- Private hire
- Public Trips
Enjoy cruising the beautiful Monmouthshire & Brecon Canal
200 years of history.
Travel on this historical waterway, a fantastic feat of engineering, built before roads and railways. Cruise through a canal lock and over an aqueduct carry the canal over the River Usk,
- Public Outings
- Private Charter Trips
- School Trips
- Group Outings
- Corporate Outings
- Celebrations
- Saloon seating for 50
- Refreshment bar
- Catering available
- P.A. System
- All Weather
- Wheelchair Lift (2 chairs maximum)
Covid 19 Statement
- All Passengers will be required to pre-book for a trip. We cannot always take walk-on reservations as this doesn’t allow time to plan the safe boarding procedures that we have implemented.
- Upon arrival at the basin your booking will be allocated a number. We will then call individual numbers when we are ready to board your group.
- Prior to boarding a temperature check will be done. This is non-negotiable and any refusal to comply or high temperature will result in admission to the boat being declined. This is to ensure the safety of our other customers and staff.
- We will only be offering limited refreshments and these will be provided using a simple booking system which will be explained on board.
- Unfortunately our toilet facilities on board will not be available however we can offer toilet facilities close by after the trip.
- Disembarking from the boat will proceed in a similar fashion to boarding where we will call individual tables to get off and in which order to do so.
- Where possible card payments are preferred.
- The use of face coverings is highly recommended. All staff will be provided with the correct PPE. If you do not have a face mask please see a member of staff for help.
- Once seated on board you must remain in your section. We have screened sections of the boat and unless specifically instructed you must stay in your section .
Welcome to Dragon Fly Cruises!
Spend a delightful few hours cruising through some of the most beautiful scenery in Britain, lying within the Brecon Beacons National Park.
The Monmouthshire and Brecon canal hugs the mountainside above the valley of the River Usk. Through the four seasons there a fine views and an abundance of wildlife to be seen.
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About Brecon
To find out more about Brecon click here.
Seating plans
To view the seating plan click here.
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Home / Our Routes / Featured Routes / Goytre Wharf / Monmouthshire And Brecon
Monmouthshire and Brecon Featured Routes
Monmouthshire and brecon from goytre wharf.
Duration: 7 Nights TOTAL LOCKS: 12 CRUISING TIME PER DAY: 7.5 HOURS (32 HOURS IN TOTAL)
BLOG AVAILABLE: Click here to read a blog about this route from one of our team!
Maps & Guides for this route: P3, N4, L24 | Click here buy maps
South to Pontymoile then north to Llanfoist, Llangynidr Locks, Talybont, Brecon and back – 7nts – total locks 12 (6 x 2)
This Welsh canal is a secret hideaway in the Brecon Beacons for the boater seeking escape. This is the Diva of Britain’s canals, set in the Brecon Beacons National Park with the Black Mountains as a spectacular backdrop - a water trail in the company of mountains, sheep and open spaces, with the taste of real air. And the entire canal is a blaze of colours that change with the seasons under its intimate tree-lined route.
Goytre Wharf to Monmouthsire and Brecon: What to expect on your route
Before setting off, explore the marina at Goytre Wharf, set in a huge woodland site with glimpses of sheep-filled fields through the trees (the name itself means ‘place in the woods’). On the edge of Blaenavon Industrial Landscape UNESCO World Heritage Site, the wharf has some of the best preserved limekilns, now Grade II-listed, used to create lime from coal & limestone. The canal and wharf here once teemed with canal boats being loaded with the finished product.
The History of Monmouthshire & Brecon Canal (Mon & Brec)
The Monmouthshire & Brecon Canal was originally two separate canals - the Monmouthshire Canal and the Brecknock & Abergavenny Canal - the two were linked at Pontymoile. Today's navigable 'Mon & Brec' is mostly the former Brecknock & Abergavenny.
South of Goytre Wharf, the canal turns and twists through the lush landscape of the Brecon Beacons National Park towards the current limit of navigation at Cwmbran.
A very short walk from bridge 62, St Illtyd’s Church at Mamhilad beckons you to visit. Among the yews in its churchyard, a queen of trees is the ancient ‘Mamhilad Yew’ which is believed to be between two and three thousand years old! There’s also a village pub opposite for a quick lunch.
Pontymoile is the junction between the two separate canals and, if time allows, a convenient mooring place for Pontypool Leisure Centre with its swimming pool and dry ski slope. The current limit of navigation is a couple of miles further south or you can turn the boat here and head back northwards past Goytre Wharf towards Llanfoist.
Blaenavon World Heritage Site
At the height of the Industrial Revolution, iron and coal were transported from Blaenavon’s ironworks along horse-operated tram roads down to the canal, and stored in canalside warehouses before being loaded onto canal boats. Blaenavon was once one of the world's most important producers of iron, coal and steel, and the wharves and canal at both Llanfoist and Govilon form part of the Blaenavon World Heritage Site. The leafy oasis of Llanfoist Wharf is where the World Heritage Site meets the Monmouthshire & Brecon Canal. It’s hard to imagine this historic wharf was once a flurry of activity, and this canal a busy export route to Newport. If you cross beneath the canal, it’s possible to follow tram road tracks up into the hills and join the circular Iron Mountain Trail around major areas of the World Heritage Site.
Llangattock Wharf
Lines of moored boats indicate your arrival at Govilon and Bailey’s Warehouse at the former terminus of another tram road from Nantyglo Ironworks.
A wooded stretch leads towards Gilwern where the main A465 ‘Heads of the Valleys’ road noisily encroaches, though peace is restored as you approach this busy village, with its boatyard and pubs.
