Exhibition: Rhayader Art Group
Sun 1 Jul to Sun 30 Sep / 10am - 4pm
Rhayader Art Group's "Summer Exhibition" showcases their range of talents with all original artwork for sale. Prints and greetings cards also available.
Open daily at the Visitor Centre.
Gorffennaf hyd Fedi
Grŵp Celf Rhaeadr
Arddangosfa o dalentau amrywiol a’r gwaith celf unigryw ar werth. Printiau a chardiau cyfarchion hefyd ar gael.
Elan Valley Sheepdog Trials 2018
Sat 18 Aug / 8am onwards, all day event
Local shepherds compete to find the champion sheepdog.
Marvel at the way the dogs and their handlers manoeuvre sheep through a number of obstacles.
8am start, all day event.
Enquiries to Eira Edwards, Tel No : 01597 810721.
Location : Frondorddu fields, signposted off the Elan Valley road on the day. SN 948658
Village Tour
Sat 18 Aug / 2 - 3.30pm
Learn about the history of Caban Coch Dam, the workers’ village and other stories on this easy one mile walk.
Meet at the Visitor Centre.
18 Awst
Dydd Sadwrn – Taith y Pentref
2-3.30yp. Dysgwch am hanes argae Caban Coch, pentref y gweithwyr ac hanesion eraill ar y daith gerdded un filltir hawdd yma.
Bird Walk - Our Woodland Birds
Sun 19 Aug / 9.30am - 1pm
Join local bird watcher Tony Ware on a walk through Cnwch woodland by the Visitor Centre.
Bring binoculars and wear appropriate clothing/footwear.
For further details please ring 07772 792722.
Birds and Broadleaves
Sun 19 Aug / 11am
Join Ken Perry for a guided 6.5 mile walk around Llethyr Melyn and Penygarreg looking at the restoration of heathland and natural woodland expansion in this area. Plus the opportunity to take stock of the amazing views above Y Foel. A steep climb. Meet at the Elan Valley Visitor Centre SN 928646.
19 Awst
Dydd Sul – Adar a Llydanddail
11yb. Ymunwch â Ken Perry am daith gerdded tywys 6.5 milltir o gwmpas Llethyr Melyn a Phenygarreg i edrych ar adferiad y rhostiroedd ac ehangiad y coedtiroedd naturiol yn yr ardal hon.
Archery Taster Session
Sun 19 Aug / 1, 2 and 3pm
Hour long sessions to try your hand at archery, £5 per person, minimum age 8, please wear long sleeves.
Meet at Elan Village Green.
These events are delivered by the Elan Valley Lodge and require booking in advance - please go to www.elanvalleyleisure.co.uk/archery/
If you require further information please call 01597 811143.
Dragons and Damsels - CANCELLED
Tue 21 Aug / 2 - 3.30pm
** CANCELLED **
A fun afternoon of pond dipping - suitable for all the family. No unaccompanied children please.
Booking is essential - only 20 places available.
Please call 01597 810880 to book.
Meet at Dol y Mynach layby.
21 Awst
Dydd Mawrth – Dreigiau a Mursennod
2-3.30yp. Prynhawn hwylus yn pysgota yn y pyllau – addas ar gyfer y teulu oll. Dim ond 20 lle ar gael. Dim plant digwmni. Man cyfarfod yng nghilfan Dôl y Mynach.
Blast Off! Bottle Rockets
Wed 22 Aug / 10am - 12 noon & 1 - 3pm
Come along to the Visitor Centre to design, manufacture and launch your own rocket!
Only £3 for your rocket materials.
Please book in advance on 01597 810880.
No unaccompanied children please.
22 Awst
Dydd Mercher – Chwythiad! Rocedi Potel
10yb-12yp ac 1-3yp. Dewch i’r Ganolfan Ymwelwyr i gynllunio, cynhyrchu a lansio’ch rocet eich hun. Dim ond £3 am eich deunydd roced. Dim plant digwmni.
