Pen-y-Garreg Dam, a historic Victorian structure in the Elan Valley of Mid Wales, is opening its doors to the public this summer for rare guided tours. Tickets cost just £2 per child and £5 per adult, making it an affordable family outing.
What to Expect at the Dam Open Days
Visitors can venture inside the dam and up its central tower via an access tunnel. Apertures in the downstream wall allow light to enter and provide a close-up view of Victorian engineering. Rangers from the Elan Valley estate will be on hand to answer questions, according to the Elan Valley website.
Pen-y-Garreg Dam, built in 1903 by Eustace Tickell, rises 123 feet (37.5 metres) and spans 528 feet (161 metres). Its Birmingham Baroque–style design is particularly striking when water cascades over it. The dam is one of four main dams in the valley, alongside Caban Coch, Garreg Ddu, and Craig Goch.
Dates and Booking Information
Dam Open Days are scheduled for Tuesday, July 28, and on Tuesdays August 4, 11, 18, and 25. Tickets are £5 for adults and £2 for children. Due to popularity, advance booking is recommended via the Elan Valley website.
The Elan Valley estate, owned by Dŵr Cymru Welsh Water and managed with the Elan Valley Trust, serves both as a water supply source and a beauty spot. Over 80% of the valley is designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).
Exploring the Elan Valley
The best way to see the dams is by walking or cycling the Elan Valley Trail, a 13-mile (21km) path following the old railway used during construction. The trail is mostly flat with tarmacked sections, suitable for cyclists of all abilities. Bikes can be hired from Neil's Wheels or Clive Powell Mountain Bikes in Rhayader, including E-bikes.
After heavy rainfall, the dams are especially dramatic as water spills over the structures. The valley also offers scenic drives and walks.
Where to Stay
Rhayader, a market town with historic roots as a staging post for drovers, is a recommended base. Accommodation options include Mid Wales Holiday Lets, which can sleep up to 44 people across properties like Glandwr House and Afonwy House, offering secure bike storage and hot tubs. Alternatively, Ty Morgans is a boutique townhouse with an on-site bar and restaurant, featuring original oak beams and stone fireplaces.
