Devil's Bridge Waterfalls: A Majestic Welsh Gorge with Historic Bridges
Experience the awe-inspiring triple bridges and cascading 300-foot waterfalls deep in Wales’ enchanting Cambrian Mountains.
Nestled in the Cambrian Mountains near Aberystwyth, Devil's Bridge Waterfalls is a breathtaking natural attraction featuring a dramatic 300-foot cascade plunging into a wooded gorge. The site is famed for its unique trio of stacked bridges spanning the Mynach River, an extraordinary architectural marvel surrounded by ancient oak woodland. Visitors can explore two main walking trails—one challenging circular route with steep slate steps and spectacular views, and a shorter, easier path to the iconic bridges and Punch Bowl viewpoint.
A brief summary to Devil's Bridge Waterfalls
- Woodlands, Aberystwyth, Pontarfynach, SY23 3JW, GB
- +441970890233
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 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, non-slip footwear to safely navigate the steep, slate steps, especially in wet conditions.
- Choose the shorter Punch Bowl walk if you prefer a less strenuous route with iconic views of the three bridges.
- Visit later in the day for a quieter experience, as the paths can be narrow and busy during peak hours.
- Check the official website or contact staff for wheelchair access arrangements and seasonal opening hours.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Train and Walk
Take the Vale of Rheidol steam railway from Aberystwyth to Devil's Bridge station, a scenic 40-minute journey. From the station, it is a 1.5 km walk along marked paths to the waterfalls entrance. The train runs seasonally with tickets costing around £15-£20.
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Car
Drive from Aberystwyth via the A4120, approximately 20 minutes over 12 miles. Free parking is available near the site, but expect narrow roads and limited spaces during peak times.
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Bus
Local bus services connect Aberystwyth to Pontarfynach village near Devil's Bridge. The bus ride takes about 30-40 minutes. From the village, a 2 km walk on rural roads leads to the waterfalls. Check schedules as service frequency is limited.
Devil's Bridge Waterfalls location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Devil's Bridge Waterfalls
The Enchanting Natural Setting of Devil's Bridge
Devil's Bridge Waterfalls is located deep within a lush, ancient woodland in the heart of the Cambrian Mountains, about 12 miles inland from Aberystwyth. The waterfalls cascade a total of 300 feet (91 meters) down the steep-sided Rheidol Gorge, creating a segmented, tiered fall with five major drops and numerous intervening cascades. This dramatic landscape is part of a Site of Special Scientific Interest, home to rare mosses, lichens, and sessile oak trees, offering a rich habitat for wildlife and a tranquil atmosphere for visitors.The Unique Three Bridges: An Architectural Wonder
The site’s most famous feature is the remarkable trio of bridges stacked one above the other, spanning the Mynach River. The oldest, lowest bridge dates back to the 11th century and is steeped in local legend, including tales that the Devil himself built it to help an old woman rescue her cow. This rare engineering feat has no parallel in the world and provides a captivating perspective on the surrounding gorge and waterfalls. The bridges are accessible via well-maintained viewpoints, including a level tarmac path suitable for wheelchairs during staffed hours.Walking Trails and Visitor Experience
Visitors can choose between two main circular walks. The longer Waterfalls Nature Trail takes about 45 minutes to an hour and involves descending and ascending approximately 675 steep, uneven slate steps, including the famous Jacobs Ladder with 100 continuous steps. This trail leads deep into the gorge, crossing the iron-humped bridge at the waterfall base, passing Robbers’ Cave, and offering panoramic views of the Cambrian Mountains. The shorter Punch Bowl Walk, lasting 10 to 20 minutes, provides easier access to the three bridges and the unique rock formations where the river has carved a ‘punchbowl’ pool.Practical Information and Accessibility
An entrance fee applies to access the waterfalls and gorge, with an additional charge for the Punch Bowl viewpoint. The site is open year-round, with attendants present seasonally to assist visitors and manage access. While the main trails are physically demanding and not recommended for those with mobility issues, vertigo, or heart conditions, the new viewpoint area offers wheelchair access during school holidays or by prior arrangement. Sensible footwear is essential due to slippery slate steps, especially in wet weather.Historical and Cultural Significance
Devil's Bridge has attracted visitors since at least the 18th century, inspiring poets like William Wordsworth who wrote about the torrent beneath the bridges. The area’s rich mining heritage and folklore add layers of cultural interest to the natural beauty. The surrounding landscape, including the nearby Hafod Estate, offers further opportunities for hiking and exploring Welsh countryside traditions.Captivating Views and Wildlife Encounters
Throughout the walk, visitors encounter benches and resting points to absorb the stunning vistas of cascading waterfalls, dense woodland, and distant mountain ranges. Birdlife flutters among the trees, and the sound of rushing water fills the air, creating an immersive sensory experience. The interplay of ancient stone, flowing water, and verdant forest makes Devil's Bridge Waterfalls a truly magical destination for nature lovers and photographers alike.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Castle Hotel
16.6 km
Historic charm and cozy comfort converge at Aberystwyth’s Castle Hotel, a welcoming coastal retreat with unique drinks and friendly hospitality.
