When and Where Paddlers can Access the Upper Usk
We have negotiated a number of access and exit points for canoeing on the following 3 reaches, which comprise over 42kms of river.
It is important that you appreciate that like the Upper Wye, the Upper Usk is not suitable for novices and should not be attempted unaccompanied.
Some of the access/exit points are newly negotiated following complaints from local residents, so please check the details and maps. You are asked to remember that the right to cross land and canoe is given freely by generous owners and we rely on sensible use to sustain these arrangements. Please read carefully the terms of the reach before setting off.
Please let us know of any issues via the contact us page.
The Usk is a Special Area of Conservation and care should be taken not to damage any bankside feature or disturb wildlife. To protect the ecology of rivers that you enjoy use of, you must be aware of biosecurity issues and measures.
Overall Conditions
Continuation of the access arrangements relies upon all interests working together and conditions being observed for the benefit of all.
The following general conditions apply to all reaches:
- Please proceed in a generally downstream direction.
- You are responsible for your own safety and insurance. You proceed entirely at your own risk.
- Use only the designated access and exit points for landing, save in emergency.
- Follow the directions of anglers as to which side you should pass them. Avoid confrontation with other river users.
- Take all your litter home.
- Avoid confrontation with other river users
- Consent ONLY applies to the reaches indicated and does NOT imply or authorise canoeing on any other tributary or stream.
- Follow the Biosecurity Measures.
The Following Specific Conditions to the Upper Usk Reaches Apply...
REACH 1 – Aberbran to Brecon (6.5kms)
Dates for canoeing: 18th October to 2nd March inclusive.
In the event of high water outside this period, additional access is granted when the water height on the gauge at Brecon is above the red marker.
REACH 2 – Brecon to Talybont (12.5kms)
Canoeing can take place between 18th October and 2nd March inclusive.
In the event of high water outside this period, additional access is granted when the water height on the gauge at Brecon is above the red marker.
REACH 3: Talybont to Crickhowell (15kms)
(Restrictions between Llangynidr and Crickhowell 30 Oct to 1 Feb)
Canoeing can take place between 18th October and 2nd March inclusive (but please note mandatory exit at Llangynidr Mondays to Saturdays, 30th October to 1st February as detailed in the PDF).
In the event of high water outside this period, additional access is granted when the water height on the gauge at Brecon is above the red marker.
We were unsuccessful in negotiating a formal car park at Llangynidr – planning permission was refused by Brecon Beacons National Park.
Please ensure you are aware of restrictions to progressing beyond Llangynidr due to shooting at the Glanusk Estate from 30th October to 1st February.
