The Best Photography Locations in the Brecon Beacons (Bannau Brycheiniog)
As one of the most naturally diverse and magical landscapes in Wales, Bannau Brycheiniog National Park is an inspiring destination for amateur and professional photography enthusiasts. Home to Southern Britain’s highest mountain range, the Brecons are wild, unspoilt and uniquely beautiful.
Spanning approximately 520 square miles, the Brecon Beacons National Park encompasses mountains, moorland, waterfalls and castles. It’s so spectacular that part of the Park has been designated as a UNESCO Global Geopark.
From capturing iconic sunrises and sunsets from the park’s highest peaks to shooting the enchanting waterfalls, lakes and star-studded night skies, the Brecon Beacons photography opportunities are some of the best in the world.
Discover our pick of the prime locations and our top tips for getting the very best images from your visit to the Brecon Beacons National Park.
Pen y Fan and Corn Du at Golden Hour
At 886 metres, Pen y Fan is the highest peak in the Brecon Beacons, closely followed by Corn Du at 873 metres. Both peaks offer unrivalled views across the National Park, none more photogenic than during the golden hour at sunrise or sunset when the sun’s soft glow helps to create the most dynamic images.
Some of the best shots of the park can be taken from the summits and from the saddle in between the peaks, both maximising the immense scale and natural beauty of the park. To capture magical cloud inversions, head to the summit for sunrise.
The weather on the peaks can change rapidly, so be sure to wear suitable footwear and pack waterproofs and essentials.
Waterfall Country and Sgwd yr Eira
Hugging the South-westerly edge of the National Park, Waterfall Country is one of the best Brecon Beacons photography locations. Consisting of over 12 waterfalls between Pontneddfechan and Ystradfellte, discover these phenomenal natural wonders and capture their beauty forever. There is a range of trails, including the Four Falls walk, where you can walk right behind the cascading water at Sgwd yr Eira or discover the highest waterfall in the National Park, Henrhyd Falls.
ND filters are recommended for waterfall photography, creating a motion blur that maximises the ethereal qualities of the water. Take care on the paths around the falls, which can become slippery.
Llyn y Fan Fach and the Carmarthen Fans
A dammed lake located in the Carmarthen Fans, Llyn Fan Fach is a popular Bannau Brycheiniog photo spot. Set off on the challenging climb along the river, look out for the leaping trout in the weir/hatchery on the way and be rewarded with one of the most magical vistas in Wales.
Late afternoon is perfect for capturing the unique beauty of the lake and the surrounding cliffs. A wide-angle and telephoto lens are recommended to capture the immense size and detail of the surroundings.
Sugarloaf Mountain, Abergavenny
Whether you’re taking panoramic shots from the summit or photographing the mountain itself, Abergavenny’s Sugarloaf Mountain is known as one of the best photography locations in the Brecon Beacons. Taking around 2 hours to climb the 596 metre mountain, this is a moderately challenging route.
Look for panoramic ridge shots with changing foregrounds through the seasons. In early summer, Castle Meadows is filled with wildflowers, and it's hard to beat a snow-capped mountain in the depths of winter.
There is a National Trust car park in Abergavenny, Trust members can park for free.
Lakes and Reflections: Llangorse, Talybont and Usk
All renowned for their impressive natural beauty, Llangorse, Talybont and Usk are outstanding Brecon Beacons photography spots. Llangorse is the largest natural lake in Wales, surrounded by the mountains of the Brecon Beacons. Talybont Reservoir offers spectacular scenery, and the pretty market town of Usk is known for its reservoir and the River Usk.
Llangorse Lake offers a large free car park, facilities, and a range of watersports for those seeking perfect on-water shots.
Head to the water at sunrise to capture mysterious misty shots and at nighttime for celestial reflections.
Dark Sky Photography in the National Park
Stargazing in the Brecon Beacons is a truly remarkable experience. A designated International Dark Sky Reserve, it's possible to see the Milky Way, major constellations, interstellar nebulae and meteor showers.
Some of the best Bannau Brycheiniog photo spots for skyscapes include Usk Reservoir, Talybont Reservoir, Llangorse Lake, Sugarloaf Mountain, Llanthony Priory, Carreg Cenon, Hay Bluff and the Bannau Brycheiniog National Park Visitor Centre.
Make sure you wrap up warm, have a fully-charged phone and check for any weather warnings before you go.
Practical Tips for a Smooth Shoot
The most breathtaking landscapes aren’t always the easiest to access. The Bannau Brycheiniog National Park Visitor Centre offers excellent advice, refreshments and a range of walking routes, and it’s always worth checking the Natural Resources Wales site for flood and weather updates before you head out.
Pack appropriate footwear and wet-weather gear, as the weather can be unpredictable in the mountains, and be sure to plan your route before you go. The Bannau Brycheiniog site has an extensive list of walks. Always carry paper maps and backup power, and respect the special areas of conservation.
Where to Stay for Early Starts
Located near Builth Wells, between the Brecon Beacons and Snowdonia National Parks, Lake Country House Hotel & Spa is a tranquil country house retreat within easy driving distance of the best Brecon Beacons photography locations.
The onsite luxury spa offers a selection of treatments to soothe and relax aching muscles after a day in the National Park.
With so many incredible Bannau Brycheiniog photo spots, it can be hard to know where to point the camera. We suggest picking two mountain locations, a waterfall circuit and a dark-sky session for a balanced weekend portfolio.
Book an unforgettable photography break in the luxurious surroundings of Lake Country House Hotel & Spa. View our special offers and book directly with us for a peaceful base near Bannau Brycheiniog National Park.