Things to do & places to visit in Brecon Beacons National Park, United Kingdom

Brecon Beacons National Park cover image

Brecon Beacons National Park #78 destination in United Kingdom 2023. The average rating score is 4.64 based on 5.872 traveler reviews, of 30 attractions. Timezone: Europe/London, current date and time: Monday, May 06, 2024, 4:31.

Brecon Beacons National Park Weather Statistics view more »

General weather summary in May

59°F - 43°F

Temperature Highs - Lows

Moderately chilly and breezy

Feels like

29%

Chance of rain

108.0 millimeters

Amount

15.0 mph

Wind speed

82%

Humidity

15.6

Daylight length

5:21 AM

Sunrise

8:58 PM

Sunset

42%

Cloud cover

Jacket

What to wear

Top things to do (26)

Top places to visit (30 attractions) view more »

5.0 Pen-y-Fan (972 reviews)
- Exhilarating
Mountains

At just under 3,000 feet, this is the highest mountain in South Wales and the jewel in the crown that is the Brecon Beacons National Park. See more..
5.0 Monmouthshire & Brecon Canal (534 reviews)
- Magical Canal Trip
Bodies of Water • Biking Trails • Hiking Trails

Opened in 1812, this major waterway runs 42 miles from Brecon to Newport, Gwent, where the first 33 miles are navigable. See more..
5.0 Sgwd yr Eira (321 reviews)
- Worth the trek
Waterfalls

My wife and I decided to come on the four falls trail after finding the Brecon railway was closed. It was longer than expected 3h30 around the whole trail but we managed it with an 18 month old in the backpack carrier. This is harder than others to get to as there are 170 steep steps. It is a difficult climb back up - we actually did the trail in reverse by accident so visited this one first. Might've been for the best as we were still fairly fresh. You can go behind the falls - I didn't as my son would have got soaked! But there looked like plenty of space to go past the water. Surprised to learn anything like this existed in the UK. See more..
5.0 Alpaca my Boots (114 reviews)
- Great day out walking with lovely alpacas in the Brecon hills
Monday: 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Nature & Wildlife Areas • Farms

Our alpaca treks allow you to experience walking and feeding your own individual alpaca. As you trek together around the Brecon Beacons National Park, you will learn some interesting facts about these enchanting and curious animals. The fantastic scenery provides the perfect backdrops for those all important alpaca selfies and photographs. We strive to provide you with a therapeutic and amusing experience which can be shared with family and friends. See more..
5.0 Llyn y Fan Fach (89 reviews)
- Amazing views
Bodies of Water

After negotiating a narrow lane we arrived at the car park, plenty of spaces but busy. We walked up the steep hill, past a trout farm and arrived at the lady of the lake after approximately 30-40 mins. The lake and views are beautiful. We walked back down but you can continue to walk up and on to the next lake, a great day out just make sure you take food & drink though. See more..
5.0 Trevelog Farm Pony Trekking (25 reviews)
- Fantastic!
Horse Tracks

If you are looking for a centre that can cater for all levels and experience then Travelog is for you. The staff were so friendly and helpful and the horses were fab. They all had great temperaments and made our half day trek really enjoyable. The staff take their time to explain and are patient with nervy riders. My 8 year old niece thoroughly enjoyed it and gained so much confidence due to the excellent encouragement and tuition by the professional guides, along the ride. As more experienced riders we were given the opportunity to canter along the mountain on a few occassions which added to the experience. The scenery along the way was stunning. All in all we had a fabulous afternoon and will definitely go back. See more..
5.0 Ardent Gallery (20 reviews)
- An excellent local cultural resource.
Monday: Spent < 1 hour Art Galleries

