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North Wales Live
16 hours ago
- North Wales Live
Unsung market town in Wales that's great for hiking, biking and epic Sunday lunches
As I navigated the rolling hills of Mid Wales, the scenery began to subtly transform. The narrow roads meandered through steep valleys, alongside dense forests, and over historic stone bridges that crossed swift streams. After journeying past farmlands and small clusters of homes, I found myself in Rhayader, the first town on the River Wye. Rhayader is a hidden gem, home to the stunning dams and reservoirs of the Elan and Claerwen Valleys. This underrated market town is a perfect base for biking, hiking and wildlife spotting. It has stayed true to its agricultural heritage and remains a vital hub for the farming community, with a bustling livestock market serving a large rural area. Historically, Rhayader has been a rest stop for weary travellers in Mid Wales, serving as a staging post for drovers and those journeying the lengthy route from London to Aberystwyth, reports Wales Online. Today, it's known as the gateway to the Elan Valley, located just outside the expansive estate. It's a handy base with a variety of independent shops, cafés, and pubs, and also brands itself as the 'outdoors capital of Wales'. This spot is certainly one of my favourite places in Wales for an exhilarating bike ride followed by a hearty Sunday lunch at one of the many local pubs. Join the North Wales Live WhatsApp community group where you can get the latest stories delivered straight to your phone Here's how to make the most of a visit to Rhayader. Shopping The main street hosts a compact shopping area where you can peruse a range of antiques, local crafts, prints, pottery, upcycled clothing, and local souvenirs. Hafod Hardware, a family-run hardware store with a vintage feel that has been in operation since 1895, is one of the more unique shopping experiences available here. In addition to standard DIY items and kitchenware, you can also find vintage-style tourism prints of Wales and, rather more predictably, specially-made Elan Valley mugs and chocolate bars. Quillies, a local craft shop, is worth a visit for its beautiful locally-made crafts including pottery, textiles, jewellery and fused glass. Family-run No 8 Clothing offers a retail fix with men's, women's, and children's clothing, accessories and gifts across two floors. It stocks well-known brands such as Joules, Brakeburn, Seasalt, Soya Concept, Mistral, Joe Browns, Wrangler, Pachamama, Jellycat, and Powder. River Wood is a glorious place - the UK's only gallery-bookshop dedicated solely to wildlife and wild places, filled with original paintings, prints, cards, and books. Upstairs, there's a working artist's studio and space for creative workshops. For outdoor gear, Hill Walking provides a good selection of clothing, boots, and accessories from brands like Urban Road, Game, Regatta, Trespass, and Craghoppers, all suitable for walking in Wales' unpredictable weather conditions. Explore the dams Rhayader serves as the entrance to the stunning Elan Valley, home to the area's Victorian dams nestled amongst rolling green hills. Constructed over a century ago to quench the thirst of a rapidly urbanising Birmingham, these unique gravity dams attract photographers from far and wide, eager to capture their cascading waters. The tale of the Elan Valley originates in the late 19th century when Birmingham, a bustling city at the peak of the industrial revolution, was expanding at an unprecedented rate. In desperate need of a reliable and clean water source, engineers turned their attention to the remote Elan Valley. With its high rainfall and steep, narrow landscape, the valley was the ideal location for a series of reservoirs. In 1892, one of the most ambitious water supply projects of its era commenced. Over 3,000 workers were employed to construct dams, reservoirs and aqueducts by hand, aided by steam-powered machinery. By the time the project was completed in 1904, the Elan Valley had undergone a significant transformation. Four main dams were built – Caban Coch, Garreg Ddu, Pen y Garreg, and Craig Goch. Each dam is a feat of engineering, constructed from local stone and designed to blend seamlessly into the landscape. For instance, the Caban Coch Dam, viewed from afar, appears to be a natural cliff face. However, up close, its sheer size and the sound of water tumbling over its edge are nothing short of breathtaking. The