The Beacons Way

The Beacons Way is an extraordinary route – so interesting, so regularly beautiful – which zig-zags its way across the width of the Brecon Beacons National Park, consistently traversing its finest areas and taking in two days of the gorgeous Black Mountains while at it. It was first established in 2005, so is a recent addition to Britain’s pedestrian firmament.

It is a fairly challenging route, more often than not climbing to the high ground for thrilling views of the gorgeous landscapes.

The whole 159km (99 mile) trail takes 8 days, but there are many sections to walk as single outings, many of which you can adjust to make circuits. Day lengths vary from 16 to 23.5km.

Note that the route often goes off the beaten track and has limited waymarking, especially on open hill and moorland sections, so navigation skills will be required and you can do well to avoid the upland sections on low-cloud days: i.e., so be prepared for a challenging route needing fitness and careful planning.

You can book accommodation along the way, but it is thinner on the ground in the west so taxis or public transport may be needed. https://www.breconbeacons.org/things-to-do/walking/the-beacons-way

This is at times demanding walking in remote mountains. Expect unpredictable weather: this is one of the wetter bits of the UK!

Good Ideas and Information In Day Walks in the Brecon Beacons (DWIBB) by Henri Roberts.

Your thoughts are welcome! Please help us by making suggestions and sending photos! Thank you!

For more information and photos, including detailed practical information and some warnings, see our Brecon Beacons walk page.