Rhymney Valley Ridgeway Walk
A 28-mile long-distance path in South Wales traveling through the picturesque and historic Rhymney Valley. Sweeping hills with magnificent views, historic castles, industrial heritage, and lovely parklands all feature along the way. With map, statistics, and GPX route file.
Statistics and Files
Grid Ref: ST 122 953
Distance: 28 miles (45 km)
Time: 10–14 hours
Duration: 1–2 days
Ordnance Survey Explorer Maps (1:25,000):
151 Cardiff and Bridgend / Caerdydd a Pen-y-bont ar Ogwr
152 Newport and Pontypool / Casnewydd a Pont-y-pšl
166 Rhondda, Merthyr Tydfil, Caerphilly and Pontypridd
Summary
The Rhymney Valley Ridgeway Walk starts at Rhymney and heads south down the Rhymney Valley, where it becomes a circular loop running around the Caerphilly basin. It links the three main upland ridges of Mynydd y Grug, Thornhill, and Eglwysilan, passing through Caerphilly, Bedwas, Hengoed, Rudry, and Machen. The highest point on the route is Mynydd Machen at 300 metres.
The landscape is full of industrial archaeology, reclaimed industrial sites, and new light industry replacing the heavy coal industry of old. The area also features historic sites such as Caerphilly Castle, Ruperra Castle, and various prehistoric and Roman-age locations. In conclusion, the Rhymney Valley Ridgeway Walk offers a mix of demanding upland walking, panoramic views, and varied sites of interest to explore.