Brecon Beacons National Park

The Brecon Beacons National Park, now known as Bannau Brycheiniog National Park, covers over 500 square miles, from Llandeilo in the west to Hay on Wye in the east. The National Park contains a wide variety of spectacular scenery, with mountains, waterfalls, lakes and caves. The Brecon Beacons is home to many species of bird life and wild plants.

In the Brecon Beacons National Park, you will find small towns, quaint villages and tiny hamlets sprinkled across the area. Ruined Welsh castles, Celtic standing stones and relics dating from the Neolithic and Bronze Age are to be found, some inscribed stones date from the 5th and 6th centuries.

Four mountain ranges are contained within the national park, each with its own distinct personality. In the west of the Brecon Beacons is the remote Black Mountain. An area of wild grandeur, sheer limestone cliffs and impressive views.

Forest Fawr (the name is derived from ancient times as a hunting ground), an area beloved by walkers, with lush countryside and wonderful waterfalls.

The Brecon Beacons National Park reaches its highest peak at Pen y Fan, over 2900 feet. The 'Beacons' were the sites of ancient signal fires. Here the views are awe inspiring.

At the eastern edge of the Brecon Beacons, the Black Mountains (not to be confused with the Black Mountain in the west), form the border between England and Wales, a border country of gentle landscapes, with easy access to the National Park.

The Brecon Beacons National Park is popular all year round with climbers, geologists, bird-watchers and botanists. There are all sorts of activities to choose from in the area, walking is very popular, not surprising with over one thousand miles of footpaths to choose from. There are guided walks, one way walks (catch the Brecon Bus to take you back to your starting point), even walks for those with limited mobility.

Visitors interested in cycling, horse riding, gliding, sailing, windsurfing, canoeing and fishing will find they are well catered for. The Brecon Beacons National Park hosts events throughout the year and is home to many interesting attractions.

You can find more information on the Brecon Beacons National Park Website, or continue reading about other National Parks with the links at the bottom of this page.