5 Unmissable Things to do in the Brecon Beacons

Lisa Jones • Aug 10, 2018

5 Unmissable Things to do in the Brecon Beacons

The park covers a region of 520 square miles, including four mountain ranges and 268 ancient monuments, so there are always plenty of things to do in the Brecon Beacons. 

#1 Waterfall Country

One of the most popular areas in the Brecon Beacons, Waterfall Country or Gwlad y Sgydau in Welsh, is a magical and peaceful place full of life and sound where the trickle and rush of water mingles with the rustling of the trees and the chatter of birds. Located in the Neath Valley, the area is part of the Fforest Fawr massif with steep tree-lined gorges and rocky limestone outcrops dramatically framing the famed waterfalls and making for an interesting hike for all levels. A visit to the region must include a trip to the famous Sgwd-y-Eira, the Snow Waterfall, where visitors can enjoy the unique experience of walking behind its curtain along a narrow natural path in the rock. 

There are many ways to explore Waterfall country with many walking trails winding through the beautiful forest landscape. There are 25 miles of official footpaths and even an audioguide which can be downloaded to learn more about the flora and fauna. You can even discover the abandoned remains of the area’s industrial past including mines, quarries, kilns and even a gunpowder factory! For the more adventurous or those looking for an outdoor challenge why not try a hand at gorge-walking, caving at Porth-yr-Ogof caves or canoeing or kayaking in one of Wales’ best locations for whitewater activities.

#2 Geocaching

Looking for an old fashioned adventure in the great outdoors? How about a treasure hunt? Geocaching is the perfect way to explore new areas with unexpected and ingenious caches hidden all over the landscape just waiting to be found. There are over 180 geocaches in the Brecon Beacons national park located in spectacular and interesting places, such as the site of a crashed WWII bomber. You can combine your hunt with orienteering course and improve bushcraft and survival skills.

Geocaches can range from small containers to larger old ammunition boxes containing geoswag (think small toys and random objects rather than gold and jewels) and a logbook. It is the geocacher’s task to seek out the geocaches using GPS through an app on a mobile device or even an Ordanance Service map and a compass. You can take the swag but only if you replace it with something of equal value for someone else to find and make sure to sign the logbook to prove you found the cache. It is an exciting activity and fun for all the family! How many you can find?

#3 The Skirrid Mountain Inn

Sat atop a previously shivering mountain (hence the name), the Skirrid Mountain Inn is one of the most haunted pubs in the UK and has a fascinating history. The building has stood for over 900 years, accommodating travelers making their way through the dramatic and often unforgiving landscape of the Brecon Beacons. It still serves this function today with its 3 visitor bedrooms, its wood panelled restaurant offering home cooked meals and its cosy fireplaces.
The inn is at the centre of local legends and folklore and during its long history is has seen its fair share of grisly events. Most of the hauntings associated with the site relate to its use as a courtroom and execution place. Convicts were sentenced in the building and then subsequently hung from an oaken beam, that can still be seen today. The spirits of these restless convicts are said to wander the building lamenting their fate. Do you dare to stay the night?

#4 Brecon Mountain Railway

Sit back and enjoy a relaxed journey through the Brecon Beacons on the Brecon Mountain Railway, which travels 3 miles from Pant, just north of Merthyr Tydfil, to the heights of Torpantau at 1313 feet (400m) above sea level. The vintage steam train takes travellers along the route of the original Brecon and Merthyr Railway which was built in 1859, and offers spectacular views as it passes along the length of the Taf Fechan Reservoir and climbs further into the mountains.

Want to know more about the history of this beautiful railway? A 25 minute stop at Pontsticill gives passengers the opportunity to discover the history of the line and those who built it at the Steam Museum. Alternatively visitors can take a walk along the picturesque Taf Fechan Reservoir or enjoy a tipple with a magnificent view at the Lakeside Cafe.

#5 Llandovery Sheep Festival

Taking place in September each year (22nd - 23rd September in 2018) the Llandovery Sheep Festival is a celebration of all things sheep! Taking place in the ancient drovers town of Llandovery you can enjoy Viking camp with Viking warriors and re-enactment battles, Wool Crafts, Craft Courses, Sheep Dog trials, food, entertainment, music, cookery demonstrations and more.

As well as enjoying the festival this is a great opportunity to explore the town of Llandovery and take in the atmosphere of this traditional market town.

Goboony

There are so many things to do in the Brecon Beacons and the best way to take advantage of them is in a mobile holiday home! Goboony  aim to provide everybody with the chance to experience the freedom of the open road and offer campervan and motorhome owners with a platform to rent out their vehicles to keen campers. They have all types of vehicles to match your unique needs on their website, whether you seek a new modern motorhome or a more traditional VW campervan, a short staycation or an extended adventure further afield, you can find what you are looking for at Goboony.

Trust is essential for Goboony. Wanting owners and travellers to be able to trust each other, through facilitating clear channels of communication and a safe and secure payment service. They make it simple to compare renting options on their website to help you find the perfect motorhome or campervan for your holiday. So why wait? Discover Goboony  and find your next four-wheeled adventure.

 

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