Things to Do in Rhayader and Beyond 

Explore the Outdoors

Hiking & Walking

Stroll directly from your lodge onto the Farm Nature Trails

Discover local routes around the town of Rhayader and the trails in Elan Valley, to cater for all, or the famous Offa’s Dyke Path in nearby Knighton. 

Horse Riding

Trek through the stunning Elan Valley with Lion Royal Pony Trekking or book riding lessons at the Underhill Riding School (advance booking required).

Fishing

Cast your line at Llyngwyn Lake or fish the Wye, Elan, and Marteg Rivers for trout, grayling, and salmon maintained by the Rhayader and Elan Valley Angling Association (permits available at Hafod Hardware). 

Golfing

Tee off at 18-hole courses in Llandrindod Wells, Builth Wells, or Llanidloes. Enjoy your golf with the breath taking scenery as your backdrop.

Cycling Adventures

Cycle scenic country lanes or explore the Elan Valley Cycle Track alongside breathtaking reservoirs. 

Bike Hire is available from Clive Powell’s Cycle Shop or the Elan Valley Visitor Centre.

For thrill-seekers, try mountain bike trails of varying difficulty or visit Pump Track Wales in Rhayader. Guided trails with Riding with Pippa.

Yamaha Off Road Experience offers days out on off road/adventure motorcycles, catering for all abilities with bike and clothing hire.

Stargazing

Night time Stargazing, discover the magic of our dark skies and immerse yourself in the incredible experience of seeing the Milky Way, planets and shooting stars. Book a night time session of stargazing or a night time tour with a knowledgeable dark skies photographer Dafydd Wyn Morgan @Serydda, learn about the wonders of Wales’ night time sky and how to photograph the stars and the milky way. Also available is the Astro Cycling Adventure with Riding with Pippa. Enquiries please contact to pre book.

Our Lodges are located on the edge of an International Dark Skies Park in the Elan Valley.

Wildlife and Nature

A birdwatcher’s paradise awaits! From your lodge, marvel at buzzards soaring overhead, red kites gliding gracefully, and the rhythmic calls of woodpeckers. For an unforgettable experience, visit the Red Kite Feeding Station at Gigrin Farm and witness these magnificent birds in action.

Explore Gilfach Reserve and its mix of woodland, wetland, and moorland.

Discover the diverse wildlife of the Elan Valley, an area of outstanding beauty.

Book a Guided Fungi Foray with expert Daniel Butler for a unique outdoor experience. 

Rich in Heritage

Immerse yourself in local history and culture by exploring nearby museums and heritage sites.

Discover the captivating exhibits at CARAD Timescape Rhayader, step back in time at The Thomas Shop and Museum, explore cycling history at the National Cycling Museum in Llandrindod Wells, and experience Victorian-era life at the Judge’s Lodging in Presteigne.

Explore Powis Castle, a medieval gem with beautiful gardens, choose to tour the Castle or admire and stroll the landscaped gardens.

Fun Day Trips

Enjoy family-friendly outings at Quacker’s Barn for soft play and go-karting, the Small Breeds Farm Park & Owl Centre, or the thrilling zip wires and climbing walls at Llangorse Multi-Activity Centre. For a relaxed afternoon, try bowling at UStrike in Builth Wells.

Get Creative at numerous crafting workshops with Artist in the Attic, CARAD Crafternoons and The Lost Arc Community Crafting. 

Explore the sandy beaches of Cardigan Bay or take a dolphin-spotting boat trip. Visit Ynyslas Nature Reserve, which has iconic sand dunes and estuary views.

Watersport activities for groups and families at the Lakeside Boathouse offer Paddle Boarding, Canoeing, Kayaking, Rafting and Dragon Boat hire or book at bushcraft session.  

Drive through the mountains to Devil’s Bridge, marvel at its waterfalls, and hop on the Vale of Rheidol steam train to Aberystwyth. Book a guided tour of the Cambrian Mountains with Welsh Overland Safaris or Cambrian Safaris for tailored adventures.

Evening Entertainment 

Relax with live music and great food at local pubs or head to the Wyeside Cinema in Builth Wells for the latest films. Drop into the Live Music sessions and open mic nights at The Lost Arc in Rhayader

Relaxation and Wellness

Unwind in ultimate comfort with Spa Treatments right at your Lodge. Our mobile therapist offers massages and beauty therapies tailored to your needs, letting you indulge without stepping outside.

For more extensive wellness options, book a rejuvenating Spa day at the Metropole Hotel in Llandrindod Wells, known for its relaxing atmosphere and premium treatments.

Alternatively, head to Rhayader Leisure Centre to enjoy swimming, a fully equipped gym, or a game of squash, perfect for staying active during your getaway.

Food and Drink

Local Dining Options 

Rhayader offers a range of dining options, including Ty Morgan’s Restaurant for fine dining, where you can enjoy locally sourced cuisine. The Elan Valley Hotel offers a newly refurbished dining experience, perfect for an evening meal with exquisite food.

For traditional pub fare, try the Crown Inn, a 16th-century inn serving delicious food and ales, or the Triangle Inn, a historic Drover’s Inn known for its home-cooked meals and dog-friendly atmosphere.

Exclusive Lodge Dining 

Indulge in a home-cooked meal or afternoon tea box delivered right to your lodge, or treat yourself to a private chef experience. Visit Wild Swan Deli for locally grown organic produce, or take advantage of Watsons Family Butchers high-quality Welsh meats for BBQs and special meals.

Takeaways

If you’re looking for a quick bite, you can find various takeaways including Zeera Restaurant for delicious Indian cuisine, Golden Dragon and Golden Rice Bowl for Chinese food, and Evan’s Plaice for classic fish and chips. For something different, Turkish Delight serves excellent kebabs and freshly cooked pizzas.