The Best South Wales Heritage Sites
Take a look through our list of the best South Wales heritage sites and find the perfect day trips in and around the Brecon Beacons. Discover days out that provide insight into the South Wales coal mining history, beautiful Steam train journeys, information about the Brecon cathedral, Monmouthshire & Brecon Canal, and a list of the best castles in Wales should you wish to explore the ancient history of Wales.
Maen Llia Standing Stone
This impressive 12 foot tall stone is considered a special prehistoric location within the area of Fforest Fawr. It is set firmly in the ground amongst the surrounding beauty of the rugged moorland, and provides a great opportunity to capture fantastic photos. The monolith is thought to be associated with the times of the Bronze Age, and provides a prominent landmark on the Sarn Helen route.
Maen Llia Standing Stone. Photo Credit:Carl DeAbreu
Maen Llia Standing Stone is a great location for:
- Photographers
- History Enthusiasts
- Families
- Couples
Accessibility - Some uneven terrain that is muddy after rain. Approximately 75 metres from the roadside.
Is parking available?
Limited roadside parking.
Where can you eat?
You would need to drive to the nearby villages or towns such as Brecon, and Ystradfellte.
Are There Toilets?
The closets toilets will be in the nearby towns and villages including Brecon, and Ystradfellte.
Y Gaer Roman Fort
Y Gaer Roman Fort can be found near the town of Brecon. The site was utilised as a sentry post by Roman soldiers, and its construction took place around the time of 75 AD. The fort was built strategically at this location where the confluence of the river Usk and Ysgir meet. Further to it overlooking joined water networks, the location also sat at the crossroad of two major Roman roads. This is a heavily excavated South Wales heritage site, with a great deal of the excavations performed by Sir Mortimer Wheeler in the 1920s.
Big Pit National Coal Museum is perfect for:
- Families
- School trips
- History enthusiasts
Accessibility - Moderate walking makes this a mildly active visit.
Is parking available?
Y Gaer (LD3 7DP) in Brecon is the closest parking location.
Where can you eat?
Brecon will be the closest location to find cafes, pubs, and shops to eat in.
Are There Toilets?
The National Park Visitor Centre will be the closest toilet facilities.
Brecon Mountain Railway
Experience locomotive history first hand with trips on vintage steam locomotives. The historically standard but now narrow-gauge railway was rebuilt in the 1970s and early 1980s. It was a choice to display the beauty of traditional locomotives amongst breath taking mountain terrain. The original railway was historically part of the Merthyr railway network first opened in 1863 for the transport of coal and other goods through the challenging terrain of the Brecon Beacons. A South Wales heritage site gem!
Brecon Mountain Railway is a great day our for:
- Families
- Couples
- Tourists & photographers looking for scenic experiences
Accessibility - A fully seated and relaxed experience.
Is parking available?
Yes, there is onsite parking.
Where can you eat?
There is a café onsite, and snacks are also available.
Are There Toilets?
Yes there are onsite toilets.
Brecon Cathedral
This historical church dates to the 11th century. It offers visitors a chance to take in its beautiful architecture, design, and stained-glass windows. The atmosphere here is very peaceful and calm. The intricate stonework and structure showcase medieval craftsmanship, and the venue often hosts concerts and services.
Brecon Cathedral. Photo Credit:Unknown
Brecon Cathedral is suited to:
- Historical & cultural enthusiasts
- Couples
- Religious enthusiasts
Accessibility - Easy access with a calm atmosphere.
Is parking available?
Yes, although nearby paring is limited.
Where can you eat?
Brecon Cathedral has its own café.
Are There Toilets?
Yes Brecon Cathedral has toilets available.
Monmouthshire & Brecon Canal
A perfect stress free day out. Explore scenic walks and spot wildlife amongst the historic canal features. Boat trips are available should you wish to experience the area first hand from the water itself. With various stopping points, you can plan a walking or cycle trip with stops at pubs, cafes, and rest points.
Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal. Photo Credit:Ray Farrell
Monmouthshire & Brecon Canal offers a great visit for:
- Families
- Couples
- Walkers
- Cyclists
Accessibility - Easy even ground, set your own pace and desired distance.
Is parking available?
Parking is available at various access points.
Where can you eat?
Plenty of nearby pubs and cafés.
Are There Toilets?
Toilets are available at several locations across the length of the canal.
Bannau Brycheiniog National Park Visitor Centre
Find all the information you need about the local trails, wildlife, and attractions. There are also exhibitions available to visitors that outline the cultural heritage of the surrounding area. This will help you find the perfect staring point for your day based on the individual or groups appetite for the day.
Bannau Brycheiniog National Park Visitor Centre is well suited for:
- Families
- Couples
- Hikers
- Nature Enthusiasts
Accessibility - Moderate to active walking with various trail difficulties.
Is parking available?
Parking is available onsite.
Where can you eat?
There is a café available onsite.
Are There Toilets?
Toilets are available onsite.
Historic Castles
Want to explore the medieval side of South Wales? View our list of historic castles in the area.
Looking For Somewhere To Stay While Exploring All This Welsh world heritage?
After a day out in Bannau Brycheiniog, you’ll need somewhere to stay to unwind and look back on all that you’ve discovered in Wales. Our luxury country house hotel provides perfect access to all the above locations, and afterwards, you can retreat to the comfort of our luxurious rooms, delicious food, and a rejuvenating spa to unwind after your day trips.