Cynghordy Viaduct
This circular walk visit the impressive Cynghordy Viaduct in Carmarthenshire. The route runs for just over 2 miles with some small climbs and fine views of the surrounding hills and countryside.
The walk starts from Cynghordy railway station on the Heart of Wales Line about 46 miles north east of Swansea.
Near to the station is the grade II listed 18-arch viaduct which carries the route across the Afon Bran valley on a gentle curve. It is 102 feet (31 m) high and 850 ft (259 m) long and was built from sandstone and brick in 1868. From the station you can follow public footpaths heading north and then east to the structure. You can then pick up nice country lanes running along the Afon Bran before turning south past Cynghordy Hall. These will eventually bend round to return you to the station where the walk finishes.
To continue your walking in the area you could enjoy a climb to The Sugar Loaf. It's a popular viewpoint and picnic spot located a couple of miles north east of the viaduct.
Cynghordy Viaduct Ordnance Survey Map 
- view and print off detailed OS map
Cynghordy Viaduct Open Street Map 
- view and print off detailed map
Cynghordy Viaduct OS Map 
- Mobile GPS OS Map with Location tracking
Cynghordy Viaduct Open Street Map 
- Mobile GPS Map with Location tracking
Further Information and Other Local Ideas
If you catch the train south you can visit the nearby market town of Llandovery. There's good facilities here with several pubs and cafes. There's also the ruined 13th century castle and some nice trails along the River Towy to try.
The Heart of Wales Line Trail passes through the area. The 143 mile trail explores the Heart of Wales Railway Line, a wonderful rural railway running between Swansea and Shrewsbury. The trail visit several train stations, old railway lines and other photogenic railway viaducts. You could follow it south for a few miles to visit Llandovery. Heading north east would take you into the expansive Crychan Forest.
Cycle Routes and Walking Routes Nearby
Photos
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Arches of Cynghordy viaduct
Cynghordy station
Bridge at Cynghordy. It may not be as grand as the Cynghordy Viaduct just up the line, but this substantial construction, half-bridge, half-tunnel, was a major piece of work to carry what is now the Heart of Wales line over a small unclassified road near Cynghordy. It lies a short distance south of Cynghordy Station.
The buildings in the distance are part of Glandwr Farm.
Gwern-gwinau from the viaduct. Photo taken from moving train on the Heart of Wales line.
Bridge at Cynghordy. It may not be as grand as the Cynghordy Viaduct just up the line, but this substantial construction, half-bridge, half-tunnel, was a major piece of work to carry what is now the Heart of Wales line over a small unclassified road near Cynghordy. It lies a short distance south of Cynghordy Station.
Bethel Chapel, Cynghordy
Glan Bran Cafe and Bistro on the A483 at Cynghordy Lovely roadside cafe, with good food.