Hay-on-Wye

Hay-on-Wye is a charming market town, famous for its bookshops, weekly market, Hay Festival in May and Hay Festival Winter Weekend in November. Known in Welsh as Y Gelli Gandryll, it is celebrated around the world as the Town of Books.

About Hay-on-Wye

Hay-on-Wye, the Town of Books, is a lively market town in the north-east of Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) National Park. Famous worldwide for its annual literary festival, Hay-on-Wye is a haven for book lovers. Its eclectic mix of independent shops, cafés and galleries makes it a popular destination for visitors to the National Park.

a book shop full of books on shelves

Hay Festival

Each May, Hay Festival brings readers and writers together to share stories and ideas. Hay Festival Winter Weekend returns in November, alongside the town’s Christmas lights switch-on.

Hay Festival
Hay Festival Winter Weekend
Hay on Wye Festival site, a selection of marquees creating a village

Hay-on-Wye Tourist Information

For detailed local information, contact the team at Hay-on-Wye Tourist Information Bureau.

Hay-on-Wye Tourist Information Bureau

Hay Castle

Hay Castle, located in Hay-on-Wye, is a historic site blending medieval architecture with modern cultural spaces. Built in the late 12th century by the de Braose family, the castle has witnessed significant historical events and transformations. After extensive restoration, it reopened to the public in 2022, offering art exhibitions, educational programmes, and panoramic views from its towers. Visitors can explore the original Honesty Bookshop, enjoy the café and take part in cultural events throughout the year.

Hay Castle ruin and old main gate

Hay Market Day

Hay Market is held every Thursday from 9am to 2.30pm in the centre of Hay-on-Wye. Discover local produce, crafts and more at a market with over 700 years of history.

Hay Markets

Explore Hay-on-Wye and the surrounding area

Find places to stay, places to eat, attractions, activities and walks in Hay-on-Wye and the surrounding area.

Things to Do
Six timber glamping cabins beside a lake, surrounded by green fields and hills at Beacons Bluff.

Beacons Bluff Escapes

Six lakeside cabins near Erwood, each for two adults and up to two children; some have hot tubs.

Castello de Haye

Natural skincare, artisan soaps, fragrances and gifts made and curated in Hay-on-Wye.
A row of mountain bikes lined up outside a wooden café kiosk at Drover Cycles.

Drover Cycles, Hay on Wye

Bike Hire and Cycling Adventures with Drover Cycles in Bannau Brycheiniog
Traders and shoppers beneath striped awnings at Hay Markets.

Market Towns and Gateways of Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons)
A group of walkers smiling beside a woodland waterfall, with a Walk Hay hat in the foreground.

Sarah Price Hiking

Guided walks and hiking experiences in Bannau Brycheiniog with a local walking guide.

Camping at Baskerville Hall

Camping near Hay-on-Wye with countryside views, hot showers, pool access and Black Mountains nearby.

Hay Festival

Hay Festival: Celebrating Books and Ideas on the Edge of Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons)
Arched reception hall with a wooden desk and red-carpeted staircase at Baskerville Hall Hotel.

Baskerville Hall Hotel

Historic country-house hotel near Hay-on-Wye, with pool, sauna and Wye Valley countryside.
Traders and shoppers beneath striped awnings at Hay Markets.

Hay Markets

Thursday markets, seasonal Saturdays, local food, makers and vintage in Hay-on-Wye.
Spring-fed lake at Fforest Fields in northern Bannau Brycheiniog

Fforest Fields Glamping and Yurts

Glamping in handcrafted yurts beside spring-fed lakes in northern Bannau Brycheiniog.
Two adults and two children wearing helmets, wetsuits and buoyancy aids beside trees.

Black Mountain Adventure

Outdoor activity days, group adventures and canoe hire near Hay-on-Wye and Bannau Brycheiniog.

