
Crickhowell Wales
A picturesque market town nestled in the Brecon Beacons, offering stunning natural beauty and a vibrant independent shopping scene.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Wildflowers bloom, fewer crowds

Crickhowell Wales
Best Time
Wildflowers bloom, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A picturesque market town nestled in the Brecon Beacons, offering stunning natural beauty and a vibrant independent shopping scene.
"Crickhowell is a gem, perfectly blending outdoor adventure with a charming, walkable town."

🚗 Scenic Drives
Take the A470 for stunning Brecon Beacons views. Stop at viewpoints for photos!
🥾 Hiking Essentials
Wear sturdy boots and pack layers. Weather can change quickly in the Beacons.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Crickhowell Bridge
River Usk
Iconic stone bridge offering picturesque views of the River Usk and surrounding hills. A perfect photo spot!

Brecon Beacons National Park
Surrounding Crickhowell
Vast landscapes for hiking, cycling, and stargazing. Explore Pen y Fan or discover hidden waterfalls.

Independent Shops
Town Centre
Discover unique boutiques, artisan food producers, and craft stores. A delightful shopping experience.

Historic Pubs
Various locations
Enjoy traditional ales and hearty meals in centuries-old inns like The Bear Hotel. Soak in the local atmosphere.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Outdoors
Explore Local Charm
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Travel through Brecon Beacons
🚗 Scenic Drives
Take the A470 for stunning Brecon Beacons views. Stop at viewpoints for photos!
🥾 Hiking Essentials
Wear sturdy boots and pack layers. Weather can change quickly in the Beacons.
🛍️ Support Local
Crickhowell's charm lies in its independent shops. Explore them all!
🍺 Pub Grub
Don't miss a meal at a historic pub like The Bear Hotel for local flavor.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Scenic Drives
Take the A470 for stunning Brecon Beacons views. Stop at viewpoints for photos!
🥾 Hiking Essentials
Wear sturdy boots and pack layers. Weather can change quickly in the Beacons.
🛍️ Support Local
Crickhowell's charm lies in its independent shops. Explore them all!
🍺 Pub Grub
Don't miss a meal at a historic pub like The Bear Hotel for local flavor.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Crickhowell is lauded for its stunning natural beauty and charming market town atmosphere. Visitors rave about the access to the Brecon Beacons for hiking and the delightful independent shops. Some find parking can be a bit challenging during peak times, and the weather can be unpredictable.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Crickhowell is accessible by car via the A40. The nearest train stations are Abergavenny and Merthyr Tydfil, requiring onward bus or taxi travel. Driving through the Brecon Beacons on routes like the A470 offers scenic stops.
Yes, Crickhowell is well-connected by road, particularly the A40. If you're driving through the Brecon Beacons, the A470 is a popular and scenic route with potential stop-offs.
The A470 through the Brecon Beacons is highly recommended for its breathtaking views. Consider stopping at various viewpoints along the way.
While Crickhowell is best explored by car, bus services connect it to nearby towns like Abergavenny and Brecon. Train access requires a connection from these towns.
Driving in the Brecon Beacons can be spectacular, with winding roads and stunning vistas. Be prepared for rural routes and potential sheep on the road!
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Crickhowell town itself is free to explore. Entry fees may apply to specific attractions within the surrounding Brecon Beacons National Park, such as visitor centers or paid walking routes.
Most independent shops in Crickhowell operate typical retail hours, generally from around 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM, with some variations on Sundays. It's best to check individual shop websites if you have specific plans.
The Brecon Beacons National Park is free to enter and explore. Parking charges may apply at popular trailheads and visitor centers.
Yes, booking accommodation in Crickhowell, including hotels like The Bear Hotel and The Manor Hotel, is highly recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons.
While not as common as in larger cities, local information centers or some hotels might offer or recommend guided walking tours, particularly focusing on the town's history or the surrounding natural landscape.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Trails range from gentle riverside walks to challenging mountain ascents in the Brecon Beacons. Popular options include routes up Pen y Fan or exploring the Usk Valley.
