Crickhowell River Walk

3.1 miles (5 km)

A short stroll along the River Usk in the town of Crickhowell (Crug Hywel) in the Brecon Beacons.
The walk starts next to Crickhowell Castle also known as 'Alisby's Castle'. The ruined castle dates from the 12th century and is now Grade I listed. From here it is a short walk down to the river where you will pass the impressive Crickhowell bridge. The 18th-century bridge is claimed to be the longest stone bridge in Wales�at over 128 metres (420�ft).
Turn west at the bridge and you can follow a footpath along the northern side of the river for just over a mile. You have the option of continuing west to Glanusk Park where there is a nice permissive path to follow through the large estate.
The town is in a great location for exploring the Brecon Beacons and the Black Mountains. Many people climb to Table Mountain and Pen Cerrig Calch on the epic Cambrian Way from the the town. The mountain gives its name to the town as it is also known as Crug Hywel.
You can also pick up the Usk Valley Walk and the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal to the south of the town. You can follow the canal and the river west to to uk/routes/home.nsf/RoutesLinksCycle/talybont-reservoir-walking-and-cycle-route'>Talybont Reservoir,Llangynidr on the Crickhowell Canal Walk. In the neighbouring village you can see Llangynidr Locks and Llangynidr Bridge which dates from 1700. There's also the lovely Talybont Reservoir to visit beyond Llangynidr. Heading south along the canal will take you to the pretty Gilwern Wharf where there's some lovely scenery and a fine canalside pub.

Crickhowell River Walk Ordnance Survey Map - view and print off detailed OS map

Crickhowell River Walk Open Street Map - view and print off detailed map

Crickhowell River Walk OS Map - Mobile GPS OS Map with Location tracking

Crickhowell River Walk Open Street Map - Mobile GPS Map with Location tracking

Further Information and Other Local Ideas

Head south and you can enjoy a climb to the splendid Llangattock Escarpment. This elevated area includes great limestone cliffs, old quarries and wonderful views over the Usk Valley. Here you can also explore the Craig y Cilau National Nature Reserve with its interesting rare plantlife.
For more walking ideas in the area see the Brecon Beacons Walks page.