Walks, activities, events and courses
Walks and events in the Brecon Beacons National Park
If the sight of the blue skies fills you with joy, if a blade of grass springing up in the fields has power to move you, if the simple things of nature have a message that you understand, rejoice, for your soul is alive.
Eleonora Duse (1858 - 1924)
Important Information about these walks and events.
Real people's feedback from our 2012 walks.
If you are inspired by the National Park why not take part in our 4 question survey?
Sat 18 May: 19:30 - Big Band Night
Kitty’s Little Big Band will be performing at Talybont village hall (LD3 7YQ). A brilliant big band experience for you to either sit and enjoy or to get your dancing shoes on! Full details of tickets and prices will be updated on our website or for more information call Clare on 01874 676679. http://talybontonusk.com/events/kittys-little-big-band-saturday-18th-may/
Sun 19 May 09:30 - 12:30: Spring Flowers at Allt Rhongyr, Penwyllt SA9 1GE (GR SN 852156).
Enjoy the flowers of our limestone grassland reserve, with grand views of the hills and valley above Craig-y-nos Country Park. Suggested donation £3. Organised by Brecknock Wildlife Trust.
Thurs 23 May - Sun 2 June
The Telegraph Hay Festival
We know summer’s on its way because the glitterati decamp to the world famous festival of literature and comedy which takes place right here in the National Park. Everyone from Brian May to Brian Cox have been here. Check out this year’s star line up at www.hayfestival.com
Sat 24 - Mon 27 May: Crickhowell and Area Art Trail of Open Studios and Galleries
The Art Trail champions and celebrates local artists and their work and many open their doors for this inspirational and creative weekend. For more details Visit Crickhowell
Sat 25 May to Sun 9 Jun
Fforest Fawr Geopark Festival 2013
Enjoy 16 days of walks, talks and other events organised by the National Park Authority and its Geopark partners.
You might want to put those dates in your diary now.
If you enjoyed this year’s programme, or if you missed it, we hope you will help us celebrate some more in 2013!
Details of the 2013 programme will be posted on the Fforest Fawr Geopark website as they become available.
Tue 28 May: 13:30 – 15:30
Family Nature Walk: Coity Tip
Explore Coity Tip (a nature area next to Big Pit) and discover the wildlife which has made this place its home. Complete the nature trail, hunt for mini-beasts and have a go at pond dipping on this family friendly activity (suitable for children aged 5 – 11, children must be accompanied by an adult). Meet Big Pit National Mining museum – outside main entrance. Classification: Easy. Cost: £2 per child (parents free). Bring: Wellies, outdoor clothing and a drink. Booking essential on: 01495 742333. A Forgotten Landscapes event.
Fri 31 May: 19:00
The CALCH project - Discover the Lime Industry of the Black Mountain
This evening talk will outline the project’s progress to date and inform you of upcoming events and how you can become involved with the project. Admission FREE. Venue: The Black Mountain Centre, Cwmgarw Road, Brynaman, SA18 1BU. www.calch.org.uk/ This talk is part of the Fforest Fawr Geopark Festival.
Fri 31 May – Sun 2 Jun
Plethiad: an Eastern European Music Festival
Three days of eastern European party music in the Brecon Beacons, centring around Brecon's Market Hall with headline names during the day on Saturday, June 1 culminating in a full on Balkan beat club night in the evening. More details to follow!
Sat 1 Jun: 10:30 - 14:30
The Lime Industry at Herbert's Quarry
A free guided walk of the remains of the Lime industry at Herbert’s Quarry and the surrounding area. The walk will be led by staff from the Dyfed Archaeological Trust. Meeting at 10.30am in the scenic car park (grid ref SN73021925) off the A4069 mountain road from Brynaman to Llangadog. The walk will last for approximately 4 hours and walkers are advised to bring their own refreshments. The walk will be suitable for families but there will be some rough ground under foot in places. Walkers are advised to wear sturdy footwear and appropriate outdoor clothing. www.calch.org.uk/ This talk is part of the Fforest Fawr Geopark Festival.
Sun 9 Jun
Open Farm Sunday
Details tbc. Open Farm Sunday.
Sat 15 Jun 10:30 – 13:30
Llangattock Escarpment & Craig y Cilau
A Family friendly walk "where industry meets natural beauty". Perched high above the Usk Valley, Craig y Cilau’s sweeping amphitheatre of cliffs and screes curls around the edge of Mynydd Llangatwg and forms a nature reserve famous for its variety of bird species and rare plants. This walk follows the high level tramway (with steep drops in places – not for the faint hearted) giving grandstand views across the valley to the Black Mountains, circling back along the footpaths below. Why not finish with a late lunch in Llangattock or Crickhowell. Suggested donation: £3 per adult. Length: 4 miles (7km). Grade: Moderate. Meet: Llangattock Hillside car park (SO 209154), south of Crickhowell. To book your place please call 01874 623366.
