Directions:

If you're new to walking, then the simple 'up and down route' (to the trig point back) might be the best course of action for you to follow.

If you are fairly fit then you should consider exiting the Skirrid in the opposite direction and taking the long walk to the pub, via Llanvihangel Court towards Llanvihangel Crucorney - and the Skirrid Inn, of course. As befits a walk made for beginners, the route is easy to find and follow.

Legends:

The area is rich in myths and legends which bring the landscape to life. Its unusual shape has given rise to many legends and superstitions. According to one, the notch on its west side was caused by the underside of Noah's ark!

Another claims the ravine appeared when a bolt of lightning marked Christ's crucifixion. For this reason, the peak is also known as the Holy Mountain, while the name Skirrid is a corruption of Ysgyrydd which means 'that which has been shaken'.

Derek says...
There's a great view of Sugarloaf Mountain from the top of Skirrid or Holy Mountain. On a clear day you can see as far as the Malvern Hills in England. You also get cracking views of the Black Mountains and the town of Abergavenny spread out around the river below.

If you do follow our suggested path over the mountain into the village, you get a chance to walk through gorgeous farmland and pass the peacocks who patrol the grounds at Llanvihangel Court. Now you've earned it, quench your thirst in Wales' oldest pub. There are some gruesome stories associated with the Skirrid Inn but I never saw anything ghostly or horrible when I went in there - apart from my producer!

Chris Barber - Walking guide says...
Next to the trig point is a depression marking the site of a one-time Roman Catholic chapel dedicated to St Michael. Another landmark visible from the summit is the old pilgrams' destination, White Castle and its stone towers.

We traversed the Holy Mountain and made our way across farmland, passing the historic Elizabethan mansion of Llanfihangel Court, then on to the twelfth-century Skirrid Inn, reputed to be the oldest pub in Wales as well as the most haunted pub in Britain. (This walk was done as part of the Radio Wales Weatherman Walking series)