Afon Nedd / River Neath

Nearby Rivers: Swansea Area - Tawe, Neath, Afan and Ogmore

An excellent section of river which, when in flood, has a big volume feel with numerous playspots.

The Neath River:
Dinas Rock to Resolven

12 km grade II to III

When I did this section, I got on in Glyn Neath from the main road bridge. A far better access point is from Dinas Rock car park in Pontneddfechan which adds two kilometres of bouncy grade II TO III water GR911079. However, Dinas Rock is a car theft blackspot. Don’t leave valuables in the car.

The Neath runs in a beautiful valley, which is recovering from the ravages of the mining era. During a big flood the camouflaged slag heaps give up their secrets and the river can run a coal-black colour. Normal floods run brown which clear when dropping and make the abundant kingfishers flash even more as they lead the paddler downstream.

In the first couple of kilometres below the Glyn Neath bridge are a series of seven or eight weirs. All can be shot or played in, depending on water levels. If in any doubt, portage. There is an old stone bridge with various arches to choose from. If you are unsure of your judgment, inspect the other side as the weir stoppers below may give an unwelcome surprise! Some of the holes are superb for honing stopper skills. The river eases off, running fast and flat to the egress point at Resolven GR826032. There is a public right of way along much of the river bank here. An alternative for a longer trip is to continue to Aberdulais.

The Neath River:
Resolven to Aberdulais

8 km grade II; one weir requires caution

Access as above at the Resolven bridge carrying the B4434 from the main road into town. A small footbridge is reached below which is a small horseshoe weir step with good waves. Further down is a more formal weir with classic weir buildings on the right. Shootable at most water levels but, if you decide to portage, go left. The river slows down and passes through Wenallt woods on its way to Aberdulais. A good egress point is where the river bends right up to the road, before sweeping left and over the large weir by the confluence with the Dulais GR773994. Parking can be found in Aberdulais car park.