Ardent Gallery first opened in Brecon on the 8th of December 2004. In July 2009 we moved into this most impressive building dating back to 1589. We display a diverse range of artworks from both local and Welsh artists and artists from further afield. Our varied collection means there is a wide range of artwork to choose from and hopefully something for everyone. We hold a variety of exhibitions throughout the year. Ardent Gallery Open Art is definitely a highlight! A WARM WELCOME IS ALWAYS GUARANTEED and the friendly staff are always on hand to answer any questions and offer any help needed. The business comprises of 2 floors of Gallery. We also house a first class bespoke framing service on site and are able to frame virtually anything! Illy coffee is served in the coffee shop as well as a variation of teas and hot chocolate. Home made cakes by Mairwen Price. Come and see us soon! See more..
5.0 Crug Hywel (Table Mountain) (12 reviews)
- Wonderful hill walk
Mountains

We walked up from Crickhowell, this iconic mountain sits right above the town. This was supposed to be a fairly moderate climb but we found it sufficiently challenging for us hill walking novices with kids. The route was not at all signposted from town but we asked someone who showed us the way. A good strenuous walk, 2-3 miles from the town centre up to 450 metres. We crossed a farm along the way (see photos). Great views from the top and the location of an old hill fort, where the stones remain, albeit scattered now. Was not busy at all. If you like a hill climb then I highly recommend this walk. See more..
5.0 Pen-y-Fan (972 reviews)
- Exhilarating
Mountains

At just under 3,000 feet, this is the highest mountain in South Wales and the jewel in the crown that is the Brecon Beacons National Park. See more..
5.0 Monmouthshire & Brecon Canal (534 reviews)
- Magical Canal Trip
Bodies of Water • Biking Trails • Hiking Trails

Opened in 1812, this major waterway runs 42 miles from Brecon to Newport, Gwent, where the first 33 miles are navigable. See more..
5.0 Sgwd yr Eira (321 reviews)
- Worth the trek
Waterfalls

My wife and I decided to come on the four falls trail after finding the Brecon railway was closed. It was longer than expected 3h30 around the whole trail but we managed it with an 18 month old in the backpack carrier. This is harder than others to get to as there are 170 steep steps. It is a difficult climb back up - we actually did the trail in reverse by accident so visited this one first. Might've been for the best as we were still fairly fresh. You can go behind the falls - I didn't as my son would have got soaked! But there looked like plenty of space to go past the water. Surprised to learn anything like this existed in the UK. See more..
5.0 Alpaca my Boots (114 reviews)
- Great day out walking with lovely alpacas in the Brecon hills
Monday: 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Nature & Wildlife Areas • Farms

Our alpaca treks allow you to experience walking and feeding your own individual alpaca. As you trek together around the Brecon Beacons National Park, you will learn some interesting facts about these enchanting and curious animals. The fantastic scenery provides the perfect backdrops for those all important alpaca selfies and photographs. We strive to provide you with a therapeutic and amusing experience which can be shared with family and friends. See more..
5.0 Llyn y Fan Fach (89 reviews)
- Amazing views
Bodies of Water

After negotiating a narrow lane we arrived at the car park, plenty of spaces but busy. We walked up the steep hill, past a trout farm and arrived at the lady of the lake after approximately 30-40 mins. The lake and views are beautiful. We walked back down but you can continue to walk up and on to the next lake, a great day out just make sure you take food & drink though. See more..
4.5 Penderyn Distillery Brecon Beacons (1.156 reviews)
- A little bit of Welsh Spirit
Monday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent < 1 hour Distilleries

Penderyn produces award-winning single malt whiskies and spirits at their distillery in the foothills of the Brecon Beacons. Distilling started in 1999, and the first bottle was produced in 2004. Since then the distillery has gone from strength to strength and now exports to over 50 countries and has won over 100 International Gold Awards. Penderyn whiskies and spirits are also available across the UK in supermarkets, premium liquor stores, and online. We have an award-winning Visitor Centre and Shop and offer one hour tours or 2.5 hour masterclasses. Tour are available 7 days a week and cost £11.50 for adults if you book online, and £12.50 at the door, if we have space. (Book online at www.penderyn.wales) Masterclasses are held over the weekends and cost £60. See more..
4.5 Brecon Cathedral (511 reviews)
- Beautiful cathedral
Monday: 8:30 AM - 6:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Religious Sites • Churches & Cathedrals

