Footbridge and stone path climbing from Storey Arms toward Corn Du and Pen y Fan
Central Beacons

Storey Arms to Pen y Fan Walk

A short but iconic climb to the highest peak in South Wales. This is the most popular and accessible route to Pen y Fan, offering huge views and a classic Brecon Beacons experience.

Overview

The classic route to the summit

Starting from the well-known Storey Arms, this route follows a clear, well-maintained mountain path all the way to the summit of Pen y Fan. It's ideal for first-time visitors, families, and anyone wanting a rewarding mountain walk without complex navigation.

Pen y Fan seen as a distant silhouette from near Brecon
Key facts

Plan your visit

Distance
4 miles / 6.4 km
Time
2–3 hours
Difficulty
Moderate (short but steep)
Terrain
Stone paths, pitched steps, exposed ridge
Start / Finish
Storey Arms Outdoor Centre (LD3 8NL)
Parking
Lay-bys and car parks along the A470
OS Map
OL12 – Brecon Beacons (Central)
Suitable for
Families, first-timers, sunrise/sunset walks
Route description

Step by step

  1. 1

    Storey Arms

    Begin opposite the Storey Arms Outdoor Centre. A clear stone path climbs steadily through open moorland.

  2. 2

    The Steady Climb

    The path becomes steeper as you gain height. Views open behind you across the Central Beacons.

  3. 3

    Saddle Below Corn Du

    Reach the col between Corn Du and Y Gyrn. Turn left to climb the final pitched path to Corn Du.

  4. 4

    Corn Du Summit

    A wide, flat summit plateau with dramatic views. Continue along the ridge toward Pen y Fan.

  5. 5

    Pen y Fan Summit (886m)

    The highest point in South Wales, marked by a National Trust summit stone.

  6. 6

    Return

    Retrace your steps back to Storey Arms.

Stone summit path crossing the open plateau of the Brecon Beacons

Highlights

  • Pen y Fan summit – iconic flat-topped peak
  • Corn Du ridge – dramatic approach with panoramic views
  • Accessible mountain experience – well-maintained paths
  • Perfect for sunrise – one of the best in Wales

Safety notes

  • Weather changes quickly – bring warm layers
  • Summit ridge is exposed in strong winds
  • Paths can be icy in winter
  • Stay on the pitched path to avoid erosion

Facilities

  • Parking at Storey Arms and Pont ar Daf
  • Seasonal food vans at Pont ar Daf
  • Nearest toilets: National Trust car park (Pont ar Daf)
  • Brecon town (15 minutes away) for cafés and shops
Take it with you

Download the route

Get the GPX track for the Storey Arms to Pen y Fan Walk to load into your GPS device or hiking app.

Download GPX

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