The best ways to visit the Brecon Beacons from Cardiff (without a car)

Visiting the Brecon Beacons is high up the to-do list of many dwellers or Cardiff, including incoming university students. However, as a first-year student, it can be a challenge to get that all-important car access to get to the well-known national park. Having experienced this challenge over the past three years, here is my list of ways that you can visit the Brecon Beacons when you first move to Cardiff.

Brecon Mountain Railway

The Brecon Mountain Railway is a relatively accessible option for all the family. With vintage locomotives taking you from the outskirts of North Merthyr Tydfil to Pant and Torpantau along an original section of the Brecon and Merthyr Railway. The route goes along the Taf Fechan Reservoir, with the option to disembark and enjoy the view or even have lunch overlooking the reservoir. This made for the perfect day out! You can access the Merthyr Tydfil station from Cardiff Central. First, you will need to get the Transport for Wales service to Merthyr Tydfil, then the 35 bus to Cemetery Main Gates and the station is just a few moment’s walk from there.

The T4 bus

Another great option for the avid hiker, the T4 bus will take you through the heart of the Brecon Beacons. Most notably, the Glyn Tarell Storey Arms stop, which takes you right to the beginning of the Pen Y Fan. South Wales’ biggest mountain, hike. Alternatively, you can stay on the bus to enjoy accessible stunning views of the Brecon Beacons. Overall, the T4 option is the most affordable option for the student budget.

A guided tour from the city centre

Finally, taking a guided tour to the Brecon Beacons from Cardiff City Centre is a great option to consider investing in. One good example tour that I have found is the Discovery Wales Wonderfalls Tour. This involves being guided from Cardiff to Caerphilly Castle, Sgwd Gwladus, Henrhyd Falls (Batman Cave) and Llyn Y Fan Fach (a 2km walk) – it also includes a selection of snacks and soft drinks. This is a great option for the avid adventurer who doesn’t necessarily like planning, but enjoys being told everything that they need to know! For just students, the Student Union does offer occasional  affordable student tours that you should keep an eye out for!

These are the three top ways that I’ve found where students can visit the Brecon Beacons without car access. While it may seem challenging, there is no reason to miss out on the beauty of the nearby Brecon Beacons with these three options available to enjoy.