Routes

Planner

Features

Updates

App

Get the App

Castles

Brecon Castle

Castles

Brecon Castle

Highlight • Castle

Brecon Castle

Recommended by 16 hikers out of 17

This Highlight is in a protected area

Please check local regulations for: Bannau Brycheiniog National Park

Save

Location: Brecon, South Wales, Wales, United Kingdom

Save

See hikes here

Take Me There

Routes here

Best Hikes to Brecon Castle

4.4

(5)

119

hikers

1. Brecon Canal Basin – Brecon Castle loop from Brecon

6.40km

01:40

40m

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Navigate

Send to Phone

Save

Easy

4.4

(14)

hikers

2. Brecon Castle – Pen y Crug Hillfort Summit loop from Brecon

11.8km

03:20

240m

Intermediate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Navigate

Send to Phone

Save

Intermediate

4.6

(7)

hikers

3. St Mary's Church, Brecon – Brecon Castle loop from Brecon

5.65km

01:27

30m

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Navigate

Send to Phone

Save

Easy

Tips

David Howells

February 17, 2024

Brecon Castle is a very unique place. It is a castle that is now within the grounds of a private hotel. Though most of the original castle is long gone, there are still the imposing remains of the tower left, and this is visible from many areas of the town. There is a particularly good view of it from the town bridge. Strategically sighted, overlooking the confluence of the Afon Honddu and the River Usk, it dominates this part of the town and is a reminder of the powers of the Normans when they started to build it in 1093. Originally, the castle would have had two entrances as well as a postern gate. There would have been a drawbridge over the River Usk and another over the Afon Honddu. At the time, it was built as the administrative and military headquarters of the Lordship of Brecon and as a reminder to all that they lived among one of the most powerful families of the day.

Geraint

February 28, 2025

Brecon Castle, located in the town of Brecon in Wales, is a historic site with a rich heritage that dates back to the 11th century. Originally built as a wooden fort by the Normans after their invasion of Wales, it was later rebuilt in stone. Here are some key points about Brecon Castle:

Historical Significance:
Norman Foundation: The castle was originally constructed around 1093 by Bernard de Neufmarché as part of the Norman conquest of Wales. It served as a strategic military stronghold.

Fortifications: Over the centuries, the castle underwent various modifications and expansions, with the addition of stone walls and towers to enhance its defensive capabilities.

Role in Conflicts: Brecon Castle played a significant role in various conflicts, including the Welsh Wars and later during the English Civil War, when it was captured and fortified by Royalist forces.

Ownership: The castle was granted to different noble families over the years and was used for both military and administrative purposes.

Architectural Features:
Stone Structure**: The castle features impressive stone walls, towers, and a gatehouse, reflecting medieval military architecture.
Ruins**: While parts of the castle are in ruins today, the remaining structures give visitors a glimpse into its historical significance and architectural style.

Modern Usage:
Tourism**: Brecon Castle is a popular tourist attraction, drawing visitors interested in history and architecture. The site offers guided tours and information about its storied past.
Hotel**: The castle has also been repurposed as a hotel, allowing guests to experience staying in a historic setting.

Location:
Brecon Castle is situated near the Brecon Beacons National Park, making it a convenient stop for visitors exploring the natural beauty of the area.

Brecon Castle serves as a reminder of Wales' turbulent history and is an important heritage site that continues to attract interest for its historical and architectural value.

In the know? Log-in to add a tip for other adventurers!

Details

Informations

Elevation 240 m

Weather

Today

Friday 31 October

14°C

8°C

100 %

If you start your activity now...

Max wind speed: 24.0 km/h

Most visited during

January

February

March

April

May

June

July

August

September

October

November

December

See hikes here

Take Me There

Location: Brecon, South Wales, Wales, United Kingdom

Other Popular Places to Check Out

Fan y Big Summit and Diving Board

Cribyn Summit

Col Between Corn Du and Pen y Fan

View of Corn Du and Llyn Cwm Llwch

Watton Limekilns

Carn Pica Cairn

Watton Bridge (Bridge 165)

Beacons Way to Pen y Fan Summit

View of Pen y Fan from Cefn Cwm Llwch

The Diving Board, Fan y Big

View of Pen y Fan

Jacob's Ladder (Bannau Brycheiniog National Park)

Brecon Castle

1. Brecon Canal Basin – Brecon Castle loop from Brecon

2. Brecon Castle – Pen y Crug Hillfort Summit loop from Brecon

3. St Mary's Church, Brecon – Brecon Castle loop from Brecon

Other Popular Places to Check Out

We value your privacy ⛰️

We value your privacy ⛰️