Directions: From Crickhowell, cross the famous bridge over the Usk, and turn left then immediately right into Llangattock. Go through the village, pass a large roundabout on the left, then turn right onto the road signposted to Beaufort, almost immediately crossing the canal via a very hump-backed bridge. Continue for just over 2kms to reach a cattle grid, and park on the far side, on the rough verge to the right. Supporting Walkers are Welcome in Crickhowell.
Sun 16 Jun 10:30 – 13:30
Crug Hywel ~ Table Mountain
A Family friendly walk (8+ years). This lovely 5 mile (8km) walk takes you to the Iron Age hill fort of Crug Hywel, which stands in a commanding position above the pretty town of Crickhowell. With lots of interest and stops along the way to soak up the stunning views, this is an excellent walk for those who would like to venture a little higher and return to Llangattock or Crickhowell in time for a well- earned lunch! Suggested donation £3 per adult. Grade: Energetic. Total ascent: 1150 feet (350m). To book your place please call 01874 623366. Meet: outside Crickhowell Resource and Information Centre, NP8 1BN (SO 219184). Nearest bus stop to meeting point: Crickhowell Square; Bus route: Beacons Bus B4. Supporting Walkers are Welcome in Crickhowell.
Sat 22 – Sun 23 Jun: Navigation Training: Silver NNAS Award
Booking essential on 01874 623366. The NNAS Silver award training and assessment course is designed to give people the skills to navigate in the countryside using the skills acquired at the Bronze level along with the additional skills required to navigate to features and places some distance from paths and tracks. Accurate compass work is required and an ability to use appropriate navigation techniques to go cross-country, e.g. choosing an appropriate attack point. This course has a minimum of 12 hours of training, including assessment over a distance of 5 - 8 kilometres in terrain which allows for the demonstration of appropriate skills. This NNAS accredited course is run by Manzoku, a local company based in the Brecon Beacons. Price: £110 per person. Spaces limited. Venue: The Mountain Centre, Libanus, LD3 8ER (SN 977 262).
Sun 23 Jun 14:00 – 17:00
Field Study Visit: Berthlwyd Farm
Five generations of the same family have farmed Berthlwyd – and it's this long standing intimate relationship with the land that's created and sustained a wonderful mosaic of habitats. The farm nestles half way up the upper reaches of the Nedd Valley – which flows south off the Great Forest, in the central area of the Brecon Beacons National Park. It boasts some of the best examples of hay meadows that the National Trust has in its care in the whole of the UK.
Join specialists from Swansea University at this wonderful farm to look at the farming systems used, and the array of habitats on site, including the hay meadows, rough grazing (used mainly for sheep) and marshy grasslands. There is also an ash / lime woodland Special Area of Conservation and the farm buildings are excellent examples of vernacular architecture. Length: c2.5m (c4km). Grade: Easy. Meet: Berthlwyd Farm, CF44 9JG (SN 913133). Cost: £10 per person. No dogs please. Booking essential on 01792 602211. In partnership with Swansea University Department for Adult Continuing Education and the National Trust.
Sat 29 Jun 10:00 – 17:00
HAY-on-Wye Food Festival
A Celebration of Food and Drink at the Memorial Car Park in the centre of Hay-on-Wye.
Sun 30 Jun 14:00 – 17:00
Field Study Visit: Penwyllt and Ogof Ffynnon Ddu NNR
This nature reserve is sandwiched between the old red sandstone hills of the Brecon Beacons to the north and the South Wales Coalfield. Experts from Swansea University will lead you to an old limestone quarry and over exposed moorland to an area of limestone pavement where the weathered fissures and cracks provide sheltered homes for limestone-loving plants, as well as plants more typically found in a woodland or hedgerow. Fenced plots have been introduced here to show what happens when sheep grazing is suspended. Booking essential on 01792 602211. Cost: £10 p.p. Meet: the car park near the South Wales Caving Club buildings at Penwyllt, SA9 1GE (SN 856155). Length: c2m (c3.5km). Grade: Moderate. No dogs please. Nearest bus stop to meeting point: Craig-y-nos Country Park; Bus route: Beacons Bus B6. In partnership with Swansea University Department for Adult Continuing Education.