Nwy Prydain Beacon
16.7 km
Historic beacon atop Constitution Hill offering panoramic coastal views and a glimpse into Aberystwyth’s industrial heritage.
Brynellen
21.1 km
Explore Bryn Celli Ddu, a 5,000-year-old Neolithic passage tomb on Anglesey, famed for its ancient burial chamber and summer solstice alignment.
Cerig y Penrhyn
22.3 km
Explore the enchanting Cerig y Penrhyn, a historical landmark in Wales that showcases the region's rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty.
Machynlleth Town Clock
23.8 km
Historic Machynlleth Town Clock, a Victorian landmark symbolizing community pride and Welsh heritage in the heart of Penrallt Street.
Radnorshire Wildlife Trust
35.2 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Wales at Radnorshire Wildlife Trust, a paradise for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers.
Llywelyn Monument
36.4 km
A solemn granite monument at Cilmeri honors Llywelyn the Last, marking the site where Wales’ final native prince fell in battle, symbolizing a pivotal moment in Welsh history.
The Mawddach Trail
41.7 km
Explore the breathtaking Mawddach Trail, where stunning landscapes meet tranquil pathways, perfect for hikers and cyclists alike in Wales.
Cymer Abbey
42.5 km
Explore the enchanting ruins of Cymer Abbey, a historic site nestled in the heart of Snowdonia National Park, perfect for history lovers and nature enthusiasts.
Colwyn Castle
43.1 km
Discover the enchanting Colwyn Castle in Llandrindod Wells, a historical marvel set against stunning Welsh landscapes, perfect for history and nature lovers.
Precipice Walk
44.2 km
Explore the enchanting Precipice Walk in Dolgellau, a hiking paradise offering breathtaking views, rich wildlife, and a perfect escape into nature's beauty.
Castell Dolforwyn
44.7 km
Discover Castell Dolforwyn, an iconic Welsh castle offering stunning views and a rich history amidst the beauty of Montgomeryshire.
Radnorshire Fine Arts Ltd
45.5 km
Discover Radnorshire Fine Arts Ltd, an inspiring art gallery in Cregrina, showcasing local and international artworks amidst stunning Welsh scenery.
Talley Abbey
45.6 km
Wales' only Premonstratensian abbey, where medieval ambition meets lakeside serenity.
Radnor Forest
46.1 km
Experience the stunning landscapes and tranquility of Radnor Forest, a perfect destination for hiking and nature lovers in the heart of Mid-Wales.
Unmissable attractions to see
Silver Mountain Experience
4.1 km
Explore 250 years of Welsh mining history and myth in a thrilling underground adventure set in the stunning Cambrian Mountains.
Hafod Estate
4.3 km
A 200-hectare picturesque estate with hidden waterfalls, ancient woodlands, and nine miles of restored historic trails.
Bwlch Nant yr Arian Forest Visitor Centre
4.9 km
A hilltop forest retreat near Aberystwyth with stunning views, waymarked trails, and daily red kite feeding.
The Magic of Life Butterfly House
5.0 km
Walk among free-flying tropical butterflies in a lush indoor rainforest in the heart of the Rheidol Valley, where nature, education and conservation come together in a unique, dog-friendly sanctuary.
Abaty Ystrad Fflur / Strata Florida Abbey
11.3 km
Explore the evocative ruins of Strata Florida Abbey, a serene medieval Cistercian site nestled in the lush Welsh countryside, rich in history and culture.
Bwlch y Geuffordd Gardens
14.9 km
Discover a magical wildlife and water garden high above Aberystwyth, where whimsical art and family adventures await in a tranquil Welsh setting.
Parc Natur Penglais
15.8 km
A tranquil woodland reserve on Penglais Hill boasting stunning coastal views and vibrant spring bluebells near Aberystwyth.
Vale of Rheidol Railway
16.0 km
Experience a nostalgic steam train journey through Wales’ scenic Rheidol Valley, from Aberystwyth to Devil’s Bridge, steeped in heritage and natural beauty.
