight to Sgwd yr Eira if short on time. :walking:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Walk Behind the Waterfall
Sgwd yr Eira
Experience the unique thrill of walking behind the powerful curtain of water for an unforgettable perspective.

The Four Falls Trail
Brecon Beacons National Park
Embark on a circular hike connecting Sgwd yr Eira with three other magnificent waterfalls in Waterfall Country.

Henrhyd Falls (The Batcave)
Near Coelbren
Discover the tallest waterfall in South Wales, famously used as the Batcave entrance in The Dark Knight Rises.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Hike to Sgwd yr Eira
Timing is Key for the Best Experience
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Sturdy Footwear
Trails can be steep and slippery. Good hiking boots are a must! :athletic_shoe:
Consider the Four Falls Trail
It's a beautiful circuit, but you can go straight to Sgwd yr Eira if short on time. :walking:
Prepare to Get Wet!
Walking behind the waterfall means you'll get sprayed. Embrace it! :drench:
Check Parking Availability
Car parks can fill up, especially on busy days. Arrive early or consider alternatives. :car:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Sturdy Footwear
Trails can be steep and slippery. Good hiking boots are a must! :athletic_shoe:
Consider the Four Falls Trail
It's a beautiful circuit, but you can go straight to Sgwd yr Eira if short on time. :walking:
Prepare to Get Wet!
Walking behind the waterfall means you'll get sprayed. Embrace it! :drench:
Check Parking Availability
Car parks can fill up, especially on busy days. Arrive early or consider alternatives. :car:
Pack Light
You'll be hiking, so only bring essentials. A small backpack is ideal. :backpack:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Sgwd yr Eira for its unique beauty, especially the opportunity to walk behind the waterfall, describing it as a magical and unforgettable experience. The surrounding scenery and the challenge of the hike are also frequently highlighted as positives. However, some find the steep paths and numerous steps challenging, and parking can be an issue on busy days.
"Enjoyed the days outing to see the falls but found it a bit hard going for my friend, who suffers from fibromyalgia. We parked Gwan hepste car park (£6) and walked from there. Once you reach marker 6 the path does go quite steep downhill. Yet we carried on to reach Sgwd Clun-Gwyn. Before making our way to Sgwd Yr Eira, using the top path from marker 46, to save time. The waterfall is amazing and certainly worth the 4 steep flights of steps down! Where we just sat enjoying the sound of cascading water.
We found out later on the way back. If all anyone wants to do is to head straight for the best of the waterfalls. Head from marker 6, to the unmarked path on your left (you can see it on the map as a white road, see pic) it will lead straight to this waterfall, through some pretty woodland, without the all those sharp inclines. Just an eye out for the fork in the road. Which will double back towards the right and downwards, which you can see on map. You will then be back on the same red routed path ( 40) and be a lot less exhausted. The main thing is to enjoy the scenic walk and this amazing waterfalls you can touch."
Gina Miller
"An absolutely stunning waterfall!
honestly heaven on earth!
At first, you might see all the stairs and think about giving up, but please don’t. Every step and every bit of breathlessness! is worth it once you get to the bottom.
I also highly recommend going behind the waterfall. Yes, you’ll get wet, but it’s 100% worth it .
the view from there is one of the most magical things I’ve ever seen. Truly unforgettable.
And if you don’t fancy the full 4-hour walk to see all four waterfalls, you can just go straight from the car park to this last one. You’ll still see the best of them without the long hike, then head back to the parking."
anis
"Beautiful waterfall, where you can go behind the water but I was to scared but others in my group did and really enjoyed the experience. The 160 steps down to the falls and back up wasn't as bad as I thought it would be - plenty of rest breaks though!!!! This was one of the 4 waterfalls on a circuit in the Brecon Beacons but we only managed two - Sgwd Yr Eira being the best in my opinion. Visited on a hot Monday in August and wasn't too busy. Car parking £6 for the day; there are portable toilets but they're not very clean!!"
Susie S
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Sgwd yr Eira is located in the Brecon Beacons National Park (Bannau Brycheiniog). The most common access point is via the Cwm Porth car park, which requires a fee. From there, follow the marked trails through the woodlands. Some visitors suggest an alternative route from marker 6 at Gwan Hepste car park to avoid some steep inclines if heading directly to Sgwd yr Eira.
The Cwm Porth car park is a popular starting point for the Four Falls Trail, which includes Sgwd yr Eira. Gwan Hepste car park is another option, though some reviews suggest it can involve steeper initial descents. Parking fees typically apply.
Public transport options to the immediate vicinity of Sgwd yr Eira are limited. The Brecon Beacons National Park is best explored with a car. It's advisable to check local bus routes and schedules in advance if relying on public transport, as services may be infrequent.
The hike to Sgwd yr Eira as part of the Four Falls Trail is approximately 4.5 miles (7km) and can take 2-3 hours. If you go directly to Sgwd yr Eira from a convenient starting point, the walk can be shorter, but still involves steep sections.
