The best walks and hikes around Cors Y Llyn National Nature Reserve
4.1
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507
hikers
34
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Hikes around Cors Y Llyn National Nature Reserve explore a landscape in Powys, Wales, shaped by glacial action. The area is characterized by a rare raised bog, wet woodlands, and wildflower meadows. The terrain is generally level, featuring well-maintained paths and boardwalks that cross the delicate bog ecosystem and surrounding grasslands.
Best hiking trails around Cors Y Llyn National Nature Reserve
- The most popular hiking route is Bluebell Hillside – Journey's End loop from Newbridge on Wye, a 10.7 mile (17.2 km) trail that takes about 4 hours 40 minutes to complete. This moderate route features a mix of countryside paths and quiet lanes.
- Another top favourite among local hiking enthusiasts is Builth Bull Statue – Llywelyn ap Gruffydd Mural loop from Maesmynis, an easy 3.6 mile (5.8 km) path. This route follows relatively flat terrain near the town of Builth Wells.
- Local hiking enthusiasts also love the Builth Wells Town Centre – St Mary's Church, Builth Wells loop from Builth Wells, a 6.0 mile (9.7 km) trail leading through the surrounding fields and hills, often completed in about 2 hours 45 minutes.
- Hiking around Cors Y Llyn National Nature Reserve is defined by its rare raised bogs, wet woodlands, and wildflower meadows. The network of trails offers options for different ability levels, from short, accessible walks to longer countryside hikes.
- The routes in Cors Y Llyn National Nature Reserve are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from more than 30 reviews. More than 400 hikers have used komoot to explore Cors Y Llyn National Nature Reserve's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 5, 2026
5.0
(1)
4
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
10
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(1)
12
hikers
9.12km
02:22
60m
60m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2.0
(1)
15
hikers
5.36km
01:22
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(2)
4
hikers
16.6km
04:45
370m
370m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Great little town, has a lot to offer and has some great walks along the river and the surrounding area.
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Beautiful church in the centre of Builth. Had a stroll through the grounds on my visit.
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The Old Parish Church dates back to the 13th Century. It's a beautiful building in an elevated setting with spectacular views over the Ithon Valley.
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He had come south to rally the men of the Lordship of Builth in December 1282, as part of a dispute about the ownership of the commote of Arwystli. In the centre of Builth Wells there is a 1000 feet square mural depicting the final days of Llywelyn ap Gruffydd, the last native Prince of Wales.
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This life-size statue of a Welsh Black bull stands near the town's Wye Bridge. Made from bronze, the Builth Bull weighs 1.5 tons and was created by Gavin Fifield, a local sculptor. It was unveiled on 28 November 2005 to coincide with the first day of that year's Royal Welsh Winter Fair.
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Dramatic view of the railway bridge spanning the River Wye.
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Alpine chalet style holiday cottage set in a wooded glade above the River Wye. Unusual wooden sculpture nearby.
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Pretty rapids on the River Wye. Great place to listen to the cascading water and enjoy the views.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there family-friendly walks in the reserve?
Yes, the main trail within Cors Y Llyn is a short, level 0.7-mile (1.1 km) circular path with boardwalks, making it ideal for families with young children. For a slightly longer but still easy walk, consider the Builth Bull Statue – Llywelyn ap Gruffydd Mural loop from Maesmynis, which is a relatively flat 3.6-mile (5.8 km) route.
Can I bring my dog to Cors Y Llyn National Nature Reserve?
Dogs are welcome but must be kept on a short lead at all times. This is to protect the fragile ecosystem, ground-nesting birds, and any grazing livestock that may be present in the reserve.
Is there parking available at Cors Y Llyn?
Yes, there is a small, free car park located at the entrance to the nature reserve. It can fill up, especially on sunny weekends, so arriving earlier in the day is a good idea.
What are the trail conditions like?
The main reserve trail consists of well-maintained boardwalks and mesh-covered paths. However, water can seep through, especially between autumn and spring, so wearing waterproof footwear is highly recommended. Other trails in the surrounding area are a mix of countryside paths and quiet lanes.
Are there any circular walks available?
The primary trail within the reserve itself is a short circular walk. For a more substantial circular hike, the Builth Wells Town Centre – St Mary's Church, Builth Wells loop from Builth Wells offers a 6.0-mile (9.7 km) route through nearby fields and hills.
What kind of wildlife can I see at the reserve?
Cors Y Llyn is a haven for wildlife. In summer, the wildflower meadows attract numerous butterfly species like Ringlets and Red Admirals. The ponds are home to dragonflies and damselflies, while the woodlands host birds such as pied flycatchers and redstarts. The area is particularly known for its rare raised bog habitat.
How do I get to Cors Y Llyn National Nature Reserve using public transport?
The reserve is in a rural location, making public transport challenging. The nearest towns with bus and train services are Builth Wells and Newbridge-on-Wye. From there, you would likely need to take a local taxi to reach the reserve entrance.
Are the trails accessible for wheelchair users?
The main 0.7-mile (1.1 km) circular trail within the reserve is designed to be accessible. It is mostly level and features boardwalks with passing places and seats, making it suitable for wheelchair users and those with limited mobility.
What do other hikers think of the trails around Cors Y Llyn?
The hiking routes around Cors Y Llyn are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Hikers often praise the peaceful atmosphere, the unique bog landscape, and the well-maintained boardwalks that allow for easy exploration of the delicate environment.
Are there any pubs or cafes near the reserve for after a hike?
There are no facilities directly at the reserve itself. For refreshments, the nearby town of Builth Wells offers a good selection of traditional pubs, cafes, and restaurants where you can relax after your walk.
How many hiking trails are there around Cors Y Llyn?
There are over 35 curated hiking routes to explore in and around the Cors Y Llyn National Nature Reserve. These range from very easy, short walks within the reserve to more moderate, longer hikes in the surrounding Powys countryside.
What makes the landscape of Cors Y Llyn special?
The landscape is significant due to its rare raised bog, a habitat formed over thousands of years in basins carved by glaciers. The reserve also features a unique 'stunted forest' of century-old dwarf trees and one of the finest wildflower meadows in Mid Wales, creating a diverse and ecologically important area.
Most popular routes around Cors Y Llyn National Nature Reserve
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