Beautiful cathedral & grounds. We were disappointed to walk up the hill to the cathedral to find that the cafe in the courtyard was not open on Sundays. It appeared we weren’t the only visitors disappointed by this. It was a fine day to visit & it would have been lovely to enjoy a refreshment in the lovely surroundings See more..
4.5 Red Kite Feeding Station, Llanddeusant (359 reviews)
- Fantastic experience!
Spent 1-2 hours Nature & Wildlife Areas • Scenic Walking Areas

A purpose built hide for viewing the feeding of the Wild Red Kites . The hide has some wooden benches to sit on and standing room with a shelf to rest a camera on . We feed at 3.00PM SUMMER and then 2.00PM when the clocks fall back the end of OCTOBER. You need to be inside the hides before feeding time. NOISE must be kept to a minimum so that the Red Kites are not scared away. Children must be taken out if making too much noise . Remember these birds are wild and we have no control on how many will turn up or how soon they will dive in for the food . Every day is different and also weather dependant. PLEASE EAT, DRINK ETC ON ROUTE. WELL BEHAVED DOGS WELCOME must be on a lead. REMEMBER YOU MUST BE IN THE HIDE BEFORE FEEDING SO YOU WILL NOT BE TURNED AWAY . THEY ARE COMPLETELY WILD AND WE CANNOT PREDICT HOW SOON THEY WILL COME IN TO FEED . You may need to wait . If you cannot wait then there is no point in coming to see the Red Kite feeding. NO TOILET See more..
4.5 The Royal Welsh Regimental Museum (331 reviews)
- Worth a visit
Temporarily closed - Closed until further notice Spent 1-2 hours Military Museums

The Museum tells the fascinating story of four of the British army's most famous regiments. This long history, dating back to the 1680s, is told through many kinds of objects including uniforms, medals, weapons and models. The regiments have seen action in many prominent events, including the British campaign in South Africa (visit us and discover what really happened in the 1879 Zulu War!), And both world wars. Forty-three of the regiments' soldiers have received the Victoria Cross, and we commemorate their sacrifice and heroism as well as that of all the men and women associated with our regiments who have contributed so much to our country. Please note: For accurate and up-to-date information regarding opening days/times please consult our website. See more..
4.5 Tretower Castle & Court (274 reviews)
- Superbly presented.
Monday: Castles

A dedicated follower of fashion For over 900 years Tretower Court and Castle has been altered, adjusted and adapted. Much of this was done to keep up with style, fashion and the tastes of the time. The Picards and the Vaughans who lived here were rich influential Welsh families; the movers and shakers of their time. The displayed opening times are our general pattern. Please check the Cadw website for specific times and days, including closures. See more..
4.5 Llanthony Priory (214 reviews)
- Lovely ruin & ridge walk
Ancient Ruins

We visited the ruins of the Priory. They have free parking and also no entry fee. The site is definitely worth a visit, you can wander around the ruins, they also have a small bar, cafe, shop on site. The ruin is smaller than Tintern but more remote, quieter and free of charge. We then took the trail up Hatterrall Ridge and did a circular route around the ridge (Offa’s Dyke) and back to the Priory (6 miles in total). It was signposted. The climb up was really steep, but not too long. The view from the ridge at over 600 Metres up was stunning, with beautiful purple heather abundantly growing at the top. Not many walkers up there just the odd wild horse. A pretty tough walk on such a hot day, but the view was worth it. See more..
4.5 Crickhowell Bridge (123 reviews)
- Lovely walk
Spent < 1 hour Bridges

There is a lovy canal walk which start in Crickhowell and crosses the bridge. It takes about an hour and takes you along the canal path past lime works. It was a lovely day and a great way to enjoy some of the scenery. We ended up back in the village and enjoyed a cold cider. See more..
4.5 Brecon Tourist Information Centre (86 reviews)
- Helpful staff
Monday: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Spent < 1 hour Visitor Centers

