Maen Llwyd

You'll find this ancient standing stone on the moorland above Machynlleth, and it's genuinely worth the detour if you're exploring Powys. Maen Llwyd is a Bronze Age monument - a solitary slate slab that's been standing here for roughly 4,000 years, which puts most things in perspective.

The stone itself is fairly modest in size compared to some of Wales' more famous megaliths, but that's partly why it appeals. You get the sense of discovery rather than turning up to a well-trodden tourist spot. The location is what does it - wild moorland stretching out around you, views across the valley, and barely another soul in sight most days.

Walkers will appreciate this more than families with small children, honestly. It's not a five-minute car park visit - you need to hike out across open country, which means proper boots and waterproof trousers depending on the weather. Allow a couple of hours return if you're coming from Machynlleth town. The terrain is rough underfoot and exposed, so go when the weather's decent.

Since it's free and unfenced, you can pitch up whenever suits you. It pairs well with staying at Gwerniago Campsite, just 2.5 miles away - gives you a proper base for exploring the wider moorland hikes around here. This is archaeology without the visitor centre, which is exactly what some people want.