High Ropes Challenge
Wed 22 Aug / 10am - 1pm
Platforms, bridges, unusual obstacles, a zip line and an adrenaline jump – all in a stunning setting alongside Caban Coch Reservoir.
You don’t need experience or to be super fit, however you must be over 1.4m tall, have a waist of less than 43” and be able to climb a rope ladder.
You will also need transport, stout shoes and appropriate clothing.
All young people must be supervised by a responsible adult.
Adult £18, 8-18s £15
Kayaking on the Reservoir
Wed 22 Aug / 2 - 5pm
Hit the water and get a different view of the Valley from a two person kayak.
After a safety briefing, head off around the reservoir in the company of your instructor, and learn about the history of the dams on the way.
Suitable for beginners and those with some experience.
Minimum age 8, you will need transport, shoes to get wet, appropriate clothing, a complete change of clothes and a towel just in case!
Adult £18, 8-18s £15
Kayaking on the Reservoir
Thu 23 Aug / 2 - 5pm
Hit the water and get a different view of the Valley from a two person kayak.
After a safety briefing, head off around the reservoir in the company of your instructor, and learn about the history of the dams on the way.
Suitable for beginners and those with some experience.
Minimum age 8, you will need transport, shoes to get wet, appropriate clothing, a complete change of clothes and a towel just in case!
Adult £18, 8-18s £15
Exploring Night-time Nature
Sun 26 Aug / 7.30pm
Please note, this event has changed to Sunday 26th August 2018.
An evening event. To celebrate European Bat Weekend, join Sorcha Lewis for an evening bat and moth discovery walk at Llannerch y Cawr. Please bring torches. Suitable for families. Meet at Llanerch y Cawr car park SN 901616.
ELAN VALLEY SHOW & SPORTS 2018
Mon 27 Aug / 10am Onwards
Join locals and visitors for an August Bank Holiday Monday afternoon of family fun and entertainment at the local agricultural show and sports.
Bar and Refreshments on site.
Show enquiries contact Christine Davies call her on 01597 811306 or email her at galedrhyd@hotmail.com
Location : Noyadd Farm, will be signposted on the day.
Bushcraft Taster Session
Tue 28 Aug / 2 - 4pm
This is a great way to find out what bushcraft is all about or to build on your current experience. These sessions will cover a variety of subjects such as knife skills, foraging, and natural cordage to name a few.
These sessions will be led by our qualified bushcraft instructor. All tools and equipment provided.
Minimum age 12 years. No unaccompanied children please.
Places are limited so please book in advance on 01597 810880.
£10 per person, payable in advance.
Meet at the Visitor Centre.
Powys Ramblers Walk
Wed 29 Aug / 10am
Sarah Hill of Powys Ramblers will lead a 7.5 mile moderate circular walk from Nantgwyllt Church car park around Garreg Ddu Reservoir with detour to visit the Mines. Please wear suitable footwear and clothing and bring a packed lunch. Meet at Nantgwyllt Church car park SN 909639.
29 Awst
Dydd Mercher – Taith Gerdded Crwydrwyr Powys
10yb. Fe fydd Sarah Hill yn arwain taith gerdded gylchog gymedrol 7.5 milltir o gwmpas cronfa ddŵr Garreg Ddu gydag amdaith i ymweld â’r mwynfeydd. Man cyfarfod ym maes parcio Eglwys Nantgwyllt.
High Ropes Challenge
Wed 29 Aug / 10am - 1pm
Platforms, bridges, unusual obstacles, a zip line and an adrenaline jump – all in a stunning setting alongside Caban Coch Reservoir.
You don’t need experience or to be super fit, however you must be over 1.4m tall, have a waist of less than 43” and be able to climb a rope ladder.
You will also need transport, stout shoes and appropriate clothing.
All young people must be supervised by a responsible adult.
Adult £18, 8-18s £15
Kayaking on the Reservoir
Wed 29 Aug / 2 - 5pm
Hit the water and get a different view of the Valley from a two person kayak.
