4.6
(154)
25,693
runners
464
runs
Jogging around St. Nicholas And Bonvilston offers a diverse landscape of rolling countryside, peaceful lanes, and wooded expanses. The region features gentle hills, making it suitable for various fitness levels, and provides views across the Ely Valley. Extensive woodlands, such as Hensol Forest, offer shaded trails, while the area also includes accessible paths on mostly paved surfaces. Historical sites like Tinkinswood Burial Chamber are often integrated into running routes, adding points of interest.
Last updated: April 24, 2026
21
runners
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
14
runners
5.11km
00:32
40m
40m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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10
runners
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
9
runners
11.9km
01:16
140m
140m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
9
runners
12.3km
01:19
150m
150m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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The St Lythans burial chamber (Welsh: Siambr Gladdu Llwyneliddon) is a single stone megalithic dolmen, built around 4,000 BC as part of a chambered long barrow, during the mid Neolithic period, in what is now known as the Vale of Glamorgan. It lies about half a mile (1 km) to the west of the hamlet of St Lythans, near Dyffryn Gardens. The site is on pasture land, but pedestrian access is allowed and is free. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/St_Lythans_burial_chamber
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Ugly but kinda impressive grave - looks like concrete built... This Neolithic (New Stone Age) tomb is topped with one of largest capstones in Britain. Measuring a massive 24ft/7m by 15ft/4.5m and weighing around 40 tons (as much as an articulated lorry). Experts reckon that at least 200 individuals would have been required to hoist it into place. Excavations have uncovered the remains of over 50 people, along with broken pottery and flint tools. https://www.visitwales.com/de/attraction/historic-site/tinkinswood-burial-chamber-cadw-1843268
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Tinkers Burial Chamber, also known as Tinkers Grave, is located in the Vale of Glamorgan, Wales. It is a notable prehistoric burial site characterized by its megalithic structure. Here are some key points about this site: Key Features: Historical Context: Tinkers Burial Chamber dates back to the Neolithic period, approximately 4,000 to 5,000 years ago. It is considered a burial tomb used by ancient communities. Structure: The chamber consists of a series of large stones arranged in a particular configuration, often covered by a mound of earth. This type of burial site is referred to as a dolmen or cromlech. Folklore and Local Legends: The site is steeped in local folklore. It is often associated with stories of itinerant workers or "tinkers," who were believed to be metalworkers or travelers. The site is sometimes considered to have supernatural associations. Archaeological Importance: Tinkers Burial Chamber is significant for understanding prehistoric burial practices and the social structures of ancient communities in this region. Archaeological studies have provided insights into the rituals and beliefs of the time. Location and Accessibility: The burial chamber is located in a scenic area of the Vale of Glamorgan, which is known for its natural beauty and historical sites. It is accessible to the public, making it a popular spot for visitors interested in history and archaeology. Easy to access with laybys to park in near by and easy to access via walking paths.
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The St Lythans burial chamber (Welsh: Siambr Gladdu Llwyneliddon) is a single stone megalithic dolmen, built around 4,000 BC as part of a chambered long barrow, during the mid Neolithic period, in what is now known as the Vale of Glamorgan. It lies about half a mile (1 km) to the west of the hamlet of St Lythans, near Dyffryn Gardens. The site is on pasture land, but pedestrian access is allowed and is free. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/St_Lythans_burial_chamber
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Nestled within Hensol Forest is Pysgodlyn Mawr, a designated SSSI site and owned by the Welsh Forestry Commission. Here you'll find a beautiful serene coarse fishing lake.
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Tinkinswood Burial Chamber is a Neolithic tomb topped with one of the largest capstones in Britain. Measuring 24 feet (7 m) by 15 feet (4.5 m) and weighing as much as an articulated lorry, experts think it would have taken at least 200 people to hoist the massive stone into place.
