Cadair Berwyn
About Cadair Berwyn
Cadair Berwyn is the highest point of the Berwyn Mountains, a range of heather moorland hills forming part of the border between England and Wales. The summit provides sweeping views across mid-Wales.
Height & Prominence of Cadair Berwyn
Cadair Berwyn stands at 827 metres (2713 feet) above sea level, according to Ordnance Survey data. Its topographic prominence is 617 metres, meaning it rises at least that far above the col connecting it to the nearest higher peak. Cadair Berwyn is part of the Berwyn Mountains. The OS grid reference is SJ 071323, which you can use to locate the summit on any Ordnance Survey Explorer or Landranger map.
Cadair Berwyn carries the classifications of Hewitt, Nuttall, Marilyn.
Location & Nearest Towns
Cadair Berwyn is located in Wales, Denbighshire. It sits in the Berwyn Mountains area. The nearest towns and villages include Llanrhaeadr-ym-Mochnant, Pistyll Rhaeadr waterfall, Llangollen, where you can find accommodation, pubs, and supplies before or after your walk.
For official access information and any seasonal restrictions, check the relevant national park authority.
Interesting Facts
- Highest point of the Berwyn Mountains
- Part of the border between England and Wales
- Remote moorland walking with few other walkers
Safety Tips
Always check forecasts before setting out. Summit conditions differ dramatically from valley level.
Carry map, compass/GPS, water, food, first aid, whistle, torch, and waterproofs.
Tell someone your route and return time. Stick to marked paths. Be ready to turn back.
Ask for Police, then Mountain Rescue. Know your grid reference.
On the Mountain: Walking Cadair Berwyn
Cadair Berwyn is a moderate walk that rewards careful planning. The summit sits at 827m, where conditions can feel distinctly different from the valley — wind speeds are typically 30–50% stronger above 800m, and the temperature drops roughly 1°C for every 100m of ascent. In cloud, the cairn at the top can be hard to spot, so keep a map and compass to hand even on well-marked paths.
After your walk, the nearest village — Llanrhaeadr-ym-Mochnant — is a good place for a pint and a debrief. For detailed route descriptions and trip reports from other walkers, Walkhighlands is an excellent resource.
Nearby Dining
- Hand Hotel, Llangollen
- Llanrhaeadr village pub
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Cadair Berwyn one of the best mountains to climb in the UK?
Yes, Cadair Berwyn is considered one of the best mountains to climb in the UK thanks to its scenic routes, 827m elevation, and moderate difficulty level.
What difficulty level is Cadair Berwyn?
Cadair Berwyn has a difficulty rating of Moderate. Various routes are available for different experience levels.
When is the best time to climb Cadair Berwyn?
The best season is Spring to Autumn. Summit temperatures are typically 5–10°C colder than the valley, and conditions can change rapidly.
Why Visit Cadair Berwyn?
Cadair Berwyn stands at 827m (2713ft) in Wales, Denbighshire. Classified as a Hewitt and Nuttall and Marilyn, it is a rewarding destination for hikers, climbers, and photographers.
Browse our UK mountains directory to discover more peaks, or see all mountains A–Z.
Nearby Peaks to Explore
Looking beyond Cadair Berwyn? These peaks are close by and worth exploring.
