Explore the Best of the Brecon Beacons National Park
If you’re planning a trip to the Brecon Beacons National Park, get ready for breathtaking scenery, fascinating history, and endless adventure. Covering over 520 square miles of mountains, waterfalls, valleys, and ancient monuments, the park offers something for every kind of traveller.
From ghostly legends and hidden caves to peaceful train rides and world-famous festivals, here are five unmissable things to do in the Brecon Beacons — all easily reached from Cwmdu Campsite, your ideal base for exploring this extraordinary part of Wales.
#1 Waterfall Country – Nature’s Hidden Wonderland
Known locally as Coed-y-Rhaeadr, Waterfall Country is one of the Brecon Beacons’ most magical areas. Located near Merthyr Tydfil, this lush woodland landscape is alive with the sound of rushing water, birdsong, and rustling trees.
The highlight is the famous Sgwd-y-Eira — or “Snow Waterfall” — where you can walk behind the cascading curtain of water along a natural rock path. It’s an unforgettable experience and one of the most photographed spots in Wales.
There are 25 miles of footpaths here, making it ideal for walkers of all levels. Along the trails, you’ll discover the remnants of the area’s industrial heritage — old mines, lime kilns, and even a gunpowder factory hidden among the trees.
For thrill-seekers, Waterfall Country also offers gorge walking, caving at Porth-yr-Ogof, and canoeing in some of Wales’ best whitewater.
Tip: Bring waterproofs and a camera — even in summer, the spray from the falls adds to the adventure!
#2 Geocaching – A Modern Treasure Hunt
Fancy an adventure that combines technology and nature? Try geocaching — a real-world treasure hunt using GPS.
The Brecon Beacons National Park is home to over 180 geocaches, hidden in scenic and unusual locations — including near a WWII crash site. Using a geocaching app or map, you’ll follow clues to find small hidden boxes (called caches), which often contain trinkets or “geoswag.”
Swap a small item, sign the logbook, and move on to your next discovery. It’s fun for families, couples, and solo explorers, and a great way to see parts of the park you might otherwise miss.
#3 The Skirrid Mountain Inn – Wales’ Most Haunted Pub
Step back in time — and maybe into the supernatural — at the Skirrid Mountain Inn, one of Britain’s oldest and most haunted pubs.
Located near Abergavenny, this ancient inn has stood for over 900 years and once served as both a courtroom and an execution site. Legend has it that those sentenced here were hanged from the oak beam that still spans the bar today.
Visitors have reported ghostly footsteps, cold drafts, and mysterious shadows, earning the inn a chilling reputation. Yet despite its eerie past, it’s a cosy spot for a meal or drink after a day’s exploring.
Stay the Night (If You Dare): The Skirrid Mountain Inn also offers a few traditional guest rooms for brave travellers.
#4 Brecon Mountain Railway – Scenic Steam Journey
For a more relaxed day out, take a ride on the Brecon Mountain Railway. This beautifully restored steam train runs from Pant (near Merthyr Tydfil) up through the mountains to Torpantau, 1,313 feet above sea level.
The journey follows the route of the original 1859 railway and passes alongside the Taf Fechan Reservoir, offering stunning views of the surrounding peaks.
Stop at Pontsticill Station to visit the Steam Museum, walk along the reservoir, or enjoy refreshments at the Lakeside Café. It’s a gentle, nostalgic way to see the park’s dramatic landscape — perfect for families and history lovers alike.
#5 Hay Festival – A Celebration of Words and Ideas
Every May and June, the literary town of Hay-on-Wye bursts into life for the world-famous Hay Festival.
For ten days, the town hosts authors, poets, politicians, musicians, and thinkers from around the globe. Past guests have included Margaret Atwood, Stephen Fry, and Bill Bailey. The event attracts over 85,000 visitors and features readings, workshops, and live broadcasts from BBC Radio.
You’ll also find “Hay Fever”, the children’s version of the festival, offering fun, creative workshops for younger visitors. Between events, wander the town’s independent bookshops and cafés — the perfect way to soak up Hay’s literary charm.
Stay at Cwmdu Campsite – Your Base for Brecon Beacons Adventures
After a day of exploring waterfalls, railways, or haunted inns, return to the peace and comfort of Cwmdu Campsite. Nestled in the Black Mountains, it’s ideally located for all these attractions and many more.
Whether you’re camping, glamping, or touring, you’ll find friendly facilities, scenic views, and a relaxing atmosphere that makes every stay unforgettable.
Plan your adventure at CampingBreconBeacons.com and discover even more things to do in the Brecon Beacons.
Additional Information
For further information about Cwmdu Campsite in Wales, please visit our Home Page
To check availability for this season, please fill in a booking form here.
For information on prices, visit our tariffs page. Click here.
For more information regarding our Glamping Pods, please visit our site here.
HOLIDAY COTTAGES INFORMATION
4* Dog-Friendly Holiday Cottages in the Brecon Beacons, 4 miles from Crickhowell and all within 50 yards of Cwmdu Campsite.
We have 2 cosy cottages available to book:
- Efail Isaf – ‘Old Smithy’ – Sleeps 6 in three bedrooms. Cosy cottage with log burner and picturesque garden and panoramic views of the National Park. Infant facilities are available.
- Efail Bach – ‘Little Smithy’ – One-bed cottage with large shower and separate large bath. Fantastic views from the bedroom, living room and garden. BBQ included. Infant facilities are available.
Click Here for more information or to book a Cwmdu Holiday Cottage stay with us!
FIRE AND ICE INFORMATION
Imagine a Fire & Ice experience like no other! Rest and Rejuvenate peacefully in a Nordic wood-fired Sauna & Ice bath with a Scenic mountain view looking out across the Welsh Brecon Beacons National Park, also known as (Bannau Brycheiniog).
Guests can visit in many ways, camp or Glamp at Cwmdu Campsite, stay in one of our four Holiday Cottages, or stop by for an independent session.
