Things to do in the Brecon Beacons in half a day
Big Pit and Blaenavon World Heritage Site
Big Pit National Mining Museum of Wales is situated on the site of Big Pit Colliery, a coal mine which ceased production in 1980. Miners, which previously worked the Colliery, now take visitors down the mine to experience past times and life of a miner. Visitors can also enjoy a virtual guide that takes you through a replicated mine where a modern coal face is brought to life through sound and light.
The Iron Works
The Blaenavon site represents one of the most important monuments to have survived from the early part of the industrial revolution. Opened in 1788 at a cost of £40,000 the Blaenavon Ironworks was built using the latest industrial technology with three blast furnaces operated by steam power.
Today it is the best preserved blast furnace complex of its period and type in the world.
The nearby workman’s cottages of Stack Square were built between 1789 and 1792 for the workers and their families. The cottages recently featured in the BBC documentary series Coalhouse. Visitors can gain insight into the social history of Blaenavon Ironworks by learning about the lives of the people who worked and lived there. Well worth a visit.
www.world-heritage-blaenavon.or.uk
T: 01495 790311
Horse riding in the foothills of the Beacons.
Cantref riding centre is but a few minutes from Peterstone Court and offers different options for all levels of rider. It is a fun way of exploring the Brecon Beacons. Cantref is also home to the Mega Sledge Ride, Europe longest sledge ride!
www.cantref.com
T: 01874 665223
Waterfall Country
Can be found to the South West of the park between the villages of Pontneddfechan and Ystradfellte. where the Rivers Mellte, Hepste and Nedd Fechan plunge their way down steep-sided, tree-lined gorges, and one of the most beautiful parts of the National Park. There is also a Geo Park Information centre at Pontneddfechan, near the waterfalls.
www.brecon-beacons.org/
Canoe down the river wye
Hire a Canadian canoe, double kayak or single kayak and Paddle off down-river to Hay-On-Wye, which is 5 miles and take you approximately 2 hours. Or to the Boat Inn at Whitney which is 10 miles and take you approximately 4 hours to paddle there – why not stop on the way and have a picnic!
Wye Valley Canoes, Glasbury-on-Wye.
www.wyevalleycanoes.co.uk
T: 01497 847213
A visit to Craig Y Nos Castle & Country Park
Once the gardens and estate of world famous Victorian opera singer, Adelina Patti, Craig Y Nos has over 40 acres of beautiful grounds. It’s an ideal place for strolling alongside the lakes, rivers and grassy meadows.
www.craigynoscastle.com
T: 01639 731167