The market town of Brecon is set in the shadow of the Brecon Beacons mountain range in the picturesque valley of the river Usk, at the point where the river Honddu flows into it. Hence it's Welsh name of Aberhonddu (Mouth of the Honddu). The name Brecon itself is derived from Brychan, a fifth century Welsh prince who established the ancient kingdom of Brychieniog in what we now know as Mid-Wales, but it's roots go back much further to Neolithic times. Indeed the remains of Iron Age hill forts can still be seen at Pen-y-Crug, overlooking the northern side of the town, and Slwch, the hill top above Canal Barn Bunkhouse. The 'recorded' founding of Brecon town dates from 1093 when the Normans fortified the settlement.
The architecture is Georgian in aspect, with the narrow rambling streets and winding passageways giving the town a quaint eccentric charm. Attractions include the castle remains, the 11th century Cathedral, two museums (including the famous South Wales Borders Military Museum), a Cinema (Tel: 01874 622501), and an excellent Leisure Centre (Tel: 01874 623677), plus a brand new Theatre (Tel: 01874 611622) located at the canal basin only 400 metes from Canal Barn Bunkhouse. Brecon boasts numerous arts and crafts shops and galleries that have come together to form Artbeat Brecon.
|
Map Out your Stay at Canal Barn Bunkhouse!Numerous events are held throughout the year including the renowned Jazz Festival, when the town is bedecked with flags and multi-coloured awnings, and Brecon Agricultural Show (the oldest in the UK) in August. A Georgian Festival with a Ball and Sedan Chair Race is held in November. Market days are Tuesday and Friday, with regular Antique, Craft and Farmers markets held on alternate Saturdays. Traditional Spring and Autumn Fairs are also held, when the town centre is transformed into a fair ground. |
As a market town serving a large rural area and the principal centre of the Brecon Beacons National Park, Brecon boasts a range of entertainment far exceeding other towns of similar size. There are currently 17 pubs, most of which also provide meals, dancing and karioke bars, and a plethora of restaurants and take-aways, serving a range Welsh, Continental, Indian and Oriental cuisine that will satisfy most tastes and pockets.
Further details and information about this quaint and eccentric town can be found at: Brecon Town, Visit Brecon, Brecon Town Council
 Home to Roost |
Canal Barn Bunkhouse - Main Flight Path
|
 Contact us |
© Canal Barn Bunkhouse, Brecon Beacons, Wales 2001 - site design by Antur Camlas
