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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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Llanandras | Presteigne

Address

Presteigne, Powys, LD8 2AD

Presteigne

Presteigne, (Llanandras in Welsh), was once the county town of Radnorshire and nestles at the heart of the Mid Wales Marches on the border of Wales and England. Presteigne and Norton have been designated by DarkSky International as the very first…
Dyfi Discovery Walk | Centre for Alternative Technology Walk

Address

Centre For Alternative Technology, Llwyngwern Quarry, Pantperthog, Machynlleth, Powys, SY20 9AZ

Telephone
0300 065 3000

Pantperthog, Machynlleth

Start: Centre for Alternative Technology
(C.A.T) car park
Grid Reference: SH 754 044
Distance: 7.1 km – 4.4 miles
Grade: Moderate (some steep sections)
Terrain: Firm tracks, roads and open grassland
Maps: OS Explorer OL23 or 215
Abermule and Bettws Cedewain (Cycle Route)

Address

Trefaldwyn | Montgomery, Powys, SY15 6HN

Powys

A moderate cycle ride on peaceful, rural lanes with two steep hills to reach both Montgomery and Dolforwyn Castles.
17.5Miles (28.2km) 2-2.5hrs - Elevation Total Ascent: 488m
Severn Way Walk

Address

Llanidloes, Powys, SY18 6EE

Telephone
01938 551000

Walk the Severn Way, a long distance footpath tracing the route of Britain's longest river, from its sources to the sea.
Powis Castle | Courtyard Restaurant

Address

Powis Castle and Garden, Welshpool, Powys, SY21 8RF

Telephone
01938 551920

powiscastle@nationaltrust.org.uk

Welshpool

Powis Castle’s restaurant has long been acknowledged as an example of excellence. Enjoy a variety of traditional dishes made with local, seasonal ingredients such as organic Welsh black beef, sourced from a local farm.
Montgomery Trails | Irresistible Offa Walking Route

Address

Trefaldwyn | Montgomery, Powys, SY15 6HN

Trefaldwyn | Montgomery

This scenic circular walk takes you through the farming fields of Montgomery east, from the remnants of ridge and furrow farming from the middle ages to Boardyhall Wood past Lymore Lodge and current farm buildings.
Montgomery | Town Heritage Trail

Address

Trefaldwyn | Montgomery, Powys, SY15 6HN

Trefaldwyn | Montgomery

2.17miles (3.5km) takes about 1.5hours and is a moderate walk with a moderate grade - Download the PDF
Halloween Half Term at WLLR

Address

Welshpool & Llanfair Light Railway, The Station, Pool Road, Llanfair Caereinion, Powys, SY21 0SF

Telephone
01938 810441

info@wllr.org.uk

Pool Road, Llanfair Caereinion

Dates

From:

23 Oct 2026to30 Oct 2026

Join us for Halloween Half Term! Spooky fun, family craft activities, and heritage train rides.
Welshpool Fireworks Display 2026

Address

Maes y Dre Recreation Ground, Welshpool, Powys, SY21 7SU

Telephone
01938 553142

kimberly@welshpooltowncouncil.gov.uk

Welshpool

Dates

From:
6 Nov 2026

Join us for the annual Welshpool Town Firework Display.
Newtown Bus Station

Address

Back Lane Car Park, Newtown, Powys, SY16 2NW

Telephone
0800 464 0000

feedback@traveline.cymru

Newtown

Newtown bus station is located off Back Lane (opposite Argos) with services to Shrewsbury, Llanidloes, Machynlleth, Welshpool, Llandrindod Wells, Cardiff, Aberystwyth, Birmingham and London.
Hendomen & Dolydd Hafren Cycle Route

Address

Trefaldwyn | Montgomery, Powys, SY15 6HN

Telephone
01938 552043

admin@montgomery-wales.co.uk

Powys

Circular cycle route starting from in front of the Montgomery Town Hall providing an exceptional view of the town and with the option of extending the route to include the Dolydd Hafren Nature Reserve.
Tref-y-Clawdd | Knighton Railway Station

Address

Tref-y-Clawdd | Knighton, Knighton, Powys, LD7 1EN

Knighton

Knighton Station is on the border between England and Wales. The town is situated on two National Trails routes and mid point along the famous Offa’s Dyke.
Dyfnant Forest | Pen y Fford (NRW)

