If you’re planning a stargazing break in Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) National Park, you’re in one of the best places in the UK to see truly dark skies.

The National Park became the world’s fifth International Dark Sky Reserve in 2013, recognised for exceptional night skies and the long-term work to keep light pollution low.

This guide focuses on places to stay that actively talk about dark skies and stargazing (not just “nice views”), plus a practical section on why the dark sky is protected and how you can help keep it that way.

What makes a “dark skies” place to stay genuinely good?

Look for stays that do at least a few of the following:

• Clear on-location stargazing (not “a short drive away”)
• Low-glare outdoor lighting (downward-facing, warm-toned, on timers)
• Dark-sky friendly extras: firepit area, blankets, red-light torches, simple star guides, sky-facing seating
• Prompts to book local expertise (e.g., guided sessions with a dark sky provider)

Those details matter because even small amounts of poor lighting can reduce what you see overhead.

Aberyscir Coach House

This self-catering stay combines comfort with a quiet countryside location. Its setting within the National Park makes it well suited to guests who want a more private, slower-paced dark skies experience.

Camp Cynrig Glamping Village

Set within the National Park, Camp Cynrig places its location in the dark sky reserve front and centre. With minimal lighting, open skies and peaceful surroundings, it’s a strong choice for guests who want to step outside their accommodation and look straight up at the stars.

Dark Sky Escapes

Dark Sky Escapes curates accommodation specifically chosen for their night-sky quality. Properties featured within Bannau Brycheiniog are selected for low light pollution and strong stargazing potential, making this a useful starting point for planning a dark skies break.

Basel Cottage

Basel Cottage offers traditional self-catering in a quiet National Park setting. With limited nearby lighting and open surroundings, it’s well placed for guests who want peaceful nights and clear skies.

Kaya at Blackhill Farm

Kaya at Blackhill Farm offers a calm, rural setting just outside of the National Park, close to Hay on Wye and on the Black Mountains, ideal for switching off after dark. With little surrounding light pollution, it provides excellent conditions for watching the night sky from the yurt-step.

Why dark skies are protected in Bannau Brycheiniog

The dark skies of Bannau Brycheiniog are a protected natural asset, valued for more than just stargazing.

• Light pollution affects wildlife, disrupting feeding, breeding and migration patterns
• Dark skies support wellbeing, helping people reconnect with natural night cycles
• The National Park works with communities and businesses to promote responsible lighting, protecting the sky for future generations

Choosing accommodation that understands and supports dark skies helps maintain this balance between welcoming visitors and protecting the landscape.

Make the most of your dark skies stay

• Plan your visit around the new moon for darker skies
• Allow time to enjoy the evenings — winter and autumn offer earlier darkness
• Dress warmly and keep lighting low to protect night vision
• Consider combining your stay with a guided stargazing experience elsewhere in the Park

Winter can be a great time for a family break in Bannau Brycheiniog. With fewer crowds and a slower pace, it’s often easier to plan days that suit everyone — especially when flexibility and simple ideas matter most.

Whether you’re staying for a few nights or planning relaxed days out, winter offers space to explore without the pressure that busier seasons can bring.

Choosing a good base

Staying in or near one of the towns around the National Park can make family trips much easier in winter. Town bases offer places to eat, warm indoor spaces, and activities that work whatever the weather. They also make it simpler to plan shorter days out, return somewhere warm, and change plans if conditions shift.

Easy winter days out

Winter days don’t need to be packed to feel rewarding. Many families enjoy:

• gentle walks close to towns and villages
• managed attractions that are open year-round
• indoor options mixed with short outdoor time
• cafés, lunch spots and places to pause

This kind of balance can help children (and adults) enjoy the day without feeling rushed or overtired.

Planning around daylight and weather

One of the benefits of winter is that it naturally encourages a slower rhythm. Planning around daylight hours, checking forecasts, and keeping plans flexible can make a big difference.

Shorter outings followed by relaxed afternoons often work better than trying to fit too much into one day.

A calmer way to spend time together

For many families, winter breaks are less about ticking things off and more about spending time together. Quieter surroundings and simpler plans can help create space to slow down and reconnect.

If you’re looking for family-friendly ideas that work well in winter, Bannau Brycheiniog offers plenty of options that are easy to shape around your own pace.

Family-friendly things to do in Bannau Brycheiniog

Towns and villages in Bannau Brycheiniog

Great days out across the National Park

Where to stay in Bannau Brycheiniog

Family Friendly Accommodation

Croeso i Ŵyl y Gelli

Gŵyl y Gelli: Dathlu Llyfrau a Syniadau ar Ymyl Bannau Brycheiniog

Y Castell

Arhoswch, bwytewch ac ymlaciwch yn Y Castell, gwesty ceffylau Sioraidd wedi’i adnewyddu yn Llangadog

The King’s Head

Tafarn hanesyddol 4 seren yn Llanymddyfri, Bannau Brycheiniog, gyda bwyd lleol ac ystafelloedd clyd.

Coachingmans Cottage

Arhoswch yn Coachingmans Cottage, bwthyn carreg Cymreig 5 seren yn Nhecastell, Bannau Brycheiniog.

Beacons Bluff Escapes

Mwynhewch glampio ger y llyn. Cabins gyda ystafell ymolchi, nofio gwyllt, caeio, a hwyl i'r teulu cy

Gwersylla yn Parkwood Outdoors Dolygaer

Gwersylla a phodiau gyda golygfeydd godidog, llwybrau cerdded a gweithgareddau dŵr ym Bannau

Tyn y Coed

Arhoswch yn Tyn Y Coed ger Aberhonddu – bwthyn carreg Cymreig 300 mlwydd oed llawn cymeriad.

Pwll Court Retreat

Llety grwpiau ger Crug Hywel gyda bythynnod wedi’u trosi a spa nofio.

Ein Trysor Cudd – The Pencerrig Collection

Luxury cabin for two in Pontsticill with valley views, walking trails. Easy access to Brecon Beacons

Good Day Out – Teithiau Asynnod Bach a Gemau Ystwythder

Teithiau asynnod bach tawel a gemau ystwythder ger Sennybridge.

September is truly a charming month to explore Bannau Brycheiniog, also known as the Brecon Beacons. With the hustle and bustle of summer behind us and children back in school, the region transforms into a haven of tranquillity. The typically pleasant weather adds to the allure, making it an ideal time to venture outdoors and soak up the beauty of this Welsh gem. And if past years are any indication, we’re crossing our fingers for an Indian summer—though it’s more of a hopeful hunch than a guaranteed forecast.

The days are warm, perfect for outdoor adventures, while the cooler evenings invite you to curl up in front of a log burner or open fire, perhaps wrapped in a warm Welsh blanket. September offers a variety of special events and accommodation deals, making it a month not to be missed in Bannau Brycheiniog. Whether you’re looking for a quiet reading retreat, invigorating walks, or a taste of local festivals, there’s something for everyone.

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