Pistyll Rhaeadr Waterfall Walk

Pistyll Rhaeadr is an ancient valley likely shaped by the glaciers of the last ice age ten to twelve thousand years ago. Today, we’re gifted with a serene view of the gently sloping valley with grey jutting cliffs surrounded by lush trees and ferns and topped with green plateaus. Pistyll Rhaeadr is hidden amongst the trees in summer and cuts through the centre of Tanat Valley.

The Pistyll Rhaeadr Waterfall walk is a short but rewarding venture into nature. If you’re only looking to see the waterfall then you can expect the walk to take approximately 30 minutes to view it from the bottom and top. Though relatively short, the walk to the top has a steep incline and an uneven, rocky pathway, so expect to be a little exerted once you reach the top of the falls. You may be in awe of the view once you find the top of the falls. You’ll have a top-down view of one of Wales's tallest waterfalls; Pistyll Rhaeader waterfall as well as the beautiful green Tanat Valley, falling 80 meters below.

Explore the natural wonder of Pistyll Rhaeadr, arguably one of Wales's most breath taking waterfalls. For details, follow our guide below.

Starting Point: Local car park near the waterfall.

Length of the Walk: 20-30 minutes.

Trail Type: Varied terrain, including woodland paths and rocky inclines.

Route: On this particular walk, you’ve no option other than starting at the car park. You do have a choice from here though. Upon exiting the car park and walking up a short footpath you’ll come across two gates. The left gate goes immediately to the bottom of the waterfall. This is a fantastic view. Remember, this is the highest single-drop waterfall in the UK. And you’ll feel motivated for the uphill hike. You can skip this step, though not recommended, and choose the gate to the right, which is the start of the walk to the top of the waterfall.

After going through the gate to the right, if you follow you’re nose you will eventually find yourself at the top of the falls. Just remember that the path will gradually curve to the left. At the midway point of the walk, you’ll arrive at a meandering incline. Once you reach the top of this ascent, the pathway leads directly to the top of the waterfall which is now downhill. You can now enjoy the beautiful views of Tanat Valley.

The return trip is much the same in reverse. If you didn’t go to the bottom of the waterfall earlier, then definitely go before you head for some lunch at the café.

You will find a restroom and somewhere to eat at the Pistyll Rhaeadr Café.

Pistyll Rhaeadr is located in Wales, more specifically near the northernmost point of the county of Powys. It’s nestled just a few kilometres south of Cadair Berwyn North Top. Oswestry is the nearest town, approximately 9 miles east. The closest villages are Llanrhaeadr-ym-Mochnant and Pen-y-Bont-Fawr. Pistyll Rhaeadr is within the Llanrhaeadr-ym-Mochnant area.

Pistyll Rhaeadr waterfall is relatively easy to get to. The B4396 road takes you right to the foot of the falls and the car park. There’s one car park available, which is pay-and-display and is essentially directly beneath the waterfall after a couple of minutes' walk. Beware, before you arrive at the Pistyll Rhaeadr car park, there is a layover to the left on the B4396 road, right before you get to the paid car park, which is a clearway so avoid parking there unless you want to risk a fine.

Here's Pistyll Rhaeadr on the map.

Exploring Pistyll Rhaeadr is more focused on the scenery and views and is not a long hike. In summer you would be quite comfortable in shorts and a pack-away windbreaker. For winter we’d recommend having insulated and windproof clothing.