South Wales Caves

Ogof Yr Ardd is a long linear stream cave that has formed in the limestone just below the gritstone / limestone boundary. The cave has two entrances on private land, one in the grounds at the rear of Rhongyr Isaf outdoor centre (map) and one in the farm that ajoins it (see Cambrian Caving Council for details). The entrance in the farm (probably once referred to as Ogof Coed Cae) being the most unpleasant due to glass and other rubbish being washed into the cave . The initial passages are formed in the upper shaley limestones which are thinly bedded, sharp and very friable. Progress is generally by crawling in the stream with sections where you can stand up. A traverse over a cascade leads you to the top of an impressive 13m pitch, with the water cascading down the far side of the chamber. A 10m ladder can be rigged and drops to large ledges, where you can climb down to the bottom of the chamber. Once at the bottom of the pitch the nature of the cave changes as the water is now cutting through more solid limestone and you are now following a tall narrow rift passage. Progress is made by flat out crawling in the water, walking sideways in the wider sections or by traversing at roof level. The cave eventually ends at a sump. Organic matter enters the cave and as a result the cave has a distinct odour and is very much a collector's piece.