reservoirs themselves, vast and deep bodies of water, mirror the surrounding hills and sky, creating a picturesque spot. A map of the estate can be obtained from the Elan Valley Visitor Centre, where staff are also on hand to suggest scenic routes to view the dams. The optimal time to leisurely drive around the estate is after heavy rainfall - a common occurrence in Wales - when the reservoir water cascades over the steep, 'Birmingham Baroque'-style structures. Fancy being guided by a local expert? You can arrange a custom tour of the Elan Valley and the Cambrian Mountains area with Cambrian Safaris and discover all the hidden nooks with a local guide. Stay updated Cycle the Elan Valley trail One of the top ways to explore Elan Valley is by walking or cycling along the Elan Valley Trail. This 13-mile (21km) path traces the route of the old railway that transported materials to the valley during the dam's construction. Today, a well-kept trail meanders through some of the valley's most scenic spots. Starting in the quaint village of Cwmdeuddwr, just west of Rhayader, you'll follow the old Birmingham Corporation Railway line, perfectly situated to showcase Elan's finest Victorian dams. The linear trail is mostly level, save for a few inclines, with several tarmacked stretches making it suitable for cyclists of all skill levels, including older children. If you fancy a bit of assistance on your journey, why not hire an E-bike in Rhayader and glide through the valley with ease? For those without their own bikes, the market town of Rhayader offers rental services from Neil's Wheels or Clive Powell Mountain Bikes. With the trail taking approximately three hours to complete, a half-day bike hire should provide ample time for photo opportunities and coffee breaks. The route ascends 165ft from the Elan Valley Visitor Centre, passing the awe-inspiring Caban Coch and Garreg Ddu reservoirs. When full, millions of gallons of water tumble over the historic 120ft-high dam walls of Cabin Coch – a sight worth capturing on camera. Go Wildlife watching Rhayader is ideally situated for wildlife spotting, being adjacent to the wildlife-rich Elan Valley where red kites can often be seen soaring above the town. The nearby Elan Estate is owned by Dŵr Cymru Welsh Water, but a significant portion is vested in the Elan Valley Trust. While its primary function is to provide clean water, it also serves as a meticulously managed beauty spot for visitors. Over 80% of the valley is designated a site of special scientific interest (SSSI), teeming with wildlife and boasting remarkable landscapes. The Elan Valley is a sanctuary for an array of wildlife, thanks to its varied habitats and meticulous management. The valley's forests, moorlands, and wetlands are home to a diverse range of species including birds, mammals, insects and plants. Bird enthusiasts will be thrilled by the variety of species that can be spotted here. Waterfowl such as tufted ducks, great crested grebes, and goosanders are drawn to the reservoirs, while woodpeckers and nuthatches inhabit the surrounding woods. The expansive moorland serves as a hunting ground for birds of prey, with red kites, buzzards, and occasionally peregrine falcons seen soaring high above. For a closer view of the resident red kites, head to Gigrin Farm, renowned for its red kite feeding. Situated half a mile from Rhayader, hundreds of red kites feed here, making it the best spot in the UK to see and photograph these magnificent birds (including the rare leucistic red kites). Small-scale cattle farming also plays a vital role in the Elan Valley. Today, only a few farms continue this practice. Keep your eyes peeled and you'll spot cattle grazing freely on the open hills and in some enclosed habitats. The flora of the Elan Valley is equally impressive. Dense forests house ancient oaks and the moorlands are blanketed in a mix of heather, bilberry, and mosses. In the spring and summer, the valley's meadows come alive with wildflowers, adding a burst of colour to the landscape. Sign up for the North Wales Live newsletter sent twice daily to your inbox Try stargazing Did you know that Rhyader and the Elan Valley boast some of the world's darkest, clearest, and least polluted skies? The Elan Valley, with its 45,000 acres of safeguarded land, has been at the forefront of this movement since it was awarded International Dark Sky Park status in 2015, becoming the first privately-owned yet publicly-accessible park globally to achieve