Ysgyryd Fawr (The Skirrid) near Abergavenny
The Skirrid (Ysgyryd Fawr) is a solitary hill rising from the countryside to the east of Abergavenny. This walk takes the most direct route to the summit and includes a steep ascent. The return route takes through pleasat woodland on the western flank of the hill.
Description
(S/E) The start is a small car park on the B4521 at grid ref. SO328163. After parking take the Beacons Way footpath signed to Ysgyryd Fawr. The path immediately starts climbing through Caer Wood. Exiting the wood you reach a path junction. Continue ahead staying on the Beacons Way. The path then ascends the south ridge of the hill to reach the summit on a clear wide path.
(1) You could return the way you came but a more enjoyable descent is to continue north from the summit heading just west of north. The path drops quite steeply. At the bottom of the hill take the path on your left. This leads across the western flank of the hill through woodland. You will return to the point where you left Caer Wood on the outward leg of the route. Turn right here and descend through wood and back to the start(S/E).
Waypoints
- S/E : km 0 - alt. 192 m
- 1 : km 2.01 - alt. 452 m - Head west of north
- S/E : km 4.52 - alt. 193 m
Useful Information
The Skirrid (Ysgyryd Fawr) lies a mile or so to the east of Abergavenny. This solitary hill rises steeply from the surrounding countryside and offers some outstanding views over the Brecon Beacons National Park. Approaching the hill it looks far bigger than its height, just under 1600 feet above sea level, would suggest. The route obviously includes a steady ascent and a rather steeper descent after you have crossed the summit.
Always stay careful and alert while following a route. Visorando and the author of this walk cannot be held responsible in the event of an accident during this route.