Pen Dinas Hill Fort
16.0 km
Explore Pen Dinas Hill Fort’s ancient ramparts and soak in sweeping views of Snowdonia, the coast, and Aberystwyth’s historic landscape.
Amgueddfa Ceredigion Museum
16.5 km
Discover Ceredigion’s rich heritage in a stunning Edwardian theatre with engaging exhibits and a traditional Welsh museum cottage.
Aberystwyth Beach
16.6 km
A scenic Welsh seaside escape with sandy shores, historic charm, and vibrant coastal life along Cardigan Bay.
Wales Coastal Path Aberystwyth
16.6 km
Explore the breathtaking Wales Coastal Path at Aberystwyth, where rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and rich history meet in a vibrant seaside town.
Aberystwyth Cliff Railway
16.7 km
Ride Britain’s longest electric funicular up Constitution Hill for breathtaking coastal views, historic charm, and family-friendly fun in Aberystwyth.
Constitution Hill
16.7 km
Historic cliff railway, panoramic coastal views, and the world’s largest Camera Obscura atop Aberystwyth’s iconic Constitution Hill.
Aberystwyth Castle
16.8 km
Experience the rich history and stunning views at Aberystwyth Castle, a key historical landmark on the Welsh coast.
Essential places to dine
Athro Lounge
16.3 km
Modern British dining with vegan and gluten-free options in a stylish, historic setting—Aberystwyth’s welcoming social lounge.
Premier Inn Aberystwyth hotel
16.5 km
Comfortable seafront hotel with modern rooms, friendly service, and great breakfast near Aberystwyth’s main attractions.
Baravin
16.5 km
Casual coastal dining with fresh seafood, craft drinks, and stunning views of Cardigan Bay in the heart of Aberystwyth.
Y Talbot Tregaron
18.4 km
Historic 17th-century inn in Tregaron offering award-winning local cuisine, cozy rooms, and a lively bar with authentic Welsh charm.
Ynyshir Restaurant and Rooms
19.7 km
Experience Wales’ premier two-Michelin-starred culinary adventure with immersive dining and luxurious rooms in a serene countryside setting.
The Barn at Pengarreg
22.3 km
Coastal dining and drinks with stunning views near Pengarreg Caravan Park in Llanrhystud, perfect for relaxed Welsh seaside hospitality.
The Trewythen
22.5 km
Elegant Georgian charm meets modern comfort and fine dining in the heart of Llanidloes, mid-Wales.
The Raj Mahal
22.5 km
Savor authentic Indian cuisine with generous portions and warm hospitality in the heart of Llanidloes.
Riverside Hotel Pennal
23.7 km
Charming riverside hotel and restaurant in Pennal offering warm Welsh hospitality, cozy rooms, and delicious local cuisine near Snowdonia National Park.
Gwen Restaurant and Wine Bar
23.8 km
An intimate 8-seat fine dining experience in Machynlleth, blending bold flavors and local ingredients with expert wine pairings.
Y Llew Coch - Mach (The Red Lion Machynlleth Town)
23.8 km
Experience Michelin-quality dining and lively music in the heart of Machynlleth’s welcoming Red Lion pub.
Mid Wales Inn & Restaurant
24.3 km
A cozy traditional inn and pub in Pant-y-dwr offering hearty food, comfortable rooms, and warm Welsh hospitality near Rhayader.
The Lost ARC
24.4 km
A warm, creative café in Rhayader’s old Drill Hall, serving excellent coffee, generous homemade food and a strong line in vegan and gluten-free treats.
Brasserie at the Elan
24.5 km
Cozy brasserie serving home-cooked, locally sourced Welsh dishes in the heart of Rhayader’s historic Elan Hotel.
The Crown Inn
24.5 km
Traditional Welsh pub and inn in Rhayader offering cozy rooms, hearty local food, and a friendly atmosphere near the scenic Elan Valley.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Charlies Stores Ltd Aberystwyth (Parc-y-Llyn)
15.2 km
Spacious and friendly, Charlies Stores Ltd at Parc-y-Llyn is Aberystwyth’s premier destination for home, garden, clothing, and seasonal shopping under one roof.
Broc-Môr
16.4 km
Discover unique Welsh gifts and local artisan treasures at Broc-Môr, Aberystwyth’s charming boutique gift shop.
Ambassadors
16.5 km
Explore Ambassadors in Aberystwyth for unique gifts and local crafts that capture the essence of this charming coastal town.