this. This prestigious status now ensures that the Elan Valley is shielded from light pollution, providing a safe haven for the wealth of wildlife and nature found within the estate. Since receiving its dark sky designation, the Elan Valley is now acknowledged as one of the premier stargazing destinations worldwide and has been highlighted in numerous stargazing guides, talks, and books. But what does this mean in pactice? Simply put, it means minimal light pollution and such clear skies that you can see the Milky Way, meteor showers, and even the faint glow of neighbouring galaxies with the naked eye. The valley's secluded location and considerate conservation efforts make it an exceptional spot for those seeking a deeper connection with the cosmos. Here, you'll discover several prime locations for stargazing. Each offers a unique perspective on the night sky, whether you're a casual observer or a passionate astrophotographer. Craig Goch Dam car park: A popular spot with wide open views, it's ideal for seeing the Milky Way or setting up for long-exposure photography. Claerwen Dam: Known for its dramatic backdrop, this site combines the grandeur of Victorian engineering with the infinite beauty of the stars above. Teifi Pools: Remote and serene, these pools reflect the starlight, creating a mesmerising experience. Pont ar Elan: Easily accessible yet wonderfully secluded, it's a fantastic spot to gaze at constellations or catch a meteor shower. Bring a red-light torch to maintain your night vision and allow your eyes 20 minutes to adjust to the darkness for the full experience. For a more engaging experience, consider attending organised stargazing events in the area to connect with the cosmos or try your hand at astrophotography. The Elan Valley Trust and Dark Sky Wales regularly host guided tours and workshops offering expert insights and access to telescopes. For dark sky events, check out the Elan Valley's What's On webpage, Facebook (ElanValley), and Instagram (@elanvalley). Eating and drinking in Rhayader Pop into The Lost ARC for lunch and coffee in this quirky community café. Be sure to order my favourite – a delicious Welsh rarebit consisting of toasted bread covered in warm, mature cheddar, Welsh ale, and a touch of laverbread and mustard. They also offer coffee, cakes, light lunches, and a wide selection of vegan options. By evening, this trendy establishment transforms into a live music venue showcasing emerging acts and hosting popular pizza nights. The Old Swan Tea Rooms is a traditional family-run tea room and cake shop providing a lovely spot for homemade pasties, cakes, and lunches. Give their incredibly tasty chicken curry made from a family recipe a try. For a hearty Sunday lunch, make your way to The Crown for generous servings of meat and veg and a Yorkshire pudding. This is Sunday lunch as Mam would make it – no-nonsense, satisfying, and with plenty of gravy. You certainly won't leave hungry. The Historic Triangle, a beautiful 16th-century drover's inn located in Cwmdauddwr, is a short stroll away. Here you'll find a roaring fire, real cask ales on tap, and homemade food including several pub classics. Another good spot for ales, traditional bar meals, and Sunday carveries is The Lamb and Flag, while the bright green Elan Hotel also has a decent selection of drinks at their bar. Where to stay Mid Wales Holiday Lets These reasonably-priced holiday lets can sleep up to 44 people with Glandwr House, Afonwy House, The Old Drapers, The Bakehouse, and The Cwtch all available. The handsome red-brick converted townhouses are perfect for groups of friends or families travelling together in the Elan Valley area. They are also well-equipped for cyclists, offering secure bike storage to keep your gear safe. After a long day of hitting the trails you can unwind in the bubbly outdoor hot tub, which is perfect for soothing those aching muscles. Ty Morgans For a stay in the heart of Rhayader, Ty Morgans is a historic townhouse that blends traditional charm with a modern feel. This boutique and well-priced accommodation is situated at the crossroads of Rhayader, making it a perfect base for exploring the town and the Elan Valley area. It is thoughtfully designed, incorporating original features like oak beams and stone fireplaces while offering all the modern amenities you'd expect including en suite bathrooms. Ty Morgans is a delightful spot that boasts an on-site bar and restaurant, serving everything from hearty Welsh breakfasts