Wales
Gwaunceste Hill
542M
1779FT
About Gwaunceste Hill
This rounded moorland summit sits on the southern fringes of the Radnor Forest. Far less visited than the higher plateau to the north, it provides a straightforward walk over soft grass and heather. Its prominence as a Marilyn rewards hikers with expansive views over the Lugg Valley towards the Shropshire Hills.
Key Statistics
Rank
61st Highest in Wales
Parent Range
Central Wales
Prominence
?
165.1m
Nearest Town
Glascwm
Geology
This hill is built from alternating layers of hardened mud and silt. These fine-grained rocks form the solid foundation beneath your boots.
Find It
OS Grid Reference
SO158555
Latitude
52.1913°N
Longitude
3.2332°W
Did You Know?
- •The name derives from the Welsh gwaun, meaning moorland or heath, and ceste, which refers to a swelling or basket-like shape, describing the undulating nature of the high ground here.
- •The hill is part of the Radnor Forest, an area that served as a royal hunting ground in the Middle Ages. Despite the name, the terrain is primarily open, high-altitude moorland rather than dense woodland.
- •The summit is marked by a triangulation pillar, providing a clear focal point on a broad, grassy ridge that can be difficult to navigate in the thick mists common to Central Wales.
- •From the top, walkers can look south past the border town of Kington to see the long, dark escarpment of the Black Mountains framing the horizon.
- •In keeping with the rest of the Radnor Forest, the most significant threat to your solitude on Gwaunceste is likely a startled red grouse or a particularly judgemental sheep.