Historic buildings and limekilns at Llangattock Wharf indicate where limestone was brought down by tram road from the quarries above then loaded onto canal boats. The pretty market town of Crickhowell (described as the ‘glittering jewel in the vale’) is easy to reach from here – for sightseeing, places to eat or shopping, follow the path from bridge 116 or 117 through Llangattock across a field to reach the main road and river bridges. It’s then a short hop over the River Usk across the Grade I-listed stone-arched bridge.
The glorious setting of Llangynidr lock flight with its well-placed pub makes it light work, then the canal enters the short Ashford Tunnel (375yds/343m long) and arrives in Talybont-on-Usk.
The Brecon Beacons: History
The Brecon Beacons today are synonymous with the outdoors and Talybont is a busy village filled with walkers, cyclists and sightseers yet, behind the scenes, this canal keeps secrets of a different past. Limestone and coal was quarried up in the hills above Talybont, then brought down to the canal on an 8-mile tram road. The rock was put into burning hot limekilns to be broken down into quicklime, and then transferred to barrels to be loaded onto waiting narrowboats. Brinore Tramroad heads up into the hills above bridge 143, by the White Hart pub.
Several of the canal’s distinctive lift bridges mark the way as you head towards Pencelli, then the canal swoops round to Ty Newydd. Overlooked by the National Park’s highest peak, Pen y Fan, this is a place to soak up unrivalled Welsh views.
The four-arched Brynich Aqueduct, built by the engineer Thomas Dadford, elegantly carries the canal over the River Usk below, and a sharp turn leads to pretty Brynich Lock. The River Usk and the mountains are visible now to the left of the canal, and a conveniently placed bench turns its back on the canal, facing one of the best views on the canal network.
The Brecon Beacons: Things to do
Brecon is the outdoor capital of Wales for cycling, hiking, scrambling, kayaking, caving, pony trekking and more. A short walk from the Canal Basin by Theatr Brycheiniog, this historic market town and its cathedral, museum and shops are lively with walkers, cyclists and boaters.
After exploring the town, you have the fresh excitement of your return voyage to Goytre Wharf.
Canal Boat Hire Brecon
Want to book a canalboat trip with ABC Boat Hire? Get in touch with our friendly team who will combine their knowledge of all the cruising options to help you to choose your ideal boating holiday.
Read our guide to the Monmouthsire and Brecon Canal or read one couple’s experience of Monmouthshire and Breacon .
Check out our selection of featured boats on the Alvechurch to Birmingham route below.
Featured Boats
Featured boats from goytre wharf, south wales, two to five berth boats.
Red Line Finch
Max: 5 People
Length: 47ft
Six to eight berth Boats
Red Swallow
Max: 8 People
Length: 56ft
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Canal Holidays Guide to the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal
Canal lovers often agree that the Monmouthshire and Brecon is one of the most beautiful canals in Britain, with outstanding scenery and the ideal route for a relaxing holiday at a sedate pace.
Although only 35 miles long, this canal has the challenge of six locks, five lift bridges, a tunnel and several aqueducts.
A relaxed week's cruising from base 58 near the village of Goytre will cover the whole navigable length of canal.
Cruising the canal
For most of its length the canal is in the Brecon Beacons National Park, an area of such outstanding scenery that it is often tricky to keep your eyes on the 'road'.
From the new canal basin in Brecon, the canal follows the river Usk along its valley through a true contour-following route, through just six locks (five of them in the award-winning flight at Llangynidr) to the new end of navigation at Five Locks, Pontnewydd. This makes for the most relaxed cruising imaginable.
Distance, Time, and Locks
- Usually covered in a week.
- Short breaks are available.
Places of interest
The National Park provides a perfect opportunity for many leisure activities including walking, pony trekking, bird watching, photography and coarse fishing.
Brecon Brecon is an historic market town with a cathedral, museums and quaint shopping centre. August is a good time to visit, when the annual Jazz Festival and County Show are held. There is a new indoor leisure centre, new theatre and a market of Tuesdays and Fridays.
Llangorse Lake The largest natural lake in south Wales, just over three miles from the canal, north of Talybont. Activities in this area include sailing, windsurfing, fishing (pike, roach, perch), canoeing, trekking and picnicking.
Abergavenny This is the 'Gateway to the Brecon Beacons', a market town with eleventh century castle remains, good shops, museum of childhood and is one mile from the canal.
Goytre Wharf Near Llanover, British Waterways Visitor Centre, restored limekilns.
Torfaen Museum Trust Canal museum in the old toll cottage at Pontypool.
Possible Holidays on the Mon and Brec Canal
Click on a boat base below for more information and possible routes from that base.
Customer Comments
Read what some of our previous clients say about the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal.
"Recommend the Ashford Tunnel as a contributor to a steep learning curve on how to steer a 20-ton steel narrowboat in a straight line! Great fun, if you don't mind picking up the fallen crockery, and don't forget to duck at the lowest section. Good canal side shops and pubs, excellent itinerary information pack on board. This canal being rural is mostly unspoilt by development; it is pretty and pleasantly quiet to chug along at a sedate 3 mph." RG, UK
"We rated the unspoiled beauty and discovery visits to small villages and pubs second to none." PT, USA
"The boat yard has a quality product and their narrowboat standards are high. A complimentary bottle of wine was a nice touch to the start of the week. The owner was prompt in dropping off a TV aerial that had been omitted from the boat on start. Very good service!" LS, UK
"It's a good type of holiday for meeting other people. We laughed ourselves up and down the canal despite the weather." LL, USA
Canal Holidays, Bowers Wharf, Skipton, BD23 2PD, United Kingdom
The charity making life better by water
Making life better by water
Monmouthshire & Brecon Canal
Read this page in Welsh / Darllenwch y dudalen hon yn Gymraeg
Meandering through the Welsh countryside the Monmouthshire & Brecon Canal is one of our most beautiful and peaceful waterways following the line of the Usk Valley through the Brecon Beacons National Park.
