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This is a 36 mile cycle loop from Abergavenny, circumnavigating the Blorenge via Clydach Gorge, Brynmawr, Blaenavon, Pontypool and Goytre Wharf. Utilising the Sustrans National Cycle Network and the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal, this is predominately a traffic free ride.

This route was developed by British Cycling Ride Leader Jeremy Pearce, who offers it as a guided cycle tour. Jeremy started leading guided rides around the parks and open spaces of South London. Leap frogging from park to park via congested, traffic fumed roads. When he relocated to the family pastures of South Wales he realised how blessed we are to have such a rich cycling playground on our Monmouthshire doorstep.

Route Description

Starting in the centre of Abergavenny, head out towards Castle Meadows and up to Llanfoist Crossing where you'll join the former Merthyr, Tredegar and Abergavenny railway line, which is now Cycle Route 46. A 9 mile ascent towards Brynmawr follows on a very gentle climb averaging 3%, compared to the more energetic 8% average the riders of this year’s Tour of Britain will experience up the Tumble (twice!!).

Take on The Tumble cycle climb

The cycle path passes the former railway stations of Govilon, Gilwern and Clydach Gorge and then crossing the Clydach Viaduct. The cycle path picks up the original tram roads which meander around the hillside. The Victorians however laboured straight through the rocks forming an impressive series of tunnels, one of which is still accessible with a good torch and suitable footwear. Continuing along the cycle path the view suddenly opens revealing the newly improved A465 below.

Find out more about Clydach Gorge here

Spanning the A465 is the Jack Williams Gateway Bridge. Named after Company Sgt. Maj. John Henry Williams of the 10th Battalion, South Wales Borderers. Williams was born in nearby Nantyglo and was a recipient of the Victoria Cross during the First World War, having stormed an enemy machine gun post.

More gentle climbing leads you towards Garn Lakes offering some very spectacular views along an off road section of Sustrans Route 492 running parallel with the B4248 Garn Road. The cycleway has received a plastic mesh membrane built into the surface which offers great drainage and grip during more inclement weather. Coupled with some ‘duckboard sections’ this is a lovely drop down towards the Blaenavon Heritage Railway Centre (Pontypool and Blaenavon Railway), where you can experience the industrial age by watching the Steam and Diesel locomotives trundling along a short stretch of railway line (subject to Timetable). A café also provides some welcome refreshments, all run by volunteers.

From the Blaenavon Heritage Railway Centre you are rewarded with a descent of approximately 6 miles, utilising the old tram roads. It’s almost possible to freewheel all the way down to Pontypool. Cycling through back streets to avoid the town centre traffic you enter Pontypool Park, the home of the famous Pontypool Rugby Club.

Onwards to Pontymoile Basin and another nice spot for refreshments is The Boat Yard. Here you pick up the Monmouthshire & Brecon Canal path back to Llanfoist, with an option to stop again at Penelope’s Café, Goytre Wharf. At Llanfoist Crossing slip back into Abergavenny and treat yourself at one of the many restaurants, pubs, cafes and bakeries.

Parking

Parking is found at the Byefield Lane Car Park in Abergavenny, which is free every day except Tuesday. It is also only a short journey from Abergavenny Train Station.

Map of the route

Here's a link to a map of the route from a previous guided event.

Look out for future guided cycle rides for this route on the Let's Ride website.