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Sgwd y Pannwr Waterfall – The Tiered Cascade of the Four Waterfalls Walk

Discover the serene tiered cascade of Sgwd y Pannwr, a scenic highlight of the Four Waterfalls Walk in Wales’ Brecon Beacons National Park.

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Sgwd y Pannwr is a stunning tiered waterfall located in the Brecon Beacons National Park, South Wales, along the renowned Four Waterfalls Walk near Neath. Known as the 'Fall of the Fuller,' it features a distinctive stepped cascade dropping approximately 12 meters into a tranquil pool. This picturesque spot is popular for hiking, photography, and wild swimming during warmer months, offering visitors a serene natural retreat surrounded by lush woodland.

A brief summary to Sgwd y Pannwr

  • Four Waterfalls Walk, Neath, SA11 5US, GB
  • Duration: 3 to 4 hours
  • Free
  • Environment icon Outdoor
  • Mobile reception: 3 out of 5
  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Wear sturdy waterproof hiking boots as the trail to Sgwd y Pannwr is steep, muddy, and slippery in places.
  • Bring layered clothing and waterproofs to prepare for the unpredictable Welsh weather.
  • Visit during warmer months if you want to enjoy wild swimming in the calm plunge pool at the waterfall’s base.
  • Allow 3 to 4 hours to complete the full Four Waterfalls Walk, including time to rest and take photos.
  • Arrive early on weekends or holidays to find parking and enjoy a quieter experience on the trail.
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Getting There

  • Car

    Driving from Neath or nearby towns, expect a 30 to 45-minute journey to the Four Waterfalls Walk trailhead near Ystradfellte. Parking is limited and can fill quickly during peak times. There is no parking directly at the falls, so prepare for a 30-minute walk along forest trails. No parking fees apply.

  • Bus and Walking

    Take local bus services to Ystradfellte village from Neath or Pontneddfechan, with journey times ranging from 45 to 70 minutes depending on connections. From the village, the Four Waterfalls Walk trailhead is a 15 to 20-minute walk through woodland paths. Bus services may be infrequent, so check schedules in advance.

  • Hiking

    Access Sgwd y Pannwr via the Four Waterfalls Walk, a circular 5.5-mile (9 km) trail that takes about 3 to 4 hours to complete. The trail includes steep, muddy, and rocky sections requiring sturdy footwear and moderate fitness. The route is well-marked but involves several climbs and descents.

Sgwd y Pannwr location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather
  • Weather icon Clear Skies
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures

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Discover more about Sgwd y Pannwr

A Jewel Within the Four Waterfalls Walk

Sgwd y Pannwr is the third waterfall on the celebrated Four Waterfalls Walk, a circular hiking trail weaving through the enchanting woodlands near Ystradfellte in the Brecon Beacons National Park. The walk itself spans about 5.5 miles (9 km) and showcases four spectacular waterfalls, each with unique features and scenic charms. Sgwd y Pannwr, often translated as the 'Fall of the Fuller' or 'Fall of the Woollen Washer,' stands out with its tiered cascade flowing elegantly over a series of rock steps before plunging roughly 12 meters into a clear pool below.

Distinctive Flow and Photogenic Appeal

Unlike some of the other falls on the trail, Sgwd y Pannwr is known for its unusual long, stretched small drops at the top, culminating in a broad final drop. This tiered formation creates a mesmerizing curtain of water that is particularly photogenic, attracting photographers and nature lovers alike. The waterfall’s wide plunge pool at its base is calm and inviting, making it a favored spot for wild swimming during the warmer months, where visitors often cool off or jump from the surrounding rocks.

Immersive Natural Setting and Trail Experience

Reaching Sgwd y Pannwr requires following a muddy and sometimes steep trail that crosses the river from the nearby Sgwd Isaf Clun-Gwyn waterfall. The path demands sturdy footwear due to slippery and uneven terrain, but rewards hikers with the soothing sounds of rushing water and the sight of verdant woodland. The surrounding forest is rich with native flora, and the trail offers multiple vantage points to admire the waterfall from above and below, including a small gorge descent that provides an intimate view of the cascading waters.

Wild Swimming and Relaxation Opportunities

The large, calm pool at the base of Sgwd y Pannwr is a natural swimming hole, popular with adventurous visitors during summer. The water here is relatively still compared to the fast-flowing rivers nearby, offering a refreshing and safe environment for a dip. The rocky banks also provide ideal spots for picnics or simply resting while soaking in the tranquil atmosphere of the waterfall and woodland.

Seasonal and Safety Considerations

The Welsh weather can be unpredictable, so visitors should come prepared for varying conditions, including rain and slippery paths. Waterproof hiking boots and layered clothing are recommended. The trail can be muddy and steep in places, requiring careful footing, especially after rain. Despite these challenges, the natural beauty and peaceful ambience of Sgwd y Pannwr make the effort worthwhile.

Connection to the Brecon Beacons and Waterfall Country

Sgwd y Pannwr is part of the broader Waterfall Country within the Brecon Beacons National Park, an area renowned for its concentration of spectacular waterfalls and rich natural heritage. The Four Waterfalls Walk is one of the most popular routes here, offering visitors a chance to explore a dynamic landscape shaped by rivers, ancient woodlands, and rugged terrain. This area is celebrated for its cultural heritage linked to traditional wool washing, reflected in the waterfall’s name, and its ongoing appeal to outdoor enthusiasts and photographers.

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