Explore the Radnor Valley: 10 Unmissable things to do near New Radnor

The Radnor Arms is your hub in the heart of Radnor Valley, and here's what we recommend doing on your visit.

COMMUNITY-OWNED Radnor Arms, located on Broad Street in New Radnor, reopened its doors following a successful community share offer and first stage restoration in 2024. 

Operating Friday through to Sunday, the community pub serves drinks, snacks, and a rotating selection of local ales and Welsh spirits. It’s the perfect social and logistical heart of any visit to the area.

We've curated a small list of things to do in the Radnor Valley, places in easy reach of our community pub.

Explore the Outdoors: Walking & Wildlife Trails

1. Water Break‑Its‑Neck & Warren Wood

Less than 2 miles from the pub, this waterfall trail is ideal for families. It leads through Warren Wood to the picturesque cascade known as Water‑Break‑Its‑Neck via a well‑waymarked, moderate path.

A small car park nearby and short woodland walks make this a must-see for nature and waterfall lovers.

2. Whimble & Bache Hill Circular Walk

An 8‑mile loop starting from New Radnor or The Radnor Arms, this route climbs over Whimble and Bache Hill, offering sweeping views and a mix of moorland and woodland terrain—perfect for committed walkers.

3. Rhos Fawr & Great Rhos

Ascend to Rhos Fawr, the highest summit of Radnor Forest (660 m), and nearby Great Rhos. These upland points provide panoramic vistas across the Cambrian and Black Mountains.

Black Mixen also features as a nearby high plateau with trig points and historic features.

Cycling & Mountain Biking Adventures

4. Radnor Ring Cycle Route

An arduous 84‑mile circular route through Radnorshire and the Welsh Marches, ideal for confident cyclists. It passes through quieter lanes, traffic‑free trails, and connects with the Heart of Wales railway, offering scenic variety and local pit‑stops along the way.

5. Elan Valley Trails

About 16 miles from New Radnor, the Elan Valley trail system offers routes like the 9‑mile former railway trail, a rugged Cwm Elan 17‑mile loop, and mountain‑bike trails between Nantgwyllt and Garreg Ddu reservoirs—all offering water views, forest tracks, and varying technical challenge levels.

Cultural & Historic Highlights

6. New Radnor Castle Mound & Village Stroll

Wander up to the Norman castle motte near the village centre and enjoy views across the valley. Explore the medieval grid‑town lanes, listed monument to Sir George Cornewall Lewis, local cottages, the village green and winding streets of New Radnor.

7. St Stephen’s Church, Old Radnor

Just outside the village, visit this 15th‑century Grade I listed church with its ancient font and notable historic organ case—reputedly one of the oldest in the British Isles.

8. Iron Age Burfa Hillfort & Castles

Explore prehistoric remains at Burfa Castle (Old Radnor), an Iron Age hillfort site with earthworks dating back centuries. Further Norman heritage includes several motte sites throughout the valley.

Extras & Wildlife Experiences

9. Gilfach & Marteg Valley Walks

Wildlife watchers will enjoy these easy trails—Gilfach Farm and the Marteg Valley walk—where riverbanks, woodlands, and meadows host otters, birds, and floral diversity. Fabulous for photography and peaceful exploration.

10. Stargazing at Elan Valley Dark Sky Park

Venture out after dark for starry skies and celestial viewing. Locations like Craig Goch Dam or the Visitor Centre are ideal. Autumn and winter skies are particularly clear and often feature visible planets like Jupiter and Saturn.

Plan Your Visit 🗺️

Remember to use The Radnor Arms on Broad Street, New Radnor, as your friendly starting point. The Village is also equipped with accessible community-owned and run toilets, for all public use. Open seven days per week. Fully-funded by The Radnor Arms Community Benefit Society and The New Radnor Community Council.

Pop in for a drink or snack before heading out on a walk or returning after a day around the valley. We're open Friday, Saturdays and Sundays.

Friday: 3:00PM to 11:00PM

Saturday: 3:00PM to 11:00PM

Sunday: 2:00PM to 6:00PM

Monday: Closed

Tuesday: Closed

Wednesday: Closed

Thursday: Closed

We want to see your photographes 🎥 too, tag us on Instagram under the handle @radnorarmscbs and we'll repost you!

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