After a safety briefing, head off around the reservoir in the company of your instructor, and learn about the history of the dams on the way.
Suitable for beginners and those with some experience.
Minimum age 8, you will need transport, shoes to get wet, appropriate clothing, a complete change of clothes and a towel just in case!
Adult £18, 8-18s £15
Dragons and Damsels - CANCELLED
Wed 29 Aug / 2 - 3.30pm
** CANCELLED **
A fun afternoon of pond dipping - suitable for all the family. No unaccompanied children please.
Booking is essential - only 20 places available.
Please call 01597 810880 to book.
Meet at Dol y Mynach layby.
29 Awst
Dydd Mercher - Dreigiau a Mursennod
2-3.30yp. Prynhawn hwylus yn pysgota yn y pyllau – addas ar gyfer y teulu oll. Dim ond 20 lle ar gael. Dim plant digwmni. Man cyfarfod yng nghilfan Dôl y Mynach.
Kayaking on the Reservoir
Thu 30 Aug / 2 - 5pm
Hit the water and get a different view of the Valley from a two person kayak.
After a safety briefing, head off around the reservoir in the company of your instructor, and learn about the history of the dams on the way.
Suitable for beginners and those with some experience.
Minimum age 8, you will need transport, shoes to get wet, appropriate clothing, a complete change of clothes and a towel just in case!
Adult £18, 8-18s £15
Elan Valley Walking Festival
Sat 1 Sep to Sun 9 Sep / See event
Come and join us between the 1st and 9th September on our third annual Walking Festival at the Elan Valley.
Click the events below to find out more:
Ancient Sites of the Elan Valley
Sat 1 Sep / 10am
Join local enthusiasts David James and Vic Pardoe as they explore Bronze Age and Medieval sites around the Pont ar Elan area. This moderate 6.5 mile walk will take in the Pillow Mounds, Banc Cynnydd Cairns, Carn Nant Y Ffald, Carn Wen and finally, Rhiw Afon Cairn. Meet at Pont ar Elan car park SN 903716
Dam Open Day
Sat 1 Sep / 1 - 4pm
Join our Rangers at one of our big Dam Open Days - an exclusive chance to venture into Pen y Garreg Dam and up to the central tower. Turn up anytime between 1pm and 4pm.
You’ll enjoy a bird's-eye view of the dam – and learn about the feat of engineering that made Elan.
Park at Penbont car park and take a walk through the woodland, up the steps to the dam entrance.
There are steps inside the dam which may be wet and in some areas there are low light levels.
Children should be carefully supervised at all times.
Minimum entry £1 for adults and children.
Cwm Elan Mines Experience
Sun 2 Sep / 10am
Join Elan Valley Trustee, Bob Vaughan on a 5 mile walk to explore the history and remains of Cwm Elan Lead Mines. You will also be able to see the recent stabilising works. Meet at Nantgwyllt car park SN 909639
Planetarium Show: The Solar System at Elan Valley
Sun 2 Sep / 11am, 12 noon, 2pm and 3pm
Take a tour of the Solar System with Martin Nelmes from the University of Aberystwyth.
We will try to put the Solar System into perspective and present some interesting facts about various moons and planets. Plus we will cover some of the recent research by planetary scientists and what it tells us about the Solar System.
Four FREE Shows at 11am, 12 noon, 2pm and 3pm.
Places are limited so please book in advance by calling 01597 810880.
Beginners Navigation Workshop
Mon 3 Sep / 10am-3pm
Join Terry Smith for a hands-on day of map and compass reading. With both theory and practical application this workshop will improve your understanding of maps and access to the countryside. N.B. There is an advanced workshop being held on Saturday 8th September. Meet at the Visitor Centre SN 928646.
Railway Ramble
Tue 4 Sep / 10am - 12noon
A gentle 3 mile walk following the line of the old railway from the Visitor Centre to Cwmdauddwr, looking at historical features of interest along the way.