to evening meals. Its central location means you're just a stone's throw away from local shops, pubs, and the Riverside Walk. Elan Valley Hotel Just a short drive from the Elan Valley, the Elan Valley Hotel offers a perfect blend of comfort and convenience in a boutique hotel setting. Here, guests can enjoy well-furnished rooms with stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Each room is designed for comfort, featuring plush beds and modern amenities. The hotel's restaurant is famed for its exceptional menu, which uses locally-sourced ingredients to provide a truly authentic taste of Wales. It's the ideal location for easy access to the Elan Valley's numerous trails and reservoirs, all while enjoying a touch of luxury. Getting to Rhayader Rhayader, the gateway to the Elan Valley, is easily reachable from various parts of Wales and England. By car: If you're driving, Rhayader is well-connected via the A470 and A44, making it a scenic road trip from cities like Cardiff (around two and a half hours), Birmingham (just over two hours), or Shrewsbury (around 90 minutes). The roads into Mid Wales wind through picturesque countryside, so allow a little extra time for slower rural routes and photo stops. By public transport: Train and bus services are available, albeit limited due to the rural location. The closest train station is situated in Llandrindod Wells, approximately 12 miles away, with connections provided by Transport for Wales. From there, a local bus can be taken to reach Rhayader. For further details and timetables, consult Traveline Cymru or utilise transport apps to assist in planning your journey.
Wales Online
a day ago
- Wales Online
Underrated Welsh market town is all about biking, beers, and big Sunday lunches
Underrated Welsh market town is all about biking, beers, and big Sunday lunches This historic town was once a stop-off for weary drovers and is now positioning itself as the 'outdoors capital of Wales' Home to the spectacular dams and reservoirs of the Elan and Claerwen Valleys this underrated market town is an ideal hub for biking, hiking, and wildlife watching (Image: Portia Jones ) As I drove through the undulating hills of mid Wales the landscape began to change gradually. The single-track roads wound through steep valleys, past dense woodlands, and over ancient stone bridges that spanned fast-flowing streams. After passing by farmlands and small clusters of houses I soon found myself in the first town on the River Wye, Rhayader. Home to the spectacular dams and reservoirs of the Elan and Claerwen Valleys this underrated market town is an ideal hub for biking, hiking, and wildlife watching. Rhayader has remained true to its farming roots and continues to be an important centre for the farming community with a thriving livestock market serving a large rural area. Rhayader has long been a mid Wales hub for weary travellers and was used as a staging post for drovers and those travelling the long route from London to Aberystwyth. Today it's known as the gateway to the Elan Valley and can be found just outside the vast estate. It's a convenient base with several independent shops, cafés, and pubs, and also positions itself as the 'outdoors capital of Wales'. This destination is definitely one of my favourite places in Wales for an epic bike ride and a massive Sunday lunch at one of the many pubs dotted around the town. Here's how to make the most of a visit to Rhayader. Shopping One of the more atypical shopping options here is Hafod Hardware – a retro, family-run hardware store that has been open since 1895 (Image: Portia Jones ) Article continues below Along the main drag you'll find a compact shopping area where you can browse a selection of antiques, local crafts, prints, pottery, upcycled clothing, and local souvenirs. One of the more uncommon shopping options here is Hafod Hardware which is a retro, family-run hardware store that has been open since 1895. Alongside typical DIY items and kitchenware you can also pick up vintage-style tourism prints of Wales, specially-made Elan Valley mugs, and chocolate bars. Quillies is worth a visit for its lush locally-made crafts including pottery, textiles, jewellery, and fused glass. Get your retail fix at family-run No8 Clothing where you'll find men's, women's, and children's clothing, accessories, and gifts. Gift shops sell locally-made crafts including pottery, textiles, jewellery, and fused glass (Image: Portia Jones ) There are two floors stocking well-known