Crickhowell is known for its excellent independent shops, offering everything from outdoor gear and local produce to artisan crafts and unique gifts.
Yes, the Brecon Beacons offer many family-friendly walks and activities. The town itself has open spaces and a welcoming atmosphere for children.
Explore the historic town center, visit local pubs, browse the independent shops, and enjoy the scenic beauty of the River Usk.
Absolutely! Crickhowell's location makes it an ideal base for accessing various parts of the Brecon Beacons National Park, offering both town amenities and natural beauty.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Crickhowell offers a variety of dining options, from traditional pubs like The Bear Hotel and The Dragon Inn to cafes and restaurants serving local produce.
Popular choices include The Bear Hotel, The Dragon Inn, and The Horseshoe Inn, all offering a cozy atmosphere and good food.
Many pubs and cafes in Crickhowell are increasingly offering vegetarian and vegan dishes. It's always a good idea to check menus or ask staff.
While Crickhowell leans towards traditional pubs and casual eateries, some hotels and restaurants may offer more upscale dining experiences. Check local listings for current options.
Look for traditional Welsh cakes, lamb dishes, and local cheeses. Many pubs will feature regional specialties on their menus.
📸 📸 Photography
The Crickhowell Bridge over the River Usk is a must-capture. The surrounding Brecon Beacons offer stunning panoramic views, especially at sunrise and sunset.
Landscape photography is dominant due to the Brecon Beacons. Town photography capturing the historic architecture and independent shops is also popular.
Golden hours (early morning and late afternoon) provide beautiful light for both landscapes and town scenes. Overcast days can also offer soft, diffused light for photography.
While not widely advertised, local photography groups or individual photographers might offer workshops. Inquire at local tourist information points or art centers.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, and a telephoto lens can be useful for capturing distant peaks or wildlife. A sturdy tripod is essential for low-light conditions or long exposures.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The town itself is welcoming, with independent shops that can offer unique souvenirs. Many pubs, like The Bear Hotel, are accustomed to families and offer children's menus. Consider packing a picnic to enjoy amidst the stunning natural landscapes. The lack of large crowds in many areas also makes it a more relaxed experience for families.
🚶♀️ Hikers & Outdoor Enthusiasts
Beyond hiking, consider cycling, rock climbing, or wild swimming opportunities in the area. The dark skies of the Brecon Beacons also make it a prime location for stargazing. Don't forget to check local conditions and inform someone of your hiking plans, especially for more remote routes.
🚗 Road Trippers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Brecon Beacons from Crickhowell
Beyond hiking, the Brecon Beacons are a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Cycling routes crisscross the park, offering both road and off-road adventures. The area is also renowned for its dark skies, making it an exceptional location for stargazing. Consider visiting during a new moon for the most spectacular celestial displays. Remember to pack appropriate gear, including sturdy footwear and layers, as the weather can change rapidly.
When planning your Brecon Beacons adventure from Crickhowell, consider utilizing local resources. The town itself has outdoor gear shops, and visitor information points can provide maps and advice. Many travelers find that having a car is essential for fully exploring the park's diverse attractions and trailheads.
The Charm of Crickhowell Town
The town's historic pubs are a significant draw, offering a warm welcome and a taste of traditional Welsh hospitality. Establishments like The Bear Hotel and The Dragon Inn have stood for centuries, providing a cozy atmosphere to enjoy local ales and hearty meals. These pubs are not just places to eat and drink but are integral to the town's social fabric and history.
Walking through Crickhowell is a pleasure in itself, with its well-preserved buildings and the iconic Crickhowell Bridge spanning the River Usk. The bridge offers picturesque views and is a popular spot for photographs. The town's compact size makes it easily walkable, allowing visitors to soak in its atmosphere at a leisurely pace.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit