Share
Towns and villages
The Monmouthshire & Brecon canal passes through charming villages and historic market towns on its journey from Brecon to Cwmbran. Together, they reflect the area's history as a farming, mining and iron working region. Today, tourism is a significant industry for many of these villages and towns.Our narrowboats, houseboats and electric day boats are based at Llangattock, near Crickhowell, at the mid-point of the canal.
Our canalside holiday cottages are in Llanfoist, near Abergavenny, on the southern section of the canal.
Brecon
Brecon is a thriving market town at the northern end of the Mon & Brec canal. Established in Norman times, it has narrow streets, Georgian facades, a 12th century cathedral, Regimental Museum of the Royal Welsh, an independent cinema and a regular indoor market.Both the Taff Trail (walking and cycling route) and the Usk Valley Walk start at Brecon, the one headed south over the mountains for Cardiff, the other down the Usk Valley to Newport.
The restored canal basin is a very popular spot, with a theatre alongside which also houses a bistro, and a children's playground nearby. Beacon Park Day Boats is based here, hiring electric boats and Canadian canoes for day trips on the canal from March to November.
Contact Brecon Tourist Information Centre for further information.
Crickhowell
Crickhowell is a pretty market town full of independent shops and historic inns. A settlement has existed here at least since iron-age settlers built a fort on the top of Crug Hywel, also called Table Mountain (owing to its flat top) - which is a lovely walk from the town.
There are remains of a Norman castle in the town, and a Grade 1 listed bridge over the splendid river Usk, which is reputedly the longest stone bridge in Wales.
In spring the town organises a Walking Festival and an Art Trail, and in autumn a Literary Festival.
Contact Crickhowell Visitor Centre for further information.
Abergavenny
Abergavenny is a market town with Roman origins and long considered to be a gateway to Wales and to the Brecon Beacons National Park.Attractions include the ruins of Abergavenny Castle with the town's museum in the Victorian lodge on top of the Norman motte, St Mary's Priory Church which is home to ancient treasures including the Jesse Tree, and a bustling high street with many independent shops.
The town's Cycling Festival (July) and Food Festival (September) are exciting events that attract thousands of visitors.
Contact Abergavenny Tourist Information Centre for further information.