Absolutely! Sgwd yr Eira is part of the famous Four Falls Trail, which also includes Sgwd Clun-Gwyn, Sgwd isaf Clungwyn, and Sgwd y Pannwr. Many visitors enjoy completing the entire circuit to see all four.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no direct entrance fee for Sgwd yr Eira itself, as it's within the Brecon Beacons National Park. However, parking at designated car parks, such as Cwm Porth, usually incurs a fee, typically around £6.
Sgwd yr Eira is a natural attraction and is accessible at all times. However, the car parks have operating hours, and it's best to check these beforehand, especially if planning a very early or late visit.
No, you do not need to book tickets in advance for Sgwd yr Eira. It's a natural site, and access is generally open. Parking fees are usually paid on-site.
As a natural park, visitors are expected to respect the environment. Stick to marked trails, do not litter, and be mindful of the terrain. During extreme weather, paths may become hazardous.
Sgwd yr Eira is beautiful year-round. Spring and autumn offer vibrant colours, while winter can provide dramatic water flow. Summer can be busy, so weekdays are recommended.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The terrain involves woodland paths, which can be uneven and muddy. There are significant steep sections and numerous steps, particularly on the descent to the waterfall. Good walking shoes are essential.
Yes, one of the most unique aspects of Sgwd yr Eira is the path that allows you to walk behind the curtain of water. Be prepared to get wet!
The hike to Sgwd yr Eira involves steep paths and many steps, which can be challenging for very young children or those with mobility issues. However, older children who are comfortable with hiking may enjoy the adventure.
Portable toilets are sometimes available at car parks like Gwan Hepste, but their cleanliness can be variable. It's advisable to use facilities before you start your hike.
Bring sturdy walking shoes, waterproofs (as you'll get wet behind the falls), water, snacks, and a camera. A small backpack is recommended to carry your essentials.
📸 📸 Photography
The most iconic shot is from behind the waterfall, capturing the water curtain. The surrounding woodland and the approach paths also offer beautiful photographic opportunities.
Drone usage in National Parks can be restricted. It's best to check the official Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) National Park guidelines regarding drone operation before flying.
For capturing the silky smooth water effect, use a slower shutter speed. A tripod is highly recommended for stability. Consider a polarizing filter to reduce glare and enhance colours.
Yes, you can still capture stunning images from the viewing areas in front of the falls. The sheer scale and power of Sgwd yr Eira are impressive from any angle.
Early morning or late afternoon can offer softer light and fewer crowds. However, the dramatic spray and power of the falls can be captured at any time.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Alternatively, consider visiting Henrhyd Falls, which is also impressive and has a more accessible path, though still involves woodland trails. For a digital detox immersed in nature, look into glamping options like Danybryn Retreat in the Brecon Beacons.
🚶 Hikers and Adventure Seekers
Don't forget to pack essential hiking gear: waterproofs, sturdy boots, a map, and plenty of water. For those interested in wild swimming, Sgwd yr Eira and other waterfalls in the area are popular spots. Remember to check local conditions and safety advice before embarking on any strenuous hikes.
📸 Photographers and Content Creators
Experiment with different angles and times of day to find the best light. Early mornings or late afternoons can offer softer, more atmospheric light. The surrounding woodland trails also provide beautiful opportunities for nature photography. Remember to protect your gear from the spray when venturing behind the falls.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Waterfall Country
While Sgwd yr Eira is the most famous for its unique walk-behind feature, the other falls on the trail, such as Sgwd Clun-Gwyn and Sgwd Ddwli Uchaf, are equally breathtaking. The paths can be challenging, with steep descents and ascents, and can become slippery, especially after rain. Therefore, wearing appropriate footwear is crucial for a safe and enjoyable experience.
For those seeking a less strenuous experience, it's possible to access Sgwd yr Eira more directly from certain car parks, bypassing some of the longer trail sections. However, the full Four Falls Trail offers a more complete immersion into the beauty of Waterfall Country and is highly recommended for hikers.
The Magic of Walking Behind Sgwd yr Eira
Visitors should be prepared to get wet, as the spray from the waterfall is considerable. Waterproof clothing and footwear are highly recommended if you plan to venture behind the falls. The path behind the waterfall is generally well-trodden, but can be slippery, so caution is advised. Despite the potential for getting damp, the overwhelming sentiment from visitors is that the experience is absolutely worth it.
This unique feature sets Sgwd yr Eira apart from many other waterfalls, offering an interactive and memorable encounter with nature's power. It's a highlight that many travelers seek out when visiting the Brecon Beacons.
Beyond the Falls: The Brecon Beacons National Park
Beyond hiking and waterfalls, the Brecon Beacons offer opportunities for wild swimming, cycling, and exploring charming villages. The park is also steeped in history and folklore, with ancient standing stones, castles, and legends like the Lady of the Lake myth associated with Llyn y Fan Fach. Visitors can also explore attractions like the Dan-yr-Ogof Caves, adding another dimension to their trip.
Whether you're an avid hiker or simply seeking a scenic escape, the Brecon Beacons provide a diverse and beautiful natural playground. The park's commitment to preserving its natural beauty and Welsh heritage makes it a compelling destination for any traveler.
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