Where the Wye Wanders

Curated stays and slow travel experiences near Bannau Brycheiniog and the River Wye.
a girl on horseback in the autumn light

Tregoyd Mountain Riders

Guided horse riding experiences in the Black Mountains, suitable for beginners to experienced riders
White two-storey farmhouse beside a lawn and drive at Hardwick Farm near Abergavenny.

Hardwick Farm Bed and Breakfast

Two-room farm B&B for up to four near Abergavenny, with hearty breakfasts and mountain views.

Kaya at Black Hill Farm Rooms and Retreat

Dark-sky retreat in Craswall with handcrafted stays, outdoor baths and Black Mountains views

Grange Trekking Accommodation

Family-run B&B, glamping and camping in the Black Mountains, with riding and walking from the door.

The Wild of the Words – Cwmffrwd Farm – The Hayloft

Self-catering hayloft for six on a nature-focused farm in the Black Mountains.
Double bed with white bedding and folded green towels beside a large window at Tara Bed and Breakfast.

Tara Bed and Breakfast

Three-room B&B sleeping six in Felindre, with home-cooked breakfasts and Black Mountains walks.
Three horses looking over a wooden fence beneath leafy trees.

Grange Horse Riding and Trekking Centre

Grange Trekking: Horse Riding Adventures in the Black Mountains and Brecon Beacons
The photo shows cloud/fog filling the valley below Hay Bluff at sunset

Offa’s Dyke National Trail

The Wild of the Words – Camping at Cwmffrwd Farm

Spacious meadow camping and bell tents on a nature-focused farm in the Black Mountains.
Double bed with a woven headboard and striped cushion at Upstairs at the Cheese Market.

Upstairs at the Cheese Market

Self-catering apartment for two above Hay-on-Wye’s historic Cheese Market.

Walking Routes

There are countless stunning walks throughout Bannau Brycheiniog National Park. Here are some of our favourites

View all
a path running from the mountain side going towards table mountain a flat topped area with an iron age fort

Crickhowell to Table Mountain

A short but steep walk up the mountain to admire the views from the hillfort which crowns it.

Light grey curved lines on a green background

Along the Govilon Line

Along the Govilon Line – walk between two canal side villages along the route of the old railway line.

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Brecon

Y Gaer Museum (© Brecon Story)

The historic market town of Brecon, known as Aberhonddu in Welsh, offers a warm welcome with bustling streets, independent shops, a cathedral, museums and plenty of cafés.

About Brecon

Brecon is a historic market town at the heart of Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) National Park, offering culture, character and outdoor adventure. Georgian and Victorian buildings sit alongside the remains of its medieval castle and historic cathedral. Visitors can explore independent shops, welcoming cafés and traditional pubs while enjoying the town’s friendly atmosphere.

Brecon Story

Discover Brecon’s fascinating history with WALK: The Brecon Story. Follow its Google Earth map around the town or visit the Brecon Story website to read the complete guide.

Brecon Story Walk
Brecon Story Google Earth map
a view of the houses in street in Brecon, Georgian Architecture

Visit Brecon – Tourist Information

If you need local advice, visit the knowledgeable team at Visit Brecon. They can help with places to stay and eat, walking routes, activities and things to see, as well as information about guided walks around the town. The centre is in Lion Street, beside the main town-centre car parks and public toilets.

Visit Brecon
a member if the team at Visit Brecon ready to help you. a selection of leaflets in front of her

Brecon Cathedral

Brecon has a cathedral but is not a city. The former Priory Church of St John became Brecon Cathedral in 1923, when the Diocese of Swansea and Brecon was created. The cathedral is well worth seeking out, with volunteer welcomers available to help visitors explore its history. It remains an important place of worship and community venue, with a varied programme of events throughout the year.

Brecon Cathedral

Explore Brecon and the surrounding area

Find places to stay, places to eat, attractions, activities and walks in Brecon and the surrounding area.

