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North Powys | Welshpool, Lake Vyrnwy and Valleys

Powys is by far the largest county in Wales. Think hills, valleys, lakes and mountains. In the north of Powys, there are lots of must-see places to explore and enjoy.

Newtown is the largest town in Powys and lies on the upper reaches of the River Severn, with hills visible in every direction.

Welshpool, an ancient market town, is the gateway to Mid Wales and the Cambrian Coast. Home to Powis Castle and Gardens.

Although Montgomery has a small population of around 1,300 you won't find a livelier community, with cafes, inns and restaurants to enjoy, and the ruins of a castle with panoramic views.

Machynlleth is a market town with a quirky, eco-friendly vibe. You’ll find Machynlleth at the heart of the UNESCO Dyfi Biosphere, with the Centre of Alternative Technology (CAT), Dyfi Wildlife Centre and RSPB Ynys-hir Reserve nearby.

Llanidloes is the first town on the River Severn; walk to the source of the river from the Hafren Forest. The surrounding Cambrian Mountains are perfect for stargazing with a number of locations designated Dark Sky Discovery sites.

Nearby Llanidloes is the Clywedog Reservoir and Dam, Glyndwr's Way National Trail, Hafren Forest and many stunning drives across the Cambrian Mountains.

Looking for more scenic places to visit in North Powys?

On the edge of The Snowdonia National Park and south of Lake Bala, you’ll find Lake Vyrnwy amidst the remote and beautiful Berwyn Mountains. This 24,000-acre RSPB Reserve has walks, trails, viewpoints and hides to observe the amazing variety of birds and scenery.

Walk alongside the Montgomery Canal, or ‘The Monty’ as it’s fondly referred to, which stretches from Newtown to Llanymynech in Wales and continues over the border into England to Frankton Locks where it joins the Llangollen Canal.

Visit Pistyll Rhaedr Waterfalls, often referred to as one of the Seven Wonders of Wales.

Must-see attractions in North Powys

Powis Castle and Gardens

Perched high on a rock above the world-famous garden terraces, Powis Castle, originally built circa 1200, began life as the medieval fortress of the Welsh Princes of Powys.

Gregynog Hall and Gardens

Renowned Grade 1 listed formal gardens. Gregynog Hall houses a magnificent library. Courtyard cafe, situated in historic courtyard.

Montgomery Castle

Situated above the town of Montgomery, the building of Montgomery Castle on a commanding hilltop position started in 1223. While much of the castle was destroyed following the Civil War, significant ruins remain. The site is managed by CADW.

Small Museums & Galleries

Andrew Logan Museum of Sculpture, Berriew - described as "The nicest and friendliest Museum in the UK". The Andrew Logan Museum of Sculpture was the first museum in Europe dedicated to a living artist. Andrew had always dreamed of opening a museum to share with the world his unique approach to life and art.

Oriel Davies Gallery, Newtown - presenting world-class, thought-provoking and challenging art by national and international artists in an environment that is welcoming, engaging, informative and free.

Newtown Textile Museum and Robert Owen Memorial Museum.

Welshpool and Llanfair Railway

16-mile return journey by narrow gauge steam train through beautiful Mid Wales countryside

Newtown is the largest town in Powys and lies on the upper reaches of the River Severn, with hills visible in every direction. The town centre is a conservation area because of the rich variety of historic buildings, including the renovated Victorian Market Hall, the picturesque ruins of St Mary’s Church and the mysterious remains of a medieval motte and bailey.

Welshpool is an ancient market town, the gateway to Mid Wales and the Cambrian Coast. Home to Powis Castle and Gardens.

Machynlleth is a market town with a quirky, eco-friendly vibe. You’ll find it at the heart of the UNESCO Dyfi Biosphere which has within it the Centre of Alternative Technology (CAT), Dyfi Wildlife Centre and RSPB Ynys-hir Reserve. A rural area renowned for its wildlife and unspoilt landscapes. Machynlleth has always commanded a special place in Welsh history, as the ancient capital of Wales and having hosted the first Welsh Parliament under Owain Glyndwr, the last native Prince of Wales.

Llanidloes is the first town on the River Severn. You can walk to the source of the river from the Hafren Forest. The area is perfect for visitors that enjoy the great outdoors, wildlife enthusiasts, walkers and hikers, mountain-biking, cycling, and the surrounding Cambrian Mountains are perfect for stargazing with a number of locations designated Dark Sky Discovery sites. Nearby is the Clywedog Reservoir and Dam which is well-known for its excellent fishing, Glyndwr's Way National Trail, Hafren Forest and many stunning drives across the Cambrian Mountains.

