A guide to Hafren Forest

One of the main forests in Mid Wales is the beautiful Hafren Forest. Named after the Welsh name for the River Severn (Afon Hafren), the source of the river lies just beyond the forest boundary. Located on the edge of the Cambrian Mountains, 6 miles (9.65km) west of Llanidloes, it was originally planted by the Forestry Commission in the 1930s for timber production. Hafren Forest has since been transformed into a popular destination for walking and wildlife spotting, making it a fantastic destination for outdoor lovers and days out with family and friends.

Hafren Forest features a range of scenic routes, including:

• Severn-Break-its-Neck Waterfall Trail – a moderate 1½ miles/2.3 kilometres walk along a picturesque path leading to a dramatic waterfall. Allow around 1 hour.
• Blaen Hafren Falls Trail - a moderate walk of 3¾ miles/6 kilometres, taking around 1½ hours.
• Source of the Severn Trail - this strenuous 8 miles /13kilometre trail begins close to the rivers source and passes a standing stone and the remains of a mine and a farmstead along the trail.

There are information panels along the route and a pdf map of the walking trails can be found on Natural Resources Wales' website.

The 0.5 miles (0.9km) Cascades Walk is an accessible route which was designed in partnership with local disability organisations and is well-suited to wheelchairs and buggies. This circular walk takes around 30 minutes to an hour to complete, on level paths along the river and on the Hafren Forest boardwalk through the meadow. The route starts and ends close to the car park, which has Blue Badge parking and accessible toilets and baby changing facilities. Along the route there's also an accessible picnic bench with views of the cascades.

Hafren Forest is the start (or end) point for two longer linear walks:

• Wye Valley Walk (136 miles)
• Severn Way (210 miles)

The Glyndwr's Way National Trail passes through the forest as does the Sustrans National Cycle Network Route 8 (Lôn Las Cymru), making it a great spot for cyclists.

Hafren Forest is an ideal day out for dog owners as all walking routes are dog-friendly. To help keep the forest beautiful for everyone, dog owners are asked to follow the Dog Walking Code, always picking up after your dog and disposing of the bag in a bin or taking it with you.

Hafren Forest is a haven for nature lovers, home to a rich variety of wildlife. Keep an eye out for ospreys, red kites and buzzards soaring above the trees. Near the water look out for dippers, butterflies and dragonflies. If you're lucky, you might even spot deer or otters.
The forest is a mix of pine and spruce, with native trees like birch, oak, hazel, and willow adding to the diversity. On the forest floor, bracken, heather, mosses, lichens, and fungi thrive. The Severn-Break-its-Neck trail also passes through a wildflower meadow.

There are a number of things to do near Hafren Forest. It is close to Llanidloes, a small market town by the River Severn, which is easily reached from the A470 on The Cambrian Way. In the town is Llanidloes Museum and nearby Bryntail Lead Mine Buildings.

Close to the forest is Hafren Forest Hideaway available on as a B&B, or full board basis, or as a self-catering hostel. This dog-friendly accommodation is suitable for up to 13 people, with the option of exclusive hire.