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Check for any canal closures or service updates on the Monmouthshire & Brecon Canal before you travel along your route
The Monmouthshire & Brecon Canal, or Mon & Brec for short, is a true hidden gem. A haven for wildlife and a favourite with nature-lovers, walkers and cyclists. The northern section forms part of the Taff Trail Long Distance Footpath, a 55 mile route that can be walked or cycled, starting at Brecon Basin and ending in Cardiff.
The navigable section of the canal runs for approx. 36 miles from Brecon to Five Locks, Cwmbran.
Days out and waterside walks
A favourite with holiday boaters, there are loads of activities to enjoy on this beautiful canal. Relax on a boat trip, take in the local heritage, there are lime kilns and old workings from our industrial heritage that can be seen all along its length, spot wildlife, buzzards, red kites, herons and dragonflies.
Enjoy a family day out to the wonderful sites of Brecon Basin, Llangynidr locks or Goytre Wharf, with its historic limekilns or pop in for a snack at Pontymoile or any of the numerous canal side pubs or cafes.
Visit Brecon Basin
With a poetry trail, walks and the Brecon Becons national park all around, your visit to Brecon could take you anywhere
Go to Goytre
Goytre Wharf has plenty to see and do from hiring a canoe, a bicycle or taking advantage of some great woodland walks
The Limekilns Trail
By foot or by bike, this trail takes in three historic limekilns along the Monmouthshire & Brecon Canal
3.2km linear Step by Step walk at Goytre Wharf
Starting at Goytre Wharf, this linear walk to Pentre Bridge is 3.2km long or 2 miles
3.5km Step by Step walk from Brecon Basin
Starting at Brecon Basin this linear walk to Brynich Aqueduct is 3.5km or 2.2 miles long
5km Step by Step walk at Pontymoile Basin
Starting from Pontymoile Basin, this linear walk to Five Locks Basin is just under 5km or 3 miles
Down to the sea
Down to the sea is a new partnership between the Trust and the Brecon Beacons National Park Authority. A series of walking routes have been created suitable for families and will allow children to positively engage with the industrial past. To help, Down to the sea (Welsh version) features a number of exciting short animated videos that reveal the historic story of the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal.
The Mon & Brec today
This peaceful and almost entirely rural waterway is a must-see for nature-lovers. The Llangattock escarpment is designated as a Special Site Of Scientific Interest (SSSI), and is the entrance to an extensive cave network.
The canal passes through a World Heritage Site, which contains industrial landmarks such as the Big Pit Mining Museum. The Cefn Flight of fourteen locks has also been recognised as being of international significance, and is on Cadw 's list of Scheduled Ancient Monuments . [18]
As the Mon & Brec is not currently accessible from any other waterway, most boaters cruise it on a hire-boat. There are several fleets based on the canal.
History of the Mon & Brec
The Mon & Brec actually started life as two separate canals: the Brecknock & Abergavenny Canal, and the Monmouthshire Canal. The 35-mile navigable section seen today is mostly the former. In the 1790s, the Monmouthshire Canal Company received its Act of Parliament at the same time that the Brecknock & Abergavenny was being planned. Following discussions, it was decided to link the two at Pontymoile. The Monmouthshire Canal, including a branch from Malpas to Crumlin, was opened in 1799 with the Brecknock & Abergavenny extending from Brecon to Gilwern by 1800, finally reaching Pontymoile by 1812.
Both canals were supported by horsedrawn tramroads that were mainly used to bring coal, limestone and iron ore from the hillsides. The canal played a significant part in our industrial heritage, connecting Hill's tramroads to the iron works in Blaenavon and the forges at Garnddyrys.
Though originally constructed to transport coal, lime and agricultural products the canal was used extensively by ironmasters and industrialists as their main transport network, bringing the raw iron ore up the canal from Newport to Llanfoist Wharf and thence by tramroads to the iron works and returning with trams loaded with iron, the finished product. Remains of this heritage can still be viewed along the canal today these include wharfs and lime kilns.
The Blaenavon area and a section of the canal were granted World Heritage status in 2000 in recognition of its historical significance. In 1880 the Monmouthshire & Brecon Canals were taken over by the Great Western Railway. Within 35 years, commercial carrying had all but ceased.
Restoration
Throughout the 20th century various parts of the Monmouthshire Canal and its Crumlin Arm were filled in for road construction. The line was all but obliterated through Cwmbran, and was effectively unnavigable further north. It's fair to say that this beautiful part of our canal network came close to disappearing altogether. But vigorous campaigning by canal enthusiasts heralded a new dawn for the canal, and in 1968 restoration work from Brecon to Pontymoile began in earnest.
Recent developments have included a complete regeneration of the terminus at Brecon, and various works continue to reclaim the navigation between Pontymoile and Newport.
Part of the Crumlin Arm has also been restored, and the Fourteen Locks Canal Centre is open regularly to the public.
Find out more about local news, events and the work going on to improve wellbeing on the Mon & Brec
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Cruising the Monmouthshire & Brecon Canal
Our canal boat hire base at gilwern, close to abergavenny (so245145).
You can find our narrowboat holiday base four miles west of Abergavenny. Gilwern (SO245145) is situated approximately mid-way along the canal. We are 20 miles below Brecon and 15 miles above Five Locks. You can thus choose between a cruise to Brecon, incorporating the locks, tunnel, lift bridges and the more spectacular scenery, or the more secretive, peacefully isolated winding waters southward towards Five Locks. Beyond is the now defunct section that drops through thirty(unusable) locks in some six miles to Newport. Whichever direction you choose on your canal boat hire the Mon & Brec will not disappoint!
The journey itself
Those who have enjoyed the best canal boat holidays before will know that as well as providing fascinating ever-changing scenery, the slow pace of cruising is in itself relaxing. The scenery of the Monmouthshire& Brecon Canal as it winds around the hills on its way to Brecon is varied and views are spectacular. These views are sometimes even more dramatic if from time to time you walk at the pace of the boat along the towpath.
