Pen y Fan Hiking Guide: What to Pack, Which Route, and Why It’s Worth It
If you're wondering whether Brecon Beacons is worth a visit—short answer: yes.
We spent half a day hiking Pen y Fan, the highest peak in South Wales at 886m. It’s beginner-friendly, scenic, and only an hour’s drive from Cardiff.
📍 Route Overview You’ve got two good options:
Storey Arms Route
⏱ 6.5 km round trip / ~3 hrs
🥾 Gentle slope, clear trail, great for first-timers
🔁 Choose a loop or out-and-back
Horseshoe Ridge Route
⏱ 16 km full loop / ~6 hrs
⛰️ Ridge walk with big views, stronger winds, more challenge
🚗 How to Get There
By Car（🕐 About 1 hour from Cardiff or Swansea）
🅿 Recommended parking:
Pont ar Daf Car Park
Storey Arms Outdoor Centre
Horseshoe Ridge Car Park
By Public Transport
🚉 Train to Merthyr Tydfil
🚍 Bus T4 or T14 to Storey Arms
✅ Check schedules, especially on Sundays
🧭 Tips Before You Go
✅ Wear proper hiking shoes
✅ Bring your own water + food (no shops on the trail)
✅ Download offline maps—there’s no signal
✅ No public toilets, plan accordingly
✅ Expect wind, even in spring
🥪 What I Packed in My 20L Expandable Backpack
I kept it light, but covered all the basics:
🥤 1L water
🍱 Simple lunch
☔ Rain jacket
🔋 Power bank
🧻 Tissues & sunscreen
Everything fit comfortably in a 20L expandable backpack—compact on the way in, roomy enough once I layered down.
💬 FAQ
Is Pen y Fan good for beginners?
Yes—especially if you take the Storey Arms route.
Is it worth going without a guide?
Absolutely. It’s well-trodden and easy to navigate with offline maps.
Do I need special gear?
No, but sturdy shoes and a windproof layer help a lot.
What size backpack is ideal?
I’d recommend a 20L expandable backpack—enough for essentials, light on your back.
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