This page will provide members with updated information on some future walks, and especially mountain walks, when this is necessary. Most walks will not need this and will proceed according to the information in the walks schedule and as shown on the Next Walk page.

​The mountain walks are intended for members only. The mountain walk leaders would like to know who intends to take part. The weather has to be suitable for the walk to go ahead. Please check your emails and this website for any changes to the arrangements. 

Sunday June 30th 2019 - Black Mountains : Option of two walks, both starting from Llanthony Priory
Walk 1 – Strenuous/Mountain equivalent, Grade A, led by Pam Day
Walk 2 – Moderate, Grade B/B+ led by Hilary Davies

Meet at Westgate Car Park at 8am. The walks start at 10am from the car park at Llanthony Priory SO289278, NP7 7NN. The relevant OS map is OL13
The first half of both walks is the same – it is the return routes which differ. Also the moderate walk will be taken at a less brisk pace. Both walks have excellent views throughout. It is hoped that these routes will provide excellent walking in this very beautiful area.
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Both walks explore the upper reaches of the Vale of Eywas, starting from the historic ruins of Llanthony Priory. The route ascends the delightful side valley of Cwm Bwchel to gain the Ffawyddog ridge. This provides an airy and undulating traverse above the valley with extensive views across the whole of the Black Mountains. After the highest point, Chwarel-y-fan at 670m, there is a descent to the isolated hamlet of Capel-y-ffin with its delightful tiny church. The ascent for this part of the walk is about 440m and the descent 320m.

Walk 1 (with Pam) returns via Offa’s Dyke Path on a ridge on the opposite side of the valley. A gentle walk across fields and on a track by a stream is followed by a steep ascent of about 300m up to the ridge. The route SE follows the Wales/ England border and is level walking on an easy path with expansive views. The final descent of about 390m (gentle at first and then steeper) provides classic views of the photogenic Priory ruins. The total distance for Walk 1 is about 11.5 miles and total ascent/descent about 2650ft.
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Walk 2 (with Hilary) returns via a very attractive and undulating path just inside the ‘access area’ on or about the 390 contour line. There are views across the valley throughout and the route finishes by crossing over to the opposite side of the valley, over the stream and returning along the quiet lane back to the Priory.  The total distance for Walk 2 is about 9 miles.
At the end of the walks – drinks and cakes etc are served in the bar of the Llanthony Priory Hotel. It may also be of interest to look at the Priory ruins and at the tiny and ancient Church of St David, Llanthony.