A relatively easy walk around the picturesque Lower Lliw Reservoir, taking in some lovely countryside views of the Lliw Valley
Walking in the Lliw Valley
Walk grade
Easy
Route type
Circular
Suitable for
All - but children should be supervised at all times.
Terrain
The walk involves uneven ground: hard, firm and smooth surfaces. Also a narrow footpath with a steep drop.
Start
Car park at Lower Lliw Reservoir, which is accessed from the road between Felindre and Rhyd-y-Pandy, three miles north from M4 Junction 46.
Finish
Car park at Lower Lliw Reservoir, which is accessed from the road between Felindre and Rhyd y Pandy, three miles north from M4 Junction 46.
Distance covered
2 miles
Average time
1-2 hours
Useful information
Public Transport: Yes, see our Exploring by bus page
Car parking available at Lliw Reservoir car park.
Refreshments and public toilets available at start of walk.
Be prepared: Wear suitable footwear.
Safety Information: Watch out for the flight of steps.
Walk details
- Start at the reservoir car park. Follow the road alongside the reservoir and pass through the gate. Just after the gate there is a path down to a viewing point at the waterside from which you can see most of the reservoir. Continue on the road alongside the reservoir passing the old colliery until you reach Pont Gerdded.
- Here you have the option of continuing your walk along the opposite bank of the reservoir or turning back along the road. The route on the opposite bank is a narrow footpath with a steep drop to the water on one side and has a rough surface in some sections where tree roots and uneven ground must be negotiated. There are a number of benches where you may stop for a rest.
- If you are walking the opposite bank, turn left through a kissing gate and down some stone steps to a picnic area then cross the footbridge over the Afon Lliw. Follow the path until you reach the dam then across the dam back to the car park.
Highlights
- The dam holding the Lower Lliw reservoir was completed in 1867. However it was never completely watertight, a situation that was corrected in 1979 when it was rebuilt – 112 years after first being constructed. The reservoir originally supplied water to Swansea, but these days after being treated at the nearby Felindre Water Works, water is pumped all over South Wales.
- Coal mining was once active in the area and the walk passes one of the buildings of the Felindre Colliery, disused for over a hundred years.
The above information is an extract from: Walking for Health, produced by the City & County of Swansea
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Lower Lliw Reservoir 