Crickhowell hotels

Hotels in Crickhowell

The perfect base for an activity holiday, Crickhowell offers hiking, cycling, pony trekking, canoeing, rock climbing, caving and more.

Crickhowell is a pretty little Welsh town situated to the east of the Brecon Beacons National Park. The town is the perfect spot from which to visit the Black Mountains and we have a range of Crickhowell hotels.

History

The town's name is taken from the nearby Iron Age hill fort of Crug Hywel above the town; the Welsh name was semi-anglicised by map-makers and local English-speaking people. The name Crug Hywel actually means Howell's Fort. The hill can be visited at the edge of the Black Mountains today and has a clearly visible earth and stone ditch and rampart.

In 1121, Crickhowell Castle, initially a Motte and Bailey castle, was built by Robert Turberville of the family of Norman Lords, at this time a tenant of Bernard de Neufmarche. Today though, Crickhowell is predominantly a tourist town with the busiest time being the summer months.

Activities

Visitors may like to visit the castle or one of the many surrounding nature reserves. Here a series of pleasant walks can be enjoyed surrounded by beautiful countryside and a rich diversity of flora and fauna.

One of the many reasons for visiting the area is the abundance of outdoor activities. Hike or cycle across one of the many varied trails of the Brecon Beacons, famous for being the area where the SAS perform their endurance training.

Tap into your inner cowboy on a pony trek – there are various riding centres in the area where beginners and experienced riders can take a horse on a trail ride or trek across the Beacons.

For a change of pace, why not hire a narrow boat for a few days and cruise along the Monmouthshire or Brecon canals. Or rent a canoe and see the area from a different perspective as you cruise downriver.

Food and drink

Whether it be traditional pub food, á la carte menus or a quick and easy take away, there is plenty to offer in the way of food in Crickhowell. Many of the restaurants use fresh Welsh produce in their menu as well.

Try Peterstone Court for a relaxing meal in the restaurant or sample delicious locally sourced food at the famous Bear Hotel in the atmospheric bars or dining rooms. The Beaufort offers bar meals, a restaurant and beer garden in the heart of the town and serves food all day.