Marsh's Pool Loop - Quick Info

• Distance: 7.5 km

• Total ascent: 232 m

• Duration: 02:30

• Walking Grade 3

• Terrain: Lanes, Moorland paths, old ways, some steep sections

• Start/Finish: Llangurig village

• Views: Upper Wye Valley, Marsh's Pool

• Difficulty: Moderate – a mix of climbs and intricate navigation

• Highlights: Valley viewpoints, old farmsteads, historic cottage, tucked away Marsh's Pool

• Best time to visit: Spring, summer and autumn

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Parking Up

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This loop is straightforward enough for most walkers and a good way into the Upper Wye valley life and its landscape. As a rural village, parking is limited but there is one free car park, Grd Ref: SN 90866 79781 there is also a pull in (street view) beside the bridge Grid Ref: SN 90817 79639 other than these options there are the pubs (do some business if using) and some on-street parking; please park considerately. 

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Public Transport

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Transport is pretty good to Llangurig either from Rahyader, Aberystwyth or Llandeilo. For Rhayader look out for the X47, which will actually bring you in from the regional hub Llandrindod Wells. Aberystwyth to LLangurig is served by the X75 Aberystwyth to Newton. This is also comes into LLangurig from LLandeilo.

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Crossing the Road

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Crossing the road from Llangurig village center near the Post office, where you can get supplies, it's a short walk and your into back country straight off the bat. Initially walking the quiet lane through Bryn Cylla it isn't long and your up higher and onto the dirt. Look out for the views back over the Wye Valley - this is deep rural Wales and the eastern edge of the Cambrian Mountains. There also is the Wye Valley Walk. 

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Marsh's Pool​​

 

Heading east from hir-brysg 1.25 KM in we drop down into a wooded vale and on through to Marsh's Pool.  It's famous for being the home of Robbert Gibbins  when he wrote the book 'Coming Down the Wye, in 1943. Then the valley was old school - read the book, it's a great account.

 

The lake itself is man made and was created in 1852 by T. E. Marsh. After being stocked with fish, it soon gained popularity as a summer destination. The pool lies close to a mid-19th-century listed lakeside cottage and is frequently mentioned in local historical records, although it was not recorded in 1846. The area was once part of the Glynbrochan estate. Linger for a while - the spot is remote and away from any rush. 

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Back to Llangurig

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The loop back in climbs a little from the pool. More views open up as you drop down past Penllyn. The sense is your still in back country and able to let go and amble without concern as Red Kites mew above. There's no road section - it's just glorious dirt all the way back into the village. ​​

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Eat/Drink & Rooms

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If you fancy more than just the view, there are a couple of places to get something to eat or drink in Llangurig. There's the Blue Bell Inn the Black Lion is closed but here's some history. 

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For rooms see the Blue Bell Inn or any one of the places to stay around Llangurig. 

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Summary

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A varied 7.5 km loop from Llangurig that quickly leaves the village behind, climbing on quiet lanes before reaching rougher tracks and open hillside. Early views stretch back over the upper Wye, with a more tucked-away feel as the route drops into the wooded hollow around Marsh’s Pool. The setting is still and slightly remote, with some navigation needed beyond obvious paths. The return keeps things interesting with a steady climb and wide valley views before an easy descent. A solid half-day walk with a mix of terrain, a bit of history, and just enough route-finding to keep you switched on.

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Note: This particular route has not been walked in full yet. If there are any blocked paths, please let us know. Contact

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Some Quick Links

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Check out the Wye Valley Walk a 136 mile long distance path. Click. 

Best Wye Valley viewpoints. Click.