The Brecon Beacons National Park, is now to be officially known as Bannau Brycheiniog it’s Welsh name as announced by the National Park committee on the 17th of April 2023.
Brycheiniog was a kingdom in Wales during the Early Middle Ages. It was located in what is now the counties of Powys and Monmouthshire in southeast Wales. The kingdom was named after its ruling dynasty, which traced its origins back to Brychan, a legendary Welsh king who lived in the 5th or 6th century. The kingdom of Brycheiniog was an important political and cultural centre in Wales during the Early Middle Ages, and it played a significant role in the development of Welsh identity and culture. Many historical sites and landmarks associated with Brycheiniog can still be seen in the area today, including the ruins of the kingdom’s royal court at Talgarth, and the impressive standing stones at Maen Llia, which are believed to date back to the Bronze Age.
The reason for the name change is overviewed with a great video narrated by Martin Sheen (one of Wales’ best exports!) who explains the change to a new (old) name to highlight the campaign the park has embarked on the regenerate and educate about the nature, ecology and benefits of a rejuvenated Brecon Beacons National Park: Bannau Brycheiniog. Watch the video below:
The Brecon Beacons have a rich history dating back thousands of years. The area was once inhabited by Celtic tribes, and evidence of their settlements can still be found today. The Romans also left their mark on the area, building forts and roads that are still visible.
In the Middle Ages, the Brecon Beacons were used as a hunting ground for royalty, and later became a hub for mining and agriculture. The Industrial Revolution brought significant changes to the area, with the construction of canals, railways, and mills.
During the 20th century, the Brecon Beacons were used for military training, and several training camps were established in the area. Today, the park is a popular destination for hikers, cyclists, and outdoor enthusiasts, offering breathtaking scenery and a wide range of activities.
The park covers an area of over 500 square miles and encompasses four distinct regions: the Black Mountain, Fforest Fawr, the Brecon Beacons themselves, and the Black Mountains. Each region offers its own unique landscapes and attractions, from dramatic mountain peaks to lush valleys and ancient forests.
One of the most popular attractions in the Brecon Beacons is Pen y Fan, which stands at 886 meters (2,907 feet) tall. The summit offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, and is a favorite spot for hikers and climbers.
Other notable landmarks in the park include the Henrhyd Waterfall, the largest waterfall in South Wales, and the ruins of Carreg Cennen Castle, which dates back to the 13th century.
The Brecon Beacons are also home to a diverse range of wildlife, including rare birds such as red kites and peregrine falcons, as well as otters, badgers, and even wild ponies.
In addition to its natural and cultural attractions, the Brecon Beacons National Park is also known for its festivals and events, including the Hay Festival of Literature and the Arts, the Brecon Jazz Festival, and the Green Man Festival.
The Brecon Beacons National Park, or Bannau Brycheiniog, is a truly unique and special place that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for adventure, history, or simply a peaceful retreat in nature, this stunning park is not to be missed. Our cottages at The Good Life Wales are a perfect base to visit all areas and aspects of Bannau Brycheiniog – with the advantage of returning to the soothing wood-fired hot tub after a busy day exploring.
Welwn ni chi cyn bo hir – see you soon!