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Things to do in Powys

Whether you're seeking outdoor adventures, historical sites, cultural experiences, or simply breathtaking natural beauty, Powys has something to offer every visitor. Enjoy the serene countryside, explore charming towns, and embrace the warm Welsh hospitality.

Here are some activities to get stuck in:

1. Explore the Brecon Beacons National Park: Powys is home to a significant portion of the Brecon Beacons National Park. Enjoy hiking, mountain biking, and scenic drives in this beautiful natural setting. The park also offers opportunities for rock climbing, horseback riding, and wildlife spotting.

2. Visit Powis Castle and Gardens: Located near Welshpool, Powis Castle is a magnificent medieval castle with stunning gardens. Explore the castle's grand rooms, admire the art collection, and stroll through the terraced gardens, which offer breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.

3. Walk Offa's Dyke Path: Powys is traversed by Offa's Dyke Path, a long-distance footpath that follows the ancient earthwork built by King Offa in the 8th century. Embark on a section of the path and enjoy the scenic landscapes, historic sites, and charming villages along the way.

4. Explore Hay-on-Wye: Known as the "Town of Books," Hay-on-Wye is a quaint market town famous for its numerous bookshops and annual Hay Festival. Browse through the bookstores, attend literary events, and explore the picturesque streets lined with independent shops, cafes, and galleries.

5. Visit the Elan Valley: Located near Rhayader, the Elan Valley is a stunning area of reservoirs, woodlands, and moorlands. Enjoy scenic drives, walking trails, and wildlife watching. The Elan Valley Visitor Centre provides information about the area's history, flora, and fauna.

6. Discover Llanfair Caereinion: This charming town is home to the Welshpool and Llanfair Light Railway, a narrow-gauge steam railway that offers scenic rides through the countryside. Visit the railway museum, take a leisurely train journey, and explore the town's shops and cafes.

7. Experience the Red Kite Feeding at Gigrin Farm: Near Rhayader, Gigrin Farm offers a unique opportunity to witness the spectacular daily red kite feeding. Watch as hundreds of these magnificent birds gather to be fed, providing an incredible wildlife experience.

8. Explore Montgomery and its Castle: Visit the historic town of Montgomery, home to Montgomery Castle. Explore the ruins of the castle, walk through the medieval streets, and enjoy the panoramic views from the hilltop location.

9. Enjoy Outdoor Activities: Powys offers a variety of outdoor activities, including kayaking and canoeing on the River Wye, fishing in the numerous rivers and lakes, and cycling along scenic routes like the Radnor Ring.

10. Attend Local Festivals and Events: Check the local calendar for festivals and events taking place in Powys. These may include agricultural shows, music festivals, craft fairs, and cultural celebrations, providing a chance to immerse yourself in the local culture.

Eating Out in Powys

Powys is the place to indulge in a variety of traditional Welsh dishes and local specialties. Make sure to explore local restaurants, pubs, and cafes to savour the flavours of Welsh cuisine. Ask locals for recommendations on the best places to try traditional dishes and local specialties. They'll help you with hidden gems and make your trip that extra bit exciting.

Here are some dishes to look out for when you are dining out:

1. Welsh Lamb: Powys is known for its high-quality Welsh lamb. Sample dishes like lamb cawl (soup/stew), roasted lamb, or lamb cutlets to savour the delicious flavours of this local delicacy.

2. Welsh Black Beef: This is another local specialty and comes from a breed of cattle native to Wales. Enjoy a tender steak or a hearty beef stew made with this flavourful meat.

3. Bara Brith: Bara Brith, meaning "speckled bread" in Welsh, is a traditional fruit loaf made with tea-soaked dried fruits, spices, and sometimes a touch of alcohol. It's often served sliced and buttered, making for a delightful sweet treat.

4. Welsh Cakes: Welsh cakes, or "picau ar y maen" in Welsh, are small griddle-cooked cakes made with flour, butter, sugar, and dried fruits like currants or raisins. These tasty treats are a popular choice for afternoon tea.

5. Laverbread: This is a traditional Welsh delicacy made from seaweed. It is typically fried and served as part of a traditional Welsh breakfast or as an accompaniment to various dishes.

6. Welsh Rarebit: Welsh rarebit is a classic Welsh dish consisting of a savoury cheese sauce served on toasted bread. The sauce is made with ingredients like cheddar cheese, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and beer. It's a satisfying and flavourful choice.

7. Pwdin Eva: Pwdin Eva is a traditional Welsh dessert that resembles a custard tart. It consists of a sweet pastry base filled with a creamy custard-like mixture flavoured with nutmeg or cinnamon.

8. Cawl: This is a hearty Welsh soup/stew made with a variety of ingredients, including meat (such as lamb or beef), root vegetables like potatoes and carrots, leeks, and herbs. It's a warming and comforting dish, perfect for cooler days.

9. Welsh Cheeses: Wales produces a range of delicious cheeses, each with its unique flavour. Look for varieties like Caerphilly, Red Dragon (a cheddar-style cheese with wholegrain mustard and ale), and Perl Las (a blue cheese).

10. Local Ale and Cider: Pair your meals with a pint of locally brewed ale or cider. Wales has a vibrant brewing scene, and Powys offers opportunities to sample ales and ciders made by local producers.

Transport in Powys

Powys being a rural area means that there aren't as frequent and diverse transport options as cities would offer. However, there are still ways of getting around:

Car: Having your own vehicle gives you the most flexibility to explore Powys. The county has a network of well-maintained roads, and driving allows you to reach remote areas and scenic spots that may not be easily accessible by public transport. Enjoytravel.com offers a wide range of vehicles at competitive prices.

Bus: Powys has a bus network that connects towns and villages within the county, as well as providing connections to other nearby regions. Powys County Council operates some local bus services, and private bus companies also serve the area. Bus routes may be limited, particularly in more rural areas, and services may be less frequent on weekends and public holidays.

Train: Powys has limited train services compared to other parts of Wales. The Heart of Wales Line runs through parts of Powys, connecting towns such as Knighton, Llandrindod Wells, and Builth Road with stations further afield. However, it's important to check train schedules in advance, as services on this line may be infrequent.

Train: Powys has limited train services compared to other parts of Wales. The Heart of Wales Line runs through parts of Powys, connecting towns such as Knighton, Llandrindod Wells, and Builth Road with stations further afield. However, it's important to check train schedules in advance, as services on this line may be infrequent.

Tourist Services: In tourist areas or during peak seasons, you may find specialized transportation services catered to visitors. These can include guided tours, minibus services, or shuttle buses that operate between popular attractions.