brands including Joules, Brakeburn, Seasalt, Soya Concept, Mistral, Joe Browns, Wrangler, Pachamama, Jellycat, and Powder. River Wood is the only gallery-bookshop in the UK dedicated solely to wildlife and wild places and is packed with original paintings, prints, cards, and books. Upstairs is a working artist's studio and space for creative workshops. For outdoor gear Hill Walking offers a decent variety of clothing, boots, and accessories featuring brands like Urban Road, Game, Regatta, Trespass, and Craghoppers, all suited to walking in Wales' unpredictable weather conditions. Explore the dams Rhayader is the gateway to the spectacular Elan Valley (Image: Portia Jones ) Rhayader is the gateway to the spectacular Elan Valley where the estate's Victorian dams are found among the undulating green hills. Built more than 100 years ago to supply water to a heavily urbanised and thirsty Birmingham these distinctive gravity dams are a massive draw for photographers who come to snap the cascading waters. The story of the Elan Valley begins in the late 19th century when Birmingham, an urban hub at the height of the industrial revolution, was undergoing rapid expansion. The city needed a clean reliable water source and, after much searching, engineers set their sights on the remote Elan Valley. With its high rainfall and steep, narrow landscape the valley was the perfect location for a chain of reservoirs. In 1892 work began on one of the most ambitious water supply projects of its time. More than 3,000 workers were brought in to build dams, reservoirs, and aqueducts by hand with the assistance of steam-powered machinery. By the time the project was completed in 1904 the Elan Valley had undergone a significant transformation. A map of the estate can be procured from the Elan Valley Visitor Centre and staff are also happy to advise on scenic routes to see the dams (Image: Portia Jones ) Four main dams were constructed – Caban Coch, Garreg Ddu, Pen y Garreg, and Craig Goch. Each dam is an engineering marvel, built from local stone and designed to blend seamlessly into the landscape. The Caban Coch Dam, for example, appears to be a natural cliff face from a distance yet up close its sheer size and the sound of water cascading over its edge are nothing short of awe-inspiring. The reservoirs themselves, vast and deep bodies of water, reflect the surrounding hills and sky creating a picture-perfect spot. A map of the estate can be procured from the Elan Valley Visitor Centre and staff are also happy to advise on scenic routes to see the dams. The best time to take a slow drive around the estate is after heavy rainfall (not exactly a difficult feat in Wales) when reservoir water spills over the steep, 'Birmingham Baroque'-style structures. Want to be guided by a local expert? You can book a bespoke tour of the Elan Valley and the Cambrian Mountains area with Cambrian Safaris and find all the hidden corners with a local expert. From superstar gigs to cosy pubs find out What's On in Wales by signing up to our newsletter here. Bike the Elan Valley trail One of the best ways to explore Elan Valley is by strolling or cycling along the Elan Valley Trail (Image: Portia Jones ) One of the best ways to explore Elan Valley is by strolling or cycling along the Elan Valley Trail. This 13-mile (21km) path follows the route of the old railway that brought materials to the valley during the dam's construction. Today a well-maintained trail winds through some of the valley's most scenic spots. Starting in the small village of Cwmdeuddwr, just west of Rhayader, you'll follow the old Birmingham Corporation Railway line, perfectly positioned to show off Elan's best Victorian dams. The linear trail is mostly flat, except for a few inclines, with a few tarmacked stretches making it ideal for cyclists of all abilities, including older kids. And if you want to give your legs a bit of extra help you can always hire an E-bike in Rhayader – after all who says you can't cruise through the valley in style? If you aren't bringing your own bike head to the market town of Rhayader first to rent push bikes or E-bikes from either Neil's Wheels or Clive Powell Mountain Bikes. The trail should take around three hours so renting a bike for half a day should give you plenty of time for photo stops and coffee breaks. The route climbs 165ft from the Elan Valley Visitor Centre and passes the impressive Caban Coch and Garreg Ddu reservoirs. When they are full millions of gallons of water