You’ve finally arrived at Henstent Park, surrounded by the tranquillity of the Welsh countryside. You might be wondering, what’s there to do nearby? While the village pubs offer some delicious food and the perfect spot for a quiet afternoon drink, there’s so much more to explore just a short distance away.
Pistyll Rhaeadr: One of Wales’ Seven Wonders
One of the highlights near Henstent Park is Pistyll Rhaeadr, one of the Seven Wonders of Wales and one of Britain’s tallest single-drop waterfalls. This spectacular waterfall offers instant peace and a refreshing break from the busyness of everyday life. It’s a favourite among our visitors, and we highly recommend you take the time to visit this stunning natural wonder during your stay, whether you’re a holiday home owner or camping on site.
How to Get to the Waterfall
Getting to the waterfall is straightforward, though the road leading to it is long and winding. If you’re driving, be aware there is a £5 charge for parking at the falls car park during the week and a charge of £10 during the weekends. The convenience of parking so close means you won’t need to walk far to reach the waterfall. However, if you prefer to stretch your legs and don’t mind a bit of a challenge, you can walk from Henstent Park to the waterfall. The walk takes around three hours and offers beautiful scenery along the way. Just remember to bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are limited shops en route.
Food and Drink at Pistyll Rhaeadr
When you arrive at Pistyll Rhaeadr, you’ll find a small café that serves a variety of cakes, hot drinks, ice cream, and even Sunday lunches. There’s outdoor seating available, allowing you to enjoy your refreshments with a breath-taking view of the falls. Since the area is quite remote and mobile signal is limited, it’s wise to bring cash, as the card machines may not always be reliable.
Exploring the Waterfall and Surrounding Trails
To experience the waterfall up close, enter the gate on your right. You can take one of two walking paths that vary in difficulty and lead out over the falls. It’s important not to cross the river to access the opposite side, as there is no safe route back to the car park or café from there. If you’re up for a longer walk, you can follow the ridge above the cliffs and quarries, making a scenic but longer circuit of about three miles.
Reaching the Top of the Waterfall
For those who want to reach the top of the waterfall, the easier route takes you along a track up the falls, past a walled woodland, and eventually to a swing gate. From here, you’ll descend between the trees to a vantage point overlooking the valley and the river tumbling into the pool below. There’s a natural group of rocks here that offers a sheltered seating area, perfect for pausing and soaking in the view.
Discovering the Upper Valley Waterfalls
If you continue further up the valley, you’ll discover a series of smaller waterfalls. On a warm summer’s day, these are ideal spots to cool off with a refreshing dip. This is just one of the best beauty spots of North Wales.
So, next time you’re staying with us at Henstent Park, make sure you carve out time for a visit to Pistyll Rhaeadr. It’s a day out you won’t regret, and one filled with natural beauty, peaceful walks, and unforgettable views.