A lift back to the Visitor Centre will be available afterwards.
Evening Talk: Brecon Mountain Rescue Team
Wed 5 Sep / 7.30pm
Join Guest Speaker, Kevin Harding, of the Brecon Mountain Rescue Team. Kevin will talk about the work of BMRT, which is entirely staffed by highly trained volunteers who provide land based search and rescue in the Brecon Beacons and the Elan Valley areas, including the English borders and the Ceredigion coast. Meet at the Elan Valley Hotel SN 938658.
Garreg Ddu Circuit
Wed 5 Sep / 10am - 1pm
A 6 mile low-level reservoir circuit with some woodland and farmland paths as well as the Elan Valley Trail. Wear walking boots.
Meet at Nantgwyllt Church car park.
Dambusters Walk
Thu 6 Sep / 2 - 5pm
A 4 mile guided walk to learn about the area, including the remains of Nant y Gro Dam which was used for tests before the WW2 Dambusters Raid.
There is a steep climb of 40 metres up the steps to the top of the dam and then a very steep 140 metre climb.
Meet at the Visitor Centre.
Village Tour
Sat 8 Sep / 2 - 3.30pm
Learn about the history of Caban Coch Dam, the workers’ village and other stories on this easy one mile walk.
Meet at the Visitor Centre.
Advanced Navigation
Sat 8 Sep / 10am - 3pm
Join Terry Smith, a Mid Wales Orienteering Club Member and Mountain Leader, for a hands-on day of navigating in open country with map and compass. For those of you who attended the beginners workshop this is a continuation of what you learnt, giving you the opportunity to develop the practical elements of navigation in a more challenging terrain.
This is an advanced workshop where knowledge of map reading and compass use is essential.
Two Counties and a Bothy
Sun 9 Sep / 9.30am
Guided Walk led by Tudor Davies
A moderate, circular 7 mile hill walk, setting off from the Dyfed/Powys border, onto Lluest Dolgwiail, following Afon Diluw until reaching the bothy at Nant Rhys. This is a joint event with the Brecon Beacons Park Society.
Meet at the Dyfed Powys border car park SN 853 758.
Please bring stout footwear, waterproofs, packed lunch including drinks, also sun cream and insect repellent and don't forget your camera and binoculars.
Landscapes on Wood Workshop
Sat 22 Sep / 10am - 12.30pm & 1 - 3.30pm
Create your own mini landscape on wood with local artist and illustrator A.K.Skipsey.
Places are limited so please book in advance.
£20 per person, payable in advance.
Please contact the Elan Valley Visitor Centre on 01597 810880 to book.
Wildlife Tracking
Sun 23 Sep / 2 - 4pm
Join our Ranger team for a walk in the woods looking for signs and clues of the wildlife that lives in the Elan Valley and how to find them.
Meet at Penbont car park.
Please call 01597 810880 to book.
No unaccompanied children please.
Night Photography Workshop
Wed 26 Sep / 6pm - 8pm
A workshop which will help people to learn more about night photography and hone their skills so they can enter the Night Photography Competition.
Tuition provided by Ian Collins Photography www.icpic.co.uk
Ian has a passion for low-light photography and has had his work published widely in publications including National geographic and The Times. Presentations include practical demonstrations bringing the terminology and technology to a level everybody can understand.
Register your place:
Creative Writing Workshop
Sat 29 Sep / 10am - 1pm
Taking inspiration from the wild Elan landscape, join award winning local writer Peter Cox for an enjoyable ‘no experience necessary’ workshop that will stretch your creative muscles.
Places are limited so please book in advance.
£20 per person, payable in advance.
Please contact the Elan Valley Visitor Centre on 01597 810880 to book.
Walk along the Monks’ Trod
Sun 30 Sep / 9:00am
THIS EVENT HAS TO BE BOOKED
A repeat of the special linear walk along the Monks’ Trod with the Brecon Beacons Park Society and the Elan Valley Trust, second chance to take part
Follow the route of the monks from Strata Florida across the uplands of the Elan Valley with guest leader Andrew Leonard on this 12 mile walk.
