Wynford Vaughan-Thomas

The Wynford Vaughan-Thomas memorial sits quietly in the hills above Llanbrynmair, honouring a man most visitors to Mid Wales have never heard of. That's a shame, because this broadcaster and naturalist was genuinely influential - the kind of figure who shaped how Britain understood its own landscape. You won't find much fanfare here, which rather suits the place.

It's a modest spot, really. A memorial marker in open countryside with proper views across Powys rolling out in front of you. The walk to reach it is straightforward enough, though you'll want decent shoes. What makes it work is the context. Vaughan-Thomas spent his life celebrating Welsh geography and nature through radio, and standing here among the hills he loved, you get why he mattered. The landscape does most of the talking.

History enthusiasts will find it worthwhile, particularly anyone interested in mid-20th century broadcasting or Welsh cultural figures. Families with older kids who actually enjoy a walk without guaranteed ice cream at the end might appreciate it too. Younger children will probably get restless unless you frame it as a hill adventure rather than a memorial visit.

Base yourself at Cringoed Caravan Park, just 4.6 miles away, and you've got time to explore the real draw here - the countryside itself. Vaughan-Thomas understood that better than most. The memorial is simply a good excuse to get up into it.