GUIDE TO THE RIVER TANAT
(Llangynog (SJ063260) to Llandblodwell)
NAME OF RIVER: Tanat
WHERE IS IT?: Shropshire/Powys border
PUT-INS/ TAKE-OUTS: You can get in near a campsite at Llangynog (SJ063260). We found the river a bit low here so we used the alternative get at the ford where the Rhaeadr joins (SJ129247)Out - Horseshoe pub at Llandblodwell (not co-operative landlord so possible alternative is where the river runs alongside the B4396 somewhere near SJ227240
APPROX LENGTH: 16km.
TIME NEEDED: 3-5 Hours.
WATER LEVEL INDICATORS: At the get in, the water must have been 2ft over the Road and this was about perfect. Any more and the trees would have been a serious problem and the fences would have required more limboing, any less and it would have been very bony.
GRADING: Grade 1/2.
MAJOR HAZARDS/ FALLS: Fences & trees, 3 or 4 small weirs 1 may need a look
GENERAL DESCRIPTION: The book says you can get in near a campsite at Llangynog (SJ063260). We found the river a bit low here so we used the alternative get at the ford where the Rhaeadr joins (SJ129247) this proved the better option as the river was quite low in places (only one pull though). At the get in, the water must have been 2ft over the Road and this was about perfect. Any more and the trees would have been a serious problem and the fences would have required more limboing, any less and it would have been very bony. Although kayaks might cope better with a lower level. There are 3 electric fences to look out for and a fallen tree just above the 2nd ford (not marked on OS maps) about 1 hr downstream. This ford has quite a few ‘interesting’ rocks placed on the downstream side and needs shooting with care. Have a look first. We managed it ok and kayaks would cope better. We shot it centre left. It is possible to portage for the faint of heart but if you have a faint heart you wouldn’t be here in the first place. Also look out for those dubious footbridges. Just above the weir at Pen-y-bont we stopped and saw the otters. Magic. Get out was at the Horseshoe pub at Llandblodwell. Unfortunately the landlord is not co-operative. The car park is locked when the pub is closed (3.30pm Sunday) and egress is not encouraged. This is due to alleged misuse by groups using the river. Although I would guess that groups using this river are very few and far between. However, there is parking near the church at Llandblodwell and we got off at the pub car park (with permission – just this once), moved cars and loaded up quickly. It’s a shame that he is unco-operative as the exit at this point is perfect. An alternative may be to get off where the river runs alongside the B4396 somewhere near SJ227240. It is a beautiful river and perfect for those looking for an alternative to the honey pots. All credit to Bec for the research she put in. The whole trip took about 3½ hrs and was a superb day. Thanks also to Nigel & Anna for the company and for having faith in Bec. Keep your wits about you and you will have a fantastic trip.
OTHER NOTES: A superb paddle - Off the beaten track
CONTRIBUTED BY: Ken Clegg.
