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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

Newtown, a charming town in the heart of Mid Wales, offers visitors a unique blend of history, natural beauty, and modern amenities. With a rich industrial heritage, visitors can explore the Montgomery Canal, Severn Way, and other attractions. The town boasts a variety of museums, galleries, and independent shops, as well as a brand-new playpark and other family-friendly facilities. Newtown is the ideal base to stay for a few days and explore the surrounding countryside.
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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Silver Sherpa

Address

Powys & Shropshire border, SY21 9PL

Telephone
01938552277

silversherpa.uk@gmail.com

Silver Sherpa offers an exceptional travel experience for visitors exploring the stunning landscapes of Mid Wales and Shropshire. We specialise in daily luggage transfer services for walkers on Offa's Dyke Path, covering the central section between…
Brad Carr's School of Photography | 1:1 Tuition, Workshops & Retreats

Address

Prince Of Wales Drive, Welshpool, Powys, SY21 7UE

Telephone
07479 503324

brad@bradcarrphotography.co.uk

Welshpool

Through the school of photography, I offer a comprehensive range of learning experiences for photographers at all stages of their creative journey. These include group landscape photography workshops, private 1:1 photography tuition, and residential…
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
Hope Church | Business Events

Address

Hope Church, Dolfor Road, Newtown, Powys, SY16 1JD

Telephone
01686 627693

ed.coomber@hopenewtown.org

Newtown

At Hope Church, we offer a modern, purpose-built conference venue designed for flexibility, scale, and seamless events. Our space is built specifically for conferences, training days, and multi-room events—giving you the freedom to tailor every…
The Old Stores B&B

Address

Arthur Street, Montgomery, Powys, SY15 6RA

Telephone
07939378844

hello@theoldstoresbnb.co.uk

Montgomery

The Old Stores is a stunning Georgian house with two uniquely designed, deluxe guest rooms, in the heart of historic Montgomery.

Price
Price £119.00 per room per night for bed & breakfast
Centre For Alternative Technology | Group Visits

Address

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

Telephone
01654 705950

visit@cat.org.uk

Pantperthog, Machynlleth

The Centre for Alternative Technology (CAT) is a world-renowned eco centre in Mid Wales that researches and supports greener ways of living.

Price
Price £3.50 per child to £8.50 per adult
Hafan Yr Afon Visitor & Community Centre

Address

Hafan yr Afon, Back Lane Car Park, Newtown, Powys, SY16 2NH

Telephone
01686 880777

bookings@opennewtown.org.uk

Newtown

This new visitor and community centre is centrally located on the banks of the River Severn alongside Back Lane car park, and forms an attractive gateway to Newtown’s green and blue spaces.
The Welsh Legends Maze

Address

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

Telephone
01654 761584

reception@kingarthurslabyrinth.co.uk

Machynlleth

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
Lake Vyrnwy Hotel | Corporate Events

Address

Lake Vyrnwy Hotel & Spa, Lake Vyrnwy, Llanwddyn, Powys, SY10 0LY

Telephone
01691 870692

events@lakevyrnwyhotel.co.uk

Llanwddyn

Elevate your corporate business gatherings beyond the conventional in a venue that transcends the ordinary at this 24,000-acre country estate, home to the distinctive 52-bedroom Lake Vyrnwy Hotel in Mid Wales.
Falconry Experience Wales

Address

Llwyn Celyn, Adfa, Newtown, Powys, SY16 3DG

Telephone
01686 805771

falconryexperiencewales@gmail.com

Adfa, Newtown

Named the Wildlife Experience of the Year at the Wales Prestige Awards 2022-23, Falconry Experience Wales offers an insight into the world of Birds of Prey. Fly and handle Lakota the Bald Eagle or Moggie the White Faced Owl.
The Judge's Lodging

Address

Broad Street, Presteigne, Powys, LD8 2AD

Telephone
01544 260650

info@judgeslodging.org.uk

Presteigne

Explore the fascinating world of the Victorian Judges, their servants and felonious guests at this award-winning Historic House.
Monty Lit Fest

Address

Montgomery Town Hall, Broad Street, Montgomery, Powys, SY15 6PH

Telephone
01686 668450

enquiries@montylitfest.com

Montgomery

Join Monty Lit Fest for a weekend of culture and conversation in Montgomery over the weekend of 12th-14th June. Celebrating writing from Wales, the Borders and beyond.
Centre for Alternative Technology | Short Courses

Address

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

Telephone
07719 087461

courses@cat.org.uk

Pantperthog, Machynlleth

The Centre for Alternative Technology offer day and short residential courses covering a range of sustainability issues, including: renewable energy, environmentally friendly building techniques, ecology, woodland management, organic gardening and…

Price
Price £275.00 to £650.00 per adult
Mid Wales Arts Centre B&B

Address

Caersws, Powys, SY17 5SB

Telephone
07362 416973

office@midwalesarts.org.uk

Caersws

Historic country house and farm with unique private art gallery, sculpture hall and grounds. All rooms are spacious, newly refurbished, en suite and decorated with original artworks - fishing rights and easily reached by public transport.

Price
Price £40.00 to £95.00 per room per night for bed & breakfast
Centre for Alternative Technology | Eco Cabins

Address

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

Telephone
01654 705950

rob.bullen@cat.org.uk

Machynlleth

CAT's Eco Cabins offer a fantastic and affordable self-catering choice for large families and active groups looking to explore the local area. Each cabin can sleep up to 18 people and have communal lounge areas and kitchens.
Mellington Hall Holiday Park

Address

Mellington, Churchstoke, Montgomery, Powys, SY15 6HX

Telephone
01588 620011

claire@mellingtonhall.co.uk

, Montgomery

Mellington Holiday Park on the north Powys/ Shropshire border is set in beautiful landscaped grounds with spectacular views in every direction. The park is licensed for 12 months of the year and has 118 static holiday homes and also offers 30…

Price
Price £6.00 per person per night to £32.50 per touring pitch per night normally for one car and 2 people
The Lodge Staylittle

Address

Staylittle, Llanbrynmair, Powys, SY19 7BU

Telephone
01686 449354

thelodgestaylittle@gmail.com

Llanbrynmair

The Lodge at Staylittle is a mountain chalet style accommodation set in the beautiful Cambrian Mountains of mid Wales. The Lodge is able to sleep 35-40 people, making it the perfect venue for people exploring mid Wales and the west coast.
King Arthurs Labyrinth Waterfall

Address

King Arthurs Labyrinth, Corris Craft Centre, Corris, Gwynedd, SY20 9RF

Telephone
01654 761584

reception@kingarthurslabyrinth.co.uk

Corris

At King Arthur's Labyrinth visitors sail by underground boat and through the cascading veil of a magical underground waterfall. As you pass through the waterfall, you're swept back in time to a mythical place filled with dragons, giants and King…

Price
Price £11.80 per child to £17.80 per adult
Tynllwyn Farm Holiday Cottages

Address

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

Telephone
01938 553 175

tynllwynfarm@btconnect.com

Welshpool

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
The Granary Corris

Address

Bridge Street, Corris, Gwynedd, SY20 9RJ

Telephone
07545 962225

stay@holidaycottagescorris.co.uk

Corris

The Granary Corris is a recently renovated 2 bedroom open plan annexe situated on the ground floor of our home on the southern tip of the Snowdonia National Park.