When planning your next Brecon Beacons staycation, make sure to include these breath taking waterfall walks in your itinerary!
Tucked in to the heart of South Wales, the Brecon Beacons National Park is a vast landscape of steep mountain slopes, forests, and open moorlands, but perhaps one of its most magical and memorable features is its incredible collection of waterfalls. Hidden in deep gorges and tucked away along leafy trails, these falls add a sense of wonder and serenity to the landscape, drawing visitors from near and far.
From dramatic plunges to gentle streams tumbling over mossy rocks, the waterfalls in the Brecon Beacon are as varied as the park itself.
So, if you’re planning a visit, make sure to add these natural wonders to your itinerary; they’re among the most rewarding and refreshing experiences the Brecon Beacons National Park has to offer.
Read on for the ultimate guide to waterfalls in the Brecon Beacons…
The Waterfall Country
Set between the stunning villages of Pontneddfechan, Ystradfellte, and Hirwaun, the fittingly named Waterfall Country is one of the most enchanting areas in the Brecon Beacons National Park and a must visit for nature lovers, hikers and photographers alike. This lush, forested region is home to a spectacular concentration of waterfalls in the Brecon Beacons, offering some of the most scenic and rewarding walking routes in the UK.
Over thousands of years, the Mellte, Hepste, Pryddin and Nedd Fechan rivers have carved deep gorges and cascading falls through ancient limestone bedrock. The result is this gorgeous landscape with dramatic beauty, mossy ravines, rocky plunge pools and tumbling falls that seem to appear around each bend.
Whether you’re planning a full day of hiking or just want a short, immersive stroll through woodland and water, Waterfall Country offers a truly magical escape. It’s especially captivating after rainfall, when the rivers are full and the falls come to life, just be sure to wear sturdy footwear as the trails can be slippery.
For those wanting to explore even more falling beauty across Wales, take a look at our guide: 8 of the Best Waterfalls in Wales, featuring iconic spots like Henryd Falls, the tallest waterfall in South Wales.
Sgwd yr Eira (Fall of Snow)
One of the most iconic and beloved waterfalls in the Brecon Beacons, Sgwd yr Eira which translated to Fall of Snow in Welsh is a truly unforgettable destination for adventurers and nature lovers alike. What sets this waterfall apart from others is its extraordinary natural feature: a footpath that runs directly behind the falling water.
Sgwd yr Eira is a dream come true for nature photographs, offering unique angles and a chance to capture the raw beauty of nature up close. And for the thrill seekers, there’s a great sense of adventure in stepping carefully across the wet rocks and ducking under the overhang to emerge behind a curtain of water.
However, after rainfall, be cautious of the slippery ground, ensure you wear the correct walking gear and take your time. Despite the effort required, Sgwd yr Eira remains a bucket list item for those who enjoy a challenging but rewarding trail.
Whether you’re exploring Waterfall Country for the first time or returning for another visit, this remarkable site is one you’ll remember long after your boots have dried.
Sgwd Clun-Gwyn (Fall of the White Meadow)
Sgwd Clun-Gwyn, meaning “fall of the white meadow,” is one of the more accessible and striking waterfalls in the Brecon Beacons, making is a popular first spot for those exploring the enchanting trails of Waterfall Country. Falling powerfully over a wide rocky ledge into the gorge below, this waterfall creates a breath-taking spectacle.
Surrounded by lush woodland with an abundance of paths, the area around Sgwd Clun-Gwyn is as inviting as the waterfall itself. The peaceful setting makes it ideal for a variety of visitors, whether you’re looking to snap some standout photos, enjoy a picnic in the fresh air, or simply take some time to soak in the sounds of rushing water and birdsong.
Thanks to its location near the start of the Four Waterfalls Walk, this waterfall is the easiest of the four main falls to reach, requiring less of a hike than the others. Its accessibility, combined with its raw natural beauty, makes it a fantastic choice for families with children, casual walkers or anyone easing into their Waterfall Country adventure.
Whether you’re planning a full day of exploration or a short scenic outing, Sgwd Clun-Gwyn is a must see, and a wonderful reminder of why the Brecon Beacons is such a celebrated destination for lovers of the great outdoors.
Sgwd Isaf Clun-Gwyn and Sgwd y Pannwr
While the more famous cascades of Waterfall Country often draw the crowds, Sgwd y Pannwr and Sgwd Isaf Clun-Gwyn offer a quieter, more secluded experience for those willing to venture a little further off the beaten path. Though lesser-known, these two waterfalls in the Brecon Beacons are every bit as captivating—making them perfect for walkers in search of serenity, beauty, and a deeper connection with nature.