Stars
16.5 km
Discover unique gifts, handcrafted jewelry, and local charm at Stars, Aberystwyth’s beloved gift shop on Terrace Road.
Driftwood Designs
16.6 km
Welsh-designed gifts and art celebrating coastal beauty and creative storytelling from Aberystwyth.
Anrhegaron | Welsh Gifts
18.4 km
Discover authentic Welsh craftsmanship and unique gifts at Anrhegaron, a charming boutique in Tregaron’s historic market square.
White Leaf Clothing Boutique
22.4 km
Discover stylish, quality women's and men's apparel with personalized service at White Leaf Clothing Boutique in the heart of Llanidloes.
Ian Snow
23.7 km
Discover ethically sourced vintage Indian furniture and bohemian homewares in a charming family-run shop in the heart of Machynlleth.
Hill Walking Outdoor Wear Ltd
24.5 km
Expert outdoor outfitter near Elan Valley, stocking premium hiking brands with personalized Welsh weather guidance.
The Little Pink Tree
24.6 km
Discover unique treasures and handcrafted gifts at The Little Pink Tree, a charming gift shop in Rhayader, Wales.
Quillies
24.6 km
Discover authentic Welsh crafts and unique local artistry at Quillies, Rhayader’s beloved gift shop and cultural hub.
BOX OF DELIGHTS
31.6 km
Aberaeron’s cheerful lifestyle shop for coastal clothing, footwear, and gifts – a relaxed stop for seaside style and thoughtful souvenirs.
THOSE WERE THE DAYS
35.3 km
Discover timeless Victorian to 1930s antiques in a charming Llandrindod Wells shop filled with history and unique treasures.
Bargain Buys
35.3 km
Affordable homewares and pet care essentials meet unbeatable prices in the heart of Llandrindod Wells.
Candyman Antiques
35.4 km
Discover timeless antiques and trusted expertise at Candyman Antiques, Llandrindod Wells’ premier vintage jewellery and gold specialist.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Y Llew Gwyn
15.0 km
A welcoming traditional Welsh pub overlooking Talybont’s village green, famed for its cozy atmosphere, quality ales, and hearty homemade food.
Yr Hen Lew Du
16.5 km
A charming and relaxed Welsh pub in Aberystwyth, serving hearty home-cooked meals with a warm, quirky atmosphere and bilingual menus.
The Libertine
16.5 km
A captivating cocktail bar in Aberystwyth blending mystic charm with expert mixology and a relaxed, inviting atmosphere.
Cambrian Coast Bar & Grill
20.0 km
Fresh coastal flavors and warm hospitality meet at Cambrian Coast Bar & Grill, your gateway to seaside relaxation in Borth.
The Eagles Inn
24.4 km
A historic Welsh pub and inn in Rhayader offering hearty food, friendly service, and a scenic beer garden with mountain views.
The Castle
24.6 km
A friendly, historic pub in Rhayader offering hearty meals, live sports, and a pioneering vegetarian menu in a lively, welcoming setting.
Tybrith
29.3 km
A cozy, rustic pub in Carno offering authentic Welsh hospitality and local ales in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Tafarn y Vale / Vale of Aeron
30.0 km
A warm, community-owned pub in Felinfach offering hearty fare, local ales, and lively events in a welcoming Welsh countryside setting.
Prince of Wales
31.6 km
A welcoming, dog-friendly pub in Aberaeron serving classic home-cooked dishes in a cozy, friendly atmosphere with a beer garden.
Cadwgan Inn
31.6 km
Experience authentic Welsh pub culture in a cozy, old-fashioned setting with a warm fire and friendly locals in Aberaeron’s Cadwgan Inn.
Golden Lion Inn
33.0 km
A welcoming traditional pub in Newbridge on Wye serving hearty classic meals and fostering genuine village charm.
Log Cabin
35.4 km
Discover the warmth and charm of Log Cabin Pub in Llandrindod Wells, where local ales and delicious dishes create a cozy escape.
Arvon Ale House
35.6 km
Cozy micropub in Llandrindod Wells offering award-winning real ales, ciders, and a warm, intimate atmosphere for craft beer enthusiasts.
The Temple Bar Llandrindod Wells
35.6 km
A vibrant Welsh pub in Llandrindod Wells offering local ales, hearty menus, and a warm community atmosphere all week long.
The Gilfach Inn
35.8 km
A cozy Welsh village pub with local ales, hearty food, and a scenic beer garden in the peaceful village of Mydroilyn.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Adventurous
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Viewpoints
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Nature Reserve
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly