Elan Valley dams
Along the old railway past the Victorian dams that send water to Birmingham.
- Distance
- 15.4 km
- Ascent
- 480 m
- Time
- 4.5–6 h
- Grade
- Moderate
- Route
- Out and back
- High point
- 280 m
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Route mapped on from OpenStreetMap paths, with heights from EU-DEM terrain data; not yet checked on the ground by TRXO. Added to TRXO on . For planning only: always navigate with an up-to-date map such as OS Explorer or Harvey. How we make our routes.
About this walk
Elan Valley dams is a moderate 15.4 km out-and-back walk with 480 m of ascent, taking 4.5 to 6 hours. It starts at Elan Valley visitor centre (grid reference SN 934 651).
The Elan Valley's reservoirs were built in the 1890s to supply Birmingham with water, and their dams are grand Victorian stonework in a wild setting. The Elan Valley Trail follows the line of the railway built for the works, from the visitor centre past Caban Coch dam and along the shore of Garreg Ddu to the viaduct that carries the road across it.
When the reservoirs are full the water pours over the dam faces. Return the same way, or carry on along the trail to Pen y Garreg dam, 3 km further, for a longer day.
Route
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1
The dams
Follow the trail past Caban Coch dam and along Garreg Ddu to the viaduct, and return.
Summit
Questions about this walk
- How long does Elan Valley dams take?
- Most walkers take 4.5–6 hours for the 15.4 km route, which has 480 m of ascent. That allows for short stops; give yourself longer in winter, in poor weather or with a group.
- Where does the walk start, and where can I park?
- It starts at Elan Valley visitor centre (grid reference SN 934 651). Car park at the visitor centre (charge).
- Can I get there by public transport?
- No practical public transport.
- How hard is it?
- It's graded moderate. A level, surfaced trail, shared with cyclists.
- Can I take my dog?
- Yes, dogs are welcome on this walk. Keep them on a lead near livestock.
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