Ffynone Waterfall: The Enchanted Waterfall of Wales

Introduction

Ffynone Waterfall is a beautiful hidden waterfall tucked away in the Welsh countryside. Surrounded by woodland and away from the busier tourist spots, it has a wonderfully fairy like feel to it, making the walk to the waterfall feel like stepping into a little woodland world.

In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know before visiting Ffynone Waterfall, including the walk, what to expect when you arrive, where to park and what else there is to see nearby.

Quick Verdict of Ffynone Waterfall

Ffynone Waterfall is a lovely choice for anyone looking to discover a quieter and less well-known waterfall in Wales. It has a real sense of charm and character, and the fairy-like woodland setting makes the whole place feel quite different from many other waterfalls.

It may not have the size or drama of some of Wales’ more famous waterfalls, but if you enjoy discovering hidden gems and exploring places away from the crowds, Ffynone is definitely one to add to your list.

Where to Park for Ffynone Waterfall

The Ffynone Waterfall car park is located on an Unnamed Road near Boncath in Pembrokeshire, close to Ffynone Woods. The postcode for the area is SA37 0HQ, but I would recommend using the exact car park location on the Google Maps link shown above, or the What3Words link, as the surrounding roads are small and winding. There is an overflow car park on the opposite side of the road also.

If you are approaching from Boncath, follow the country roads towards Newchapel and Ffynone Woods. The final part of the journey takes you along narrow rural roads, so take your time and be prepared for passing other vehicles.

The car park is free and there are a decent amount of spaces for a lesser-known waterfall, but there are no toilets or other facilities, so make sure you have everything you need before setting off.

Tip: Save the parking location and route directions on your phone, or take a printed copy with you, as phone signal can be spotty.

Ffynone Waterfall

After making your way through the woodland, Ffynone Waterfall suddenly appears between the trees and rocks, and it feels like a little hidden corner of the Pembrokeshire countryside, almost as though you’ve stumbled across a secret woodland hideaway. The waterfall drops into a dark pool surrounded by moss-covered rocks, fallen trees and lush woodland, giving the whole scene a wonderfully wild and secluded feel.

The setting is just as much a part of the experience as the waterfall itself, with the trees, moss-covered rocks and still pool giving it an almost fairytale-like atmosphere.

The waterfall itself is not enormous, but that is part of its charm. Rather than being a huge dramatic cascade, Ffynone is a peaceful woodland waterfall with plenty of character. The rocks, trees and pool make it particularly photogenic, and there are several different viewpoints around the waterfall.

There is also a bench beside the waterfall, which is the perfect place to sit for a while and take in the view. With the sound of the water, the surrounding woodland and the secluded setting, it is an easy place to linger rather than simply arrive, take a photograph and leave.

If you are looking for a waterfall in Wales that feels genuinely tucked away, Ffynone Waterfall is well worth adding to your list. It has that lovely combination of woodland, rocky scenery and a secluded waterfall that makes the walk feel like it has a proper reward at the end.

Interesting Facts and Wildlife

The Folklore of Ffynone

There’s something about Ffynone Waterfall and the surrounding woodland that really does feel enchanted. Walking through the trees and coming across the waterfall reminded me of the film Fairytale: A True Story, which I absolutely loved as a child and which, looking back, probably played a big part in starting my love of waterfalls.

Along the route to Ffynone Waterfall, you’ll pass a large information sign about the folklore and legends connected to the woodland. It’s definitely worth stopping to have a read, as it gives you a little more insight into the stories and traditions connected to this area.

Ffynone is associated with Annwn, the Welsh Otherworld, and the waterfall itself is locally understood as a gateway to this mysterious otherworld. There are also stories connected with the Tylwyth Teg and the old Welsh legends surrounding the area.

I think the folklore adds something really special to Ffynone. It already feels like a hidden little world when you’re walking through the woodland, and knowing some of the stories connected to the place makes the waterfall feel even more magical.

Make sure you stop and have a look at the sign as you pass. It’s a lovely little part of the walk and gives you another reason to slow down and take in your surroundings.

Wildlife at Ffynone Waterfall

The woodland around Ffynone is just as interesting as the waterfall itself, especially if you take your time and look a little closer. I spotted these fungi growing from one of the trees along the route, which was a lovely reminder that there is plenty going on around you if you slow down and actually look.

Ffynone Wood is a secluded woodland with streams running through it and plenty of old trees, making it a lovely place for spotting wildlife and enjoying the quieter side of the walk.

Keep an eye out for birds as you make your way through the trees. Pied flycatchers have been recorded at Ffynone Wood, so this is a particularly interesting place for birdwatchers.

You may also hear or spot other woodland birds as you walk, especially if you slow down and listen rather than rushing straight to the waterfall.

Wildlife You Can Look Out For:

• Pied flycatchers
• Willow tits
• Fungi, particularly around old and fallen trees
• Mosses and ferns in the damp woodland and around the streams