Sat 6 Jul 10.00-16.00
Sugar Loaf and Ancient Oaks
Booking essential on 01874 623366. A 9 mile (14.5km) circular walk through the lower slopes of Deri Wood to the summit of the Sugar Loaf, returning via St. Mary’s Vale for a well-earned cup of tea at the Sugarloaf Vineyard (payable on the day). Learn about the work of the National Trust, enjoy some rewarding views and discover the stories behind some of the features you will pass. Grade: Energetic. Ascent: 540m. Meet: Abergavenny Leisure Centre lower car park, NP7 6EP (SO 298152). Small charge for tea. Suggested donation: £5 per person. Nearest bus stop to meeting point: Abergavenny Tesco, Park Road; Bus route: 43 & X43. In partnership with The National Trust. Supporting Abergavenny Walkers are Welcome.
Sat 6 Jul 10:15 – 15:00
From Wharf to Wharf
A family friendly 7.5 mile walk. Follow the picturesque Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal on this low level, linear walk along the canal towpath back to Abergavenny. Explore the area’s industrial past with a short visit to Goytre Wharf and the limekilns before winding your way north, past fields and woodland, to Llanfoist Wharf and back to Abergavenny. Bring a packed lunch. Suggested donation: £3 per adult. Length: 7.5 mile (12km). Grade: Easy. To book your place please call 01874 623366. Meet: Abergavenny Tourist Information Centre, NP7 5HL (SO 301144) to catch the X33 bus at 10:37am to Goetre Fawr bus stop on the A4042 (bus fare applies). Supporting Abergavenny Walkers are Welcome.
Sun 7 Jul 10:00 – 16:00
Blorenge and Punchbowl
Walk through Castle Meadows to Llanfoist along a disused railway line ascending through woodland and on to the summit of the Blorenge for some stunning views, before returning via the Punchbowl and canal, whilst learning a little about the history of the area on the way. Length:10 miles (16km). Grade: Energetic. Ascent: 500m. Suggested donation: £3 per person. To book your place please call 01874 623366. Meet: Abergavenny Tourist Information Centre, NP7 5HL (SO 301144). Supporting Abergavenny Walkers are Welcome.
Sat 13 Jul 10:30 – 12:45
Twyn-y-Gaer ~ Archaeology walk
A c.4 miles (6.2km) circular walk to explore Twyn-y-Gaer Iron Age Hillfort on Mynydd Illtud common. This walk is led by Brecon Beacons National Park’s Archaeologist and will explore the remains of the Iron Age hillfort, what life was like in the Iron Age, will delve into the post-medieval use of the area for farming rabbits and take in the spectacular views of the Brecon Beacons and the Usk Valley, before returning to the Visitor Centre Tea Rooms for an optional lunch. Grade: Easy. Parking charges apply. Suggested donation: £3 per adult. A Family friendly walk (guide minimum age 7+ years). To book your place please call 01874 623366. Meet: Outside the National Park Visitor Centre, LD3 8ER. This walk is part of the Festival of British Archaeology.
Sat 20 Jul 11:00 – 15:00
Pen y Fan Circular
Booking essential on 01874 623366. Enjoy great views on this family-friendly 4½ mile walk to the top of the highest mountain in southern Britain. Visit the Tommy Jones obelisk and a Bronze Age burial cairn whilst learning about the work of The National Trust. Grade: Energetic. Ascent: 525m. Minimum age guide 8+ years. Suggested donation: £5 per adult. Meet: Car park on A470 (LD3 8NL) (SN 982203) opposite the Storey Arms Outdoor Education Centre. Nearest bus stop to meeting point: Glyn Tarell, Storey Arms; Bus route: T4. In partnership with The National Trust.
Sat 27 Jul 10:30-16:00
Solar Scopes
at the NPVC, LD3 8ER
Enjoy a rare chance to see our nearest star in close-up. Solar telescopes will be set up to allow you to view the sun safely (weather permitting). Come and have a peek for free, and find out how to get involved in astronomy. Free. No booking required. Parking charges apply. Family friendly. To find out more call the National Park Visitor Centre (the Mountain Centre) on 01874 623366. Organised by Cardiff Astronomical Society
Sat 27 Jul 10:00 – 14:30
Mynydd Troed & Penyrwrlodd Long Cairn
Join us for a low level figure of eight walk through Trefecca to Mynydd Troed and Penyrwrlodd Long Barrow where the remains of at least fifteen humans were found, along with flint arrow heads, a flint knife and most interesting of all a hollow sheep bone which appears to be fashioned into a flute. Return to Felin Talgarth Mill for well-earned refreshments and an optional tour of the mill (charges apply). Suggested donation: £3 per adult. Length: 8 miles (12km). Grade: Moderate. Meet: Main Talgarth car park (SO 153337) – parking free. Booking essential on 01874 623366. Nearest bus stop to meeting point: Talgarth Square; Bus route: 39. This is walk 4 from the ‘Walks Around Talgarth’ booklet. Supporting Talgarth Walkers are Welcome.
