#JonesonTour: stop nesa'...Aberhonddu!

by Beth Woodhouse June 23, 2023

And on we go, the Jones on Tour continues on its travels around Wales, once again highlighting some locations, activities and attractions we love and believe you will enjoy.

Naturally, this will not be a comprehensive selection, just a random sample, a little snack perhaps, of what we like and makes us proud to be ‘o Gymru’. And as you’d expect, we’ll give you a heads up on where to find our Jones o Gymru products, to make your visit that extra special!

This time we’re off to Brecon located in the beautiful Bannau Brycheiniog National Park. This vast park offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, horseback riding, and wildlife watching. Hike to Pen y Fan: the highest peak in South Wales at 2,900ft and offers spectacular views of the surrounding hills and valleys.

As you approach Aberhonddu/Brecon along the A40, pop in to the Three Horseshoes Inn at Groesffordd, an extensively refurbished and cosy gastropub that’s sure to please.

Visit Brecon Cathedral, built by the Normans on the site of an earlier Celtic church, this historic cathedral dates back to the 11th century and features beautiful stained glass windows, a peaceful atmosphere and a series of summer music concerts. Nearby, on Cathedral Close, you’ll find the beautiful setting for The Hours Cafe & Bookshop - a warm welcome awaits.

Enjoy a pleasant walk around Brecon’s picturesque Georgian streets and pop in to Coffee #1 for some great coffee in a relaxed and welcoming environment.

Visit the Brecknock Museum and Art Gallery founded in 1928 and one of the finest small museums in Wales, showcasing the history and culture of the local area, with exhibits on archaeology, geology, and art.

Meandering through the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal is highly recommended. One of the most beautiful waterways along the line of the Usk Valley through Bannau Brycheiniog. Such a peaceful way to explore these beautiful surroundings.

No visit to Wales would be complete without seeing a castle and Tretower Castle fits the bill for this area, dating back to the 12th century and featuring impressive fortifications and beautiful views of the surrounding countryside.

There’s so much to see and do here in Brecon and in the surrounding area.

Builth Wells is also well worth a visit, some 17 miles away and if you’re around at the end of July the hugely popular Royal Welsh Agricultural Show is a must see. Pop in to the Wyeside arts centre for some Jones sustenance!

The Wyeside Arts Centre at Builth Wells — The Owls

Abergavenny, a market town 20 miles south of Brecon, is regarded as a mecca for all you foodies out there, so the Abergavenny Food Festival , which celebrates its 25th anniversary this September, will be a must visit. Don’t forget to pick up your Jones snacks from Waitrose Abergavenny before you have a mooch around though! On your way, pop into the family run Welsh Venison Centre and Farm Shop to enjoy the views and pick up some wonderful produce.

Llandeilo, a market town some 30 miles west, is another interesting and popular tourist destination, overlooking the majestic river Tywi. Enjoy the Llandeilo Festival of Music 2023 this July and whilst you’re around, call at Diod Coffee & Wine shop to enjoy a relaxed scandi Welsh vibe, whilst sampling some Welsh food and drink.

And finally, what better way to end our tour than to relax at the famous Brecon Jazz Festival. Held each August at a variety of venues in the town, this long established and popular festival features a variety of jazz styles and attracts musicians and music lovers from all over the world.

So, we find Brecon an interesting base to explore the beautiful surrounding countryside and a Jones on Tour favourite! And if you fancy staying a while longer, have a look at Forest Holidays Brecon

See you for our next trip!