Crickhowell
Crickhowell is a historic market town in the Usk Valley within Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) National Park. With an independent high street, historic buildings, riverside walks and easy access to the southern Black Mountains, it is a rewarding place to visit and a welcoming base for exploring the surrounding area.
Crickhowell
Many roads lead to ‘Crick’, as it is affectionately known locally, since it stands at an historic crossing point over the River Usk, marked by a fine 17th century bridge. The town of Crickhowell is a destination in itself and makes a brilliant base for exploring the southern Black Mountains and surrounding area. Lying at the foot of Crug Hywel, an impressive Iron Age hillfort this well preserved Georgian town is a popular spot to explore and to stay. Photo © Visit Crickhowell
CRiC – The Crickhowell Resource and Information Centre
CRiC is the local information centre for Crickhowell and the surrounding area. Call in for walking maps, local information, gifts and ideas for exploring the town and nearby countryside.
The centre also includes a café serving Black Mountains Coffee and homemade cakes, while the Oriel CRiC Gallery presents changing exhibitions by artists from the region and further afield.
Visit the CRiC website for current opening hours, exhibitions and visitor information.
The CRiC (Crickhowell Resource and Information Centre)
St Edmund's Church
St Edmund’s Church is one of Crickhowell’s most distinctive historic buildings. Founded in the early fourteenth century, the Grade II* listed church has a striking shingled spire, a medieval cruciform layout and memorials connected with the Pauncefote family.
It is an important part of Crickhowell’s historic character and can be included in a walk through the town.
Crickhowell Castle
The remains of Crickhowell Castle stand in Castle Park, close to the centre of town. Also known as Ailsby’s Castle, the site began as a medieval motte-and-bailey fortification, probably established in the 11th or 12th century.
The castle was later strengthened in stone. Today, visitors can see the substantial earthwork mound, sections of the castle’s defences and the remains of two adjoining mural towers — one circular and one rectangular. The elevated position gives views across Crickhowell and the Usk Valley.
The castle was attacked in 1403 during the uprising led by Owain Glyndŵr and was apparently not rebuilt. Its surviving remains form an important part of Crickhowell’s historic character and are a useful stop when exploring the town on foot.
Home of Crickhowell Walking Festival
Each March, the Crickhowell Walking Festival brings people together to explore the hills, valleys and historic landscapes around the town. The programme includes walks for different interests and abilities, with opportunities to discover the area alongside local guides and fellow walkers.
The festival reflects Crickhowell’s strong walking culture, with the town’s cafés, pubs and accommodation providing a natural base before and after a day outdoors.
Crickhowell Walking Festival
Walking Routes
There are countless stunning walks throughout Bannau Brycheiniog National Park. Here are some of our favourites
Beacons Way Day 2
Places to stay, eat and play around Crickhowell.
