Hafren Forest: A Little Slice of Calm

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We visited Hafren Forest on one of those perfect Welsh summer days, warm sun filtering through the tallest conifers, the sound of water rushing somewhere just out of sight, and that fresh pine smell that instantly makes you breathe deeper. Hafren Forest is just west of Llanidloes, tucked into the edge of the Cambrian Mountains, it’s a peaceful woodland filled with towering conifers, riverside boardwalks, and waterfalls that appear suddenly between the trees. On a bright day, the whole forest glows.

The accessible boardwalk made it such an easy walk, this allowed families to bring prams with them and not struggle and the waterfalls were absolutely worth the gentle wander. It’s one of those places that feels both wild and welcoming.

Whether you’re visiting with a pram, a wheelchair, or just fancy a gentle stroll, there are well maintained, level trails that make the forest easy for everyone to enjoy. The most popular is the Cascades Walk, a 0.6 mile accessible route designed with disability organisations, with smooth paths and a riverside boardwalk leading to a raised viewing platform over the cascades.

Waterfalls & Scenic Highlights

Hafren Forest is shaped by the Afon Hafren (River Severn), which begins just beyond the forest boundary before tumbling through the trees in a series of falls and cascades. The forest’s most famous waterfall is the brilliantly named Severn‑Break‑its‑Neck, reached via a moderate 1.4 mile trail through wildflower meadows and along the river.

Other highlights include:

  • Blaen Hafren Falls — a beautiful forest waterfall on the upper Severn, reached via a 3.75 mile moderate loop.

  • Cascades Boardwalk — fully accessible, pram friendly, and one of the prettiest spots in the forest.

  • Tall conifer stands — planted in the 1930s, now towering overhead and creating that magical 'cathedral of trees' feeling.



Trails for Every Ability

All trails start from the main car park at Rhyd‑y‑benwch, and they’re clearly marked from start to finish. Whether you want a quick half hour wander or a longer adventure, there’s something for everyone:

  • Cascades Walk — 0.6 miles, accessible, pram friendly, 30 minutes.

  • Severn‑Break‑its‑Neck Trail — 1.4 miles, moderate, 1 hour.

  • Blaen Hafren Falls Trail — 3.75 miles, moderate, 1.5 hours.

  • Source of the Severn Trail — 8 miles, strenuous, for experienced walkers.

All routes are dog friendly, and there are picnic areas, accessible toilets, baby changing facilities, and Blue Badge parking.

Need to Know

  • Postcode: SY18 6PT (Rhyd‑y‑benwch Car Park)

  • Nearest town: Llanidloes (approx 6 miles away)

  • Managed by: Natural Resources Wales

  • Parking: Free, with Blue Badge spaces available

  • Toilets: Temporary toilets available at the car park

  • Best for: Pram friendly walks, accessible boardwalks, waterfalls, wildlife spotting, peaceful forest days

  • Fun fact: The forest is named after Afon Hafren, the River Severn, in Welsh legend, Hafren (Sabrina) was a princess whose name the river carries.



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