Sun 28 Jul 10:30 – 15:30
Park Wood, Rhos Fawr & Pwll y Wrach
Enjoy this lovely walk through pretty woodland and farmland to the open common of Rhos Fawr for fine views of the surrounding countryside, before returning to Talgarth via the ancient and secluded woodland of Pwll y Wrach (The Witches Pool) on this super low level circular route. Bring a packed lunch. Return at approx. 3.30pm to the Old Radnor Barn for a well-earned cream tea (charges apply). Length: 8 miles (12km). Grade: Moderate. Suggested donation: £3 per adult. Booking essential on 01874 623366. Meet: Main Talgarth car park (SO 153337) – parking free. In partnership with Brecknock Wildlife Trust. This is walk 1 from the ‘Walks Around Talgarth’ booklet. Supporting Talgarth Walkers are Welcome.
Sat 27 Jul to Sat 3 Aug
Beacons Way 8 Day Guided Walk
The walk is organised by the Brecon Beacons Park Society (an independent membership organisation - not part of the National Park Authority). For more information about the Beacons Way, including outline maps of the various stages, accommodation and transport options, details of guided walks along the route, and a series of photographs, visit: Brecon Beacons Park Society. This route was researched, developed and compiled by the late John Sansom, for the Brecon Beacons Park Society, in conjunction with Arwel Michael and Chris Barber. It has since been adopted as the Official Trail of the Brecon Beacons National Park Authority and can be walked independently or as part of a group.
Tues 30 July 10.00-13.00
Take pART Pottery Workshop
at the
Mountain Centre, LD3 8ER.
Be
inspired by the natural environment around you and create your own masterpiece.
Suitable for adults and children aged 5 and up. Children under 12 - make
sure you bring an adult with you. Cost: £5.00 per child. Parking charges
apply. Booking essential. To find out more and to book a place call the
National Park Visitor Centre (the Mountain Centre) on 01874 623366.
Wed 31 July 10.00-13.00
Take pART Mask Making Workshop
at the
Mountain Centre.
Make and
decorate your own large 3-Dimensional animal or fantasy mask from a choice of
designs. Suitable for adults and children aged 5 and up. Children under 12 make
sure you bring an adult with you. Cost: £5.00 per child. Parking charges
apply. Booking essential. To find out more and to book a place call the
NPVC (the Mountain Centre) on 01874 623366.
Thur 1 Aug 10.30- 12.30
Nature’s
Games and Challenges
at the
Mountain Centre
Join the National Park Education Team playing games and solving puzzles inspired by nature here in the National Park! Suggested donation £3 per child. Suitable for children aged 5-11. Children aged 7 and under must bring an adult with them. Parking charges apply. Booking essential. To find out more and to book a place call the National Park Visitor Centre (the Mountain Centre) on 01874 623366.
Sat 3 Aug
Brecon County Show
The Show is based around the Cattle, Sheep, Horse & Pony classes which attract exhibitors from all over the country. It also has over 200 trade exhibitors bringing you the best in British Farm Produce, the latest tractors & farm machinery and cars, to anything for the garden. From clothing and jewellery to hand made cards, there is something for everyone. Combine this with vintage and modern machinery, dog show, rides and stalls for children, a beer tent and much more you will be sure to have a great family day out. Brecon County Show
Tue 6 Aug 10.00-13.00
Take pART Pottery Workshop
at the
Mountain Centre.
Be
inspired by the natural environment around you and create your own masterpiece.
Suitable for adults and children aged 5 and up. Children under 12 - make sure
you bring an adult with you. Cost: £5.00 per child. Booking
essential. Parking charges apply. To find out more and to book a place call
the NPVC (the Mountain Centre) on 01874 623366.
Wed 7 Aug 10.00-13.00
Take pART Mask Making Workshop
at the
Mountain Centre.
Make and
decorate your own large 3-Dimensional animal or fantasy mask from a choice of
designs. Suitable for adults and children aged 5 and up. Children under 12 make
sure you bring an adult with you. Cost: £5.00 per child. Parking charges
apply. Booking essential. To find out more and to book a place call the
NPVC (the Mountain Centre) on 01874 623366.
Wed 7 Aug 20:30 – 22:00
Bats at Brecon Prom
Bats at Brecon Prom
A Family friendly activity. Learn about bat ecology, watch bat behaviour and hear their echo-location calls using bat detector equipment on this family friendly event. Bring a torch and wear insect repellent. Grade: Access for all. Booking essential on 01874 623366. Meet: On the Promenade at the confluence of the rivers Honddu and Usk (SO 042286) adjacent to car park (parking charges apply). Suggested donation: £5 per adult. In partnership with Brecknock Bat Group, Brecknock Wildlife Trust and the Vincent Wildlife Trust.
