Brecon Beacons Walks
Established as a national park in 1957, Brecon Beacons National Park is a beautifully scenic stretch of terrain in the south of Wales that features a wide variety of landscapes from rugged mountain ranges to rolling countryside, open moorland, and ancient forests. It was the third national park to be designated in Wales, following Snowdonia and the Pembrokeshire Coast in 1951 and 1952, respectively.
The park can largely be divided into four sections, with the Black Mountain range in the west, Fforest Fawr and the Brecon Beacons in the centre, and the confusingly titled Black Mountains to the east. The highest point in the park, Pen-y-Fan at 886 m, is one of the most popular walking destinations in Southern Britain, as it offers sweeping views that extend out across the Bristol Channel to Exmoor.
Thanks largely to the diversity and natural beauty of its terrain, Brecon Beacons National Park is an area popular with tourists and outdoor enthusiasts, seeing an approximate 4.4 million visitors who spend an average of £278 million each year. The Brecon Beacons National Park Authority has thus been tasked with conservation and enhancement efforts to ensure that the environment there is both looked after and suitable for enjoyment by the public. For those looking to experience the beautifully wild landscape of Wales, Brecon Beacons National Park is a great place to do so.
10 Best Walking Routes In Brecon Beacons National Park
The stunningly diverse landscape of Brecon Beacons National Park makes it an ideal area to explore if you are looking for an amazing walking excursion in the United Kingdom. A mixture of rolling countryside, tranquil ancient forests, charming villages, and dramatic peaks means that there will never be a shortage of amazing scenery, and that there will always be a wide variety of trails to match up with every skill and age level. If you are looking to explore the vast and wild beauty of Wales but aren’t sure where to start, check out this fantastic list of what we think are the 10 best walking routes in Brecon Beacons National Park:
- Pen-y-Fan and Corn Du Circular Walk: Arguably the most popular walking route in the central beacons of Brecon Beacons National Park, this trail will take you uphill to the breathtaking summit viewpoints atop Corn Du and Pen-y-Fan for a spectacular sightline across the surrounding mountains and picturesque Welsh countryside.
- Ystradfellte Four Waterfalls Walk: This is an spectacular adventure for those times when you aren’t looking to take on a huge day of uphill walking and simply want to explore the forest while taking in some amazing riverside and waterfall views.
- Llyn y Fan Fach and Llyn y Fan Fawr Circular Walk: Situated in the western part of Brecon Beacons National Park, this fantastic walking route will lead you across the rugged terrain of the Carmarthen Fans to visit the charming lakes of Llyn y Fan Fach and Llyn y Fan Fawr.
- Brecon Beacons Horseshoe Circular Walk: Another amazing route in the central beacons, this trail will take you high up into the mountains across the peaks of Corn Du, Pen-y-Fan, Cribyn, and Fan-y-Big to experience exceptional views of the surrounding mountains and valleys of the park.
- Brecon Beacons Four Peaks Walk: While this route may be very popular, it is deservedly so, as it will take you across the summits of the central beacons of Corn Du, Pen-y-Fan, Cribyn, and Fan-y Big. Traversing the mountainous terrain along this route will provide a great workout and outstanding views.
- Parc Bryn Bach Circular Walk: A charming walking route just on the edge of Brecon Beacons National Park, the Parc Bryn Bach Circular will lead you around a lovely 36 acre lake to experience some pleasant views of the surrounding landscape.
- Usk Reservoir Walk: This fun walking route will lead you through the Welsh countryside to visit the lovely Usk Reservoir and its woodland surroundings, asking for a great afternoon for the entire family.
- Talybont Reservoir Walk: Another great reservoir walk, the Talybont Reservoir Trail will take you through the open countryside and charming forests surrounding the largest stillwater reservoir in the central beacons.
- Fforest Fawr Circular Walk: A slightly difficult route to navigate, the Fforest Fawr Circular Walk will take you through the mountains for some exceptional views overlooking the park and the opportunity to visit the scenic Ystradfellte Reservoir.
- Llanfrynach and Fan-y-Big Walk: This challenging walking route will see you traverse the open Welsh countryside and make your way into the central beacons, where you will be able to visit the ‘diving board’ rock formation at Fan-y-Big and capture some amazing photos.
When is the Best Time to Walk in Brecon Beacons National Park?
While the climate of Brecon Beacons National Park is fairly mild year-round, the mountainous and exposed landscape can be challenging to traverse, particularly during the wetter months of the year. If you are hoping to get the most out of your walking adventure in Brecon Beacons National Park, the best time to visit would be during the May-September window, when the weather is at its warmest and driest.
Other Outdoor Activities in Brecon Beacons National Park
The diverse landscape of Brecon Beacons National Park makes it an ideal place to explore, no matter what your preferred outdoor activity is. While the most popular thing to do here is walk the park’s many trails, there are a great number of other opportunities available, such as camping, wild swimming, fishing in the region’s many reservoirs and waterways, cycling, horseback riding, canoeing, kayaking, rock climbing/abseiling, and stargazing.
Epic Adventure Tours Near Brecon Beacons National Park
While everyone can agree that taking part in a fantastic adventure is a great experience that will create lasting memories, the planning aspect of such an excursion can often be a tedious affair. If you are looking to avoid fussing about over accommodations, itineraries, and things to do, then you should check out this list of amazing adventure tours in the nearby South of England that will leave the planning to the professionals so that you can focus on exploring the outdoors.