cascade over the historic 120ft-high dam walls of Cabin Coch – get your camera ready. Go wildlife spotting The visitor centre at Gigrin Farm Red Kite Feeding Centre (Image: Gigrin Farm ) Rhayader is on the doorstep of the wildlife-rich Elan Valley and you can also spot red kites circling above the town. Dŵr Cymru Welsh Water owns the nearby Elan Estate, although a more significant part is vested in the Elan Valley Trust. While the estate's principal function is providing a clean water supply it also serves as a carefully-managed beauty spot for curious visitors. More than 80% of the valley is designated a site of special scientific interest (SSSI), rich in wildlife and remarkable landscapes. Thanks to its diverse habitats and careful management the Elan Valley is a haven for a wide range of wildlife. The valley's woodlands, moorlands, and wetlands provide habitats for a diverse range of species including birds, mammals, insects, and plants. Birdwatchers will appreciate the diverse array of species found here. The reservoirs attract waterfowl like tufted ducks, great crested grebes, and goosanders while the surrounding forests are home to woodpeckers and nuthatches. The open moorland serves as a hunting ground for birds of prey with red kites, buzzards, and occasionally peregrine falcons spotted soaring high above. Thanks to its diverse habitats and careful management the Elan Valley is a haven for a wide range of wildlife (Image: Portia Jones ) To get a closer look at the resident red kites head to Gigrin Farm, famous for its red kite feeding. Located half a mile from Rhayader, hundreds of red kites feed here, and it's the best place in the UK to see and photograph hundreds of wild red kites (including rare leucistic red kites). Small-scale cattle-keeping is also a crucial part of farming in Elan Valley. Today only a handful of farms continue this practice. Keep an eye out and you'll see cattle grazing extensively on the open hills and in some enclosed habitats. The Elan Valley's flora is just as impressive. Dense woodlands are home to ancient oaks and the moorlands are covered in a carpet of heather, bilberry, and mosses. In the spring and summer the valley's meadows burst into life with wildflowers, adding a splash of colour to the landscape. Try stargazing The Elan Valley Estate has several prime locations for stargazing (Image: Portia Jones / Dafydd Wyn Morgan ) Did you know that Rhyader and the Elan Valley are home to some of the darkest, clearest, and most unpolluted skies in the world? With its 45,000 acres of protected land the Elan Valley has led this movement since achieving its International Dark Sky Park status in 2015, becoming the first privately-owned but publicly-accessible park in the world to do so. This special status now means that the Elan Valley is protected against light pollution and also provides sanctuary for the abundance of wildlife and nature that can be found here on the estate. Since its dark sky designation the Elan Valley is now recognised as one of the top stargazing destinations in the world and has been featured in many stargazing guides, talks, and books. But what does that mean for stargazers? In simple terms it means minimal light pollution and skies so clear that you can see the Milky Way, meteor showers, and even the faint glow of neighbouring galaxies with the naked eye. The valley's remote location and thoughtful conservation efforts make it a standout spot for those seeking a deeper connection with the cosmos. Here you'll find several prime locations for stargazing. Each offers a unique perspective on the night sky whether you're a casual observer or an avid astrophotographer. The Elan Valley isn't just for stargazing as it's also a dream destination for astrophotographers (Image: Ewan Lo Turco ) Craig Goch Dam Car Park : A popular spot with wide open views, it's ideal for seeing the Milky Way or setting up for long-exposure photography. : A popular spot with wide open views, it's ideal for seeing the Milky Way or setting up for long-exposure photography. Claerwen Dam : Known for its dramatic backdrop, this site combines the grandeur of Victorian engineering with the infinite beauty of the stars above. : Known for its dramatic backdrop, this site combines the grandeur of Victorian engineering with the infinite beauty of the stars above. Teifi Pools : Remote and serene, these pools reflect the starlight, creating a mesmerising experience. : Remote and serene, these pools reflect the starlight, creating