Address

Dyfnant & Vyrnwy Forests (NRW), Penyfford Car Park, Lake Vyrnwy, Powys, SY21 0QH

Telephone
0300 065 3000

enquiries@naturalresourceswales.gov.uk

Lake Vyrnwy

Dyfnant Forest is home to the Dyfnant Rainbow Trails, designed with horses in mind but also welcoming walkers. There are nearly 100 miles of tracks and trails with five horse riding trails and three carriage driving trails in Dyfnant Forest starting…
Dyfnant Forest | Pont Llogel Wood

Address

Dyfnant & Vyrnwy Forests (NRW), Car Park & Picnic Site, Lake Vyrnwy, Powys, SY21 0QH

Telephone
0300 065 3000

enquiries@naturalresourceswales.gov.uk

Lake Vyrnwy

Pont Llogel is a small woodland within the Dyfnant Forest next to the Afon Efyrnwy (River Vyrnwy) and the car park and picnic area is set beside an old stone bridge at the edge of a hamlet. This tranquil area has been designated a SSSI choice of 3…
Calan Gaeaf at Powis Castle and Garden: Hunt for the Hwch Ddu Gwta

Address

Powis Castle & Garden, Welshpool, Powys, SY21 8RF

Telephone
01938 551944

powiscastle@nationaltrust.org.uk

Welshpool

Dates

From:

24 Oct 2026to31 Oct 2026

This October half term, follow the pumpkins through the garden and see if you can spot the Hwch Ddu Gwta hiding among the autumn colour..
Offa's Dyke Path National Trail

Address

Wales, LD7 1EP

Telephone
01597 827580

odpnt@powys.gov.uk

Crossing the border between England and Wales more than ten times in its 293km (182m), the Offa's Dyke Path passes through some of the most attractive landscape.
The Pales Quaker Meeting House

Address

Llandegley, Llandrindod Wells, Powys, LD1 5UH

Telephone
01597 810031

tyolaf@gmail.com

Llandrindod Wells

The Pales is the oldest Quaker Meeting House in continuous use in Wales. Set in the Radnor Hills near Llandrindod Wells, the Meeting House is open every day, all year, for visitors who value peace, solitude and natural beauty.
Hafren Forest | Source of the Severn Trail (NRW)

Address

Rhyd-y-benwch Car Park, Old Hall, LLANIDLOES, Powys, SY18 6PT

Telephone
0300 065 3000

enquiries@naturalresourceswales.gov.uk

LLANIDLOES

In the heart of the Cambrian Mountain uplands of Mid Wales, the River Severn springs from the upper slopes of Pumlumon Cwmbiga. The walking trail to the source of the Severn starts in the Hafren Forest. Follow the white waymarkers. When reaching the…
Hafren Forest | Walking Trails (NRW)

Address

Hafren Forest (NRW), Rhyd-y-benwch car park, Old Hall, Near Llanidloes, Powys, SY18 6PT

Telephone
0300 065 3000

enquiries@naturalresourceswales.gov.uk

Old Hall, Near Llanidloes

Choice of walking trails along the River Severn which flows through Hafren Forest. Trails go to waterfalls and the source of the Severn on Pumlumon. Riverside accessible trail with viewing platform over cascades. Picnic area and toilets.
Llanidloes to Machynlleth via Llyn Clywedog | Scenic Drive

Address

Llanidloes - Machynlleth, Powys, SY18 6EQ

Llanidloes - Machynlleth

Explore the 20 mile mountain road from Llanidloes to Machynlleth, via Clywedog Reservoir. Wonderful views and take in the former lead mining community of Dylife and the Dylife Gorge and Wynford Vaughan-Thomas viewing point.
Bryn-tail Leadworks (Cadw)

Address

Llyn Clywedog, Llanidloes, Powys, SY18 6NU

cadw@gov.wales

Llanidloes

The ruins of the Bryn-tail Leadworks lie in the shadow of the dam at the southern end of Llyn Clywedog Reservoir near Llanidloes Buildings and structures associated with the nineteenth-century extraction and processing of lead ore.