Pistyll Rhaeadr

Pistyll Rhaeadr is a waterfall near the village of Llanrhaeadr-ym-Mochnant in Powys, mid Wales, set in a valley beneath the Berwyn Mountains. At roughly 73 metres (240 ft) it is billed as the tallest single-drop fall in Wales, and it ranks among the traditional Seven Wonders of Wales. The Welsh name is literal: pistyll means a stream or spout, rhaeadr means waterfall.

Where is Pistyll Rhaeadr?

The falls lie about 4 miles from Llanrhaeadr-ym-Mochnant, close to the English border, and some 16 miles west of Oswestry. Several Welsh places share a similar name, so check the postcode or map pin: this one is in Powys, not Pembrokeshire or Gwynedd.

What will you see?

The Disgynfa stream tumbles down a rock face in several stages before joining the Afon Rhaeadr in the valley floor. The view from below is most dramatic after rain, when the flow is heavy. A footbridge crosses the river at the base, giving a close look at the falling water. Rocks around the pool can be slippery, so take care on foot.

How do you get there and where do you park?

From Llanrhaeadr-ym-Mochnant a narrow country road runs up the valley to its end. A small car park sits beside the Tan-y-Pistyll tearoom, right by the foot of the falls. Parking has been reported as paid, with rougher free spots nearby, but arrangements change, so confirm before you travel. Public transport barely reaches this valley, which makes a car the practical choice.

Which walks start here?

• Short stroll to the footbridge: a few minutes from the car park on an easy gradient, suitable for most visitors.
• Loop across the base of the falls: about 3 to 5 km depending on the route. It follows the river path, crosses at the bottom of the fall and returns along a country lane.
• Climb to the top: a steep zigzag path takes around half an hour. The top edge is unfenced and the rock is slick, so skip it in bad weather or with young children.

When should you visit?

Come after heavy rainfall or in spring for the biggest flow. A fine summer day is the most pleasant for walking, though the car park fills quickly at weekends. In winter, lanes and paths may ice over. Waterproof footwear helps, as the ground stays damp all year.

What else is nearby?

After your walk, have a drink at the tearoom or drive down to Llanrhaeadr-ym-Mochnant, a Welsh-speaking border village. The wider Berwyn range also offers long moorland routes for keen walkers.

Frequently asked questions

How tall is Pistyll Rhaeadr?

About 73 metres (240 ft), making it the tallest single-drop waterfall in Wales.

Is there an entry fee?

The path to the falls is open to all. Any charge applies to the car park by the tearoom, so check the current price before you go.

How long should I allow?

An hour covers the walk to the footbridge with photo stops. Allow 1.5 to 2 hours for the loop or the climb to the top.

Is it suitable for children?

The lower section is easy, but the upper path is steep and the edge has no fence, so keep children close there.