Lake Vyrnwy: The RSPB, in partnership with Hafren Dyfrdwy, manages part of the reserve as the largest organic farm in England and Wales and the Lake Vyrnwy Reservoir and surrounding estate is great for bird-watching. Lake Vyrnwy has been designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) as well as a Natura 2000 site.

Glyndwr's Way National Trail

Glyndwr's Way is an 135 mile (217 Km) long National Trail through that takes you to some of the finest landscape features in Mid Wales.

Montgomery Canal

The Montgomery Canal, or ‘The Monty’ as it’s fondly referred to, stretches from Newtown to Llanymynech in Wales and continues over the border into England to Frankton Locks where it joins the Llangollen Canal.

Pistyll Rhaeadr Waterfalls

Pistyll Rhaeadr is often referred to as one of the Seven Wonders of Wales. The waterfall is formed by the Afon Disgynfa falling in three stages over a 240-foot cliff-face, into the Afon Rhaeadr below. The tallest stage is estimated at about 40 metres.

Llyn Clywedog Reservoir & Dam

The lake has a surface area of 615 acres (230 football pitches), is 216 ft deep at its maximum depth and stretches in all a distance of some six miles.

Hafren Forest & Source of the Severn

Hafren Forest is a great place to experience the great outdoors. On the edge of the Cambrian Mountains, 7 miles west of the market town of Llanidloes, Hafren Forest takes its name from Afon Hafren which is the Welsh name for the River Severn. Walking Trails in the forest include the 7 mile long Source of the Severn Trail that leads through the forest to the Severn's source on Pumlumon, the highest mountain in Mid Wales.

Inspiration

Lake Vyrnwy | Llyn Efyrnwy

Experience the awe-inspiring natural beauty and rich history of Lake Vyrnwy, Wales. The stunning destination boasts a vast reservoir surrounded by remote mountains and thick forests, offering a unique and dramatic landscape for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Additionally, the area has a fascinating history dating back to the 19th century, creating a must-see destination for history buffs. Come and discover this hidden gem in Wales and make unforgettable memories!
Y Trallwng | Welshpool

Welshpool is nestled in the heart of the picturesque in north Powys / Severn Valley. Explore Powis Castle, take a scenic walk along the Montgomery Canal, or browse the independent shops and traditional markets for local treasures. Discover the area's rich heritage at the Welshpool and Llanfair Light Railway and whether you're looking for an idyllic weekend break or a family adventure, Welshpool is the perfect destination.
Y Drenewydd | Newtown

Y Drenewydd (Newtown) is a small riverside market town on the River Severn in Mid Wales, easy to walk with independent shops, cafés, galleries and green spaces all close together. Follow riverside paths and town trails through Dolerw Park, explore public art and heritage sites, or head out to the Montgomery Canal, Severn Way and nearby countryside. Families can enjoy a well-equipped playpark, mountain bike trail and BMX pump track within walking distance of the town centre, while museums and regular events bring the town’s industrial and social history to life. Newtown makes a relaxed base to stay and explore more of Mid Wales.
Machynlleth

Unwind in the heart of the Dyfi Biosphere at Machynlleth. Part of the UNESCO Dyfi Biosphere and offers exciting activities, from mountain biking to exploring the natural beauty of Mid Wales. The Centre for Alternative Technology is an excellent place to learn about environmentalism, while the annual comedy festival and independent shops are bound to give you a laugh and an unforgettable shopping experience. Don’t forget to check out the King Arthur's Labyrinth and Corris Mine Explorers. With the perfect mix of history, art, culture and outdoor activities, Machynlleth has something for everyone.
Trefaldwyn | Montgomery

Montgomery, known in Welsh as Trefaldwyn, is a little town with a big history! It's seen everything from the Iron Age to the Romans, Saxons, Normans and even the English Civil War! This Georgian gem is tucked away from the hustle and bustle.
Things to Do

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Seven Oaks Holiday Home Park

Address

Seven Oaks Holiday Home Park, Crew Green, Shrewsbury, Shropshire, SY5 9BU

Telephone
01743 885080

info@sevenoakspark.co.uk

Shrewsbury

Dates

From:

1 Jan 2026to31 Dec 2026

Seven Oaks is a superb 10 acre Holiday Park, situated in some of the finest countryside on the Welsh borders. It enjoys an elevated position on the banks of the River Severn with a 1 acre fishing lake.
Corris Steam Railway & Museum