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Ugly but kinda impressive grave - looks like concrete built... This Neolithic (New Stone Age) tomb is topped with one of largest capstones in Britain. Measuring a massive 24ft/7m by 15ft/4.5m and weighing around 40 tons (as much as an articulated lorry), how on earth did the builders get it up there? Experts reckon that at least 200 individuals would have been required to hoist it into place. Excavations have uncovered the remains of over 50 people, along with broken pottery and flint tools. https://www.visitwales.com/de/attraction/historic-site/tinkinswood-burial-chamber-cadw-1843268
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Tinkinswood Burial Chamber is a Neolithic tomb topped with one of the largest capstones in Britain. Measuring 24 feet (7 m) by 15 feet (4.5 m) and weighing as much as an articulated lorry, experts think it would have taken at least 200 people to hoist the massive stone into place. Excavations have uncovered the remains of more than 50 people, plus pottery pieces and flint tools. According to legend, anyone who spends the night here on the evenings before May Day, St John’s Day or Midwinter Day will die, go mad or become a poet.
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There are nearly 500 running routes around St. Nicholas And Bonvilston, catering to various fitness levels. This includes 64 easy routes, over 340 moderate routes, and 63 more challenging options.
Yes, St. Nicholas And Bonvilston offers 64 easy running routes, many of which feature gentle terrain and accessible paths. These are ideal for beginners or those looking for a relaxed jog through the rolling countryside and charming villages.
The terrain is quite varied, featuring a blend of rolling countryside, peaceful lanes, and extensive wooded areas like Hensol Forest. You'll find mostly gentle hills rather than challenging peaks, with many routes offering stunning views across the Ely Valley. Some paths are paved, while others are natural trails through woodlands.
Yes, many of the routes in the area are circular, allowing you to start and end in the same location. For example, the Hensol Forest – Pysgodlyn Mawr loop from Tredodridge is a moderate 5.1 km circular path that takes you through ancient woodlands and past the tranquil Pysgodlyn Mawr lake.
Many trails in the St. Nicholas And Bonvilston area are dog-friendly, especially those through woodlands and open countryside. Hensol Forest, for instance, is a popular spot for runners with dogs. Always ensure your dog is under control and check for any specific local signage regarding dog access, especially near livestock.
The area is rich in history. You can incorporate ancient sites like the Tinkinswood Burial Chamber, known for its massive capstone, into your run. Another route, the Tinkinswood Burial Chamber – St Lythans Burial Chamber loop, connects two significant Neolithic burial chambers. These offer unique points of interest during your run.
Yes, the region offers several family-friendly routes, particularly the easier ones with accessible paths or those through shaded woodlands like Hensol Forest. The gentle hills and varied scenery make it enjoyable for all ages. Look for routes that are shorter in distance and have minimal elevation gain.
The running routes in St. Nicholas And Bonvilston are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.6 stars from over 150 reviews. Runners often praise the diverse landscape, the tranquility of the woodlands, and the historical points of interest along the way. Over 26,000 runners have used komoot to explore the area.
Absolutely. Many routes provide stunning views across the Ely Valley and the surrounding rolling countryside. The View From Bus Near Roundabout loop from Wenvoe Transmitting Station is a popular choice specifically for its scenic vistas of the local area.
Parking is generally available near popular trailheads and villages like St. Nicholas and Bonvilston. For routes like the Hensol Forest – Pysgodlyn Mawr loop, you can often find parking near Tredodridge. It's advisable to check specific route details for recommended parking spots before you go.
You'll encounter a variety of natural beauty, including extensive woodlands with native trees like oak and birch, open meadows, and the modest River Waycock. Pysgodlyn Mawr Lake, a Site of Special Scientific Interest within Hensol Forest, is a beautiful and pure lake often skirted by trails, offering tranquil views and opportunities for birdwatching.
While the area is more known for its ancient burial chambers, you can find routes that pass by historical sites. For instance, the Peterston Castle loop from Peterston-super-Ely is a moderate 9.6 km run that includes views of Peterston Castle, adding a touch of medieval history to your jog.


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