Fri 9 – Sun 10 Aug
Brecon Jazz
An expanded programme for 2013 is to be announced in February. More details.
Mon 12 Aug 19.30 - 23.00
Perseid Meteor Shower
at the NPVC, LD3 8ER. Booking essential on 01874 623366.
Come and view one of nature’s finest shows: the Perseid meteor shower, live from the dark skies above the National Park. Experts from Dark Sky Wales will help you explore the heavens in their portable planetarium; view stars and planets through telescopes. If it is cloudy there will be a range of lectures on the subject. Cost: £10.00 per person (min. age guide 8+ years). Price includes parking, entry to the planetarium and a hot jacket potato.
Tue 13 Aug 10.00-13.00
Take pART Pottery Workshop
at the
Mountain Centre, LD3 8ER.
Be
inspired by the natural environment around you and create your own masterpiece.
Suitable for adults and children aged 5 and up. Children under 12 - make sure
you bring an adult with you. Cost: £5.00 per child. Parking charges
apply. Booking essential. To find out more and to book a place call the
NPVC on 01874 623366.
Tue 13 Aug 14:00 – 16:00
Walk, talk and tea
at the NPVC, LD3 8ER. A Family friendly walk on Mynydd Illtud common. A 4 mile, circular walk that includes a mysterious spiritual centre, an industrial site, a final resting place, preparing for war, an unsolved mystery, a little known wonder & an Iron Age hillfort if time allows. Followed by delicious cream tea at the centre’s Tea Rooms. Cream tea: £3.50 p.p. Suggested donation £2 per adult. Booking essential on 01874 623366. Meet: The NPVC, Libanus, LD3 8ER (SN 977262). Parking charges apply.
Wed 14 Aug 10.00-13.00
Take pART Mask Making Workshop
at the Mountain Centre, LD3 8ER.
Make and decorate your own large 3-Dimensional animal or fantasy mask from a choice of designs. Suitable for adults and children aged 5 and up. Children under 12 - make sure you bring an adult with you. Cost: £5.00 per child. Parking charges apply. Booking essential. To find out more and to book a place call the NPVC (the Mountain Centre) on 01874 623366.
Wed 14 Aug: 13:30 – 15:30
Family Nature Walk: Coity Tip
Explore Coity Tip (a nature area next to Big Pit) and discover the wildlife which has made this place its home. Complete the nature trail, hunt for mini-beasts and have a go at pond dipping on this family friendly activity (suitable for children aged 5 – 11, children must be accompanied by an adult). Meet Big Pit National Mining museum – outside main entrance. Classification: Easy. Cost: £2 per child (parents free). Bring: Wellies, outdoor clothing and a drink. Booking essential on: 01495 742333. A Forgotten Landscapes event.
Thur 15 Aug 10.30- 12.30
Nature’s Games and Challenges
at the Mountain Centre
Join the National Park Education Team playing games and solving puzzles inspired by nature here in the National Park! Suggested donation £3 per child. Suitable for children aged 5-11. Children aged 7 and under must bring an adult with them. Parking charges apply. Booking essential. To find out more and to book a place call the National Park Visitor Centre (the Mountain Centre) on 01874 623366.
Sat 17 Aug 09:15 – 15:00
Explore the Wye Valley: Glasbury to Hay
A Family friendly walk. A 5 mile linear walk along the river. Catch the bus from Hay to Glasbury to follow the picturesque Wye Valley Walk back to Hay. Grade: Easy. Suggested donation £3 per adult. Booking essential on 01874 623366. Meet: outside Hay-on-Wye Tourist Information Bureau, HE3 5AE. Nearest bus stop to meeting point: Hay Castle, Oxford Road; Bus route: 39. Supporting Hay Walkers are Welcome.
Sun 18 Aug 10:00-17:00
Waking the Cat
Join us for a walk along the rocky sandstone ridge of the Cat's Back and experience some truly spectacular views! Start at the Neolithic stone circle and ascend for some stunning viewpoints over sweeping valleys in this remote part of the English-Welsh border. Learn about the dramatic geological features of the landscape and the history of the Offa’s Dyke National Path and see wild mountain ponies grazing on the hills. Escape for a day on this wonderful walk that will make you feel on top of the world. Suggested donation: £5 per person. Length, Grade & Ascent: 10.5 miles (16.5km), Strenuous, 800m. Meet: the stone circle at Hay Bluff (SO 240373). Phone 01874 623366 to book your place. Supporting Hay Walkers are Welcome.
Tue 20 Aug 10.00-13.00
Take pART Pottery Workshop
at the Mountain Centre, LD3 8ER.
Be inspired by the natural environment around you and create your own masterpiece. Suitable for adults and children aged 5 and up. Children under 12 - make sure you bring an adult with you. Cost: £5.00 per child. Parking charges apply. Booking essential. To find out more and to book a place call the NPVC (the Mountain Centre) on 01874 623366.
Wed 21 Aug 10.00-13.00
Take pART Mask Making Workshop
at the
Mountain Centre.
Make and
decorate your own large 3-Dimensional animal or fantasy mask from a choice of
designs. Suitable for adults and children aged 5 and up. Children under 12 make
sure you bring an adult with you. Cost: £5.00 per child. Parking charges
apply. Booking essential. To find out more and to book a place call the
NPVC (the Mountain Centre) on 01874 623366.
Sat 24 Aug 10:00 – 16:00
Bwlch with Altitude Challenge
Enter a team of up to 4 people answer the questions posed along the route and if your team gets the most correct answers then claim your prize of £100 towards a charity of your choice, your team will also get exclusive winners T-Shirts. Leave from The New Inn pub, Bwlch to walk up to the summit of Mynydd Llangors before heading down to Llangors village and lake below. Ascend Allt yr Esgair for more fine views of the Black Mountains and Central Beacons before heading back to Bwlch. The finishing touch: hot dog and chips with the compliments of the New Inn and Welsh Venison Centre. Length: 12 miles. Booking essential on 01874 730215. Bwlch walks.
Sat 24 Aug: 14:00
Talybont-on-Usk Village Show
Gates open 2pm at Talybont village hall (LD3 7YQ). A horticulture and craft show along with fancy dress and children’s races, refreshments and side stalls.
Mon 26 Aug: 14:00 start
Llangynidr Duck Race
Come and join the fun of this annual duck race involving 3,000 plastic ducks! The fun starts at the Coach and Horses Bridge in Llangynidr, and finishes at the Bottom Lock. First prize: a weekend for two on a Castle narrowboat; second prize: dinner for two and B & B to the value of £110 at the Old Rectory at Llangattock; third prize: dinner for two and B & B at the Coach and Horses. There are also numerous other prizes on offer. Tickets will be on sale from Easter at the Coach and Horses pub (NP8 1LS). Tel: 01874 730245.
Tue 27 Aug 10.00-13.00
Take pART Pottery Workshop
at the
Mountain Centre, LD3 8ER.
Be
inspired by the natural environment around you and create your own masterpiece.
Suitable for adults and children aged 5 and up. Children under 12 - make sure
you bring an adult with you. Cost: £5.00 per child. Parking charges
apply. Booking essential. To find out more and to book a place call the
NPVC (the Mountain Centre) on 01874 623366.
Wed 28 Aug 10.00-13.00
Take pART Mask Making Workshop
at
the Mountain Centre.
Make
and decorate your own large 3-Dimensional animal or fantasy mask from a choice
of designs. Suitable for adults and children aged 5 and up. Children under 12
make sure you bring an adult with you. Cost: £5.00 per child. Parking
charges apply. Booking essential. To find out more and to book a place
call the NPVC (the Mountain Centre) on 01874 623366
Sat 31 Aug 13:00 – 16:00
12th Century Physicians to 21st Century Graziers
Come and explore the magical landscape of Mynydd Myddfai and learn about the people who have lived and worked in this special place, passing their skills down through generations - from Twelfth Century Physicians to 21st Century Graziers. Learn about the conservation of this environmentally sensitive landscape, experience a breathtaking 360 degree views of the Black Mountain and visit the sacred Physician’s Well on this enchanting circular walk. Suggested donation: £3 per adult. Length, Grade & Ascent: 4.5m (7.2km), Easy, 100m. Meet: Usk Reservoir (SN 835286). To book your place please call 01874 623366. Supporting Llandovery Walkers are Welcome.
Sun 1 Sep 13:00-16:00:
The Church of Two Saints: exploring the footpaths of Llanddeusant
A Family friendly walk. Llanddeusant lies nestled beneath the dramatic Black Mountain. Its name, meaning Church of Two Saints, derives from its pretty church that is dedicated to St Simon and St Jude. Join us on this lovely walk through farmland, riverside and woods in one of the least developed areas of the Brecon Beacons. Learn about the local communities and the work of the National Park in the area and finish this captivating walk at the Community Hall to enjoy tea and delicious cakes. Suggested donation: £3 per adult. Length & Grade: 4m (5.6km), Easy. Meet: Llanddeusant Community Hall, The Old School (SN 760 248). Parking available. Booking essential on 01874 623366. Supporting Llandovery Walkers are Welcome.
Sat 7 – Sun 15 Sep: Brecknock History Events
Organised by Brecknock History Forum
A series of activities throughout the old county of Brecknock to celebrate local and family history. There will be events on a wide range of subjects such as archaeology, listed buildings, parish registers and businesses in Brecon town. Look out for full details at tourist information centres in the area and check back here for updated details or email the Brecknock History Forum at brecon.library@powys.gov.uk
Sat 7 Sep 14:00 – 16:30
Pen-y-crug ~ Archaeology walk
A c.3.5 mile walk to explore the archaeology of Pen-y-crug, one of the most impressive Iron Age hillforts in the Brecon Beacons National Park. Learn about the hillfort remains you see today and why people in the Iron Age built them. The walk will also take in Maen-Du Well on the outskirts of Brecon, one of the best preserved wells in Wales, and the remains of a late 18th century brick and tile works that sits in the shadow of the Iron Age hillfort. The walk is led by Brecon Beacons National Park’s Archaeologist and affords spectacular views of the Brecon Beacons. Finish your walk with a visit to Cantre Selyf, believed to be the oldest domestic dwelling in Brecon, for wonderful cake and tea at a cost of £3 per person. Suggested donation £3 per adult. A Family friendly walk; minimum age guide 7+ years. Meet: Brecon Tourist Information Centre, LD3 9DA. Booking Essential on 01874 623366. Nearest bus stop to meeting point: Brecon Bus Interchange; Bus routes: T4, 39, 40, 43, X43, 63, 64. Part of the Brecknock History Forum Events.
Sat 7 to Sun 22 Sep:
Wales Valleys Walking Festival
Sat 14 Sep 10:00 – 14:00
The Naked Ladies of Hay
Join us and guest speaker Jon Saville on this lovely 4 mile walk to see the deadly and at risk naked ladies of Hay, meadow saffron. We will follow Offa's Dyke footpath up to Henallt Common, a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) positioned on a steep sided, north-west facing sandstone scarp which supports a good population of plant species that are rare and declining in Wales, before returning back to Hay for a late lunch. Henallt Common is one of the best sites in Britain to see meadow saffron, which will hopefully be in full bloom with thousands of rosy-pink flowers on display. Grade: Moderate. Suggested donation £3 per person. To book your place please call 01874 623366. Meet: outside Hay Tourist Information Bureau, HE3 5AE. Parking charges apply. Nearest bus stop to meeting point: Hay Castle, Oxford Road; Bus route: 39. In partnership with the Countryside Council for Wales.
Sat 14 - Sun 15 Sept 09:45 – 16:00 Safety on the Hills / Bronze NNAS Navigation course.
Booking essential on 01874 623366. This 2 day course is ideal for beginners and for refreshing dormant skills; you’ll learn useful navigation and mountain safety techniques. This NNAS accredited course is run by Manzoku, a local company based in the Brecon Beacons. Price: £110 per person. Spaces limited. Venue: The NPVC, Libanus, LD3 8ER (SN 977262).
Mon 16 Sep: 10:30 – 12:00
Heather, Honey & Heritage walk
Landscape Walk and Talk meeting at Keepers Pond with a moderate walk taking in the Cairn on the Blorenge summit. The walk will focus on wildlife particularly bees and their importance, heather moorland, land management and the history of the area. Other information: dogs allowed on leads. Classification: Easy /3.5km. Cost: £3. Bring: Walking Boots and waterproofs. Meet: Keepers Pond (SO2540 1086). Booking essential on: 01495 742333. A Forgotten Landscapes event. Part of the Wales Valleys Walking Festival.
Sun 29 Sept 10:00 – 12:00
Fungi Foray ~ A family friendly activity
Come and explore the fascinating world of edible and inedible fungi with local expert, David Mitchel. Wales has the perfect climate for finding a bounty of free food and September is usually a great time of year for mushrooms and toadstools of all sorts of shapes, sizes, colours and textures which spring up in the woodlands and grasslands of the Country Park. This popular event has limited spaces, so please book in advance. Suitable for everyone over 5 years. Children under 5 must be closely supervised by an adult. Please bring a small knife and a basket with you, no plastic bags. Grade: Easy. Suggested donation £5 per adult. Booking Essential on 01874 623366. Meet: Craig-y-nos Country Park SA9 1GL (SN 843154).
Sun 29 Sept 13:00 – 16:00
Fungi and Lichens
Exquisite, wildly varied and often surprising, fungi and lichen are part of the essential fabric of our countryside upon which all other wildlife depends. Join expert, Ray Woods, on this walk through the Country Park and up into the new Allt Rhongyr nature reserve, to look at the rich variety of fungi and lichens which grow here. Why are they so special, what do they contribute to their habitats and what role do they play in conservation? Find out the answers from Ray who has an excellent understanding of their importance and a bundle of enthusiasm to share with you. Grade: Moderate. Suggested donation £3 per person. To book your place please call 01874 623366. Meet: Craig-y-nos Country Park SA9 1GL (SN 843154). In partnership with Plantlife Cymru and Brecknock Wildlife Trust.
Sat 5 Oct 19:00-21:30
Stargazing
Booking essential on 01874 623366. Cardiff Astronomical Society will once again be hosting an evening of stargazing at the National Park Visitor Centre (LD3 8ER). If skies are clear their telescopes will be focused on interesting phenomena in the night sky, or if cloudy there will be lectures indoors. Price includes parking, soup and a roll. The event will run whatever the weather! Our stargazing events are very popular, so booking is essential. Adults: £6.00 Children: £4.00 (minimum age guide 8+ years). For more information and to book a place contact us on 01874 623366. www.breconbeacons.org
Thur 10 to Mon 14 Oct
Hay Walking Festival 2013
Following the success of last year's event, Hay's third Walking Festival is set to be another great event. Keep an eye out for more details here.
Sat 19 Oct 09:45-17:00
Beacons Circuit
Take in all the high points of the Brecon Beacons on this strenuous 11 mile (17.6km) walk over Corn Du and Pen y Fan. Learn a little about glacial formations and local history along the way. Total ascent: 845m. Suggested donation: £5 per person. Meet: Storey Arms car park A470, 8 miles south of Brecon, LD3 8NL (SN 982 003). In partnership with The National Trust. To book your place please call 01874 623366.
Sat 19 - Sun 20 Oct 09:45 – 16:00. Safety on the Hills / Bronze NNAS Navigation course.
Booking essential on 01874 623366. This 2 day course is ideal for beginners and for refreshing dormant skills; you’ll learn useful navigation and mountain safety techniques. This NNAS accredited course is run by Manzoku, a local company based in the Brecon Beacons. Price: £110 per person. Spaces limited. Venue: The NPVC, Libanus, LD3 8ER (SN 977262).
Fri 18 to Sun 27 Oct (dates tbc)
Monmouthshire Walking Festival 2013
with walks in and around the Beacons. There'll be over 30 walks to choose from over 10 days, with something for everyone! Check here for more information and details of ticket sales a bit nearer the time.
Fri 25 - Mon 28 Oct (dates tbc)
Brecon Baroque Festival 2013
Keep an eye on Brecon Beacons Music for details.
Mon 28 Oct – Sun 3 Nov (dates tbc)
Brecon Arts Week
Half term family fun with exhibitions, art installations, open house studios, workshops, music, drama and fun. Check back for more details here.
Tue 5 Nov: 17:45
Bonfire Night:
Bonfire and Firework Display at Talybont-on-Usk village hall (LD3 7YQ). Gates open at 5.45pm for food and drink with the firework display starting at 6.30pm.
Tue 24 Dec: (Time tbc)
Live Nativity
A wonderful live nativity which starts at the garage at the bottom of Station Road and follows Mary on her donkey through the village stopping at the Inns along the way to ask if they have any room. Finishing at the village hall for the final scene of the nativity. All welcome. Details at www.talybontonusk.com
Talybont Flicks:
A fun film night using state of the art audio visual equipment in the Talybont village hall (LD3 7YQ). A great selection of films are shown once a month, normally the last Tuesday, starting at 7.30pm. Full details of dates and times at www.talybontonusk.com
Brecon Beacons Park Society:
Brecon Beacons Park Society is an independent membership organisation which also offers walks for experienced walkers every Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Bank Holiday, with gentler walks on most Wednesdays. Non-members will be asked to make a donation of £5.00 each per walk; half price for under 16's, the unemployed and students. More details are available from Anne Pritchard, telephone: 029 2061 0397, email or
visit the Park Society's website.
Cymdeithas Edward Llwyd:
Cymdeithas Edward Llwyd, the Welsh language walking group, has a programme of walks from March to August 2012 a few of which are taking place within the National Park and Fforest Fawr Geopark. Please note: The National Park Authority is not responsible for the work of this organisation so it is your responsibility to make sure that you are comfortable with the Health and Safety procedures before you participate in any of these walks.
Age Cymru Nordic Walking:
Age Cymru Nordic Walking programme leads Nordic walking courses, taster sessions and ongoing Nordic walks for older people across Wales. A number of these events are held within Brecon Beacons National Park. For more information please ring 02920 431555, visit our website or email us.