Address

Station Yard, Corris, Gwynedd, SY20 9SH

Telephone
01654 761303

enquiries@corris.co.uk

Corris

Ride in an old fashioned steam train on a journey that is enjoyable for everybody and just right for families. Take a gentle trip down the beautiful Dulas Valley in one of the observation carriages on this family-friendly steam railway. The Corris…

Price
Price £4.00 per child to £8.00 per adult
Pant Glas Holidays

Address

Talerddig, LLanbrynmair, Powys, SY19 7AJ

Telephone
07712 829983

pantglasholidays@hotmail.com

LLanbrynmair

Dates

From:

1 Jan 2026to31 Dec 2026

Pant Glas is a luxury 2 bedroom first floor apartment sleeping 4. Set in the glorious countryside of magical mid Wales close to the coast, Snowdonia national park with its numerous attractions and the Severn Valley.

Price
Price £90.00 per unit per night
Copper Beech Cottage

Address

Maes Mawr, Welshpool, Powys, SY21 9DB

Telephone
07989594234

copperbeechcottage@gmail.com

Welshpool

Surrounded by rolling hills and woodland, Copper Beech Cottage is a dog friendly holiday cottage located just outside of the Welsh market town of Welshpool, perfect for an idyllic countryside break and exploring all that Mid Wales and beyond has to…
Llyn Clywedog Reservoir & Dam

Address

nr Llanidloes, Llanidloes, Powys, SY18 6NZ

Telephone
01691870571

VisitorSites@hdcymru.co.uk

Llanidloes

Llyn Clywedog near Llanidloes is a man-made reservoir formed by the construction of the Clywedog Dam. A number of viewing points and picnic areas are arranged along the 15 mile circular drive around the Lake.
The Secret Yurts

Address

Pantytanhouse Fach, Dolanog, Welshpool, Powys, SY21 0JU

Telephone
07976277245

michelle@thesecretyurts.co.uk

Welshpool

A luxury glamping experience. Snuggle down in a kingsize bed and wake to stunning views of the Mid Wales countryside. Each yurt has its own stylish heated wet room with ample hot water, fluffy towels and dressing gowns waiting for you on arrival.

Price
Price £180.00 per unit per night
Centre for Alternative Technology | Stay

Address

Pantperthog, Machynlleth, Powys, SY20 9AZ

Telephone
01654 705950

Machynlleth

Dates

From:

1 Jan 2026to31 Dec 2026

CAT’s on-site accommodation is housed within the WISE building, a beautifully designed and award winning eco facility right in the middle of the Visitor Centre. Visitors can dine in CAT's vegetarian café and enjoy free access to the Visitor Centre.

Price
Price £40.00 per person per night to £80.00 per room per night for bed & breakfast
Valley View Holiday Park

Address

Llanfyllin Road, Pentrebeirdd, Guilsfield, Welshpool, Powys, SY21 9DL

Telephone
01938 500265

valleyview@thornleyleisure.co.uk

Guilsfield, Welshpool

Dates

From:

1 Jan 2026to31 Dec 2026

Valley View Holiday Park is set in over 30 acres with magnificent valley and country views and on park facilities, including a fishing lake and an indoor heated swimming pool, Valley View Holiday Park offers something for all.
Upper Dolarddyn

Address

Castle Caereinion, Welshpool, Powys, SY21 9EX

tonia.parry@yahoo.co.uk

Welshpool

Escape to this charming stone-built farmhouse, accommodating up to eight guests, where historic character meets modern comfort - perfect for a peaceful countryside getaway with stunning scenery at your doorstep. Upper Dolarddyn is a beautifully…
Kerry Vale Vineyard | Cellar Door Shop

Address

Kerry Vale Vineyard, Churchstoke, Montgomery, Powys, SY15 6HU

Telephone
01588 620627

info@kerryvalevineyard.co.uk

Montgomery

Kerry Vale Vineyard’s purpose built shop provides a comfortable and friendly setting for visitors to sample and learn about British wine and find out about the rich Roman history of the land where the vineyard is situated
Blue Monday Coffee Mobile

Address

Rhiwargor Waterfall Car Park, Llanwddyn, Bala, SY10 0NE

Telephone
07745 737856

joanne@bluemonday.coffee

Llanwddyn

During the spring, summer and early autumn months, you can find Blue Monday Coffee Mobile located in the Rhiwargor Waterfall Carpark. I’m Joanne, and Blue Monday Coffee Roasters is a speciality coffee roaster based a few miles away in…
Tynllwyn Farm Holiday Cottages

Address

Tynllwyn Farm, Groes-Puen, Welshpool, Powys, SY21 9BW

Telephone
01938 553 175

tynllwynfarm@btconnect.com

Welshpool

Dates

From:

1 Jan 2026to31 Dec 2026

Tynllwyn Farm holiday cottages on the outskirts of Welshpool in the Mid Wales Marches provide guests with stunning views of the surrounding Severn Valley and Long Mountain.