Things to Do

Storey Arms to Craig-y-Nos (Beacons Way -Day 5)

Cefncoedbach Farm, Woodland View

Spacious holiday cottage near Brecon, perfect for families, groups, walking holidays and exploring.
Twin en-suite bedroom with exposed beams at Ty Newydd Farmhouse

Ty Newydd Holidays

Farmhouse B&B and four self-catering cottages by the canal near Brecon.
Caban Tarren off-grid cabin overlooking the Black Mountains in Bannau Brycheiniog

Ty’r Philip Evan Farm

Quiet farm stay near Crickhowell ideal for couples and solo travellers in Bannau Brycheiniog.
Live music and festival atmosphere in Brecon, Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons)

Why Brecon is Becoming the Music Town of Bannau Brycheiniog
Stone cottage buildings behind a lawn, flowering tree and timber fence with a Caebetran Farm sign.

The Granary at Caebetran Farm

Farm cottage for four near Felin Fach, with two en-suite bedrooms and hillside views.
White-painted Glanpant Bach cottage beside a green field and country lane.

Glanpant

Two-bedroom cottage for four in Bwlch, with mountain views, bike storage and one dog by agreement.
Brecon Tap pub frontage in central Brecon”

Brecon Tap

Welcoming pub in central Brecon serving real ales, homecooked pies and live music.
The house and glass-roofed conservatory at Penpont, seen from the garden.

The Courtyard Wing, Penpont

Grade I listed country retreat sleeping up to 16, with gardens, farm shop and riverside sauna.
Picnic tables, a timber shelter and colourful bunting beside a woodland path at Woodland Park Glamping.

Woodland Park Glamping

Off-grid woodland cabins and pods near Brecon, with private fire pits and varied facilities.
Visitors beside the underground waterfalls in Cathedral Cave at Dan-yr-Ogof

Dan-yr-Ogof, National Showcaves Centre for Wales

Three showcaves, 250 life-sized dinosaurs and Shire horses—included in one ticket at Abercraf.
a canvas tent set up under trees by the river in late summer

Camping at Penpont

Quiet, informal riverside camping with farm shop, sauna, and starlit campfires.
Sofa and coffee table beside Seren Bach’s wide triangular-framed window overlooking the countryside.

Seren Bach at Argoed Barns

Dog-friendly glamping dome for two near Felin-fach, with a private hot tub and stargazing window.

The Wild of the Words – Cwmffrwd Farm – The Hayloft

Self-catering hayloft for six on a nature-focused farm in the Black Mountains.
Visitors walking beside the underground River Llynfell in Dan-yr-Ogof cave

The Showcaves at Dan-yr-Ogof

Explore Dan-yr-Ogof, Cathedral Cave and Bone Cave—three underground experiences in one ticket.

Cefncoedbach Farm Holiday Cottages

Two holiday cottages near Brecon sleeping up to 10, ideal for families, groups and walking holidays.

Brecon Prom
Aerial view of caravan and camping pitches beside Bryndu Farm, surrounded by fields and distant hills.

Bryndu Caravan and Camping

Peaceful caravan and camping park near Llyswen, with dark skies and mountain views.
Stone-fronted Grange Guest House with green window frames and railings beside the pavement.

The Grange Guest House, Bed and Breakfast

Brecon B&B with en-suite rooms, a family room for four, parking and EV charging.

Serydda

Stargazing experiences and astrophotography workshops in Bannau Brycheiniog Dark Sky Reserve.

Camden Lodge Cottage

One-bedroom self-catering cottage in Brecon for two, with parking, Wi-Fi and the town centre nearby.

Mynydd Illtud Common Walk
A grey shepherd’s hut beside picnic tables and a barbecue area at Camp Cynrig.

Camp Cynrig Glamping Village

Two bell tents and a six-person cabin near Brecon, with private facilities and outdoor cooking.

Ty Newydd Farmhouse Bed and Breakfast

Farmhouse B&B near Brecon with four en-suite rooms sleeping eight, canal walks and mountain views.

Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal Towpath
Twin bedroom with exposed beams at Ty Newydd self-catering cottages

Ty Newydd Self Catering Cottages, Dragonfly Cottage

Two-bedroom cottage for four near Brecon, with a wood burner, canal access and space for one dog.
Road House Narrowboats canal boat holiday in Bannau Brycheiniog

Road House Narrowboats

Canal boat holidays on the Monmouthshire & Brecon Canal in Bannau Brycheiniog National Park.

Llangynidr to Storey Arms (Beacons Way -day 4)
Bedside radio and flowers beside a double bed with patterned wallpaper at The Felin Fach Griffin.

The Felin Fach Griffin

Dining pub with eight en-suite rooms at Felin-fach, serving seasonal food throughout the year.
Wooden sauna benches, heater stones and a bucket with ladle.

Peterstone Court Spa

Vaulted-cellar spa near Brecon, with bookable treatments, spa days, Jacuzzi and sauna.
an exterior shot of the Visit Brecon Offices in Lion Street

Visit Brecon

Visit Brecon Tourist Information Centre: Your Gateway to Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons)
Whitewashed Bryniau Pell cottage with open glazed doors, patio seating and hanging flower baskets.

Aber Cottages, Bryniau Pell

Farm cottage near Crai sleeping six plus two infants, with three bedrooms, a nursery and garden.
Large lawn in The Dairy’s private garden at Ty Mawr, bordered by shrubs, mature trees and a stone wall

Ty Mawr Collection

Five cottages in Llanfrynach, sleeping two to four, with dog-friendly and dog-free options.
A red two-seat glider flying above a grassy airfield with the Black Mountains behind.

Black Mountains Gliding Club

Gliding experience flights and training from Talgarth Airfield in Bannau Brycheiniog.
Bedroom at The Bothy, Ty Mawr, with a wooden bed, purple bedding and exposed timber beams

Ty Mawr Collection, The Bothy

Dog-friendly cottage for four in Llanfrynach, with two bedrooms, a wood burner and private parking.
Snow-covered mountain ridge and steep slopes beneath a blue sky

Trig Point Adventures

Guided walks and Hill and Mountain Skills courses with Dorian Thomas in Bannau Brycheiniog.
Cobbled driveway, wooden gate and exterior steps beside The Old Sunday School Room near Trecastle.

The Old Sunday School Room, Trecastle

A converted Victorian Sunday school near Trecastle, sleeping four to six, with walks nearby.

The Coach House

Six-room boutique B&B in Brecon, with breakfast, Wi-Fi, bike storage and limited private parking.
Wicker armchairs and a low table beside the wide triangular-panelled window overlooking countryside in Seren Mawr.

Seren Mawr at Argoed Barns

Dog-friendly glamping dome for two near Felin-fach, with a private hot tub and wood burner.
Twin bedroom with exposed beams at Ty Newydd self-catering cottages

Ty Newydd Self Catering Cottages, Marina View

Spacious three-bedroom cottage for six with an enclosed garden beside the canal near Brecon.
White stone Arch Cottage with blue window frames and entrance, beside a fenced lawn and patio seating.

Arch Cottage

Two-bedroom cottage for one to three near Brecon, with a wood burner and private garden; no pets.

Riversounds Waterfall Cabin

Waterfall cabin for two in Llangynidr, with wood burner, balcony and riverside views.
White Shire horse grazing beside a dark foal at Dan-yr-Ogof

Shire Horses, Victorian Farm and Iron Age Village at Dan-yr-Ogof

Meet Shire horses and farm animals, then explore Victorian and Iron Age life at Dan-yr-Ogof.

Beacons Pottery

Hands-on pottery workshops and creative ceramic experiences in Bannau Brycheiniog.
townhouse accommodation Brecon Beacons

Cantre Selyf – The Wing

Characterful self-catering stay in the heart of Brecon near Bannau Brycheiniog.
Brecon Choir Festival 2026 Poster detailing events and choirs

Brecon Choir Festival   16-19 July
Leather armchairs and a table lamp in a wood-panelled lounge at Peterstone Court.