Frequently Asked Questions About Brecon Beacons National Park
How big is Brecon Beacons National Park?
Brecon Beacons National Park covers an area of 1344km².
What is unique about Brecon Beacons National Park?
Brecon Beacons National Park is such a unique place, thanks to a diverse landscape characterized by a picturesque countryside, rolling hills, cascading waterfalls, rugged mountains, and beautiful forests.
What is the highest point in the Brecon Beacons?
At an elevation of 886 m above sea level, the highest point in the Brecon Beacons (and southern Britain in general) is Pen-y-Fan.
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Best Hikes in Brecon Beacons National Park
Llanthony Priory Circular Walk
The Llanthony Priory Circular Walk is a scenic and slightly challenging adventure in Brecon Beacons National Park that will take you up a steep hill for views overlooking the Welsh countryside. While out walking the trail, you will take in the history of the 12th Century Llanthony Priory, before climbing uphill along the England/Wales border. This is a fantastic adventure for those who enjoy beautiful views and visiting fascinating historical sites.
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Pontneddfechan and Ystradfellte Waterfalls Circular Walk
The Pontneddfechan and Ystradfellte Waterfalls Circular Walk is a beautifully scenic walking route in Wales that will take you through two forested river valleys to view stunning waterfalls. While out walking the trail, you will traverse the undulating woodland terrain along the banks of Nedd Fechan and Afon Mellte, taking in the views of Lady’s Fall, Sgwd Uchaf Clun Gwyn, Sgwd Isaf Clun Gwyn, and Sgwd yr Eira in the process. This is a lovely adventure if you are looking to cram as many waterfalls into your day as possible.
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Pen-y-Fan, Corn Du, and Cwm-Ilwch Circular Walk
The Pen-y-Fan, Corn Du, and Cwm Ilwch Circular Walk is a beautifully scenic - if challenging - walking route in Brecon Beacons National Park that offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the Welsh landscape. While out walking the trail, you will make the long and steep climb up to the highest point in Southern Britain, Pen-y-Fan, before traversing Corn Du and taking in the views overlooking Cwm Ilwch. This is a stunning way to experience the Brecon Beacons.
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Blaen-y-Glyn Uchaf and Wellington Bomber Memorial Trail
The Blaen-y-Glyn Uchaf and Wellington Bomber Memorial Trail is a fantastic walking route in Wales that will take you through the mountainous terrain of Brecon Beacons National Park to visit the crash site of a World War II Canadian plane. While out walking the trail, you will make your way uphill along a stream to traverse the mountainous terrain, eventually looping around Bwlch y Ddwyallt and Waun-Rydd to arrive at the crash site. This is an excellent walk for those with an interest in history and scenic mountain views.
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Sugar Loaf Mountain Circular Walk
The Sugar Loaf Mountain Circular Walk is an exceptional adventure in Brecon Beacons National Park that will take you across the Welsh countryside to climb a landmark mountain in the area. While out walking the trail, you will traverse the open fields and forests north of Abergavenny in order to climb the iconic Sugar Loaf Mountain, where you will have sweeping views across the south of Wales. This is a fantastic walk that is perfectly suited for a fun weekend adventure.
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Penderyn and Sgwd yr Eira Falls Circular Walk
The Penderyn and Sgwd yr Eira Falls Circular Walk is a beautifully scenic adventure through Brecon Beacons National Park that will take you across a variety of terrain to witness the natural beauty of Wales. While out on the trail, you will traverse the summit of Moel Penderyn and cut across the countryside, before entering into a forested river valley to view several waterfalls, including the popular Sgwd yr Eira Falls. This is an exceptional walk if you are looking to experience some of the most picturesque aspects of the Welsh countryside.
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Pontsticill Circular Walk
The Pontsticill Circular Walk is a fantastic walking route on the edge of Brecon Beacons National Park that will provide views of a reservoir and the surrounding Welsh countryside. While out walking the trail, you will leave the village behind to traverse the shores of Pontsticill Reservoir, exploring the woodland landscape and taking in the views across the water before making the return journey. This is a fantastic walk for anyone that enjoys spending time reconnecting with nature.
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Crickhowell Skyline Circular Walk
The Crickhowell Skyline Circular Walk is a lengthy adventure in Brecon Beacons National Park that will take you up into the mountains for sweeping views of the Welsh landscape. While out walking the trail, you will traverse the summits of Pen Cerrig-Calch and Pen Allt-Mawr, before descending into a valley on the return leg of the walk. This is a great route if you have a bit of spare time and are looking to get away from the crowds.
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Carmarthen Fans Walk
The Carmarthen Fans Walk is a beautifully scenic, albeit long and difficult, walking route in Brecon Beacons National Park that will take you uphill for stunning views over the landscape of South Wales. While out walking the trail, you will loop around Llyn y Fan Fawr, the Carmarthen Fans, and Llyn y Fan Fach, before traversing the mountains themselves for some amazing views. This is a challenging route that should only be undertaken by seasoned walkers.
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Hay Bluff and Lord Hereford’s Knob Circular Walk
The Hay Bluff and Lord Hereford’s Knob Circular Walk is a great outdoor adventure in Brecon Beacons National Park that will see you traverse two peaks to gain stunning views over the surrounding landscape. While out walking the trail, you will climb up to the summit of Hay Bluff, before traversing Gospel Pass on the way up to Lord Hereford’s Knob. this is an excellent route if you are looking to explore the eastern part of the park.