Relax aboard on your narrowboat holiday in Wales
Relax in the comfort of the boat and read, listen to music(CD/radio/MP3 is fitted on the boat), paint and draw, play board games or simply enjoy the changing views as the countryside glides past your windows. The Monmouthshire & Brecon canal is a tranquil route that will allow you to relax and take in the beautiful scenery.
There is plenty of opportunity for walking, ranging from the easy level towpath (get on and off as you pass through bridges), footpaths and leafy lanes through to more serious walking amongst the Brecon Beacons for energetic or experienced walkers.
Why not take a shady walk up the feeder stream which joins the canal just below the second lock at Llangynidr. At Llangattock, a walk up the Escarpment will reward you with some spectacular wide views. Walk under the canal through the tunnels at Gilwern, Govilon, Llanfoist or Pontymoile. Climbdown to the Usk from below Brynich Lock to look up at the four arches of the massive aqueduct you crossed earlier.
Explore the six villages on the canal and the market towns of Brecon, Crickhowell and Abergavenny – include a meal or a drink at one of the many hostelries. Try a walk along the old railway to Talybont Reservoir (and over the dam and back along the lane if you prefer a circular route). It is a short walk at Llangynidr down from Bridge 131 to the old packhorse bridge across the Usk, where there is also a walk along the river (a similar bridge can be found linking Llangattock to Crickhowell).
Visit the River Promenade on the other side of Brecon and discover the source of the canal’s water. Brecon also has a cinema, Cathedral, theatre and museums. On the way back from Brecon walk over the top of the tunnel and look down the shaft on your boat as it passes below (and listen to the conversations!)
For those who like shopping visit Brecon, Crickhowell or Abergavenny which all have a good mix of independent retailers, coffee shops, pubs, galleries and food stores. For fish & chips try Brecon, Gilwern or Goytre.
More physical activities
Mountain bike hire is available at Talybont and at Brecon. There is pony-trekking before Llangattock (ask us for details). Pontypool and Brecon have leisure centres with swimming pools and there is a Golf course at Llangattock.
There are plenty of activities to choose from as you meander along the Mon & Brec on your canal boat.
Book your narrowboat holiday in Wales now
The Road House, 50 Main Road, Gilwern, Abergavenny, Monmouthshire, NP7 0AS Telephone: 01873 830240 E-mail: [email protected] Directions
The Fourteen Locks Centre and Dadford Tea Room is open every day 10am - 4pm. Un-affected by work on the canal. Hot food until 3:00. Takeaway only after 3:30. Call us: 01633 892167 Centre Information
Support of the regeneration of the canal from Five Locks, Pontnewydd to Newport, and from Newport to Cwmcarn
Benefits to local communities and businesses through tourism and leisure activities on the canals
Support of the existing navigable canal with our partners from Brecon to Five Locks, Pontnewydd
Culture and history of the canal through public visits to the Fourteen Locks Canal Centre, and information displays.
Support improvement of the public's wellbeing through angling, boating, cycling, walking and wildlife interests
Welcome to our website
Our Trust campaigns to protect, promote, and restore the Monmouthshire, Brecon and Abergavenny Canals, together with actively engaging in restoration and educational initiatives. The canals are also known as the Monmouthshire and Brecon canal, or the “Mon and Brec”. The Mon & Brec is widely recognised as being one of the most beautifully located canals in the UK.
We are a small local volunteer run charity set up in 1984 to fight for the preservation and restoration of our superb local canal, and all our resources are used to this end. In order to accomplish our mission we need more members, volunteers and financial donations.
If you care about our local canal, then please become a member of our Trust. More information on how to become a member is on our Support Us page. You can also volunteer with us in many ways – find out more on our Volunteering Opportunities page.
In order to achieve our objectives, we work closely with our major partners, the canal owners and managers: The Canal and River Trust (formerly British Waterways); Torfaen County Borough Council; Newport City Council, and Caerphilly County Borough Council. We also work with other partners such as Monmouthshire County Council, Powys County Council, Bannau Brycheiniog National Park Authority, amongst others. Details about who manages which section of the canal can be found on our Who Manages the Canal? page.
Our Focus is to...
Campaign and partner.
Campaigning
- for the restoration of the Mon & Brec canal
- to protect & preserve our canal heritage
- speak out when the canal is threatened
- object when development threatens the canal
Work with local organisations
- local Councils
- Bannau Brycheiniog National Park
- Welsh Government
- canal associations and restoration groups
- local amenity groups
If you care about our local canal, then please become a member of our Trust. More information on how to become a member is on our Support Us page.
In order to achieve our objectives, we work closely with our major partners, the canal owners and managers: The Canal and River Trust (formerly British Waterways); Torfaen County Borough Council; Newport City Council, and Caerphilly County Borough Council. We also work with other partners such as Monmouthshire County Council, Powys County Council, and the Bannau Brycheiniog National Park Authority. Details about who manages which section of the canal can be found on our Who Manages the Canal? page.
Work with National Organisations
- Glandŵr Cymru, the Canal & River Trust in Wales (CRT)
- Inland Waterways Association (IWA)
Restore and Improve
Restoration
- work with partners on restoration projects
- apply for grant funding to restore
- assist with expertise from our experienced volunteers
Protection and Improvement
- work with partners to improve conditions / facilities on navigable sections of the Monmouthshire and Brecon canal
- organise volunteer work parties to clear litter and cut back vegetation on the unnavigable sections of the canal
- support Glandŵr Cymru, the Canal & River Trust in Wales (CRT)
Educate and Promote
Skills training
- enable craft heritage skills training on canal restoration schemes
- run boat crew training courses
- school groups use our boats at Goytre Wharf as floating classrooms
- school group visits to the Fourteen Locks Canal Centre in Newport
- via our website
- presentations and slide shows
- through our displays at the Fourteen Locks Canal Centre in Newport, at Goytre Wharf and at other events
Fourteen Locks Canal Centre
Come and visit us at the Fourteen Locks Canal Centre on the Crumlin Arm of the Monmouthshire and Brecon canal.
