River Cynon facts for kids
The River Cynon is a river in South Wales. In Welsh, its name is Afon Cynon. It is one of the main rivers that flows into the Taff River. The Cynon starts high up in the mountains and flows generally southeast. It joins the Taff River in a town called Abercynon.
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Where the River Cynon Begins
The River Cynon starts at a place called Llygad Cynon. This spot is about 219 meters (718 feet) above sea level. It is near the village of Penderyn, Rhondda Cynon Taf. The water that comes out at Llygad Cynon actually travels underground. It comes from a stream called Nant Cadlan, which disappears into a cave system at Ogof Fawr.
Streams Joining the Cynon
Several smaller streams join the River Cynon along its journey. The Nant Cadlan and another stream called Ceunant Du flow from the hills of Cefn Cadlan. They add their water to the Cynon near where it starts. Another stream, the Nant y Bwllfa, joins the Cynon between Penderyn and Hirwaun.
More Tributaries Downstream
Further along, other streams flow into the Cynon. The Nant Hir and Nant Melyn join the river north of Penywaun. The Nant y Gwyddel joins it to the east of Penywaun. Two bigger rivers also become part of the Cynon:
- The Dare River joins the Cynon at Aberdare.
- The Aman River joins the Cynon at Aberaman.
The last important stream to join the Cynon is the Nant Pennar. It flows into the Cynon at Mountain Ash.
The Cynon Valley and Local Area
The River Cynon flows through a valley known as the Cynon Valley. This valley is a large area that collects all the water flowing into the river. The river is so important that it gives its name to a local government area. This area is called Rhondda Cynon Taf, which is named after three rivers: the Rhondda, the Cynon, and the Taff.