Meet at Pont ar Elan at 9.00am for a lift to Strata Florida. The walk will finish around 5.00pm. Ascent 400m (1312ft).
GR SN 902715 OS map Explorer 200
Dark Skies Exhibition
Mon 1 Oct to Mon 31 Dec / 10am - 4pm
Fungi Fascination
Sat 13 Oct / 2 - 5pm
A short walk to look at the fascinating world of fungi with Ray Woods.
Meet at the Visitor Centre.
Autumn Craft Fayre
Sat 27 Oct to Sun 28 Oct / 10am - 4pm
Our Visitor Centre is packed with local crafters and artists offering handmade jewellery, wildlife art, wooden crafts, paintings, craft demonstrations, up-cycled products, and traditional Welsh crafts.
Parents browse at your leisure thanks to our children’s craft table.
Dark Skies Day
Mon 29 Oct / 10am - 4pm
Everyone’s invited to our Dark Sky Day at the Visitor Centre!
We will have a number of events as well as a Dark Sky Exhibition showcasing the images from in and round the Estate as well as the wider world. Plus representatives from the fantastic Faulkes Telescope Project will be joining us, to explain about the project and illuminate the differences in the skies of the Northern and Southern Hemispheres. Keep an eye on this page as more events will be added!
Powys Ramblers Walk
Mon 29 Oct / 10am
Peter Loughran of Powys Ramblers will lead a 7.5 mile moderate circular walk around Carn Gafallt and Coed y Mynach from the Visitor Centre. Some tarmac walking on quiet lanes. Some climbs involved. Please wear suitable footwear and clothing and bring packed lunch. Meet at the Visitor Centre SN 928646.
Planetarium Show: The Constellations
Mon 29 Oct / 11am, 12 noon, 2pm and 3pm
Ever wanted to make sense of the wonderful array of stars in our sky? Martin Nelmes and his team from the University of Aberystwyth will help you to join the dots and learn about the origins of the well-known constellations.
Whether you are new to star gazing or simply curious this will enhance your knowledge about what’s up there!
Four FREE Shows at 11am, 12 noon, 2pm and 3pm.
Places are limited so please book in advance by calling 01597 810880.
High Ropes Challenge
Wed 31 Oct / 10am - 1pm
Platforms, bridges, unusual obstacles, a zip line and an adrenaline jump – all in a stunning setting alongside Caban Coch Reservoir.
You don’t need experience or to be super fit, however you must be over 1.4m tall, have a waist of less than 43” and be able to climb a rope ladder.
You will also need transport, stout shoes and appropriate clothing.
All young people must be supervised by a responsible adult.
Adult £18, 8-18s £15
Spooky Spectacular Halloween Crafts
Wed 31 Oct / 10.30am - 12.30pm & 1.30 -3.30pm
Come along and make your own scary accessories in time for Halloween, with spooky face painting also available!
No unaccompanied children please.
Meet at the Elan Valley Visitor Centre.
Please book in advance on 01597 810880.
£5 per child.
Kayaking on the Reservoir
Wed 31 Oct / 2 - 5pm
Hit the water and get a different view of the Valley from a two person kayak.
After a safety briefing, head off around the reservoir in the company of your instructor, and learn about the history of the dams on the way.
Suitable for beginners and those with some experience.
Minimum age 8, you will need transport, shoes to get wet, appropriate clothing, a complete change of clothes and a towel just in case!
Adult £18, 8-18s £15
Dam Open Day
Thu 1 Nov / 1 - 4pm
Join our Rangers at one of our big Dam Open Days - an exclusive chance to venture into Pen y Garreg Dam and up to the central tower. Turn up anytime between 1pm and 4pm.
You’ll enjoy a bird's-eye view of the dam – and learn about the feat of engineering that made Elan.