The Fourteen Locks Canal Centre and Dadford Tea Room is a popular family attraction that is positioned on top of the Cefn lock flight, an engineering wonder of the industrial revolution that is located in the picturesque area of Newport. As a result of the support of the Heritage Lottery Funding two pairs of locks have been restored.
Find out more on our Fourteen Locks Canal Centre page.
Our Community Trip Boats at Goytre Wharf
Your perfect boating holiday
Relax, unwind and explore life from a whole new perspective.
Check out our excellent reviews online. Read our reviews
Welcome to a slower pace of life from South Wales
The monmouthshire and brecon canal is currently inaccessible from any other waterway and offers 35 miles of quiet pretty countryside from brecon to cwmbran. it runs through the brecon becons nation park and has just a few locks..
Berths Available: 2 – 8
hire a boat for the day
We have 3 boats available at goytre for day hire with a capacity of up to 12 people ., we also have a specially designed boat for wheel chair access allowing everyone the opportunity to experience the mon & brec..
Request an ABC Boat Hire brochure to be sent directly to your door.
don’t take our word for it…
Our welcome at the base was very friendly and all was explained well. We having taking narrow boat holidays for over 30 years now but always welcome an update.
Red poll finch from goytre wharf, it was a very pleasant week and good accommodation. first time for us and will do it again., red backed finch from goytre wharf, the boat was in very good condition, no fault to be found. welcomed to the wharf, easy check in & safety talk. they even supplied us with good weather, red sea swallow from goytre wharf, connect with us, keep in touch with us on social media to stay up to date with our offers and competitions. use hashtag #abcboathire and share your boating photos with us.
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Boats & boating, enjoy the beautiful canals of abergavenny and its surrounding areas..
Beacon Park Day Boats
Hire an electric dayboat, cycle boat or canoe from our wharf at Llangattock and explore at your leisure. Stop off for lunch at a canalside
Castle Narrowboats
We are a small family run business, offering a warm and personal service. Whether you are looking for an involving family holiday or a break
- Cymraeg ( Welsh )
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THE MONMOUTHSHIRE AND BRECON CANAL
- Things To Do
- Where to Stay
- Eating & drinking
- Great activities to do in Spring
- Cycling and Mountain Biking
- Explore our towns and villages
- Great Days Out
- Attractions
- Easy Access
- Download our Visitor guide
If you prefer smooth water to rushing rapids, you’ll love our canal. Once an important transport route, it’s now a lovely place for lazy strolling and boating. Peaceful and rural, with a flavour of times gone by, it’s often voted Britain’s prettiest canal. It passes through a generous swathe of the Brecon Beacons National Park, with appealing towns and villages to visit on the way.
Fed by the clear waters of the River Usk, the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal, or the Mon and Brec as we like to call it, is clean and pleasant, muddy though it may look at times. The 35-mile stretch between Brecon Basin and Pontymoile Basin used to be called the Brecknock and Abergavenny Canal. Almost all of its original course has been restored and is navigable – the only bit missing is a short stretch at the top, beyond Brecon Basin.
At Pontymoile, near Pontypool, just outside our Park, the former Brecknock and Abergavenny Canal connects with the Monmouthshire Canal and is navigable as far as the Five Locks Basin in Cwmbran. It’s not connected to the remainder of the British canal network, but enthusiasts find plenty to enjoy on this single length of water.
It’s a little under three miles from Brecon Basin to the first lock at Brynich. There are five locks in quick succession at Llangynidr. The final 23 miles from Llangynidr to Pontymoile are lock-free. Most of the way, it’s leafy and peaceful. It’s gorgeous in spring when the trees are in bud, and superb in autumn when the colours are at their best.
The canal follows the contours of the hillsides for most of its route, giving lovely views. It passes through the pretty villages of Pencelli, Talybont and Llangynidr before reaching the interesting little town of Crickhowell with its lovely waterside Bullpit Meadows.
After continuing through Llangattock, Gilwern, Govilon and Llanfoist near Abergavenny , eventually you reach the splendid Goytre Wharf which is not far from the end of the canal at Pontymoile Basin. At the wharf, there’s a marina with boats for hire and a Canal and River Trust visitor centre, restaurant and picnic area. It’s a special place, closely connected to the Blaenavon World Heritage Site , one of the cradles of the Industrial Revolution.
Messing about on our canal
All craft using the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal, including canoes, must have a British Waterways Boat Licence, which is included in membership of the British Canoe Union or the Welsh Canoeing Association, or can be purchased from the Canal and River Trust. The funds raised help support this wonderful waterway.
Canoes, narrowboats and small motorboats can be hired at several points on the canal including Brecon Basin, Llangynidr, Gilwern and Goytre Wharf.
Travelling by narrowboat, it takes a couple of hours to get from Brecon to Brynich Lock and back, or seven hours to get from Brecon to Llangynidr, taking into account the Ashford Tunnel and the Llangynidr locks.
If you’d rather let someone else man the tiller, you can climb aboard a narrrowboat at Brecon Basin for a scenic cruise to Brynich Lock. This stretch of water has magnificent views of the Central Beacons with the sparkling River Usk just below. Canal trips also operate from Goytre Wharf .
Towpath walks and bike rides
All 35 miles of our towpath are yours to explore, with wildlife-watching opportunities, pubs and picnic spots along the way.
