Brecon

Cathedral bells ring across a town where Roman legions once marched and Welsh princes held court. Brecon sits at the heart of the national park that bears its name, a proper market town that's managed to keep its soul intact despite the tourist traffic. The high street still feels lived-in rather than polished for visitors.

Brecon Cathedral anchors the town centre, its Norman tower visible from miles around. Saint Mary's offers a quieter alternative for those seeking reflection. The Duke of Wellington reminds you that this place has seen its share of military history - fitting for a town that guards the southern approaches to the Beacons.

Theatr Brycheiniog punches above its weight for a town this size, hosting everything from touring theatre to local drama groups. Brecon Museum tells the area's story without the bells and whistles you'd find in bigger cities. Sometimes the best museums are the ones that don't try too hard.

Pen y Fan looms to the north, drawing walkers like a magnet. The peaks of Allt Lom and Slwch Tump offer gentler alternatives for those who prefer their hiking without the crowds. Cefn-Cantref provides cracking views without the slog to the summit.

Getting here means the A470 from Cardiff or Merthyr Tydfil - about an hour from either. The train from Cardiff takes longer but lets you enjoy the scenery. Staying at one of the nearby parks puts you within striking distance of both the town's amenities and the wild country beyond. You can grab supplies in Brecon's shops, then disappear into the hills for days.