The 20 Most Amazing Peaks around Longtown
Mountain peaks around Longtown, Herefordshire, are situated on the eastern edge of the Black Mountains, within the Brecon Beacons National Park. This area serves as a gateway to several notable summits. The landscape features extensive upland ridges and valleys, providing access to a range of significant peaks.
Best mountain peaks around Longtown
- The most popular mountain peak is Sugar Loaf Summit, a summit that stands in isolation due to its separation from other peaks. Its unique shape provides commanding…
Last updated: June 22, 2026
Skirrid Fawr summit
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Hay Bluff
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Pen Cerrig-calch summit
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Pen y Gadair Fawr Summit Cairn
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Sugar Loaf Summit
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Tips from the Community
Pen y Gadair Fawr stood at an impressive height of 800 metres, and is an subsidiary summit of the highest peak within the Black Mountains … and that is the summit that is of Waun Fach-(811m). Pen y Gadair Fawr is the second highest peak that’s located in the Black Mountains in south-eastern Wales. Marked by a medium-sized cairn, it is a much more distinguished top than its parent 1.5 km to the northwest. Its 658 metres high top Pen Twyn Mawr is about 2 km to the southeast.
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Nice path to summit with some large stepping stones depending on which way you go.
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Easy accent if climbing from the side of the national trust carpark. For a more challenging climb, accend from the opposite side.
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Brilliant viewpoint and lots of route choices that run you south through the Black Mountains
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In terms of height, Pen y Gadair Fawr plays second fiddle only to Waun Fach as the Black Mountains' second highest summit. However, where Waun Fach's top is broad and relatively uninspiring, Pen y Gadair Fawr's is a little more like a peak in character. The summit is at a junction of paths: head east for Chwarel y Fan and the Mynydd Du Forest, venture south to Pen Twyn Mawr, or stride northeast to Waun Fach.
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Great walk that's pretty accessible for most people to achieve, challenging but doable! The route I took incorporated Lord Hereford's Knob. I published it on Komoot here: https://www.komoot.com/tour/1576268965 And on my blog here (with extra commentary for my own entertainment!): https://weekendwalk.co.uk/route/hay-bluff-walk/
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Formally known as the Sugar Loaf Mountain and is one of the highest peaks in the heart of the Black Mountains. It stands at 1,955 feet high (596 metres). An iconic peak Its conical shape is reminiscent of a volcano, but the mountain is made of the same old red sandstone as the rest of the Black Mountains.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the most popular mountain peaks to visit around Longtown?
The area around Longtown offers several notable peaks. Sugar Loaf Summit is highly popular for its distinct conical shape and commanding views. Another favorite is Skirrid Fawr summit, known for its challenging climb and rewarding vistas. Hay Bluff is also a prominent viewpoint at the northern tip of the Black Mountains.
Are there any remote mountain peaks near Longtown for those seeking solitude?
Yes, Pen Cerrig-calch summit is ideal for explorers looking to escape crowds. This remote peak stands at 2,300 feet (701 meters) and offers spectacular views over the River Usk valley and Crickhowell.
What kind of views can I expect from the mountain peaks around Longtown?
The peaks offer a variety of stunning views. From Sugar Loaf Summit, you can see the rolling landscape of Monmouthshire. Pen Cerrig-calch provides wide-ranging views extending to the Brecon Beacons. Hay Bluff overlooks the middle Wye Valley and the town of Hay-on-Wye.
Are there family-friendly mountain walks in the Longtown area?
Yes, the area around Hay Bluff is popular for family picnics and walks. There's ample parking, and visitors recommend using the path that traverses the slope rather than going straight up for an easier experience with children. For more options, check out the Easy hikes around Longtown guide.
What historical or cultural sites can be found on or near these mountain peaks?
On Skirrid Fawr summit, you can find the ruins of an Iron Age hill fort and a medieval chapel dedicated to St. Michael. The mountain is also locally known as the Holy Mountain or Sacred Hill due to its historical significance.
Where can I find parking when visiting the mountain peaks near Longtown?
Car parks are generally available at the base of the mountains, primarily used by walkers accessing the hills. For example, near Hay Bluff, there is a main car park below the bluff, and ample parking off the road in dry weather.
What are some challenging hiking trails near Longtown's mountain peaks?
For more advanced hikers, the area offers several challenging routes. Consider the "Twmpa & Hay Bluff loop from Llanthony Priory" or the "Bâl Bach & Hatterrall Hill loop from Llanthony Priory." You can find more challenging options in the Hiking around Longtown guide.
Are there any mountain biking trails in the vicinity of Longtown's peaks?
Yes, there are mountain biking opportunities. For example, the "Blaen Grwyne Fawr – Grwyne Fawr Bothy loop from Blaen y Cwm" is a difficult MTB trail. You can explore more options in the MTB Trails around Longtown guide.
What is unique about Pen y Gadair Fawr compared to other Black Mountains summits?
Pen y Gadair Fawr Summit Cairn is the Black Mountains' second-highest summit. While Waun Fach's top is broad, Pen y Gadair Fawr's summit is more peak-like in character, offering a distinctive experience and serving as a junction for various paths within the Black Mountains.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the mountain peaks around Longtown?
Visitors frequently praise the spectacular and rewarding views from the summits, the sense of open space, and the physical challenge of the climbs. The isolation of peaks like Sugar Loaf Summit and the varied terrain for exploration are also highly appreciated.
Are there any pubs or cafes near the mountain trails around Longtown?
Yes, the region research mentions The Skirrid Mountain Inn, located just north of Skirrid Fawr in Llanvihangel Crucorney. It claims to be one of the oldest pubs in Wales and could be a good stop after a hike.
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