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The Skirrid

The Skirrid’s isolation means glorious views in every direction: Herefordshire and Malverns to the north, the Black Mountains and Brecon Beacons to the west, Usk Valley and Somerset to the south and Gloucestershire and the Forest of Dean to the east.
A new car park (charges apply) on the Abergavenny to Skenfrith road is the main access point onto the hill. From here, the path winds steeply up through Pant Skirrid Wood and out onto the ridge, with gentler slopes leading up to the summit.
Those wanting to really test themselves can scramble to the summit up the sheer north face of the mountain, while tracks through Pant Skirrid Wood offer a more relaxed pace.

The Skirrid rises dramatically out of the landscape, despite being smaller than its neighbours at 486m high.

What’s in a name?

The name ‘Skirrid’ is derived from the Welsh ‘Ysgyryd’, which means to shake or tremble. It’s easy to see where this name came from, with the massive landslide on the hill’s northern tip. The Skirrid is still prone to small mud flows and landslides today. The word ‘fawr’ translates as big or large.

Route details

Starting point: Llanddewi Skirrid, Abergavenny, NP7 8AP

Difficulty: Moderate

Time: 2 hours

Distance: 4 miles (6.4 km)

Dogs allowed: Dog friendly

Find the full route here

For other walks in Abergavenny – head here. 


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