What's on in Powys

Powys is a county at the very heart of Wales. Taking up nearly two-thirds of the Welsh rural landscape and packed with endless Welsh green valleys, walking trails, cycling trails, charming towns and villages and a proudly nationalist population this is truly a Welsh county.

Powys is rightly proud of its heritage and independent streak that goes back to fighting off the Norman invasions and its name derives from the much older kingdom of Powys which existed until the invasion of Llywelyn ap Gruffydd of Gwynedd in 1260.

Powys is packed full of historical reminders of its past, from the famous red sandstone Powis Castle in the historic market town of Welshpool, built by Welsh princes in 1200 and perched imperiously on a rock above spectacular gardens, to Powysland museum, and from historic Knighton (a border town where Owain Glyndwr's repelled English invaders) to Machynlleth, a pretty town dating back to the Iron Age where Owen Glyndwr was proclaimed King in the 15th century and a former capital of Wales.

But many people come to Powys simply for the famous valleys and to walk the incredible trails. From the Berwyn Mountains to Lake Vyrnwy (a Victorian reservoir built in 1880) and the nearby RSPB reservoir with its wonderful cycling, walking and fishing to Pistyll Rhaeadr Waterfals, one of the ‘seven wonders of Wales’ where the Afon Disgynfa River drops off a 75m cliff face, (and is a Site of Special Scientific Interest) there are a number of scenic spots. The highlight though is the famous Glyndwr's Way National Trail, which links to the even more famous Offa's Dyke Path and passes by everything from stunning valleys to picturesque rivers, bustling market towns to quiet villages. From the Dovey Valley, one of Wales’ truly great natural features, to the world famous Brecon Beacons National Park which borders the south of the county, Powys is blessed with magnificent terrain and is a must-see destination in Wales.