a mesmerising experience. Pont ar Elan: Easily accessible yet wonderfully secluded, it's a fantastic spot to gaze at constellations or catch a meteor shower. Bring a red-light torch to preserve your night vision and allow your eyes 20 minutes to adjust to the darkness for the full experience. For a more interactive experience look out for organised stargazing events in the area to connect with the cosmos or try your hand at astrophotography. The Elan Valley Trust and Dark Sky Wales regularly host guided tours and workshops offering expert insights and access to telescopes. For dark sky events look at the Elan Valley's What's On webpage, Facebook (ElanValley), and Instagram (@elanvalley). Eating and drinking in Rhayader There are loads of great food and drink options in Rhayader (Image: Portia Jones ) Swing by The Lost ARC for lunch and coffee in this kooky community café. Definitely order my favourite – a tasty Welsh rarebit comprising toasted bread smothered in warm, mature cheddar, Welsh ale, and a smidge of laverbread and mustard. They also have coffee, cakes, light lunches, and plenty of vegan eats to choose from By night this hip establishment transforms into a live music venue showcasing emerging acts and hosting popular pizza nights. The Old Swan Tea Rooms is a traditional family-run tea room and cake shop offering a lovely spot for homemade pasties, cakes, and lunches. Try their incredibly moreish chicken curry made from a family recipe. For an epic Sunday lunch, head to The Crown for generous portions of meat and veg and a Yorkshire pudding. This is Sunday lunch just like Mam makes it – fuss-free, filling, and with boatloads of gravy. You won't go home hungry. For an epic Sunday Lunch head to The Crown for generous portions of meat and veg (Image: Portia Jones ) Pub-wise the Historic Triangle is a gorgeous 16th-century drover's inn located a short stroll away in Cwmdauddwr. Here you'll find a roaring fire, real cask ales on tap, and homemade food including several pub classics. The Lamb and Flag is another good spot for ales, traditional bar meals, and Sunday carveries while the bright green Elan Hotel also has a decent selection of drinks at their bar. Where to stay These handsome red-brick converted townhouses are perfect for groups of friends or families travelling together (Image: Portia Jones ) Mid Wales Holiday Lets These reasonably-priced holiday lets can sleep up to 44 people with Glandwr House, Afonwy House, The Old Drapers, The Bakehouse, and The Cwtch all available. The handsome red-brick converted townhouses are perfect for groups of friends or families travelling together in the Elan Valley area. They are also well-equipped for cyclists, offering secure bike storage to keep your gear safe. After a long day of hitting the trails you can unwind in the bubbly outdoor hot tub, which is perfect for soothing those aching muscles. Ty Morgans For a stay in the heart of Rhayader Ty Morgans is a historic townhouse that blends traditional charm with a modern feel. This boutique and well-priced accommodation is situated at the crossroads of Rhayader making it a perfect base for exploring the town and the Elan Valley area. It is thoughtfully designed, incorporating original features like oak beams and stone fireplaces while offering all the modern amenities you'd expect including en suite bathrooms. Ty Morgans also features an on-site bar and restaurant where guests can enjoy a variety of meals ranging from full Welsh breakfasts to evening dinners. The central location means you're just a short stroll away from local shops, pubs, and the Riverside Walk. Elan Valley Hotel Located just a short drive from the Elan Valley the Elan Valley Hotel is a top choice for a blend of comfort and convenience wrapped up in a boutique hotel experience. Here you'll find well-appointed rooms with beautiful views of the surrounding countryside. Each room is designed with comfort in mind featuring plush beds and modern amenities. The hotel's restaurant is renowned for its exceptional menu, which features locally-sourced ingredients and offers a truly authentic taste of Wales. It's an ideal spot for easy access to the Elan Valley's many trails and reservoirs while enjoying a touch of luxury. Getting to Rhayader Rhayader, the gateway to the Elan Valley, is easily accessible from various parts of Wales and England. By car: If you're driving Rhayader is well-connected via the A470 and A44, making it a scenic road trip from cities like Cardiff (approximately two and a half hours), Birmingham (just over two hours), or Shrewsbury (around 90 minutes). The roads into mid Wales wind through picturesque countryside so allow a little extra time for slower rural routes and photo stops. By public transport: Travelling by train and bus is also an option though services are limited in this rural area. The nearest train station is in Llandrindod Wells, around 12 miles away, with connections via Transport for Wales. From there you can take a local bus to reach Rhayader. For more information and timetables check Traveline Cymru or use transport apps to help plan your journey. Article continues below
