10 Must-Visit Places in Bannau Brycheiniog National Park
The Bannu Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) National Park is one of Wales’ most idyllic countryside destinations. Having spent my university years in Wales, this park has always been my go-to spot for day trips and weekend getaways. If you’re planning a “staycation,” a relaxing night away, or just seeking inspiration for your next adventure, you’ll love exploring these highlights in the Brecon Beacons.
Brecon Beacons National Park is located in South Wales and is perfect for those who love exploring rolling countryside and valleys. A hiker’s dream, the park boasts incredible mountainous scenery, waterfalls, charming towns, castles, and a diverse range of wildlife. Established in 1957, it covers a vast area of 519 square miles.
Here are my favourite places to hike and visit in the Brecon Beacons:
The park is famous for Pen y Fan, the highest peak in South Wales at 886 meters, and Henrhyd Falls, the tallest waterfall in South Wales, which featured in the Batman film "The Dark Knight" with a 90-foot drop.
How to Get to Brecon Beacons
The best way to reach the national park is by car, with easy access from the M4, M50, and A40. Alternatively, you can take hourly trains to Abergavenny from Cardiff or Manchester. Trains also run every half hour from Cardiff to Merthyr Tydfil, and four times daily from Swansea and Llanelli to Llandovery.
Where to Stay in the Brecon Beacons
There are many quirky Airbnbs and luxurious hotels in towns like Llandeilo, Abergavenny, Crickhowell, Brecon, and Hay on Wye. You can find great accommodations on Airbnb, Booking.com, and Hostelworld.
The Best Time to Visit
Summer is the most popular season, with long days and warm weather perfect for outdoor activities. Spring and autumn offer beautiful colours and fewer crowds. Winter is quieter and ideal for experienced hikers, with the added beauty of snow-dusted peaks. Remember, Wales is known for its rain, so pack waterproof gear regardless of the season.
Best Places to Visit in the Brecon Beacons
1. Pen y Fan
The Story Arms or Pont ar Daf Route: A gentle 1-1.5 hour climb suitable for children.
Parking: Pont ar Daf carpark (LD3 8NL)
The Beacons Circuit: An 11-mile advanced route passing Corn Du and Cribyn.
Parking: Pont ar Daf carpark (LD3 8NL)
Cwm Llwch Walk: A 7.5-mile challenging route with views to Snowdonia.
Parking: Cwm Gwdi carpark
Pen y Fan
2. Four Waterfalls Walk
A circular walk starting at Cwm Porth car park, featuring Sgwd Clun-Gwyn, Sgwd Isaf Clun-Gwyn, Sgwd y Pannwr, and Sgwd-yr-Eira.
Parking:** Cwm Porth car park (CF44 9JF)
2. Four Waterfalls Walk
3. Henrhyd Falls
The tallest waterfall in South Wales, famous for its appearance in "The Dark Knight."
Parking:** Free National Trust car park in Coelbren (SA10 9PH)
3. Henrhyd Falls
4. Llyn y Fan Fach and Llyn y Fan Fawr
An 18km circular hike in the remote Black Mountain Range, taking 4-5 hours.
Parking: Llanddeusant (narrow, uneven road; arrive early)
4. Llyn y Fan Fach & Fawr
5. Fan y Big
Known for its "diving board" stone slab and stunning views.
Parking: Neuadd car park
5. Fan y Big
6. Sugar Loaf Mountain
A shorter climb with views of Abergavenny, Usk Valley, and the Brecon Beacons.
Parking: Sugar Loaf car park, Llanwenarth
6. Sugar Loaf Mountain
7. Elidir Trail
A 2.5-mile walk through enchanting woodland.
Parking: Pontneddfechan car park
7. Elidir Trail
8. Horseshoe Ridge Walk
A demanding 9-mile circuit encompassing four peaks.
Parking: Taf Fechan car park
8. Horseshoe Ridge
9. Paxton Tower
Paxton’s Tower perched on a hill looks out on the Towy Valley, Carmarthenshire
Parking: Paxton Tower Carpark
9. Paxton Tower
10. Pontsticill Reservoir
A 5.5-mile circular loop around the reservoir, a few miles north of Merthyr Tydfil.
Parking: CF48 2UW (check if the bridge is open before starting)
10. Pontsticill Reservoir
Explore these incredible spots and make the most of your visit to the Brecon Beacons (Bannau Brycheiniog) National Park!