Sgwd Gwladus (Lady Falls) Brecon Beacons
A breathtaking cascade in the Brecon Beacons' Waterfall Country, offering a unique walk behind the falls and a refreshing plunge pool for wild swimmin...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Less crowded, ideal for swimming
Sgwd Gwladus (Lady Falls) Brecon Beacons
Best Time
Less crowded, ideal for swimming
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking cascade in the Brecon Beacons' Waterfall Country, offering a unique walk behind the falls and a refreshing plunge pool for wild swimming.
"Amazing natural beauty with the unique thrill of walking behind the falls!"
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Essential for the 30-50 min walk and for navigating behind the falls. :athletic_shoe:
🚗 Parking at Pontneddfechan
The main car park for the Waterfall Country trail. :car:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Sgwd Gwladys (Lady Falls)
Elidir Trail, Waterfall Country
A stunning 7-meter cascade with a plunge pool, perfect for swimming and enjoying nature's beauty.
Walking Behind the Falls
Base of Sgwd Gwladys
Experience the unique thrill of walking behind the curtain of water for a different perspective.
Wild Swimming Opportunities
Plunge pool at Sgwd Gwladys
Take a refreshing dip in the natural plunge pool, a popular activity for brave swimmers.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for the Best Experience
Navigating the Waterfall Country
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Essential for the 30-50 min walk and for navigating behind the falls. :athletic_shoe:
🚗 Parking at Pontneddfechan
The main car park for the Waterfall Country trail. :car:
🏊♀️ Brave a Wild Swim
The plunge pool is a popular spot for a refreshing dip. :cold_face:
📸 Capture the Magic
Bring your camera for stunning waterfall shots. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Essential for the 30-50 min walk and for navigating behind the falls. :athletic_shoe:
🚗 Parking at Pontneddfechan
The main car park for the Waterfall Country trail. :car:
🏊♀️ Brave a Wild Swim
The plunge pool is a popular spot for a refreshing dip. :cold_face:
📸 Capture the Magic
Bring your camera for stunning waterfall shots. :camerawithflash:
💧 Check Weather for Falls
Waterfalls are grander after rain, but summer offers swimming spots. :cloud:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Sgwd Gwladys for its stunning natural beauty and the unique experience of walking behind the waterfall. The opportunity for wild swimming in the plunge pool is a major draw, and the walk to the falls is considered enjoyable and accessible for most. While generally well-maintained, some paths could benefit from minor upkeep.
"Just amazing! A beautiful natural place. I tried to propose to my wife here 10 years ago but was too busy at the time as a hot day. But managed to do it slightly further up the river. So very happy memories. The footpaths are generally ok but could do with a little maintenance in places. There is a public toilet at the bottom of the river walk which was open. The walk to the waterfall is 35-45 minutes from the road. There didn’t seem to be any rubbish around which was nice to see. Would recommend if you have 3 hours can fully explore but can be done in 2."
Francis Bell
"Great waterfall. Small in summer/dry times and grand in wetter.
Easiest way to get there by car is parking at Pontneathvaughn road car park and then following the Waterfall country trail that starts behind the Angel Inn.
At the gate there is an information board about the area and the falls.
It's about a 40min walk to get to the falls from the information board.
On a hot July in 2025 you could walk along the trail that follows the river with no hassle at all. Multiple places along the route to go down to the river for a dip in the pools at have formed along the way up.
Mountain biking is also possible but you can't cycle over the wooden bridge that crosses the river 5 mins from the falls only to the view point straight ahead. There is a railing should you want to lock up and go for a dip and a bench to sit and watch from a distance.
The wooden bridge allows you to go on the East side of the falls and also leads to trails that go to the top allowing you to walk the flat bedrock above on the dryer times of the year.
Summer/dry months also allows a small rock beach in front of the falls so you can sunbathe and go swimming in the large pool that forms below.
The pool is deep in many places which allows jumping from above but always check before doing so as rocks and trees fall down here daily and can always change the footing of the landing.
This area can be busy on warm days but not so much that it is packed out and unenjoyable.
Many small children and elderly walking and swimming here also so it is very accessible and fun for all.
There is a walking trail (Elidir Trail) around the falls from the wooden bridge leading through the forest where more falls can be seen too on the river Neath, so many hours can be spent here enjoying the whole area."
Aaron Clarke
"Takes about 40-50 minutes to get there from the main entrance by The Angel. Lovely walk upstream with lots of stops along the way. We walked behind the waterfall, as not to difficult."
Ags Maj
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The easiest way is to park at the Pontneddfechan car park and follow the Waterfall Country trail. This walk takes about 30-50 minutes to reach the falls.
