Powys

Wales

A hilly landscape with a rider on horseback and sheep grazing.
Two people wading in a river surrounded by lush greenery and trees.
A group of cyclists on a grassy hill with a mountainous landscape in the background.
A car driving on a narrow road through a mountainous landscape with rocky terrain and sparse vegetation.
A person in a red coat standing in front of a stone wall with ruins in the background.

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

A river winding through a hilly landscape with trees and a forested hill in the background.
Merthyr Tydfil
Known for Friendly people, Biking and Castle
Come to secluded Merthyr Tydfil and enjoy its castle, adventures, and mountain views.

Reasons to visit

  • Brecon Mountain Railway
  • Cyfarthfa Park and Museum
  • Pontsticill Reservoir
A river with grassy banks and sheep grazing.
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.

Reasons to visit

  • Pen y Fan
  • Llangorse Lake
A mountainous landscape with a village in the valley, a prominent rock formation, and a distant tower.
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
A historic castle with a large brick tower, a paved pathway, and well-manicured gardens.
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
A pebbly beach with large rocks and hills in the background during sunset.
Llandrindod Wells
Known for Spas, Lakes and Nature
Experience the festivals, museums, and golf in Llandrindod Wells!
A coastal town with a pier, boats, and a sandy beach.
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.

Stay near popular Powys attractions