From Brecon Basin, there’s a short, all-ability walking route which passes information boards, community art projects and a picnic area with a reconstruction of a horse-drawn tram on a short length of track. Find our Canalside walks here.
Brecon Basin is the start of the Taff Trail (National Cycle Route 8). The first part of this long distance cycle touring and walking route takes you along the towpath, past the remains of old lime kilns. The three mile ride from Brecon to Brynich Lock is easy-going and thoroughly pleasant. Whenever you’re cycling on the tow path, remember to give way to pedestrians.
Wildlife-watching
There’s all sorts of wildlife to be seen as you explore the canal. Mallards, moorhens, swans, butterflies and dragonflies are often around and if you’re lucky you may spot a frog or a kingfisher. Look out for shy, elusive mammals, too, such as otters, water voles and bats. To find out more, visit our pages on Wildlife-watching, birdwatching and nature trails .
Canalside restaurants, cafés and pubs
There are several convivial spots on the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal where you can enjoy tea, a pint or a tasty lunch, right beside the water, while watching the narrowboats, cyclists and ducks go by.
At Brecon Basin, you can enjoy the views of the narrowboats and ducks as you relax over something to eat and drink at at Brecon’s Theatr Brycheiniog Cafe.
Traditional pubs with canal side beer gardens along the canalised villages. There's also a café and restaurant at Goytre Wharf .
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Walks along the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal
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Jonathan & Camilla, Cambrian Cruisers, Ty Newydd, Pencelli, Brecon LD3 7LJ | Tel: 01874 665315 | Email us
- How We Build Our Boats
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- Stay At The Marina
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, why choose cambrian cruisers for your holiday.
- We are a family run canal boat business operating for over 25 years offering our guests the highest standard of service and quality that they deserve.
- Our Marina base is the only canal boat holiday hire company located at the Northern end of the canal nestled in the foothills of Penyfan in the Brecon Beacons National Park.
- Our luxury canal boats are all 4 -5 stars on the VB rating. We are constantly reviewing and updating our designs to maintain our impeccable standards.
- Our fleet of canal holiday boats, range from two to six berth all offering uncompromised levels of comfort and luxury and are all built on site by us!
- All our prices are fully inclusive with no hidden extras. A full inventory of what is provided is given on ‘Our Boats’ page. Dogs are welcome.
- Our team are welcoming and knowledgable in all aspects of the canal and narrowboating holidays.
About Cambrian Cruisers
- Privacy Policy
- Terms & Conditions
- Accessibility
Jonathan and Camilla Cambrian Cruisers
Ty Newydd Pencelli Brecon LD3 7LJ
Tel: 01874 665315
HOW DO I BOOK MY HOLIDAY?
- The grid below shows availability in green. Our season runs between March and November.
- Read our Conditions of Hire below.
- Click on your chosen start date below and follow the instructions to place your provisional booking.
- We will email you to confirm details and to let you know how to pay your deposit of £200. This can be paid by card, cheque or bank transfer.
- Once we have received your deposit, the booking is confirmed and we will send you your confirmation pack in the post.
- The balance is due within twenty-eight days of your holiday start date and we will email you to let you know when this is due.
- We look forward to welcoming you aboard and hope you have a great holiday.
If you need any help with your booking please don’t hesitate to give us a call on: 01873 830001 and speak to Nick, Sharon or Joe.
Start dates below are in bold and underlined
For handheld devices please turn your screen sideways to view availability
- Bookings A narrowboat booking is confirmed and binding when the completed booking form, together with the £200 deposit, has been acknowledged as being received by Castle Narrowboats. We will only let to persons over the age of 21 who will be onboard for the duration of the holiday.
- Balance of Hire Charge The hirer is responsible for the whole of the hire charge and the balance must be paid 28 days before the commencement of the holiday. We will notify the hirer when the balance falls due. If full payment has not been received 14 days from the date on which it fell due, then we may cancel the booking. The deposit will be non-refundable and you will remain liable for the full holiday cost.
- Cancellation Should the hirer cancel the booking we will make every endeavour to rehire the boat. If we are successful the hirer will no longer need to pay the balance of the hire charge, but the deposit will be retained to cover expenses. If we are unsuccessful then the hirer remains liable for the full balance. We strongly advise that you take out your own travel insurance to cover any form of cancellation
- Brochure / Website The descriptions given in the brochure and on our website are as accurate as possible but we cannot be held liable for any small inaccuracies or changes due to improvements to the boats. Layouts are not drawn to scale.
- Insurance The boat is fully insured, which gives the hirer full cover in the event of accidental damage to the boat or its equipment. However, should Castle Narrowboats feel that damage has been deliberately caused, or caused by negligence, it reserves the right to make a charge for the loss. Damage to waterways property, caused by the hirer, such as the loss of water, is the hirers’ responsibility. Personal injury to the hirer or crew is not covered by our insurance and hirers should check that they have adequate insurance of their own.
- Arrival The boat will be ready by 2.00pm on your start day . The hirer must advise the company if any of their party are likely to arrive later than 3:00pm.
- Departure Electric boats must moor at the base on the last evening of the hire period to facilitate full recharging for the next hirer. The hire period ends at 9.30am on the last day of hire and hirers must be clear of the boat by that time. If you are not clear of the boat by 9.30am you will be liable for any resulting costs to us. The hirer is obliged to leave everything in a clean and tidy condition. Failure to observe this return procedure will result in an extra cleaning charge of £50.
- Accidents The hirer is in charge of the boat, and its equipment, and is responsible for the boats’ safe navigation. In the event of any accident or damage to the boat, other craft or property, it is the responsibility of the hirer to obtain the names and addresses of the owner / hirer of any other boat involved, including the boat name, together with those of any witnesses. Do not admit liability under any circumstances or arrange any repairs to the boat . Any such accident or damage must be reported to the hire base as soon as possible. All equipment is used at the hirers own risk and Castle Narrowboats cannot be held responsible for any incorrect use.
- Delays and Restrictions Castle Narrowboats cannot be held responsible for any delays or non-completion of the cruise due to navigation restrictions, Canal and River Trust work programs and stoppages, breakdowns or other unforeseen reasons. We also reserve the right to restrict the cruising area without notice if unusual conditions arise and make no financial adjustment in any of these circumstances.
- Company Obligations Castle Narrowboats shall not be in breach of its agreement with the hirer nor liable for any delay in performing, or failure to perform, any of its obligations under this agreement if such delay or failure result from events, circumstances or causes beyond its reasonable control. If such events, circumstances or causes arise, the following terms apply: Firstly, we will, by agreement with the hirer, attempt to rebook your holiday for another date. If in our opinion no such date is available, your booking will be cancelled and we will refund to you all payments beyond your deposit. Castle Narrowboats cannot be responsible for any consequential or other loss to the hirer. We recommend holiday cancellation insurance.
- Hirer’s Property Castle Narrowboats regrets it cannot accept any liability for loss or damage to hirer’s or passengers property however caused. If you leave anything behind on your holiday we will package it for you but you will need to organise collection by a courier. We hold no responsibility for the items. After 14 days the property will be recycled or disposed of correctly. Free parking for up to two cars is provided at the base. Your vehicle and its accessories and contents are left entirely at your risk. We may ask you to leave your car keys just in case we need to move your car, we will not move it unless we have to.
- Handover and Repossession The hirer and passengers undertake to receive instruction from us in boat handling and agree to abide by our procedures as told and shown in the handover as well as the Boaters Handbook. In particular the hirer will comply with all instructions given concerning safety of the boat, passengers, canal structures and canal environment. This covers but is not limited to: a) Not cruising in the hours of darkness b) Observing all speed limits and not creating a damaging wash. c) Showing courtesy to other canal users. d) Observing all bylaws, navigation limits and instruction/advice from Canal and River Trust representatives. e) Operating the locks carefully and properly.
Castle Narrowboats reserves the right to refuse to hand over a boat to any person who, in its opinion, is not suitable to take charge. Breach of these conditions will result in curtailment of hire with no refund
- Passengers Only the persons whose names we have received may board the boat during the period of hire. Only the maximum number of people the boat is designed to sleep are allowed on the boat. The boats are designed for family parties, group bookings are welcome at the discretion of Castle Narrowboats. No one under the age of 18 years is to steer the boat unless supervised by an adult at all times.
- Fishing, Bicycles and Canoes Our boats are not designed to carry bicycles and they are, therefore, not allowed. Canoes are to be towed and should have the appropriate license and insurance. They are used at your own risk. No live bait is to be carried inside the boat at any time.
- Pets The hirer must bring their pet-blanket or basket as pets are allowed only on the clear understanding that in no circumstances may they lie on the bedding or seating. Your pets must not be left unattended in the boat unless in a crate. A charge of £15 for each pet is made, maximum two pets per boat, pets are not allowed on some boats. Any charges for damage or soiled furnishings will be passed onto the hirer.
- Electric car charging Included in your booking is a single charge of one of your electric vehicles (type 2 plug only). Please note we will need your keys and that this service is provided at your own risk.
- And Finally These Conditions of Hire are written to ensure that every eventuality is covered and that an amicable solution to any difficulties can be reached. Your enjoyment is our priority so relax and have fun while you experience the beautiful Mon and Brec Canal.
Your information and what we use it for
What we collect
To confirm your booking with us we collect the following information:
- customer and guest names
- contact information, including email address or phone number
- address information, such as postcodes
- any additional requirements you may have and feedback on where you found us
What we do with the information we gather
We require this information to understand your needs and provide you with a better service, and in particular for the following reasons:
- Internal company record keeping.
- We may use the information to verify any future bookings and any offered discount.
- We may send a single follow up email to ask how your holiday went.
We are committed to ensuring that your information is secure. In order to prevent unauthorised access or disclosure, we have put in place suitable physical, electronic and managerial procedures to safeguard and secure the information we collect.
Controlling your personal information
We will not sell, distribute or lease your personal information to third parties unless we are required by law to do so.
You may request details of personal information which we hold about you under the Data Protection Act 1998. You may also request that the information we hold about you be destroyed at any time.
IMAGES
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The Trust operates 2 community trip boats from the popular Goytre Wharf. The boats normally run at weekends and through the school holidays. Penelope's Café, Abergavenny Sat alongside the Monmouthshire & Brecon Canal at Goytre Wharf, Penelope's Café is an ideal stop for tasty food and refreshing drinks with both indoor and outdoor seating.
The Monmouthshire, Brecon and Abergavenny Canals Trust (MBACT) is a local charity focusing on restoring the Mon & Brec canal for its entire length. The Trust operates 2 community trip boats from the popular Goytre Wharf. The boats normally run at weekends and through the school holidays.
Our canal boat holidays in Wales and narrowboats in Wales are the perfect mon and brec canal boat hire. Cookie Consent. ... The Road House, 50 Main Road, Gilwern, Abergavenny, Monmouthshire, NP7 0AS Telephone: 01873 830240 E-mail: [email protected] Directions. Follow us.
The Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal offers 35 miles of quiet pretty countryside from Brecon to Cwmbran. It runs through the Brecon Beacons National Park, containing just a few locks. Learn more about Goytre Wharf canal boat hire now. Phone: 01873 880516. Phone to book: 0330 3330 590 (Free UK calls) Address: Llanover, Abergavenny, Monmouth, NP7 9EW.
Welcome to Dragon Fly Cruises! Spend a delightful few hours cruising through some of the most beautiful scenery in Britain, lying within the Brecon Beacons National Park. The Monmouthshire and Brecon canal hugs the mountainside above the valley of the River Usk. Through the four seasons there a fine views and an abundance of wildlife to be seen.
