Afon Clywedog

Access Officer: Dave Proctor, Capel Bethania, Cwm Cownwy, Llanwddyn, SY10 0NJ. 01691 870615

Nearby Rivers: Vyrnwy and Severn

Map:	136 Newtown, Llanidloes & Area
Grade:	II to III; one fall IV
Length:	6 km
Access:	B4518 Llanidloes to Staylittle road
Notes:	weirs demand respect at high flows
Quality:

It a took me 15 years of canoeing in Wales, and only whilst running rivers for this book, to discover the Clywedog. A great shame really, as it is a superb run. The dams, out of which it flows, were constructed in the 1960s to provide water for the Midlands. They also provide flood limitation on the mighty Seven. Depending on water levels in the lake, releases are made all year round. The staff at the dam are extremely pleasant and helpful, and let you know what the release is and whether it is any good for canoeing. In full flood, with high release and natural run-off the trees will become quite problematic and the weirs extremely nasty.

Bryntail Lead Mine to Severn confluence

6 km class II to III; one class IV

Take the B4518 out of Llanidloes and drive to the dam where excellent access can be had from the car parking at the old lead mine workings GR913868. Put on above or below the footbridge weir, which is usually shootable via a central tongue through the stopper. The hardest fall begins immediately downstream and is an exciting class IV blast. In a very high water it may, perhaps, reach the top end of its grade. Things ease off to class III and then to superb continuous class II+.

The first road bridge GR918864 is passed, which is an alternative access point if you don't fancy your chance with the first drop. About a kilometre or so below is a natural bedrock step that gives an exciting class III to IV shoot, depending on water levels. Below this are some great little playful weirs and steps. As you near the town a dilapidated bridge is passed, and there is an obvious weir by a caravan park. In reasonable flows this can be enjoyed down its centre channel or its edges but, in high water, the stopper can back right across, necessitating a portage on the right.

Further still, just before the confluence, are some nasty metalwork ridden weirs which demand respect for their size. Taking care with your line should ensure the canoeist avoids the grappling irons! If unsure then portage on river right. The very pleasant couple who live on the left bank like watching people enjoying their sport and have decided to clear out the weir for our benefit. Thank you. Once the Severn is entered good egress can be made onto a little track below the bridge, river right GR955847.