Spotting ‘Aberhonddu’ on the road signs? Don’t panic, it’s just the fancy Welsh way of saying ‘Brecon’. Apparently, it means ‘mouth of the (river) Honddu’. If you’re a bit baffled, don’t worry, you’re in excellent company. Most of us are still trying to pronounce it without sounding like we’ve got a mouthful of rainwater. By the way, it’s a modest 11 miles away from The Living Energy so you can drive there in a flash!!
Brecon is the nearest shopping town to the Living Energy Holidays, perfect for those drizzly days when the idea of a stroll is as appealing as a cold shower. It boasts a modest selection of shops, a co-op and a Morrisons.
At first glance, you might think Brecon is a bit on the dull side, but fear not, there are a few hidden treasures to brighten up your rainy day: two museums (ideal for pretending you’re cultured while sheltering from the downpour), a Nepalese restaurant (spicing up even the greyest skies), a mobile phone repair shop (for those who’ve dropped their phone in a puddle whilst dodging raindrops), a handmade chocolates shop (essential for emotional support when the Welsh weather inevitably wins), and, best of all, a Minor Injuries Unit! A must if you’re unlucky enough to slip on a wet pavement while dashing between Brecon’s undercover highlights. When finished as action packed day there is a Theatre by the canal that may have a performance that you might want to see coinciding with your stay.
Pack your raincoat, your sense of humour, and let Brecon turn your rainy day into a memorable adventure!
Navigate to the Watton, not far from Morrisons Petrol Station LD3 7ED
The world-famous royal Welsh Museum is renowned for its incredible Zulu war collection.
This long history, dating back to the late 1680s, is told through many kinds of objects including uniforms, medals, weapons and models. The regiments have seen action in many prominent events, including the British campaign in South Africa (visit us and discover what really happened in the 1879 Zulu War!), and both world wars. Forty-three of the regiments’ soldiers have received the Victoria Cross.
Y Gaer Museum, Art Gallery & Library
Glamorgan Street. Near the mobile phone shop, & Nepalese Restaurant LD3 7DW
The modern side of the building
An outstanding 1842 Greek revival building filled with local archaeological artifacts, taxidermy, fossils and art. It also has a large car park and a stone’s throw from Nepalese restaurant
y Gaer is a cultural centre in Brecon that brings together a museum, library, and art gallery under one roof. It showcases Powys’s rich heritage through archaeology, art, and local history collections, while hosting exhibitions and events for all ages.
The building was constructed in the Greek Revival style in the early 19th century (completed in 1842), and designed by the architect Thomas Henry Wyatt. Its primary original functions were: housing the courts and administrative offices for the county; featuring a market hall on the ground floor; and acting as a central hub for local governance.
Mobile Phone Repairs
8 Bulwark, LD3 7LB
In just 20 minutes to an hour, they’ll whip out their magic wands and swap screens, revive charging ports, and banish mysterious gremlins from your phone. While your mobile is undergoing its spa treatment, why not venture out for a brew in one of the local cafés? Dare you with no phone!! You might even remember how to make eye contact and converse like it’s 2005. Go on, be brave, you’ll survive without your phone for a whole hour (promise!).
Himalayan Herbs Brecon
12 Glamorgan Street LD3 7DW
This restaurant is tucked away below street level, between the mobile shop and museum. It’s on the cosy side but is large when it comes to spectacular food. Unlike those places where you’re left playing hide-and-seek with the meat in a puddle of sauce, here you’ll discover generous portions of both meat and veg in every dish. No need for a magnifying glass! When it comes to meat, you’re spoilt for choice: chicken, pork, lamb, and a whole spectrum of spice levels from gentle warmth to full-on fire-breathing dragon. But really, it’s all about the flavour and there’s absolutely loads of it. Book in advance to avoid disappointment especially around 7pm.
