The Town

Nestling in the beautiful Usk Valley and lying to the south of the eastern range of the Brecon Beacons, the town of Crickhowell and its surrounding villages have attractions that are enticements for all visitors to this wonderful corner of Wales.

Crickhowell is a picturesque town situated in the south east corner of Powys, with an approx population of 2,800. The town lies on the A40 Trunk road and is also sited within the Brecon Beacons National Park. To the south Crickhowell is bounded by the River Usk. To the north are the Black Mountains, the eastern range of the National Park. The catchment area for Crickhowell�s services include the villages of Llangattock, Llanbedr, Llangenny, Glangrwyney, Tretower, and Cwmdu, thus bringing the community population up to around 4,000.

The town has existed at least since iron-age settlers built a fort on the top of Crug Hywel, or Table Mountain as it is now known. The area was known to the Romans who built forts within the region. A motte and bailey castle, remains of which still exist, was built by the Normans. A well known feature of the town is the 16th century bridge spanning the River Usk � thirteen arches can be seen from one end of the bridge, whilst only twelve are visible from the other end. Another famous feature of the town is The Bear Hotel, a former coaching inn which retains its �post horses� archway and original cobbles.

Crickhowell is administered by Powys County Council. Planning issues are controlled by the Brecon Beacons National Park Authority. There are two schools - primary and secondary - which act as a central point for a large catchment area. There is some light industry on the outskirts of Crickhowell at the Elvicta Industrial Estate. The town centre includes a variety of traditional businesses, many of which are family owned.

More Details: Crickhowell Town Council