A service set up by Brecon Town Council to enhance tourism and provide information for visitors and locals on attractions, services and events in the town at the heart of the Brecon Beacons. See more..
4.5 Brecon Basin Canals (71 reviews)
- Towpath ramble
Bodies of Water

Having worked in brecon for some time I hadn't realised how beautiful the canal and brecon basin is. Took a drive knowing another lockdown was approaching and parked near the theater. We decided to stroll along the path which goes on for miles & miles. The barages were poodling along aswell as a few kayaks and hire boats. Will cycle next time to utilise it fully. There are areas where you can take a picnic on a warm day. See more..
4.5 Lower Blaen y Glyn (44 reviews)
- Waterfalls Galore
Parks

Wow, is all I can say, these waterfalls were definitely well worth the visit. After what started off as a bit of a disappointing day in Talybont-on-Usk, the day just got better and better. We tried to do the Henry Vaughn walk first in Talybont, following the instructions on the leaflet we were looking for swan signs to guide us around what should have been a relatively short walk. Everyone in the village thought that we were mad, when we told them that we were looking for swans and nobody seemed to know what we were talking about. My advice to you is, if you decide to take on this walk make sure you stay alert as some of the signs are very hidden. We eventually found our way around and then went on to these utterly stunning waterfalls, which was the highlight of my day and well worth the visit, before finishing off at the reservoir. See more..
4.5 Maen Llia (39 reviews)
- Amazing place
Spent < 1 hour Points of Interest & Landmarks

Went there to get some pictures of the night sky and Milky Way. Absolutely amazing place. The only sound was that of the stream. Tranquil location See more..
4.5 Talybont Reservoir (26 reviews)
- Morning walk
Spent More than 3 hours Dams

Maybe the weather this week but a wonderful walk and site.. Really nice surprise and time to unwind and relax. If you have time walk up from talybont on usk, start by the cancel and follow the well signed path. It possible 2 miles each way. If not drive up take your time and enjoy. Please park carefully as limited and take litter home with you. McDonald's wrappers and caffeine drink cans rather spoiled it . See more..
4.5 Crickhowell Resource and Information Centre (24 reviews)
- Delightful helpful people
Monday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Visitor Centers

Along the main road, if you get to the Post Office gone too far. Maps and guide books, cards, gifts and coffee. Delightful lady helped us and gave us local information. It's a bit of a Community hub and main car park behind. Very useful. See more..
4.5 The Blorenge (23 reviews)
- Gorgeous views and an easy ish Trek
Nature & Wildlife Areas

A great walk with well defined paths. We walked from the canal to the top and back, via the punchbowl. 13km in all. We took our dog but they need to be on lead the whole way as there are sheep. See more..
4.5 The Kitchen Garden Ty Mawr (11 reviews)
- Tea, birds and wasabi rocket
Monday: Spent < 1 hour Gardens

The Kitchen Garden is a local showcase for small-scale food production using organic no-dig principles. You can visit us by appointment with 24 hrs minimum notice for a tour of the garden.We will take groups with a maximum of 10 people and a minimum of 2 introducing you to our practices in sustainability nurturing, conserving soil & gardening as good ancestors. £10.00 per head. The shop & cafe are no longer open. See more..
4.5 Llangynidr Bridge (10 reviews)
- For drivers, a narrow and long bridge. For pedestrians, lovely
Spent < 1 hour Points of Interest & Landmarks • Bridges

This old drovers’ bridge over the Usk is narrow with poor visibility of oncoming traffic from either side and very narrow vertical metal barriers to prevent over sized traffic from getting on to it. As a piece of architecture, it’s lovely. “V” shaped areas allow for modern pedestrians to stand and look up and down the river; the views of the bridge itself from the river banks are good. See more..
4.5 Penderyn Antiques (9 reviews)
- Bespoke crafted rustic furniture and antiques
Monday: Spent < 1 hour Antique Shops

Based in an old Chapel in Penderyn, we have a large range of quality antiques and hand crafted furniture. We are a stone's throw away from the whisky distillery and the fantastic waterfalls. See more..