Powys

Wales
Photo provided by Visit Britain
Photo provided by Visit Britain
Photo provided by Visit Britain
Photo provided by Visit Britain
Photo provided by Visit Britain
Make your way through this enchanting and sparsely populated area for its forests, parks and charming towns full of historic treasures.

Powys is a vast county with many quaint and historic towns surrounded by manor houses and adventure hubs of the Welsh countryside. The remains of castles dotted around the region hint at its former status as a Kingdom of Wales. Appreciate the serenity as you travel through this scenic and spacious area.

Among the cultural hubs is MachynllethOpens in a new window, a gateway to Snowdonia National ParkOpens in a new window. Enjoy the bohemian feel in the town center and see such sights as the MOMA Wales modern art gallery and Owain Glyndŵr’s Parliament House, where its namesake prince set up parliament in 1404.

Many fun activity centers are dotted around the outskirts of Machynlleth. Handle birds of prey at the Falconry Experience Wales and ride a kite-driven vehicle at Coastriders Kitesurfing. One of the region’s highlights is the Centre for Alternative Technology, an interactive museum with displays about sustainable living.

Stay in a cottage or inn in the picturesque Brecon Beacons National ParkOpens in a new window in southern Powys. Hike up the rolling, green hills and see the Black Mountain and the Great Forest. Dress warmly for the freezing winters and wear light layers in the mild summers. In the southwestern part of the park find the Craig Y Nos Castle, with stunning grounds and a majestic façade. Enjoy drinks and a meal at the restaurant and bar.

Continue onward to explore the rural highlights of the area, which has intriguing cave systems and lakes. In the northern part of the region is Pistyll y Llyn, one of the tallest waterfalls in Great Britain.

Powys is a large area in Mid Wales, occupying the eastern strip of the country, alongside the border with England. Take a train to Llandrindod Wells, Machynlleth and many other towns from other parts of the United Kingdom. Fly to the airports of CardiffOpens in a new window or LiverpoolOpens in a new window and drive to Powys within a couple hours.

Find some of Wales’ hidden gems in the large area of Powys. Enjoy a lovely vacation amid its natural beauty.

Popular cities in Powys

Elan Valley is one of my favourite places in Wales. It's really peaceful, and there's normally hardly anyone there, especially if you head up some footpaths. Ideal for stargazing too, becasue theres next to no light pollution. A rarity in the UK. #GreatOutdoors
Rhayader
Known for Friendly people, Bars and Countryside
Come to secluded Rhayader and enjoy its bars, countryside, and golf.

Reasons to visit

  • Elan Valley
  • Gigrin Farm Red Kite Feeding Centre
  • Elan Valley Reservoirs
Beautiful waterfalls
Oswestry
Known for Friendly people, Spas and Relaxing
Experience secluded Oswestry: its spas, lake views, bars, and more!

Reasons to visit

  • Lake Vyrnwy
  • Pistyll Rhaeadr
Powis Castle which includes heritage elements, heritage architecture and a castle
Welshpool
Known for Friendly people, Bars and Small town
Tour historical attractions, ride on an old steam railway and explore the green environs of this picturesque town in mid-Wales.

Reasons to visit

  • Powis Castle and Garden
Brecon Beacons National Park showing farmland, a lake or waterhole and land animals
Brecon
Known for Friendly people, Gardens and Relaxing
Bring your children for activities on the hills of the national park and embark on the river walk in this town in southwestern Wales.
Where #rhondda meets the #breconbeacons #wales
Aberdare
Known for Dining, Friendly people and Relaxing
Explore relaxing Aberdare: its food, countryside, adventures, and more!
Panorama from the top of Trum Gelli mountain, Wales.
Machynlleth
Known for Nature, Hiking and Museums
Learn about sustainable living at the gateway to Snowdonia and visit the historic center of the Ancient Capital of Wales.