Peterstone Court

Country-house hotel near Brecon with 12 en-suite rooms, dining, a cellar spa and event spaces.

Brecon Story

An insight to the ‘fabric’ of our town – what makes it special, both then and now
Pale grey fitted kitchen with wooden worktops, oven, fridge and dishwasher

Aber Cottages

Stay on a 200-acre organic Welsh farm in Bannau Brycheiniog

The Wild of the Words – Camping at Cwmffrwd Farm

Spacious meadow camping and bell tents on a nature-focused farm in the Black Mountains.

Walking Routes

There are countless stunning walks throughout Bannau Brycheiniog National Park. Here are some of our favourites

View all
A group of walkers smiling beside a woodland waterfall, with a Walk Hay hat in the foreground.

Sarah Price Hiking

Guided walks and hiking experiences in Bannau Brycheiniog with a local walking guide.

a path through a forest of pines sun is coming through the trees

Taf Fechan River Walk

This is a moderate, circular walk in woodland alongside the Taf Fechan (not suitable for wheelchairs or those with very limited mobility).

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Abergavenny (Y Fenni)

For many visitors, Abergavenny is a gateway to Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) National Park. Arrive by train, then explore this vibrant market town with its rich history, castle and delicious local produce, all set against a backdrop of rolling hills.

About Abergavenny

Abergavenny, a lively market town in Monmouthshire, is celebrated for its culinary delights, with the Abergavenny Food Festival every September drawing food lovers from far and wide. Weekly food and craft markets highlight local artisans, while the town’s independent shops offer a unique shopping experience. Historically known as Gobannium to the Romans and Y Fenni in Welsh, Abergavenny is surrounded by seven hills. It serves as a gateway to the Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) National Park, easily accessible via its well-connected train station. Image (c) Visit Monmouth

Visitors enjoying Abergavenny Food Festival in the town centre

Visit Abergavenny Tourist Information

The friendly team at Abergavenny National Park Visitor Information and Shop offers expert advice on attractions, activities and local highlights to help you enjoy your visit.

Abergavenny National Park Visitor Information and Shop

Linda Vista Gardens and Castle Meadow

Linda Vista Gardens offers a peaceful retreat with beautiful flower displays, open lawns, and stunning views of the surrounding hills. Nearby, Castle Meadow provides a natural green space perfect for picnics, walks, and enjoying Abergavenny’s historic charm. Both are ideal spots to relax and soak up the town’s beauty.

St Mary's Priory Church

St Mary’s Priory Church, often called the “Westminster Abbey of Wales,” is one of the largest and finest parish churches in Wales. Founded in the late 11th century by Hamelin de Balun, it boasts a rich history and houses a remarkable collection of medieval monuments and effigies. Visitors can explore the restored Tithe Barn, which now serves as a heritage centre, offering interactive exhibitions that chronicle the history of both the church and Abergavenny. The church is open daily for visitors seeking to admire its architecture, delve into its storied past, or find a moment of tranquility

Market Hall

Abergavenny Market Hall, situated in the town’s heart, is a vibrant hub of activity. The market operates every Tuesday, Friday, and Saturday, offering a diverse range of goods from fresh produce to unique crafts. Wednesdays feature a lively flea market, while the fourth Thursday of each month hosts the Farmers Market, showcasing high-quality local produce. Additionally, the second Saturday of each month brings the Craft Fair, presenting handmade gifts and artworks. The Market Hall also hosts special events like the Street Food & Craft Night Market, providing an evening of delicious street food and unique crafts. With its bustling atmosphere and variety of offerings, Abergavenny Market Hall is a must-visit destination for both locals and visitors.

Explore Abergavenny and the surrounding area

Find places to stay, places to eat, attractions, activities and walks in Abergavenny and the surrounding area.

Things to Do
Fresh seasonal food served at The Kitchen at the Chapel

The Kitchen at the Chapel

Seasonal food, homemade baking and great coffee in a restored chapel in Abergavenny.