Powys County Times
13-05-2025
- Powys County Times
Deer seen swimming across Elan Valley reservoir in Powys
A COUPLE have described the 'incredible' moment they captured a deer swimming across a reservoir in Powys. Tom Jones and his partner Ellen Lloyd were out for a walk with their dogs at the remote Claerwen reservoir, in the Elan Valley, on Sunday, May 11, when they witnessed the special occurrence. Tom and Ellen were driving back towards Rhayader after an afternoon spent in the sunshine, when they stopped to record the deer, who they spotted gliding through the waters of the Claerwen – the largest of the Elan Valley's network of stunning dams. 'It was crazy to see up close,' said Tom, 35, who runs the family-owned Hafod Hardware shop in Rhayader town centre. 'We've seen a couple near Nantgwyllt Church over the last year or too. Before that, I hadn't seen a deer in the Elan Valley in over 30 years. 'It seems like their numbers are increasing and sightings are becoming more commonplace. But to see it swimming across the reservoir was incredible. 'At first I thought it was two geese, but then I realised what it was and Ellen was already recording with her phone so we started filming.' View this post on Instagram A post shared by Hafod Hardware (@hafodhardware) Tom posted the footage to Hafod Hardware' s Instagram page, with the video showing the deer wading confidently towards the shore of the reservoir, before bounding up the grassy bank, across the road in front of their car. The deer then leaps confidently up the hill on the other side, pausing briefly and turning around to acknowledge the couple, before prancing off. According to the Elan Valley Estate's website, there are only occasional records of deer on the estate, with the one Tom and Ellen spotting possibly one of three species that have been recorded infrequently – these being Red, Roe and Muntjac Deer. 'I've had a few records of deer crossing the Claerwen reservoir over the years,' said Sorcha Lewis, a local farmer and resident Elan Valley photographer, commenting on the post. 'There was a Roe deer also crossing Caban Coch reservoir a few weeks back, seen by the foresters in the Gro. 'I've seen foxes, badgers, stoats and deer cross the reservoir here at Penygarreg. One person suggested as well as getting from A to B, it could actually be something to help with discomfort of lice or ticks.' There are three Red deer records in the area, according to the Elan Valley website. 'One dating back to 1900s, one male who turned up at Ciloerwynt, Claerwen Valley, in the farmyard in the 1980s where there is a photo to confirm this record,' reads a section on the site. The deer pauses briefly and turns around to acknowledge the couple, before prancing off. (Image: Tom Jones/Ellen Lloyd) Tom and Ellen pictured with Tom's grandmother Pauline, who Tom runs the Hafod Hardware shop with. The shop recently celebrated 130 years in business. Also pictured are Frodo and Dobby the cat. (Image: Matt Jones) 'A further report was also from the Claerwen of a few large deer about eight years ago though not confirmed. 'A dead Muntjac deer was recorded along Henfron track in the 1990s though there have been no records since. 'There have been reported sightings by farmers of Muntjac between the valley and Rhayader. 'In 2018, a local natural history group captured a Muntjac deer on a trail camera which confirms they are close by. 'It is hoped the local mammal group, by placing out trail cameras on the estate, may find some further confirmed records. 'The third deer species seen is the Roe deer and over the last few years there have been a number of sightings. A Doe was discovered by a farmer with twin fawns in the Gro and a male and a female have been recorded from around Penygarreg. 'The occasional male has also been heard barking in the autumn rutting season.'
