FOUR walkers joined Sylvia from Penarth and District Ramblers for the trip up to Glasbury or Y Clas ar Wy meaning simply the monastery on the Wye, which lies on both the Breconshire and Radnorshire sides of the River Wye.

The name originates from the sixth century St Cynidr who was the grandson of Brychan who founded a church in his name which he chose as his burial place and the old Welsh name was Clasbyrig, from clas meaning church land and byrig meaning a defended enclosure which was later anglicised to Glasbury.

Crossing the bridge over the River Wye it is interesting to note that after a number of wooden bridges were built and washed away in storms, during the 16/17th centuries it was decided to build a stone bridge but because of the expense both counties could not agree, so Radnor built their half in wood and Brecon in stone, needless to say the present six-span bridge was constructed in 1923 and is still standing.

On a glorious morning they set off climbing by lane and crossing the ford over the Nant Ysgallen where a path through woodland led to Penygenhill.

Heading east and gradually climbing through fields to a road, more fields led them into the small village of Llanigon where the village church is dedicated to St Eigon.

After an enjoyable walk around the churchyard where the oldest stone dates back to the 13th century and exiting through the lych gate beside which once stood the village stocks and whipping post, the route cut through the old Post Office which is now a hotel.

Climbing uphill and through Long Wood which is planted with mainly beech trees there were delightful views across the Wye Valley and upstream towards Hay-on-Wye.

Descending through an industrial estate and following a footpath skirting the River Wye’s south bank, a sharp bend in the river known as The Warren, probably because during medieval times it was a breeding ground for rabbits, made the perfect stop for lunch whilst watching people on its pebble beach enjoying the beautiful sunshine which was very warm for the time of year.

Tramping upstream and entering the town of Hay-on-Wye which lies on the borders of England, Brecknockshire and Radnorshire, this was once an important town with coaching inns and pubs offering food and overnight accommodation to weary travellers.

Its ruined castle was attacked many times by both English and Welsh armies and was destroyed in 1216 by King John, then set on fire by the Welsh Prince Llewellyn and suffered more damage in 1400 during a rebellion by Owain Glyndwr.

Making for the shop which sells the eagerly awaited sheep’s milk ice cream in a variety of flavours which was quickly devoured, they moved on across the river bridge to join part of the Wye Valley Walk.

Just to the northwest is Clyro where the Revd Robert Francis Kilvert best known for his many diaries charting rural life was curate in the church and this has connections with Llanigon, as it is the resting place for Frances Eleanor Jane Thomas, or Kilvert’s famous ‘Daisy’ who he wished to marry but was thwarted by her father who was the vicar of Llanigon at the time.

Enjoying stunning views towards the Black Mountains and the central Brecon Beacons in the distance and continuing through farmland, a climb to Briwnant led them back down to Llowes where the church is dedicated to St Meilig but the settlement bears the name of St Llywes, who apparently established a settlement there prior to Meilig.

Continuing the journey along the Wye Valley Walk eventually led them back to Glasbury after a delightful early autumn walk.

On October 2, meet 10am at Dinas Powys Village Square for a six-mile easy walk taking in Dinas Powys and Cosmeston; contact Geraint on 029 2051 5278.

Wear suitable clothing, preferably boots and carry waterproofs, food and drinks. Some degree of fitness is required and if you are in any doubt, then please contact the walk leader for advice.

To follow the group please log onto penarthramblers.wordpress.com or Facebook. Programmes and membership advice can be obtained from Pam on 029 2025 5102.