Sgwd y Pannwr, meaning “fall of the fuller,” is especially tranquil. Nestled in a peaceful, wooded gorge, it flows gently over a broad ledge into a shallow, rocky basin below. The setting feels almost untouched, with the soft sound of tumbling water echoing through the trees and moss-covered rocks inviting visitors to sit, reflect, and enjoy the quiet. It’s a favourite among landscape photographers and nature enthusiasts looking for a more meditative escape.
Sgwd Isaf Clun-Gwyn, or the “lower fall of the white meadow,” is another hidden gem just downstream from the larger Sgwd Clun-Gwyn. Reached via a steeper, more rugged path, this waterfall rewards the effort with a secluded atmosphere and dramatic surroundings. The descent can be a bit challenging, but it’s well worth it for those eager to explore the less-travelled corners of Waterfall Country.
Whether you’re piecing together your own extended walk or taking the full Four Waterfalls Walk, don’t miss these lesser-known falls. They offer a refreshing contrast to the more visited spots and provide a rare chance to enjoy the Brecon Beacons’ waterfalls in near solitude—making the experience all the more magical.
Henrhyd Falls
Henrhyd Falls, which is the tallest waterfall in South Wales, standing at 90 feet tall, it’s a true display natural beauty within the Brecon Beacons National Park. Surrounded by a flourishing forest, the waterfall plunges into the shaded pool below, creating a cool misty oasis that feels worlds away from everyday life.
One of the most unique features of Henrhyd Falls is the ability to walk behind the cascading water, giving visitors a thrilling and immersive experience, especially on a hot summer’s day. The short but scenic walk to the falls from the National Trust car park winds through enchanting woodland, adding to the sense of adventure and anticipation.
Famous not only for its natural beauty but also for its appearance in The Dark Knight Rises as the entrance to Batman’s cave, Henrhyd Falls attracts both film fans and outdoor enthusiasts alike. It’s an excellent spot for photography, quiet contemplation, or simply enjoying the fresh air and dramatic surroundings that make the Brecon Beacons so special.
As one of the must-see waterfalls in the Brecon Beacons, Henrhyd Falls is the perfect addition to any day out in the region. For more inspiration and to discover other stunning falls across the country, check out our guide: 8 of the Best Waterfalls in Wales.
The Four Falls Trail
If you’re looking to immerse yourself in the stunning beauty of Waterfall Country, the Four Falls Trail is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in the Brecon Beacons. This scenic circular walk, approximately 5.5 miles (9 km) in length, takes in four of the most spectacular waterfalls in the Brecon Beacons National Park: Sgwd Clun-Gwyn, Sgwd Isaf Clun-Gwyn, Sgwd y Pannwr, and the iconic Sgwd yr Eira, where you can even walk behind the cascading water.
The trail winds through dense woodland, past dramatic gorges, and along rivers that have carved their way through the limestone over millennia. It offers a rewarding mix of natural beauty and adventure, with plenty of opportunities for photography, wildlife spotting, and peaceful moments in nature. While parts of the route can be steep, rocky, and uneven, the effort is more than worth it for the breath taking views and the rare chance to experience multiple waterfalls in one unforgettable outing.
Tips for Visiting the Four Falls Trail
To make the most of your experience on one of the best waterfall walks in the Brecon Beacons, keep these practical tips in mind:
Wear sturdy footwear: Hiking boots or trail shoes with good grip are essential, as sections of the path can become slippery and muddy, especially after rainfall.
Pack a waterproof jacket: The Welsh weather is famously changeable, and the mist from the waterfalls adds to the damp. Staying dry will keep your walk enjoyable.
Start early: The trail is one of the most popular hikes in the Brecon Beacons, particularly on weekends and school holidays. Arriving in the morning means fewer crowds and a more tranquil atmosphere.
Respect the environment: Stay on marked paths to protect delicate habitats, take your litter home, and leave the area as you found it so others can enjoy its beauty too.
Bring snacks and water: There are no facilities on the trail, so come prepared for a few hours of hiking and exploring.
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a casual walker with a love for natural wonders, the Four Falls Trail is an unmissable highlight of the Brecon Beacons. It’s the perfect way to experience multiple waterfalls in South Wales in a single, adventure-filled day.
Final thoughts
Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning for another adventure, the waterfalls of the Brecon Beacons never lose their charm. They change with the seasons, frothing and full in winter, serene and sparkling in summer, offering a new experience every time.
For more inspiration on exploring the natural beauty of Wales, consider reading Your Ultimate Guide to Powys, which offers insights into the region’s attractions, including the Brecon Beacons.
So pack your boots, grab your camera, and lose yourself in the sound of rushing water and the beauty of the Welsh wilderness.
Start your adventure – browse our handpicked holiday lets in the Brecon Beacons today!
