When we tend to think of mountain ranges, very few of us immediately think of the UK! Yet, Wales is home to one of the most stunning mountain ranges in the world – the Brecon Beacons, otherwise known as just the Beacons to locals. It’s a spectacular part of the world to visit, regardless of whether or not you’re from Wales. Here are some fun facts about the Brecon Beacons.
1. You’ll find the range in south Wales.
The Brecon Beacons is a world famous mountain range and national park in south Wales, to the west of the UK. The towns and villages surrounding the Beacons include Brecon and Crickhowell.
2. It covers 1,344 square kilometres.
Brecon Beacons covers an area of 1,344 square kilometres or around 519 square miles, and its highest peak, Pen y Fan, stands at 886 metres (or 2,841 feet) above sea level. It is famous for being the highest peak in southern Britain!
3. It is made of Sandstone.
The Brecon Beacons mountains are composed of Old Red Sandstone, a type of sedimentary rock. It’s this kind of rock that gives the landscape its distinctive red colour.
4. It has a diverse landscape.
The Brecon Beacons were first designated a national park in 1957. The park is known for its diverse landscape, including mountains, moorlands, waterfalls, caves, and pastoral valleys. The national park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with activities such as hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing, and horseback riding remaining highly popular with visitors.
5. It is a “Dark Sky Reserve.”
Due to its natural beauty and wild stretches, the Brecon Beacons Park was designated as an International Dark Sky Reserve in 2012. This means that it is recognised as one of the best places in the world for stargazing due to its low light pollution.
6. It has multiple waterfalls.
Brecon Beacons Park is also home to several beautiful waterfalls. This includes Henrhyd Falls, the tallest waterfall in south Wales!
7. It has a rich biodiversity.
The Brecon Beacons National Park famously has a variety of species, including otters, bats, newts, and rare butterflies and birds.
8. You can hike along the Horseshoe.
One of the most popular hiking routes in the area is the “Brecon Beacons Horseshoe.” It takes hikers on a circular journey around several peaks, offering stunning views of the area.
9. It is used for military training.
The Brecon Beacons are often used for military training exercises, particularly by the British Army. The challenging terrain provides an ideal environment for military training.
10. The park is home to multiple historical sites.
The Beacons Park plays host to ancient standing stones, Iron Age hillforts, and the ruins of Carreg Cennen Castle. Great for photo opportunities and digging deep into history!
11. There is a famous running event in the area.
You do not have to be in the military to test your speed and agility in the Brecon Beacons! The range hosts the annual “Brecon Beacons Ultra”. The Ultra is a trail running event that covers a challenging course through the national park.
12. It also hosts a jazz festival!
If running isn’t your thing, you can also participate in the Brecon Jazz Festival! The festival attracts jazz enthusiasts and musicians from around the country every year.
FAQs about the Brecon Beacons
What are the Brecon Beacons famous for?
The Brecon Beacons are famous for their stunning views, great outdoor activities, various festivals, and beautiful sky views.
Is the Brecon Beacons worth visiting?
If you love nature, then Brecon Beacons National Park is definitely worth visiting. There are a myriad of activities to enjoy, sites to see, and places to explore. It's a great day trip, or, if you have the time, it is certainly worth exploring over a few days. However, it is worth remembering that the terrain can be tricky to navigate, so it is best to go with someone who knows the area well.
How do you pronounce the name Brecon Beacons?
The area is actually pronounced Ban-eye Bruck-ein-iog! However, many people who don’t speak Welsh refer to the area as the Bre-kon Bee-kons. Try to learn the Welsh pronunciation if you can if you’d like to visit!
Further reading:
https://facts.uk/tag/UK
https://www.breconbeacons.org/
https://www.visitwales.com/attraction/country-park/brecon-beacons-national-park-1444213
Do you know any interesting facts about Brecon Beacons? Share them in the comments below!