4.5
(618)
9,825
hikers
125
hikes
Hiking around St. Nicholas And Bonvilston offers access to an undulating countryside with views towards the Severn Estuary. The region features a mix of open fields, low hedges, and occasional woodlands, providing varied terrain for walkers. Historical elements such as ancient burial chambers are integrated into many routes, adding a cultural dimension to outdoor exploration. The area's network of public footpaths makes it suitable for exploring on foot.
Last updated: July 4, 2026
4.8
(9)
51
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
hikers
6.62km
01:47
90m
80m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
hikers
8.21km
02:14
120m
120m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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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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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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Lovely level gravel/singletrack section through the forest although there is a short 100m field crossing which had to be walked. Sign on gate says beware of bull and field known to contain cows. Leads out to fantastic views over Cardiff.
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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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St Lythans Burial Chamber is a Neolithic tomb located in a field on the outskirts of Cardiff. It was originally covered by an earthen mound some 90 feet (27 m) in length. These days, only traces of this exterior remain, leaving its huge internal stones exposed. The chamber has never been excavated, so its contents remain a mystery.
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There are over 125 hiking routes in the St. Nicholas And Bonvilston area that are accessible by bus. These trails cater to various fitness levels, with a significant number being easy or moderate.
The region offers a diverse landscape, from undulating countryside with views towards the Severn Estuary to charming woodlands like Brook Wood and Coed Siôn Hywel. Many routes also pass through open fields and along low hedges, providing a classic Vale of Glamorgan experience.
Yes, a large portion of the trails are rated as easy, making them ideal for beginners. An example is the St Lythans Burial Chamber loop from Wenvoe Transmitting Station, which is just over 6 km long with gentle elevation changes, offering a pleasant introduction to hiking in the area.
Many of the trails in the area are designed as circular routes, allowing you to start and finish at the same point, often conveniently located near bus stops. This makes planning your bus journey straightforward. For instance, the Tinkinswood Burial Chamber – St Lythans Burial Chamber loop from Wenvoe Transmitting Station is a moderate circular hike that takes you past significant historical sites.
The trails are rich in history. You can explore Neolithic burial chambers like Tinkinswood Burial Chamber and St Lythans Burial Chamber. Some routes also pass by the impressive Dyffryn Gardens, known for their Edwardian design, and the charming 14th-century church in St. Nicholas. The region also has Roman heritage, with the A48 following an old Roman road.
Absolutely. With a good number of easy and moderate trails, many are well-suited for families. The varied landscapes, including woodlands and open fields, provide engaging environments for children. Consider routes that incorporate attractions like Dyffryn Gardens for an added point of interest.
Yes, many public footpaths in the Vale of Glamorgan are dog-friendly. However, it's essential to keep dogs on a lead, especially when passing through fields with livestock, and to adhere to the Countryside Code. Always check specific trail guidelines for any restrictions.
Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, with wildflowers in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn. Summer is also popular, but trails can be busier. Winter walks are possible, but be prepared for potentially muddy conditions and shorter daylight hours.
The villages of St. Nicholas and Bonvilston, as well as nearby areas, offer local pubs and cafes where you can refresh before or after your hike. It's advisable to check opening times in advance, especially in smaller villages.
The majority of the bus-accessible trails are rated as easy (86 routes) or moderate (38 routes), making them accessible to a wide range of hikers. There is also one difficult route for those seeking a greater challenge. You can find detailed difficulty information for each specific route on komoot.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the peaceful countryside, the historical points of interest, and the well-maintained public footpaths that make exploring the region enjoyable.
Yes, there are routes that take you through the local woodlands. For example, the Gravel Track in Hensol Forest loop from Bonvilston offers a moderate hike through forested areas, providing a different natural experience compared to the open fields.


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