Abergavenny to Llanthony Priory (Beacons Way – day 1)
The Angel Hotel’s pale Georgian frontage, with flags, sash windows and a columned entrance on Cross Street.

The Angel Hotel, Wedding and Events Space

Wedding receptions, celebrations and meetings at The Angel Hotel in Abergavenny.
Traders and shoppers beneath striped awnings at Hay Markets.

Market Towns and Gateways of Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons)
The photo shows cloud/fog filling the valley below Hay Bluff at sunset

Offa’s Dyke National Trail
a set of limstone outcrop as the forground with Mynydd Troed ahead, the braken is brown so an autumn view

Keepers Pond to Blorenge
White exterior of Ty Gwyn beside a grassy garden, with a wooded hill behind.

Porth y Parc, Ty Gwyn

House for six near Abergavenny, with two ground-floor bedrooms, an enclosed garden and hill walks.
Stone exterior of the Old Barn beyond a meadow, with a wooded hillside behind.

Porth y Parc, The Old Barn

Barn for six near Abergavenny, with a separate en-suite bedroom, patios and Sugar Loaf walks.
Three horses looking over a wooden fence beneath leafy trees.

Grange Horse Riding and Trekking Centre

Grange Trekking: Horse Riding Adventures in the Black Mountains and Brecon Beacons
Rows of round sourdough loaves cooling on metal racks, with a baker working behind them at The Angel Bakery.

The Angel Bakery and Shop, Abergavenny

Long-fermented sourdough, pastries and seasonal treats from The Angel Bakery in Abergavenny.

Bridge 76 Adventures

Explore the Monmouthshire & Brecon Canal by SUP with Bridge 76 Adventures.
Stone exterior of the Old Barn beyond a meadow, with a wooded hillside behind.

Porth-y-Parc

Two cottages below Sugar Loaf near Abergavenny, each sleeping six in three bedrooms.
The Walnut Tree restaurant near Abergavenny in Bannau Brycheinio

The Walnut Tree

Michelin-starred dining and seasonal menus near Abergavenny in Bannau Brycheiniog.
Light grey curved lines on a green background

Along the Govilon Line
The Angel Hotel’s pale Georgian frontage, with flags, sash windows and a columned entrance on Cross Street.

The Angel Hotel, Abergavenny

Historic hotel in central Abergavenny, with seasonal dining, High Tea and Black Mountains nearby.
The Angel Hotel’s pale Georgian frontage, with flags, sash windows and a columned entrance on Cross Street.

The Angel, Abergavenny – Stay, Eat and Celebrate

Explore The Angel in Abergavenny: hotel stays, dining, the bakery, weddings and events.

Llanthony to Crickhowell (Beacons Way – day 2)

The Wild of the Words – Camping at Cwmffrwd Farm

Spacious meadow camping and bell tents on a nature-focused farm in the Black Mountains.
Bar crwm gyda waliau drych, goleuadau crog a byrddau bach yn arwain drwodd at ystafell fwyta.

The Angel Hotel, Oak Room Restaurant and Foxhunter Bar

Seasonal dining, a relaxed bar and High Tea at The Angel Hotel in central Abergavenny.
Dark-painted Book-ish shop front with books displayed in the window on Frogmore Street, Abergavenny.

Book-ish Abergavenny

Independent bookshop on Frogmore Street, Abergavenny, with books and author events.

Walking Routes

There are countless stunning walks throughout Bannau Brycheiniog National Park. Here are some of our favourites

View all
The photo shows cloud/fog filling the valley below Hay Bluff at sunset

Offa's Dyke National Trail

Crossing the border between England and Wales more than ten times in its 177 mile (285km) length, the Offa’s Dyke Path passes through the Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) National Park.

Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal Towpath

This is one of the most scenic and spectacular canals in the UK.

Events & Festivals Updates

Never miss out on the best local events—subscribe for monthly updates on festivals, markets, and special experiences

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