Meet the Makers: Discovering Local Artisans & Craft Markets in the Brecon Beacons
The Brecon Beacons aren’t just a paradise for hikers and campers — they’re also home to a thriving community of local artists, makers, and craftspeople, many of whom work right in the villages and towns surrounding Cwmdu Campsite. Whether you’re into hand-thrown pottery, natural soaps, Welsh wool blankets, or locally sourced food and drink, supporting local artisans is a brilliant way to connect with the culture of the Black Mountains — and take a piece of it home with you.
Let’s explore some of the best artisan workshops, markets, and handmade experiences you can enjoy while staying at Cwmdu Campsite.
Why Buy Local in the Brecon Beacons?
There’s something deeply personal about owning or gifting an item made by someone whose hands shaped it with care — not mass-produced, but crafted with heart. When you support local makers, you’re:
-
Helping the rural Welsh economy thrive
-
Preserving traditional skills and crafts
-
Reducing your environmental impact
-
Bringing home a unique, meaningful souvenir
️ Pro tip: Many local crafts are made using natural materials sourced from the very hills and fields around Cwmdu.
1. Crickhowell Craft Centre
Just 10 minutes from Cwmdu Campsite, Crickhowell is not only a beautiful market town but also a haven for artists. The Crickhowell Resource & Information Centre hosts regular craft fairs featuring:
-
Hand-thrown ceramics
-
Woven Welsh textiles
-
Recycled metal sculptures
-
Locally made soaps and beeswax candles
Tip: Visit on a Thursday to catch the weekly outdoor market in town, where farmers, bakers, and crafters sell their best work.
2. The Wool and Willow Workshop – Talgarth
Located in nearby Talgarth, this small studio celebrates Wales’ wool-making heritage with a modern twist. You’ll find:
-
Hand-spun, hand-dyed yarns
-
Traditional Welsh tapestry cushions
-
Loom-woven scarves and wall hangings
The studio occasionally offers workshops in spinning and weaving – ideal for creative campers on a rainy day!
3. Hay-on-Wye – The Book & Craft Capital
Known worldwide for its bookshops, Hay-on-Wye also boasts a rich artisan community. Wander through town and you’ll find:
-
Glass-blowing studios
-
Artisan printmakers
-
Jewellery designers using local stone
-
The Hay Makers Gallery, showcasing work from over a dozen local creatives
Make a day of it: Pair your craft shopping with lunch in a local café and a visit to one of Hay’s quirky secondhand bookshops.
4. Brecon Farmers Market – Every 2nd Saturday
Held in the town’s Market Hall, the Brecon Farmers Market is your go-to for:
-
Local honey
-
Handmade cheese boards
-
Herbal teas and tinctures
-
Wood-turned bowls and homeware
It’s a lovely morning out and a great place to chat with the makers themselves. Many will tell you how their work is inspired by the surrounding landscapes — the rivers, hills, and skies you’ll be camping under.
️ Base Yourself at Cwmdu Campsite: A Creative Escape
Staying at Cwmdu Campsite gives you:
-
Easy access to artisan towns like Crickhowell, Talgarth, Brecon, and Hay-on-Wye
-
A relaxing retreat to return to after a busy shopping day
-
️ Space to unwind, display your finds, and even try your own hand at sketching or craft-making by the fire
“There’s something magical about buying something made locally, while you’re camping in the very place that inspired it.”
✨ Interactive Idea: Create Your Own “Craft Trail”
Turn your camping holiday into a DIY treasure hunt! Pick 3 towns near Cwmdu Campsite and:
-
Buy one handcrafted item in each
-
Meet the maker and learn their story
-
Take a photo with your find at your tent and share it with #CraftedInCwmdu
We’d love to feature your discoveries on our blog or social media!
Camp, Explore & Connect With Welsh Creativity
Your Brecon Beacons adventure doesn’t have to end on the trail. Connect with the creative spirit of Wales by visiting local markets and studios, and make your trip even more memorable.
Book your stay at Cwmdu Campsite and discover the craft of the countryside.
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 2025 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 4 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.
- The Hay Loft – Newly refurbished couples retreat. Peaceful, scenic views, private garden.
- Ty Ffynon – Beautifully decorated, two-bedroom house with wonderful views, log burner and free-standing bath in the main bedroom.
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.