Yes, there is a public car park in Pontneddfechan, which is the starting point for the walk to Sgwd Gwladys and other waterfalls in the area.
Mountain biking is possible on some trails, but you cannot cycle over the wooden bridge near the falls. You can cycle to the viewpoint.
Follow the Elidir Trail from the Pontneddfechan car park. The path follows the river and offers beautiful scenery along the way.
Yes, there is a public toilet at the bottom of the river walk near the car park in Pontneddfechan.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Sgwd Gwladys and the surrounding Waterfall Country are natural attractions and do not require tickets for entry. Parking fees may apply at the car park.
As a natural outdoor attraction, Sgwd Gwladys is accessible at all times. However, it's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and enjoyment.
The Brecon Beacons National Park itself does not have an entrance fee. However, parking charges may apply at specific car parks, such as the one in Pontneddfechan.
Yes, Sgwd Gwladys can be visited in winter, and the falls can be particularly dramatic after rain. Be prepared for colder conditions and potentially icy paths.
While not always advertised, local tour operators may offer guided walks of the Waterfall Country. It's worth checking with local tourist information centers.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The walk from the Pontneddfechan car park to Sgwd Gwladys typically takes between 30 to 50 minutes, depending on your pace.
The walk is generally considered moderate, with some uneven terrain. It's accessible for most fitness levels, and many find it easy to walk behind the waterfall.
Yes, the plunge pool at the base of Sgwd Gwladys is a popular spot for wild swimming, especially during warmer months. +1
Sgwd Gwladys is part of the 'Waterfall Country' and is on the Elidir Trail, which leads to other beautiful falls like Sgwd Yr Eira and Sgwd Ddwli Uchaf.
Yes, many families with young children and elderly visitors enjoy the walk and the falls. The paths are generally manageable, and the area is fun for all ages.
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings or late afternoons offer softer light, ideal for capturing the waterfall's beauty. Overcast days can also provide diffused light, reducing harsh shadows.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the entire waterfall and its surroundings. A tripod can help with long exposures to create a silky water effect.
You can get great shots from the main viewing area, from behind the waterfall, and from the top of the falls if you explore the surrounding trails.
Drone usage may be restricted in national parks. Always check the latest regulations for the Brecon Beacons National Park before flying a drone.
The main cascade, the plunge pool, and the surrounding lush greenery offer numerous photo opportunities. Walking behind the falls provides a unique perspective.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Bring snacks and drinks, and be prepared for the walk. The plunge pool offers a fun spot for supervised paddling or even a quick dip on a warm day.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
Nature lovers will appreciate the lush greenery, the sound of rushing water, and the opportunity for wild swimming. The area is a haven for photographers, with numerous vantage points to capture the dramatic scenery.
+1🏊♂️ Wild Swimmers
Be aware of water temperatures, especially outside of summer, and always prioritize safety. The unique setting behind the waterfall adds an extra layer of adventure to the swimming experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Waterfall Country
Beyond Sgwd Gwladys, the Elidir Trail and adjacent paths lead to other impressive waterfalls such as Sgwd Yr Eira (where you can walk behind the water curtain) and Sgwd Ddwli Uchaf. Exploring this area can easily fill several hours, offering a diverse range of scenic beauty and photographic opportunities. Remember to wear appropriate footwear, as paths can be slippery, especially after rain.
Many visitors enjoy combining their visit to Sgwd Gwladys with a dip in the cool waters of the plunge pool. This is a fantastic way to connect with nature and cool off on a warm day. The surrounding landscape is lush and verdant, providing a serene backdrop for a memorable outdoor adventure.
The Thrill of Wild Swimming
While the water temperature can be bracing, especially outside of peak summer, the experience is often described as exhilarating. Visitors recommend checking the water depth and conditions before entering, and always swimming with caution. The surrounding rocks and the waterfall itself create a unique and memorable swimming location.
For those who enjoy cold water therapy or simply want a unique way to experience the falls, swimming at Sgwd Gwladys is a must-try. It's a chance to connect with the raw beauty of the Brecon Beacons in a truly active and engaging way.
Accessibility and Visitor Experience
While the main path is manageable, some sections can be uneven, and it's advisable to wear sturdy footwear. The opportunity to walk behind the waterfall adds an element of adventure that appeals to many.
The area is also known for being relatively clean, with visitors often noting the absence of litter. On busy days, the area can attract a good number of people, but it rarely feels overwhelmingly crowded. The presence of other visitors, including families and elderly individuals, indicates its broad appeal and general accessibility.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit