Introduction to the Park

The impressive ridge of old red sandstone, running from the border to Llandovery, dramatically separates rural mid-Wales from the industrial valleys of the southern coalfield. The set of ridges and valleys which is the Black Mountains in the east contrasts with the tall Beacons at the centre, and the heather-covered Black Mountains at the western end. Limestone ramparts provide a southern edge.

Farming has shaped the landscape over the centuries and, today, Welsh cultural traditions are still strong. People have been living in the Brecon Beacons for more than 5,000 years and there is a powerful sense of history evident in the ancient standing stones, cairns and buildings found across the National Park. The Offa's Dyke Path runs up the eastern boundary.

Getting There

BY TRAIN Abergavenny is well served by trains from Newport and Crewe with easy onward connections to southern and northwest England.

From the Midlands, you can get here through Hereford. Llandeilo and Llandovery in the west are on the magical Heart of Wales Line from Swansea.

Merthyr Tydfil in the south has great connections to Cardiff.

Buses will take you from all these points to Brecon from which local buses or taxis can deliver you to your destination.

Getting Around the Park

All sorts of places can be reached without having to get in the car. You can probably walk to many of them from where you are staying anyway. Or, if you have brought your bikes, you will have an even wider range of choices. You can hire bikes at the Park and many companies will deliver them to your accommodation.

During summer Sundays and Bank Holidays the Beacons Bus runs around the park and connects with rail stations.  Further information is available from the National Park web site. 

Links

 Cycle Brecon Beacons
 Guide to cycling around the Beacons Park

 Brecon Beacons
 The Brecon Beacons National Park Web Site