The Powys market town of Talgarth is an ancient settlement, as evidenced by Neolithic artefacts discovered nearby in the 1970s. Though its population of around 2000 might normally qualify the place as a village it is in fact a small market town. In the Dark Ages, however, it was a significant stronghold, once the royal residence of powerful regional King Brychan. Only a short drive to the border with England, Talgarth at one time was a place with a split personality, part under English law, part under Welsh, a situation brought about by Norman occupation. That Talgarth served as a fortified refuge is demonstrated by its early medieval tower on the town square, and perhaps by its very solid 14th century church tower. Another fortification, Bronllys Castle, is to be found in the adjoining village. The medieval bridge in the town has recently been renovated. To the south of the town lies Llangorse Lake, the second biggest (natural) lake in Wales, famed for fishing and birding; and nature lovers will also enjoy Park Wood and Pwlly Wrach reserves just to the east of Talgarth. The town is just within the Brecon Beacons National Park, with those hills to its west and the Black Mountains to the east. Among the bird species to be seen locally are grebe, dippers, occasional flycatchers, and on the lake a wide variety of ducks. The area is popular with those who enjoy outdoor pursuits like pony trekking, hiking in the surrounding hills, and even gliding. Situated at the centre of a web of roads through the valleys in the district – the A479, A438, A470 and B4560 it is easily accessed by car from every direction.
Attraction
Camping
Lower Porthamel Orchard Campsite
Riverside International
Pub and Bar
Places to Stay near Talgarth
Old Radnor Barn B&B (0.10 miles)
The Felin Fach Griffin (4.00 miles)
It is owned and run by brothers Charles and Edmund Inkin, who have carried their uncompromising belief in ... More | visit website
Black Mountain Lodge (4.37 miles)
Llangoed Hall (4.50 miles)
Llangoed Hall, a magnificent Country House Hotel on the banks of the River Wye, is owned by Sir Bernard Ashley, founder of the Laura Ashley empire. It was always his dream to find a house in ... More | visit website
Trericket Mill (5.36 miles)
Friendly and informal accommodation offered at this converted grade 2 star listed water cornmill in the Upper Wye Valley. This early 19th century brick built Mill retains all its original machinery with the dining area ... More | visit website
Peterstone Court (6.12 miles)
Peterstone Court country hotel and spa is situated in the heart of the Brecon Beacons National Park. It is avant-garde and distinctive in its style remaining loyal to its ... More
The Swan at Hay (6.90 miles)
Seven Stars (7.12 miles)
Set in the beautiful Welsh countryside, this characteristic 16th century building has been transformed into a comfortable guest house, whilst still maintaining many of its original features, including oak beams and ... More
Old Black Lion (7.13 miles)
Usk Inn (7.21 miles)
Jill and Andrew Felix have a long history in the hospitality industry. The Usk was established in the 1840s at the time of the Brecon to Merthyr Railway. It has an enviable position on the ... More | visit website
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