Upper Neuadd Reservoir
A dramatic, often drained reservoir in the Brecon Beacons, offering unique photographic opportunities and a gateway to iconic hikes.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds & get parking
Upper Neuadd Reservoir
Best Time
Beat the crowds & get parking
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A dramatic, often drained reservoir in the Brecon Beacons, offering unique photographic opportunities and a gateway to iconic hikes.
"Stunning scenery all around. I parked here to do the Pen y Fan Horseshoe circuit. Arrived at about 7.30am and I was the only car."
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
The car park fills fast! Aim for before 7:30 AM to secure a spot, or you'll be parking down the road.
🥾 Sturdy Hiking Boots Essential
Trails can be muddy and slippy, especially after rain. Good grip is key for safety and enjoyment.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Upper Neuadd Reservoir Dam
The main dam structure
A striking, drained reservoir offering a unique, almost eerie beauty. Perfect for photography and exploring the 'beauty in decay'.
Pen y Fan Horseshoe Circuit
Starting from Upper Neuadd Reservoir car park
An iconic Beacons hike taking in Corn Du, Pen y Fan, and Cribyn peaks. Rewarding ascents and spectacular panoramic views.
Woodland Camp Vibes
Tucked below Pen y Fan near the reservoir
A serene, scenic spot for wild camping, offering peaceful vibes and stunning Beacons beauty. Feels like a private island retreat.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds: Early Bird Gets the View
Weather-Ready for the Beacons
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
The car park fills fast! Aim for before 7:30 AM to secure a spot, or you'll be parking down the road.
🥾 Sturdy Hiking Boots Essential
Trails can be muddy and slippy, especially after rain. Good grip is key for safety and enjoyment.
📸 Capture the Decay
The drained reservoir offers a unique, photogenic landscape. Don't miss the 'beauty in decay' shots.
🗺️ Navigate with Care
Visibility can drop suddenly. Ensure you have navigation skills or a reliable GPS device.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
The car park fills fast! Aim for before 7:30 AM to secure a spot, or you'll be parking down the road.
🥾 Sturdy Hiking Boots Essential
Trails can be muddy and slippy, especially after rain. Good grip is key for safety and enjoyment.
📸 Capture the Decay
The drained reservoir offers a unique, photogenic landscape. Don't miss the 'beauty in decay' shots.
🗺️ Navigate with Care
Visibility can drop suddenly. Ensure you have navigation skills or a reliable GPS device.
💧 Pack for All Weather
Even with a clear forecast, be prepared for rain and wind. Layers are your best friend.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning scenery and the unique, often drained landscape of Upper Neuadd Reservoir. It's a popular starting point for challenging hikes like the Pen y Fan Horseshoe, offering rewarding views. Some note the car park fills very quickly, so early arrival is key. The area is also recognized for its use in filming. [^review]
"Love it ❤️really enjoyed walk"
Maria Smolka
"Amazing place. Used for filming
Star Wars the Acolyte tv series exit side of dam was converted to brendok sith witch temple entrance."
Matthew Booker
"Stunning scenery all around. I parked here to do the Pen y Fan Horseshoe circuit. Arrived at about 7.30am and I was the only car. When I came back at 1.30, it was very busy and cars were parked all down the road. Get there early!"
Natasha Owen
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Upper Neuadd Reservoir is accessible by car, with a dedicated car park. It's located within the Brecon Beacons National Park. For navigation, use the postcode LD3 8NL or search for 'Upper Neuadd Reservoir Car Park'.
Yes, there is a car park, but it gets extremely busy. Arriving early, ideally before 7:30 AM, is highly recommended to secure a spot.
Yes, cycling is a popular activity in the Brecon Beacons, and routes can take you to Upper Neuadd Reservoir. Be prepared for varied terrain. [^review]
Upper Neuadd Reservoir is a key point on the popular Pen y Fan Horseshoe walk and is also accessible via other routes within the Brecon Beacons National Park.
The nearest significant town is Brecon, which offers amenities and is a good base for exploring the national park.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Upper Neuadd Reservoir and the surrounding national park is free. Parking may be subject to local charges or restrictions depending on the car park.