Price
Price £400.00 to £650.00 per unit per week
Maesmawr Farm Resort

Address

Moat Lane, Caersws, Powys, SY17 5SE

Telephone
01686 688011

enquiries@maesmawrfarm.co.uk

Caersws

Dates

From:

1 Jan 2026to31 Dec 2026

If you're looking for a slice of escapism then look no further - Maesmawr Farm Resort near Newtown is the perfect place restore and rejuvenate your senses. Quietly situated near to the River Severn and extending to over 27 acres

Price
Price £150.00 per unit per night to £1,200.00 per unit per week
siop DAVIES shop

Address

The Park, Newtown, Powys, SY16 2NZ

Telephone
01686 625041

desk@orieldavies.org

Newtown

Jewellery & Crafts, giftware, books & and much more. Original art can also be purchased through the Arts Council of Wales Collectorplan.
Kerry Vale Vineyard

Address

Kerry Vale Vineyard, Montgomery, Powys, SY15 6HU

Telephone
01588 620627

info@kerryvalevineyard.co.uk

Montgomery

Dates

From:

1 Jan 2026to31 Dec 2026

From:

1 May 2026to30 Sept 2026

Vineyard visitor centre at Pentreheyling near Montgomery, Powys. Join a Vineyard Experience Tour with a guided tasting of four wines, take a self-guided audio tour through the vines, enjoy afternoon tea, and browse the cellar door shop and café…

Price
Price £22.00 to £30.00 per adult
Gifts of Wales

Address

5-6 Church Street, Welshpool, Powys, SY21 7DL

Telephone
01938 578854

info@giftsofwales.co.uk

Welshpool

Located in the heart of Welshpool, Gifts of Wales is a proudly Welsh, independant shop celebrating the very best of Wales. From our welcoming high street store to our convenient online shop, we offer a carefully curated range of high-quality gifts,…
Tynllwyn Farm

Address

Groes-pluen, WELSHPOOL, Powys, SY21 9BW

Telephone
07483344659

tynllwynfarm@btconnect.com

Groes-pluen, WELSHPOOL

Dates

From:

1 Jan 2026to31 Dec 2026

A beautiful view and warm welcome awaits you at our 19th century farmhouse. Log fires and comfortable rooms. We are close to Powis Castle and the Llanfair narrow gauge railway and the canal for boat trips.

Price
Price £40.00 per person per night for bed & breakfast to £85.00 per room per night for bed & breakfast
The Wynnstay

Address

Maengwyn Street, Machynlleth, Powys, SY20 8AE

Telephone
01654 702941

croeso@wynnstay.wales

Machynlleth

Dates

From:

1 Jan 2026to31 Dec 2026

The Wynnstay Machynlleth is a charming old Coaching Inn. The restaurant appeals to gourmets, hungry locals and travellers. Open fires, log stoves, excellent wines and real ales. "This one is different", said Martin Bright in The Observer.

Price
Price £65.00 to £120.00 per room per night for bed & breakfast
Montgomery Trails | Cross Offa Walk

Address

Trefaldwyn | Montgomery, Powys, SY15 6HN

Trefaldwyn | Montgomery

This walk straddles the border between Wales and England and provides wonderful views of Welsh hills all around, with almost no climbing necessary on the walk
9 miles (14.5km) Moderate - 4-5hours
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The Welsh Legends Maze

Address

Corris Craft Centre, Corris, Machynlleth, Powys, SY20 9RF

Telephone
01654 761584

reception@kingarthurslabyrinth.co.uk

Machynlleth

Dates

From:

30 Mar 2026to1 Nov 2026

The Welsh Legends Maze sits beside King Arthur's Labyrinth and offers a leafy outdoor adventure through the world of Welsh myth. Follow winding paths to meet intriguing characters, many taken from the Mabinogion Welsh book of tales, including the…

Price
Price £8.95 Per Ticket
Y Tabernacl | Meetings & Events Venue

Address

Penrallt Street, Machynlleth, Powys, SY20 8AJ

Telephone
01654 703355

info@moma.machynlleth.org.uk

Machynlleth

Throughout the year MOMA WALES shows Modern Welsh Art, in a series of constantly changing exhibitions featuring Wales' top artists. Venue also available for Conferences, Meetings, Events and Workshops.