Hafod road and Llangattock Hillside

Useful Information

The road itself was used to transport limestone to the iron-makers in Brynmawr and Ebbw Vale, whilst other routes lead downhill to the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal. The views on a good day extend across to the Black Mountains and into England. This route is reasonably well used by cyclists and local people, with the quarries regularly used by rock climbers. Location: The `Hafod' road (location map) is situated above the Clydach Gorge and stretches for 3 miles from Brynmawr around to Llangattock hillside. This is a single track road which leads off Intermediate Road in Brynmawr close to the comprehensive school (location map). There are plenty of passing places, but please note that there are steep slopes on one side of the road which is mainly unfenced. Parking: There is a car park and roadside parking in Brynmawr. There are a number of parking spots alongside the road and a stony car park near the main quarry (location map). Climbing access In April 1998 after years of work by Brecon Beacons National Park Authority and the BMC an access agreement was finally reached to allow climbing on Llangattock hillside. A group booking system has been established and group leaders intending to visit the crag should contact Crickhowell Adventure Gear (Tel: 01873 810020) to make bookings. (New 'phone number) Bookings can be made up to 8 weeks in advance and there is a limit of 3 groups of up to 15 people (total per group) per day. A small charge is payable to help cover wardening costs and the BMC Access Fund also makes an annual contribution towards costs. There will be no bookings when stock gathering is taking place. The National Park has produced an information leaflet which includes a code of practice for climbers. Contact the Wardens Section (Tel: 01874 624437) for further details. Individual climbers access is not affected.