SWCC Headquarters and caving hut is a converted terrace of 10 small cottages in Penwyllt (History of Penwyllt), in the upper Swansea Valley, on the southern edge of the Black Mountain.
If you would like to stay at the cottages please also see the Bookings, and Guest Information pages.
Downstairs in the main cottages there is a large communal kitchen with four stoves and refrigerators, a dining room, a pay phone and the long common room, our main meeting room with a large log fire, which is where the action usually is once we have all returned from caving. See Inside?
Further along the cottages we have ladies and gents changing rooms, with hot showers and a heated drying room for damp kit.
Bunkroom accommodation is provided upstairs for up to 30 visitors (total in bunks and camping) and 30 members, and we have room for perhaps a couple of caravans.
Smoking is not permitted anywhere in the cottages.
Directly beneath the cottages is part of one of the deepest and longest caves in Britain, Ogof Ffynnon Ddu There are three entrances to this system within walking distance of the cottages. On the other side of the valley, almost opposite, is the entrance to Dan-yr-Ogof, also an extensive system.
"SWCC has a fantastic caving hut, consisting of a converted terrace of 10 small cottages in Penwyllt, near Abercraf, in the upper Swansea Valley. We welcome both experienced cavers and guests alike to stay and enjoy the friendly atmosphere, spectacular caving and beautiful views (when it’s not raining).
Bunkroom accommodation is provided upstairs for up to 30 visitors and ~30 members. Furthermore, we have a campsite and room for perhaps a couple of campervans and caravans.
The long common room is usually where all the action takes place in front of the large log fire, with members and guests planning caving exploits or discussing today’s escapades, either with a cup of tea or a pint, depending on the time of day.
Downstairs in the main cottages is a large communal kitchen with four stoves and refrigerators, a dining room and WIFI. Further along the cottages we have ladies and gents changing rooms, with hot showers and a heated drying room for damp kit. There is also a library and workshop, which can be used with prior permission.
We also have our own on-site pub (The Ruined Strumpet) which is opened for special occasions and serves some of the best local beers. Hog roasts, bands, ceilidhs, fireworks and large parties are a regular feature of our active and friendly club.
In terms of caving, South Wales has some of the finest caving in the UK. Directly below our cottage lies the spectacular Ogof Ffynnon Ddu, the second longest cave in Wales and the deepest in the United Kingdom, whilst across the valley is the stunning Dan-yr-Ogof. Most of the other major systems (Ogof Daren Cilau, Ogof Draenen, Agen Allwedd etc) are within a short car drive. The cottage, bordering on the Black Mountain and the Brecon Beacons, is also a great area for walking, hiking and cycling
Our membership is of all ages from 0-90+ and includes many family groups, with children of all ages. We also have our own family cottage, specifically designed for families with children.
If you are interested in visiting or joining the club, then a committee weekend (which is once a month) is the best time to get to know us, as there will be plenty of members around and trips going on.
We look forward to seeing you soon!"
