Clydach Gorge is a true hidden gem in the north-west of Monmouthshire, between Abergavenny and Brynmawr. It is a spectacular wooded gorge, formed by the River Clydach as it heads towards the River Usk, and during the industrial revolution this fast moving river helped to power the ironworks and blast furnaces, quarries and mines dotted across the landscape.
Nowadays nature has taken back this valley, with waterfalls, ponds, woodland and wildlife throughout the area. Part of the gorge is a National Nature Reserve, important for its ancient beech woods, birds, bats, mosses and lichens.
There are numerous walks and ways to get around the gorge, including the scenic National Cycling Route 46. Free parking can be found at the Clydach Ironworks site.
Clydach Gorge Walks
There are three walks that explore Clydach Gorge, which can all be started at the Clydach Ironworks site:
Pucks Valley Treasure Trail
Corridor to the Past Treasure Trail
The Crawshay Bailey Trail
Must See
Clydach Ironworks - The remains of an 18th century ironworks which once had over 1300 people working on the site day and night. A great base to explore the gorge.
Devil's Bridge - This grade II listed single arch bridge bridge is a prominent reminder of the industrial heritage of the valley (and a favourite for photographers). It was originally a pack-horse bridge built around 1700, built to ferry minerals to Llanelly Furnace. Not to be confused with the more famous Devil's Bridge in Ceredigion.
Cwm Clydach National Nature Reserve - A 61 acre site protected for its semi-ancient beech woods. Legend has it that William Shakespeare was inspired to write A Midsummer Night's Dream after walking in these woods.
The Lonely Shepherd (near to Clydach Gorge on the north side) - Rock formation with great views looking down over the Usk Valley.
How to get to Clydach Gorge
Bus Travel - Clydach Gorge is served by the A3 and the #78 bus routes between Abergavenny and Brynmawr. The bus stop at Clydach Bridge is the closest to the Ironworks.
Train Travel - Abergavenny Train Station is a ten minute walk from Abergavenny Bus Station.
Bike - National Cycle Route 46 takes you from Llanfoist Crossing Car Park through Clydach Gorge to Brynmawr. Click here for more on that route.
Car - Follow the A465 Heads of the Valleys road between Abergavenny & Brynmawr. Leave the A465 at Clydach. Follow the brown signs to reach the car park and picnic area on your right. (SO 230 134). Park up and carefully follow the road away from the A465. Turn right at the sharp bend in the road and follow the lane to reach the entrance to the ironworks on your left.
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