Corn Du
About Corn Du
Corn Du is the twin summit of Pen y Fan, separated by a small col. The two are usually climbed together on the most popular route in the Brecon Beacons.
Height & Prominence of Corn Du
Corn Du stands at 873 metres (2864 feet) above sea level, according to Ordnance Survey data. Its topographic prominence is 53 metres, meaning it rises at least that far above the col connecting it to the nearest higher peak. Corn Du is part of the Brecon Beacons. The OS grid reference is SO 007213, which you can use to locate the summit on any Ordnance Survey Explorer or Landranger map.
Corn Du carries the classifications of Hewitt, Nuttall.
Location & Nearest Towns
Corn Du is located in Wales, Powys, within Brecon Beacons National Park. It sits in the Brecon Beacons area.
For official access information and any seasonal restrictions, check the Brecon Beacons National Park authority.
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 Corn Du
Corn Du is a easy walk that rewards careful planning. The summit sits at 873m, 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 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.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Corn Du one of the best mountains to climb in the UK?
Yes, Corn Du is considered one of the best mountains to climb in the UK thanks to its scenic routes, 873m elevation, and easy difficulty level.
What difficulty level is Corn Du?
Corn Du has a difficulty rating of Easy. Various routes are available for different experience levels.
When is the best time to climb Corn Du?
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 Corn Du?
Corn Du stands at 873m (2864ft) in Wales, Powys. Classified as a Hewitt and Nuttall, 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
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