Park at Penbont car park and take a walk through the woodland, up the steps to the dam entrance.
There are steps inside the dam which may be wet and in some areas there are low light levels.
Children should be carefully supervised at all times.
Minimum entry £1 for adults and children.
Crash! Bang! Wallop! Silver Jewellery Workshop
Sat 3 Nov / 10am - 4pm
Led by Joy Powell, a local silver jewellery designer/maker & teacher. Using a range of hammers, punches and other texturing techniques, learn how to create some unusual jewellery and other items in sterling silver and copper using traditional skills.
No experience necessary. All tools and materials provided.
Places are limited so please book in advance.
£60 per person, payable in advance plus material costs approx. £5 - £20, payable on the day.
Please contact the Elan Valley Visitor Centre on 01597 810880 to book.
Blast Off! Bottle Rockets
Sun 4 Nov / 10am - 12 noon & 1 - 3pm
Come along to the Visitor Centre to design, manufacture and launch your own rocket.
Only £3 for your rocket materials.
Please book in advance on 01597 810880.
No unaccompanied children please.
Elan Valley 10 Mile Race
Sat 17 Nov / 11am Registration
Attempt this 10 mile scenic race around part of the Elan Valley.
Race commencement at 1pm.
Enquiries go to website www.rhayaderac.org.uk
Registration from 11am at Elan Valley Visitor Centre
Christmas Craft Fayre
Sat 8 Dec to Sun 9 Dec / 10am - 4pm
Our Visitor Centre is packed with local crafters and artists offering handmade jewellery, wildlife art, wooden crafts, paintings, craft demonstrations, up-cycled products, and traditional Welsh crafts.
Santa's Grotto
Sat 15 Dec to Sun 16 Dec / 10am - 4pm
Santa will be stopping at the Elan Valley Visitor Centre. Children can meet him in his Grotto, and receive a gift.
While you wait to see Santa why not make your own Christmas crafts and decorations.
Contact 01597 810880. £5 per child.
Elan Festive Evening
Sat 15 Dec / 4 - 6pm
An evening following on from your visit to Santa - late night shopping, carols around the tree, mince pies, mulled cider and non-alcoholic festive punch with carols from 5pm with a local vocal quartet.
Santa's Grotto
Mon 24 Dec / 10 am - 2 pm
Santa will be stopping at the Elan Valley Visitor Centre. Children can meet him in his Grotto, and receive a gift.
While you wait to see Santa why not make your own Christmas crafts and decorations?
Contact 01597 810880. £5 per child.
Dambusters Walk
Thu 27 Dec / 10am - 1pm
A 4 mile guided walk to learn about the area, including the remains of Nant y Gro Dam which was used for tests before the WW2 Dambusters Raid.
There is a steep climb of 40metres up the steps to the top of the dam and then a very steep 140 metre climb.
Meet at the Visitor Centre.
Reservoir Roundabout 2019
Sat 5 Jan / 7.15am onwards for Registration
Annual Walking (or running) CHALLENGE EVENT held across OPEN AND CHALLENGING UPLAND TERRAIN in and around the Elan and Claerwen Valleys.
The route is waymarked in parts but MAP READING SKILLS ARE REQUIRED.
Either 13 or 20 mile courses are available. Entry Fee & Kit Check apply.
Start Times : 8.30am for 20 mile route Walkers; and 9.00am for 13 mile route and ALL RUNNERS on both routes.
Planetarium Show: The Solar System at Elan Valley
Sun 24 Feb / 11am, 12 noon, 2pm and 3pm
Take a tour of the Solar System with Martin Nelmes from the University of Aberystwyth.
We will try to put the Solar System into perspective and present some interesting facts about various moons and planets. Plus we will cover some of the recent research by planetary scientists and what it tells us about the Solar System.
Four FREE Shows at 11am, 12 noon, 2pm and 3pm.
Places are limited so please book in advance by calling 01597 810880.
