Discover the charm of Central Wales' historic youth hostels, which served as havens for travelers over forty years ago. From the quaint village of Mitcheldean to the serene Staunton-on-Wye, these hostels were once the heart of the region's vibrant backpacking culture. Although many have closed their doors, the memories of their picturesque settings and the adventures they enabled continue to inspire.
In the 1960s, a popular YHA cycling route took adventurers on a scenic journey through England and Wales, including the Royal Forest of Dean, the Wye Valley, the Black Mountains, and the Brecon Beacons. This "figure eight" path offered cyclists a chance to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of these regions. Despite the closure of many hostels that once dotted this route, the landscapes they inhabited remain as breathtaking as ever.
Mitcheldean: This former hostel in a bustling village known for its timbered houses and medieval church has ceased operations. Mitcheldean was once a hub for the brewing industry, and the original brewery, now called The Mews, houses local businesses. The village is also home to a significant business park featuring companies like Xerox, a major employer in the Forest of Dean.
St. Briavel's Castle: This hostel, set in a moated Norman castle, provided a unique stay with stunning views over the Wye Valley. The castle, which dates back to 1205 and served as King John's hunting lodge, is a historical gem with its towers added in 1293.
Capel-y-Ffin: This small hostel, once an old hill farm, is set to close. Located in the Llanthony Valley within the Black Mountains, it serves as an excellent base for outdoor enthusiasts, with nearby trails like the Cambrian Way and Offa's Dyke.
Ty'n-y-Caeau: Although no longer in operation, this hostel was near the town of Brecon, known for its jazz festival. A new hostel, Llwyn-y-Celyn, has opened nearby, offering similar accommodations and amenities for exploring the national park's diverse outdoor activities.
Crickhowell: Replaced by the Llangattock Bunkhouse, the original hostel's legacy continues with modern facilities for up to 30 guests. The bunkhouse boasts a remote, enchanting location with access to woodlands, marshlands, and meadows.
Chepstow: This hostel, now closed, was situated in a town known for its castle and racecourse. Chepstow straddles the border between Monmouthshire and Gloucestershire, at the confluence of the River Wye and River Severn.
Staunton-on-Wye: No longer open, this hostel was in a village with a Norman church and rich history. Nearby attractions include the Buckstone and the Staunton Longstone, both with deep historical significance.
The Brecon Beacons, a mountain range in mid-Wales, span 1,347 sq km (520 sq miles) and feature some of the most stunning upland formations in southern Britain. While the historic hostels may be gone, the national park's beauty can still be experienced through various activities like cycling, hiking, and horseback riding.
For more information on the Brecon Beacons National Park and its attractions, visit the official website. To learn about the history and significance of youth hostels in the UK, check out the Youth Hostels Association (YHA).
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