Crickhowell – guide for visiting this lovely little Welsh gem in 2023
In the heart of the Usk Valley you'll find Crickhowell, a lovely little Georgian town with plenty to see and do. We wanted to highlight Crickhowell to show you why you should visit and what there is to do there, let's get into it:
Where is Crickhowell?
Crickhowell is known locally as 'Crick', and there are lots of roads leading to this town because it is a historic crossing point over the River Usk. There is a very attractive 17th-century bridge which you can visit called Crickhowell Bridge, which is apparently the longest stone bridge in Wales at more than 400 feet long.
Crickhowell is not a massive place but it has a lot of style and personality and it's a great place to spend time. It's also a brilliant place to base yourself if you plan to explore the Black Mountains.
What is there to do in Crickhowell?
Despite being a small town with a population of barely more than 2000 people, there is plenty to do at Crickhowell. Apart from the obvious ones like exploring the Black Mountains, you can also:
- Visit the high street - Crickhowell was voted as having the best British High Street in the UK in 2018, and when you visit it, it isn't hard to see why. It's packed with wonderful little local shops and beautiful Georgian buildings
- Visit Crickhowell Castle - it might be in ruins, but there is no denying that Crickhowell Castle is still an impressive castle to visit. Built in the 13th-century, the castle was once a mighty stronghold and even the ruins are impressive. Although even if medieval history isn't your thing, the castle is worth visiting for the views along the Usk Valley that you'll enjoy when you're next to it
- Walk to the top of Crug Hywel - at 451m above sea level this walk is fairly straightforward but is a great way to enjoy a nice view of the town below
- Walk the Beacons Way - if your visit to Crickhowell has inspired you to see more of what the Welsh countryside has to off then you could easily hop onto the Beacons Way route. This 99 mile walk will definitely take you more than a few days, but there is no rush. It'll take you right through the Brecon Beacons National Park and past plenty of interesting locations.
Towns near Crickhowell which are worth a visit
If you're visiting Crickhowell you might as well visit some of the nearby towns - Brecon has some great things to see, as does Builth Wells. We have guides about both of those locations so check them out!
Things to be aware of before visiting Crickhowell
If you plan to undertake any of the walks up the Black Mountains, the Beacons Way or even up Crug Hywel, then definitely make sure you've brought suitable clothing and footwear. Like most areas of the UK, the weather can be unpredictable at the best of times, so it's always best to be prepared.
Other than that, we'd say the best thing to be is prepared to stay a bit longer than you expected! You might be surprised at how much you enjoy your time in this town, plus you've got plenty of surrounding towns which are well worth a visit including Llangattock, Llanbedr, Llangenny, Glangrwyney, Tretower and Cwmdu.
Where to stay in Crickhowell?
You're spoilt for choice when it comes to great places to stay in Crickhowell, particularly if you enjoy camping. The Riverside Caravan Park is great for families looking for an area with facilities and plenty to do, whereas a quieter camping spot would be the Glanusk Caravan Park which is ideal for a peaceful getaway.
If you enjoyed this guide, check out our other Welsh guides about Bwlch Nant yr Arian, Coed y Brenin, and the Llechwedd Slate Caverns.
Finn H
Finn is the editor of You Well and has been writing about travel, health, and more for over 10 years.