Upper Neuadd Reservoir is an outdoor natural attraction and is accessible at all times. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and enjoyment.
The Brecon Beacons National Park itself does not have an entrance fee. Access to natural sites like Upper Neuadd Reservoir is free.
Yes, you can visit Upper Neuadd Reservoir in winter, but be prepared for colder temperatures, potential snow or ice on trails, and shorter daylight hours.
Absolutely! Upper Neuadd Reservoir is a fantastic destination for a day trip, offering hiking, photography, and stunning scenery.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can hike the Pen y Fan Horseshoe, enjoy photography of the drained reservoir, go wild camping, or simply relax and take in the scenery. +1
Yes, it's a prime starting point for challenging hikes like the Pen y Fan Horseshoe, offering significant ascents and rewarding views.
Swimming is generally not recommended in reservoirs due to safety concerns and water quality. Stick to designated swimming spots if available elsewhere.
While the hiking can be challenging, families can enjoy shorter walks around the reservoir and picnic spots. The dramatic landscape is captivating for all ages.
You might spot various bird species, and if you're lucky, some of the local Welsh mountain ponies. The surrounding woodlands and hills are rich in biodiversity.
📸 📸 Photography
The drained reservoir itself, the dam structure, the surrounding peaks like Pen y Fan, and the dramatic skies offer incredible photographic potential.
Early morning light provides soft, beautiful illumination and fewer people. Golden hour in the evening can also be spectacular.
Drone usage may be restricted in national parks. Always check local regulations and guidelines before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, and a telephoto lens can capture distant peaks. A sturdy tripod is useful for low light or long exposures.
The dam itself offers a unique perspective. For wider shots, ascend slightly onto the surrounding hills for panoramic views of the reservoir and mountains.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting on a weekday morning to avoid the biggest crowds. Ensure children wear appropriate footwear as paths can be uneven. The Brecon Mountain Railway, a short drive away, offers a more relaxed scenic journey if a full hike isn't suitable. [^review]
🚶 Hikers & Adventurers
For those seeking a more solitary experience, the wild camping opportunities here are exceptional. Imagine waking up to panoramic views of the Beacons – a truly immersive adventure. Remember to always check weather conditions, carry navigation tools, and practice Leave No Trace principles.
+1📸 Photographers
The surrounding mountains, including Pen y Fan and Corn Du, provide stunning backdrops, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. Consider bringing a wide-angle lens to capture the vastness of the landscape and a telephoto lens for details of the peaks. Drones can offer unique aerial perspectives, but always check local regulations first.
+1 The changing light and weather in the Beacons can create dramatic skies, adding another layer of visual interest to your shots. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Iconic Pen y Fan Horseshoe
Be prepared for varied terrain; the paths can be muddy and slippy, especially on the descent from Cribyn. Good hiking boots are essential. The weather can change rapidly, so always check the forecast and pack accordingly. This hike is a fantastic way to experience the rugged beauty of the Beacons and test your endurance.
Many hikers start from the Upper Neuadd Reservoir car park, making it a convenient hub for this adventure. The sense of accomplishment after completing the horseshoe is immense, with stunning vistas at every turn.
Upper Neuadd Reservoir: A Landscape of Decay and Beauty
The drained reservoir also offers a different perspective for hikers. You can walk across the exposed basin and explore the dam structure up close. The presence of a few small islands of trees, once encircled by water, adds to the surreal atmosphere. It feels like stepping into a forgotten world, a testament to the passage of time and the forces of nature.
This unique characteristic makes Upper Neuadd Reservoir a must-visit for those seeking something beyond the typical scenic viewpoint. It’s a place that sparks imagination and offers a profound connection with the landscape's history and its ever-changing state.
Wild Camping at Upper Neuadd Reservoir
+1Campers often choose spots nestled in the woodlands surrounding the reservoir, offering shelter and a unique atmosphere. The feeling of waking up to the majestic Beacons landscape unfolding before you is unparalleled. It's a chance to disconnect and truly appreciate the wild beauty of Wales.
Remember to practice Leave No Trace principles when wild camping. Pack out everything you pack in, minimize your impact on the environment, and be respectful of the natural surroundings. This ensures these beautiful spots remain pristine for future visitors.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit