Standing proud in the heart of the Brecon Beacons National Park, Pen y Fan is the tallest mountain in South Wales. At 2,907 feet (886 m), this popular summit offers straightforward hikes with disproportionately fantastic views for the effort. When you trek up here, you can easily adjust your route to bag the neighbouring summits of Corn Du, Cribyn and Fan y Big too.

This Highlight is in a protected area

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Bannau Brycheiniog National Park

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Location: Glyn Tarell, South Wales, Wales, United Kingdom

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Trail Magazine

December 13, 2019

Hiking

Chief of the Brecon Beacons and the highest summit in south Wales, Pen y Fan is a hugely popular peak with routes to the top to suit everyone from first time day-trippers to potential SAS commandos. Red sandstone creates its unmistakable layered profile and gives hue to the Bronze Age cairn that tops the summit.

Craig Taylor

May 3, 2017

Hiking

At 2,907 feet (886 m), this summit might not be a particularly high one, but the views from the top are amazing. As the highest peak south of Snowdonia, you can really see for miles on a clear day — all the way to the Severn Bridge and out into Powys.

While it might not be high, the SAS use the area as a training ground for a reason. Be careful on windy days and wear sensible footwear in the wet. Also, consider walking up from Corn Du. It's the slightly tougher route but is well worth the walk.

Dan Hobson

July 17, 2021

Hiking

As the highest peak in South Wales, Pen y Fan affords breathtaking views. The ascent is tough but not overly challenging, making it a good choice for all abilities. There are plenty of peaks nearby, affording ample hill-bagging opportunities. It can get very busy here, especially weekends/holidays when the weather is good. Be sure to get there early to beat the crowds. Pen y Fan, which roughly translates as ‘Top Spot’, stands at 2,907 feet (886 m).

Nearby routes

Best routes near Pen y Fan

4.8

(484)

4,616

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1. Pen y Fan and Corn Du Circular Walk

7.56km

02:44

450m

460m

Hike the Pen y Fan and Corn Du Circular Walk, a moderate 4.7-mile (7.6 km) route to the highest peaks in Southern Britain.

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Moderate

4.8

(272)

1,726

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2. Pen y Fan, Cribyn & Fan y Big loop from Storey Arms — Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) National Park

25.0km

08:16

1,110m

1,120m

Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Hard

4.8

(250)

1,699

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3. Pen y Fan Horseshoe Ridge — Bannau Brycheiniog / Brecon Beacons National Park

18.5km

05:55

720m

730m

Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Hard

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Informations

Elevation 890 m

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Family Friendly

yes

Wheelchair access

Dog Friendly

yes

Weather

Today

Monday 16 March

8°C

2°C

64 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 27.0 km/h

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Take Me There

Location: Glyn Tarell, South Wales, Wales, United Kingdom

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View of Pen y Fan Summit

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View of the Rolling Hills in Bannau Brycheiniog National Park

View of the Hills in Bannau Brycheiniog National Park

Pen y Fan

1. Pen y Fan and Corn Du Circular Walk

2. Pen y Fan, Cribyn & Fan y Big loop from Storey Arms — Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) National Park

3. Pen y Fan Horseshoe Ridge — Bannau Brycheiniog / Brecon Beacons National Park

Other Popular Places to Check Out

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