Things To Do in The Brecon Beacons
The Brecon Beacons, known in Welsh as Bannau Brycheiniog, offer an extraordinary tapestry of rolling hills, cascading waterfalls, and ancient woodlands. Whether you’re climbing Wales’ highest peaks, stepping behind a curtain of spray, or discovering quiet woodlands, this region is one of the UK’s best outdoor playgrounds
At Hawk Adventures, we’ve been guiding visitors for over 30 years, helping people go beyond the tourist trails into the park’s wilder, lesser-known corners. This guide highlights some of the most unforgettable things to do in the Brecon Beacons – perfect for walkers, families, and adrenaline-seekers alike.
Find Pen y Fan and the Horseshoe Ridge
Pen y Fan, the highest peak in southern Britain, is a must-do. The classic climb offers a steady ascent with wide views, and on clear days you can see across to the Black Mountains.
The popular route is well-trodden, but for those who want something more, try the full Horseshoe Ridge, which encompasses Corn Du, Cribyn, and Fan y Big. Navigation here can be tricky in bad weather; we often lead orienteering groups across these ridges to take the stress out of the mapwork so they can enjoy the views.
Explore Waterfall Country
South of the Brecon Beacons lies Waterfall Country, where rivers carve deep gorges through ancient woodland. Highlights include Sgwd yr Eira, where you can walk behind the cascade, and the series of dramatic falls at Clun-gwyn.
Beyond walking, this area is perfect for gorge walking and canyoning, scrambling through riverbeds, sliding into plunge pools, and exploring the falls up close. It’s one of the most exhilarating ways to experience the landscape.
Book Gorge Walking or Canyoning today.
Visit Pwll y Wrach Nature Reserve
Smaller and less well-known than other waterfalls, Pwll y Wrach (the “Witches’ Pool”) sits in a shady woodland near Talgarth. The path winds through old trees before arriving at a tumbling fall that crashes into a deep plunge pool. It’s a quiet spot, perfect for a gentle walk or a pause with a flask of tea.
For families or those easing into the outdoors, why not try a guided walk? Places like this show that adventure doesn’t always have to mean summits and miles of trail. Sometimes it’s just about noticing the details: moss on stone, light through leaves, the sound of running water.
Discover The Hidden Caves of Ystradfellte
Beneath the limestone hills around Ystradfellte lies another world: rivers that vanish underground, caverns that echo in the dark, passages worn smooth by thousands of years of water. Caves like Porth yr Ogof and Dan yr Ogof are gateways to this hidden realm.
Stepping into the entrance is an experience in itself, but with helmets and lamps, the adventure really begins. Underground, silence mixes with the sound of dripping water, and crystal formations glint under your torchlight. Caving isn’t just about squeezing through gaps; it’s about discovering a landscape most people never see.
Explore Llyn y Fan Fach
On the western edge of the park, tucked below cliffs, lies Llyn y Fan Fach. The path follows a river valley until, suddenly, the water appears, a dark, still lake cradled by the ridges. It feels like a place from legend, and in fact, the tale of the Lady of the Lake is tied to these waters.
The walk up is straightforward, but climbing the ridges above gives you the real drama: sweeping views down to Carmarthenshire and across to the Black Mountain. On blustery days, the wind tears across the top, and a good bit of scrambling and rock climbing practice comes in handy.
Navigate The Black Mountains
Stretching eastward, the Black Mountains are a wilder, less-visited corner of the park. Long ridges like Waun Fach and the Dragon’s Back rise steadily, rewarding you with open space and solitude. Out here, it’s often just you, the wind, and the skylarks.
Because the paths are quieter and less obvious, this is a brilliant place to build confidence in navigation, which we recommend for school and scout groups. We often teach map and compass skills here, the wide ridges and hidden valleys make it both challenging and rewarding.
Unlocking South Wales Natural Treasures
For over 30 years, Hawk Adventures has been the trusted local guide to the Brecon Beacons’ wildest corners. What truly sets us apart is our knowledge, which takes you beyond the tourist trails. While most visitors see only the popular spots, we know the hidden caves, seasonal waterfalls, and secret gorges that few ever reach. Our guides handle the route-finding, risk management, and gear, leaving you free to focus on the adventure. Book an outdoor adventure today.