Set entirely within the Brecon Beacons National Park, the Monmouthshire & Brecon Canal (or 'Mon & Brec' to you and I) is among the most beautiful anywhere on the waterways.. At the southern end is Goytre Wharf near Abergavenny. Once it was a busy site where limekilns processed the limestone brought down from the mountains, and the boats transported the finished product.
Experience the tranquil beauty of South Wales by the Monmouthshire & Brecon canal. Home abclg 2023-07-10T12 ... Abergavenny, Monmouthshire, Np7 9EW Email ... CHANDLERY DAY BOAT HIRE HOLIDAY COTTAGES EVERYTHING CANAL BOATS ABOUT ABC LEISURE GROUP. Follow Us. Follow us on social media for all the latest 'goings on' and for all things canal ...
South to Pontymoile then north to Llanfoist, Llangynidr Locks, Talybont, Brecon and back - 7nts - total locks 12 (6 x 2) This Welsh canal is a secret hideaway in the Brecon Beacons for the boater seeking escape. This is the Diva of Britain's canals, set in the Brecon Beacons National Park with the Black Mountains as a spectacular backdrop ...
Looking for a relaxing canal boat, barge or narrowboat holiday in the beautiful Brecon Beacons, Monmouthshire and South Wales? Castle Narrowboats have boats to hire for a few days or a few weeks. See what the Guardian thought about our electric narrowboats by clicking here. See how Tim and Pru got on in 2017 aboard Skenfrith Castle on another ...
Canal Holidays Guide to the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal. Canal lovers often agree that the Monmouthshire and Brecon is one of the most beautiful canals in Britain, with outstanding scenery and the ideal route for a relaxing holiday at a sedate pace. Although only 35 miles long, this canal has the challenge of six locks, five lift bridges, a ...
The Monmouthshire Canal, including a branch from Malpas to Crumlin, was opened in 1799 with the Brecknock & Abergavenny extending from Brecon to Gilwern by 1800, finally reaching Pontymoile by 1812. Both canals were supported by horsedrawn tramroads that were mainly used to bring coal, limestone and iron ore from the hillsides.
Our Canal Boat Hire Base at Gilwern, close to Abergavenny (SO245145) You can find our narrowboat holiday base four miles west of Abergavenny. Gilwern (SO245145) is situated approximately mid-way along the canal. We are 20 miles below Brecon and 15 miles above Five Locks. You can thus choose between a cruise to Brecon, incorporating the locks ...
The Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal has, for two hundred years, wended its way through some of the most beautiful scenery in South Wales. Now its industrial life is over, it offers the opportunity to see the countryside from a unique perspective on your very own self drive narrow boat holiday. The Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal covers 33 miles ...
Welcome to our website. Our Trust campaigns to protect, promote, and restore the Monmouthshire, Brecon and Abergavenny Canals, together with actively engaging in restoration and educational initiatives. The canals are also known as the Monmouthshire and Brecon canal, or the "Mon and Brec". The Mon & Brec is widely recognised as being one of ...
Tours and sightseeing. Guided walks; Self-guided tours; Wales Best Guides (External Link) ... and for canal boat holidays. the full length of the canal towpath is a public footpath.The canal is a favourite location for the kingfisher to breed. ... Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal, Abergavenny, Monmouthshire, NP7 9NG. Website. Call direct on: Tel ...
Accessible Day Boat. Red Kite was designed specifically for wheel chair access. It can accommodate both electric and standard manual chairs. Maximum people all together is 4. Red Kite can be hired by the hour for £35. It is available 7 days/week. Please call Goytre Wharf directly on 01873 880 516 to book.
The Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal is currently inaccessible from any other waterway and offers 35 miles of quiet pretty countryside from Brecon to Cwmbran. It runs through the Brecon Becons Nation Park and has just a few locks. Berths Available: 2 - 8. Request one of our brochures.
The Trust operates 2 community trip boats from the popular Goytre Wharf. The boats normally run at weekends and through the school holidays. Penelope's Café, Abergavenny Sat alongside the Monmouthshire & Brecon Canal at Goytre Wharf, Penelope's Café is an ideal stop for tasty food and refreshing drinks with both indoor and outdoor seating.
We pride ourselves in offering a professional and quality service and look forward to welcoming you onto our boats. Located in Gilwern, ten minutes from Abergavenny, our base is ideally situated mid-way along the canal, enabling you to cruise in either direction. Our hire base and gift shop is our home and our private wharf allows for easy ...
Hire an electric dayboat, cycle boat or canoe from our wharf at Llangattock and explore at your leisure. Stop off for lunch at a canalside. Castle Narrowboats ... Abergavenny Monmouthshire NP7 7ER. All TIC enquiries 01873 853254 All enquiries regarding ADTA - 01873 853271. Follow Us.
Messing about on our canal. All craft using the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal, including canoes, must have a British Waterways Boat Licence, which is included in membership of the British Canoe Union or the Welsh Canoeing Association, or can be purchased from the Canal and River Trust. The funds raised help support this wonderful waterway.
Brecon Canal boat holiday hire - Find the Best Canal Boat Holiday Hire on the Mon & Brec with Cambrian Cruisers. Jonathan & Camilla, Cambrian Cruisers, Ty Newydd, Pencelli, Brecon LD3 7LJ | Tel: 01874 665315 | Email us. Toggle navigation. Home; About Us. How We Build Our Boats; Our Boats;
The balance is due within twenty-eight days of your holiday start date and we will email you to let you know when this is due. We look forward to welcoming you aboard and hope you have a great holiday. If you need any help with your booking please don't hesitate to give us a call on: 01873 830001 and speak to Nick, Sharon or Joe.