A Guide to Hiking Pen y Fan

Pen y Fan is one of the highest peaks in Wales and is the highest peak in South Wales and Southern Britain for that matter. It’s also one of the more popular hiking and walking spots in the UK. It has genuinely stunning views of the Brecon Beacons and multiple access points as well as being a hiking route achievable by all skill levels. If you’re interested in a new hiking route then Pen y Fan is a great mountain to climb. Read on for a guide on the Pen y Fan walk, Craghoppers experiences with the route and other common queries.

It will take approximately 3 to 3.5 hours to hike up the route and back again. Compared to some of the other mountain routes in Wales or the UK this is relatively short but it is steep so pacing yourself is the only option if you want to reach the top.

The Pen y Fan hike is a moderate to hard hike. Beginners can attempt the walk up Pen y Fan but just need to make sure they’re prepared. It’s quite steep at certain points through the hike so if it rains the risk of slipping is high. Proper footwear and being steady on your feet with reasonable fitness is important.

As Snowdon is the tallest mountain in Wales, and Pen y Fan is the highest mountain in the south of the UK, it’s quite common for hikers and mountain climbers to compare the two. Each has multiple routes of varying difficulty. Snowdon for example has some routes which require rambling and other gradual, winding routes, with a steady enough to include have train track. Whilst Pen y Fan has no such luxury. Ultimately though, Pen y Fan is more beginner friendly and less time consuming than Snowdon (ignoring the fact Snowdon has a train ride up).

• Pen y Fan is shorter and less technical, making it a more beginner-friendly hike.
• Snowdon has several routes, some of which are more challenging with varied terrains.

If you're new to hiking or prefer shorter, steeper ascents, or you’ve climbed Snowdon and want a new challenge, Pen y Fan would be the better choice.

Finding a decent parking space at Pen y Fan is likely going to be your first challenge on this hike, particularly on weekends and holidays. We started our hike at Neuadd Car Park c but there are several good places, providing you’re early enough.

Storey Arms Car Park: This is the most popular parking spot for hikers heading up Pen y Fan. It’s a pay-and-display car park, and it can get quite busy, especially during peak times.

Other Nearby Car Parks: If Storey Arms is full, there are other car parks nearby such as the Pont ar Daf, which is quite a new car park, and Libanus Car Park. Make sure to check how far away the car park you choose is from your trail start. You don’t want to waste energy just getting to the route.

Shaped by glaciers, the infamous Pen Y Fan horseshoe is truly one of the best routes that the Brecon Beacons has to offer.

You can take on the loop from quite a number of start points and directions, we joined the ridge at the peak of Twyn Mwyalchod (642 metres) in a clock wise direction.

Setting off from the Neuadd car park c through fields, woodland and broad paths, you eventually reach the steps that start slow and then turn steep to join the ridge at Twyn Mwyalchod (642 metres). If you’re willing to get up there early for sunrise, you’re rewarded with the beautiful light coming in over the valley. It’s an ideal route to get the hardwork out of the way at the very beginning. The route now has very few steep gradients and you’re able to walk to ridge line and take in the amazing views.

You come across a number of peaks taking the route this way leading up to Pen Y Fan (886 metres), Cefn Cul (740metres), Rhiw yr Ysgyfarnog (736 metres), Craig-Gwaun-Taf (826 metres).

The 360 views from Pen Y Fan are breathtaking and offers the perfect place to stop along the route to take in the scenery, stop for a break and of course take a photo at the summit.

From there you continue across the ridge line to Cribyn (795 metres) and have the option to head down from there with some steep scrambles and rolling paths or continue along to top of the ridge line to Fan Y Big (719 metres).

As you return to the car park, you have an opportunity to really take in the stark contrast of the striking peaks and ridges to the rolling valleys and woodlands.

When preparing for your hike up and around Pen y Fan, make sure you have the right gear. Here’s a quick checklist of essentials:

• Hiking Boots: As mentioned, proper footwear is key.
• Waterproof Jacket: The weather in the Brecon Beacons can change rapidly, so it’s a good idea to bring a lightweight waterproof jacket.
• Snacks & Water: Keep energy levels up with some high-energy snacks and plenty of water.
• Navigation Tools: A map, compass, or GPS app to ensure you stay on track.
• First Aid Kit: For any minor injuries or accidents.
• Layers: The weather can be cold and windy, so dressing in layers will keep you comfortable. A warm fleece is always a good mid layer choice.

Pen y Fan is an excellent hiking experience, regardless of if you're a beginner or experienced. With its stunning 360 degree views, reasonably short hike, and multiple routes and access points to choose from, it’s the perfect spot for a day of exploration. By following the tips and advice in this guide, you’ll be fully prepared for your hike.