Storey Arms Brecon Beacons
Gateway to challenging hikes like Pen-y-Fan and outdoor adventures in the Brecon Beacons.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better parking
Storey Arms Brecon Beacons
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better parking
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Gateway to challenging hikes like Pen-y-Fan and outdoor adventures in the Brecon Beacons.
"Perfect starting spot for multiple beautiful walks through the Brecon Beacons."
Free Parking Available
Utilize the free car park at Storey Arms for access to Pen-y-Fan and other trails.
Challenging but Rewarding Hike
The Storey Arms route to Pen-y-Fan is steeper and less crowded, offering unparalleled views.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Pen-y-Fan Summit
Brecon Beacons National Park
Conquer South Wales' highest peak for breathtaking panoramic views. A must-do for any visitor.
Fan Fawr Trek
Starting from Storey Arms
Enjoy stunning sunset views on this rewarding circular walk, often less populated than other routes.
Outdoor Adventure Activities
Storey Arms Outdoor Centre
Experience canoeing, climbing, and team-building adventures in a beautiful natural setting.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Choose Your Pen-y-Fan Route Wisely
Timing is Key for Views & Crowds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Free Parking Available
Utilize the free car park at Storey Arms for access to Pen-y-Fan and other trails.
Challenging but Rewarding Hike
The Storey Arms route to Pen-y-Fan is steeper and less crowded, offering unparalleled views.
Embrace the Adventure
Try activities like canoeing and climbing for a full outdoor experience.
Plan Your Route
Consider circular walks for varied scenery and sunset views.
Tips
from all over the internet
Free Parking Available
Utilize the free car park at Storey Arms for access to Pen-y-Fan and other trails.
Challenging but Rewarding Hike
The Storey Arms route to Pen-y-Fan is steeper and less crowded, offering unparalleled views.
Embrace the Adventure
Try activities like canoeing and climbing for a full outdoor experience.
Plan Your Route
Consider circular walks for varied scenery and sunset views.
Pack for All Weather
Mountain weather can change rapidly; layers are essential.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Storey Arms as a fantastic starting point for exploring the Brecon Beacons, particularly for its direct access to Pen-y-Fan. The challenging but rewarding hike and the availability of free parking are frequently highlighted. Some note that the Storey Arms route is steeper and less crowded than alternatives, offering a more serene experience.
"Free car park if you want to walk up to Pen-y-Fan"
Nicoleta M
"Much harder hike to Pen y fan compared to the Pont ar Daf route, with a lot less people for obvious reasons. The views are unrivalled and make for a more enjoyable few hours out in the mountains."
Ben Anthony
"Very well located for Pen Y fan hiking, just by the building and phone box. Straight uphill to the Pen y fan and in an hour on top of Brecon Beacon."
Lukas Genutis
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Storey Arms is accessible by car, with a free car park available for visitors. It's a popular starting point for hikes in the Brecon Beacons National Park.
While public transport options are limited, local bus services may run to nearby villages. Checking local timetables is recommended.
From Storey Arms, you can head directly uphill towards Pen-y-Fan. This route is steeper and generally less crowded than the Pont ar Daf path.
The free car park at Storey Arms is the primary option for accessing hikes. Arriving early is advised, especially on weekends.
Cycling routes are available in the Brecon Beacons, and Storey Arms can be a convenient stop or starting point for cyclists exploring the area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Storey Arms itself is an outdoor centre, and access to the surrounding hiking trails, including Pen-y-Fan, is free.
The outdoor centre may have specific operating hours for its activities, but the surrounding national park and trails are generally accessible at all times.
No, the Brecon Beacons National Park does not have an entry fee. Access to the natural landscape and hiking trails is free for all.
Yes, for organized activities like canoeing, climbing, or guided hikes offered by Storey Arms, advance booking is highly recommended.
No specific permits are required for general hiking in the Brecon Beacons National Park. However, always follow the Countryside Code.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The most popular hike is Pen-y-Fan, offering a direct and challenging ascent. Fan Fawr is another excellent option with beautiful views.
The hike to Pen-y-Fan from Storey Arms typically takes 2-3 hours round trip, depending on your pace and time spent at the summit.
The Storey Arms route is considered more challenging due to its steepness. Beginners might prefer the Pont ar Daf route, or should be well-prepared for this ascent.
Storey Arms is an outdoor education centre and may offer facilities for booked groups. For general visitors, basic amenities like parking are available.
Dogs are generally welcome in the Brecon Beacons National Park, but must be kept on a lead in certain areas, especially during lambing season. Check local signage.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for landscape photography, with golden hour providing stunning colours.
The summit of Pen-y-Fan offers panoramic views. Fan Fawr also provides excellent vantage points, especially during sunset. +1
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, and a telephoto lens can capture distant details. A sturdy tripod is useful for low-light conditions.
Include a person or a recognizable object in your frame to give a sense of scale to the vast mountain landscapes.
Weather can be unpredictable, so be prepared for rain and wind. Capturing dramatic skies can add to your photos.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider packing plenty of snacks and drinks, and ensure everyone has appropriate footwear. The free car park at Storey Arms is convenient for families. For a less strenuous experience, exploring the lower-lying areas or enjoying a picnic with views of the peaks can also be a wonderful family outing.
⛰️ Experienced Hikers & Adventurers
Storey Arms also serves as a base for more advanced outdoor pursuits. Consider booking multi-day expeditions, challenging climbs, or longer-distance hikes that utilize the extensive network of trails in the Brecon Beacons. The centre's expertise can be invaluable for planning and executing more ambitious adventures.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Experiment with different lenses to capture both grand vistas and intricate details. Be prepared for dynamic weather conditions, as dramatic clouds and mist can add a unique atmosphere to your shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Hiking Pen-y-Fan from Storey Arms
Many visitors choose this route for its raw beauty and the feeling of accomplishment upon reaching the summit. The views from the top are truly spectacular, encompassing the surrounding Brecon Beacons National Park and beyond. It's advisable to check the weather forecast before setting off, as conditions can change rapidly in the mountains.
Key considerations for this hike include wearing sturdy hiking boots, carrying plenty of water and snacks, and dressing in layers. The free car park at Storey Arms makes it a convenient starting point. For those seeking a more challenging and less commercialized experience of conquering Pen-y-Fan, the Storey Arms route is an excellent choice.
Outdoor Adventure at Storey Arms
Experiences like those enjoyed by KS2 pupils highlight the centre's ability to provide memorable adventures, encouraging collaboration and stepping outside comfort zones. Whether you're looking for a family day out, a team-building event, or a personal challenge, Storey Arms provides the facilities and expertise to make it happen.
Booking in advance is crucial for participating in these organized activities. The centre's location within the Brecon Beacons National Park adds to the appeal, allowing participants to immerse themselves in the natural beauty while engaging in exciting outdoor pursuits.
Photography Opportunities in the Brecon Beacons
Popular spots for photography include the summit of Pen-y-Fan, offering panoramic vistas, and the slopes of Fan Fawr, which provides excellent vantage points for capturing the vastness of the park. The reservoir near Storey Arms also adds a picturesque element to landscape photography.
Essential photography tips for the area include using a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive views, a telephoto lens for distant details, and a tripod for stability in varying light conditions. Be prepared for unpredictable weather, as dramatic skies can often enhance photographs.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit