Hafod: a Paradise for walkers

Hafod is known mainly for its association with an inspired individual, Thomas Johnes, who owned the estate from 1780 – 1816. At this period, a tour of the wild upland scenery and antiquities of Wales was fashionable among the leisured classes, and Johnes made Hafod an essential destination for these early tourists. He shaped the already spectacular landscape in the “Picturesque” style, laid out walks to make it accessible, constructed bridges, gardens, cottages and a model farm, erected a new house of romantic appearance, and, to accommodate visitors, built the Hafod Arms at nearby Devil’s Bridge (then part of the Hafod estate).

Although Johnes’s house has gone, the natural elements of the landscape – river scenery, woodland, waterfalls, rocky crags – remain, and most of the historic walks and other features have been restored by the Hafod Trust in partnership with the former Forestry Commission, now Natural Resources Wales.

Hafod is always open to the public, free of charge, although forestry or restoration works may sometimes restrict access. For up-to-date access information go to: Visiting the Hafod Estate│Wales | National Trust

Walking routes begin at the car park near the church (on the B 4574), where guide maps are available.

Accommodation on Hafod

Hawthorn Cottage, a historic gardener’s cottage is available for booking.  Contact us to book https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/get-in-touch/contact-us

Waymarked trails at Hafod

The Hafod Project has restored five historical walks through the breath-taking scenery of this old estate. Waterfalls, wildlife, and wonderful old trees abound.

The five waymarked routes currently available:

Bedford Monument Walk: 1.6 km, easy but with one short steep section. Stays above the valley, with good views over the estate.

Gentleman’s Walk: 3.2 km (plus 2.5 km to & from the car park), difficult. A newly restored route starting at the Alpine Bridge and visiting waterfalls, the Nant Gau ravine, groves of old beeches, a rustic bridge, and riverside fields. Excellent for bluebells in spring.

Ystwth Gorge Walk: 1.5 km loop, moderate.  Connecting with Lady’s and Gentleman’s Walks. A spectacular route with views of the Ystwyth in its rocky gorge. The river is crossed by means of the Chain Bridge – a narrow suspension bridge restored on its historical site. Gradients are relatively gentle, but it is not a route suitable for those who dislike steep drops beside the path.

Coed Hafod Walk: 1.2 km one way. 4km circular distance from car park using other estate paths or drives for the return route, moderate
This walk through different woodland types with varied wildlife is particularly colourful in spring. It affords fine views over the parkland and to distant hills.

Lady’s walk: 3.6 km, moderate.

One of two classic circular routes created by Thomas Johnes in his first years at Hafod and described by many early visitors. It takes in scenery that varies widely in character, contrasting the relatively gentle landscape of open parkland, with narrow wooded valleys and rushing streams.

Please note that uneven or slippery ground and unguarded drops may be found on all routes, and strong footwear is advised.