The Great Outdoors – August 2019

WALK

HERE

Photo: Shutterstock

BRECON

THIS HISTORIC MARKET TOWN IS NESTLED CLOSE

TO THE NORTHERN EDGE OF THE WONDERFUL

BRECON BEACONS NATIONAL PARK

WALKERS'

GUIDE

S TAYBUDGET:Cribyn Lodge

This guest house is known for its

friendly atmosphere, welcoming

hosts and luscious spa facilities.

synergymassageretreat.co.uk

MID:Markets Tavern Hotel

Located in the heart of Brecon, you’ll be

well fed and rested after paying a visit here.

marketstavernpubbrecon.co.uk

SPLURGE: Swn yr Afon

Modern, spacious rooms surrounded

by stunning garden — the perfect place

to experience luxury in Brecon.

swn-yr-afon.wales

E AT:Hills

A much-loved family-owned restaurant

serving up gigantic burgers, this is the

perfect place to recharge after exploring

the hills. hillsbrecon.co.uk

DRINK:Brecon Tap A cosy pub offering

a vast selection of international beers.

facebook.com/brecontap

DID YOU KNOW: Brecon’s cathedral

is home to Britain’s largest cresset stone,

used to light churches and monasteries in

medieval times.

WITH ROLLING HILLS and woodland on

its doorstep, this Welsh town is the perfect

destination for both casual countryside fans and

experienced hillwalkers. Take in the Georgian

architecture and visit the cathedral, with its café

and heritage centre. The Regimental Museum of

The Royal Welsh at Brecon Barracks is well worth

a visit too, while a short drive away is the ruinous

Dinas Castle – the highest in England and Wales.

There are many walks that start from the town

centre. Head along the promenade and through

the ‘Groves’ up into the Beacons to experience

an abundance of wildlife as well as caves and

waterfalls. Brecon sits around 5 miles north of the

imposing Pen y Fan, which is the highest peak

in South Wales – a perfect target if you’re in the

mood for a more challenging route.

Wander along the river banks or canal to drink

in the surrounding countryside towards Newport.

You could also follow Captain’s Walk and see the

remains of Brecon’s medieval walls and gatehouse,

or take advantage of good weather to cruise the

canal that links Brecon with Newport.

Brecon is within easy reach of many annual

festivals. The town’s renowned Jazz Festival makes

a return this summer (8-11 August), and you’re

spoiled for choice when it comes to walking

events. Each spring sees the Crickhowell Walking

Festival in and around the Black Mountains, and in

early summer there's the Talgarth Walking festival;

mark them in your calendar for next year!

1. PEN Y FAN
   Approaching this 886m peak
   from the north involves a steep
   climb. Start at the Nant Cwm
   Llwch car park or the Cwngwdi

• both about a 15-minute drive
  from Brecon. With much of the
  surrounding area once used for
  quarrying, beware loose stones.

2. TAFF TRAIL
   This 55-mile walking and cycling
   route will take you from Brecon
   to Cardiff. The trail, which passes
   through towns and villages
   on the way, is made up of old
   railway paths, forest paths and
   canals. If tackling the whole thing
   feels a bit daunting, you can
   just follow the trail to the nearby
   village of Llanfrynach.

12 The Great OutdoorsAugust 2019

ALMANAC