Things to do in Rhayader

Tucked amongst the rolling hills, reservoirs and some of the wildest landscapes in Mid Wales, Rhayader is also known as the ‘outdoor capital of Wales’. This small market town punches well above its weight when it comes to scenery, walking trails, wildlife experiences and starry skies.

Whether you’re planning a romantic lodge break, a family getaway or a dog-friendly escape with muddy boots and scenic walks firmly on the agenda, there is no shortage of things to do in Rhayader. And with Trannon Valley Lodges nearby, you’re perfectly placed to explore the area while still having somewhere peaceful to switch off at the end of the day.

Skip to:

• Explore the Elan Valley
• Visit Gilfach Nature Reserve
• Discover Rhayader town centre
• Spot red kites at Gigrin Farm
• Ride the extensive cycling trails
• Drive through the Cambrian Mountains
• Day trip to Devil’s Bridge Falls

Explore the Elan Valley

The Elan Valley is easily Rhayader’s biggest draw, and when you arrive, it’s easy to see why. Known for its Victorian dams, winding roads and vast open landscapes, it feels dramatic without ever feeling overcrowded.

You can keep things simple with a short reservoir walk or spend the whole day exploring the area’s cycling routes, picnic spots and viewpoints. The dams themselves are impressive, but it’s really the sense of space that stays with you. Dog owners will love it too, with miles of countryside trails to explore.

Our insider’s tip: Head to the Claerwen Dam if you want to escape the busier viewpoints. It’s often quieter than the main dams and feels wonderfully remote, especially in the early morning.

Visit Gilfach Nature Reserve

Just outside Rhayader, Gilfach Nature Reserve offers a quieter alternative to the busier walking spots nearby. Featuring waterfalls, woodland and open farmland, it’s one of the best places in the area for a slow-paced walk surrounded by wildlife.

The trails here are manageable for most abilities, making it a good option for families or anyone wanting scenery without a strenuous hike. Along the way, you’ll find riverside viewpoints, historic features and plenty of opportunities to stop and take everything in properly. Dog owners will especially love this spot. There’s plenty of space to roam, lots of shaded woodland sections and scenic picnic areas along the river.

Our insider’s tip: The curiously-named Water Break-its-Neck waterfall walk is one of the reserve’s highlights and tends to be quieter later in the afternoon.

Discover Rhayader town centre

Rhayader itself is a compact town that’s full of character. As one of the first towns on the River Wye, it has long been a stopping point for travellers heading deeper into Mid Wales, and there’s still a welcoming, laid-back feel to the place today.

Spend an hour or two browsing independent shops or exploring the small network of local pubs and cafes. It’s not a town packed with major attractions; rather, it’s the kind of town that works best when you slow down your pace to enjoy the atmosphere.

Our insider’s tip: The Lost ARC is a particularly popular spot for pizza, live music and relaxed evenings that all the family can enjoy.

Spot red kites at Gigrin Farm

One of the most memorable things to do near Rhayader is a visit to Gigrin Farm Red Kite Feeding Centre. Famous for its daily feeding sessions, it offers the chance to see hundreds of red kites circling overhead at once; a genuinely impressive sight, even if you wouldn’t usually describe yourself as a wildlife enthusiast.

Purpose-built viewing areas make it easy to watch comfortably, with an experience that feels surprisingly immersive. It’s an attraction that appeals across generations too, making it equally good for families, couples and groups.

Our insider’s tip: Try to time your visit around feeding sessions for the full experience.

Ride the extensive cycling trails

The countryside surrounding Rhayader is threaded with walking and cycling routes, many of which follow the River Wye through woodland and open hillsides.

Some of the trails are short and gentle enough for casual afternoon strolls, while others venture further into the surrounding valleys for those wanting more of a challenge. Expect to witness spectacular scenery, quiet tracks and very little traffic once you’re out of town. For dog-friendly breaks especially, this part of Wales is hard to beat.

Our insider’s tip: For cyclists, start early in the day before traffic increases; the quieter roads make the scenery feel even more peaceful.

Take a scenic drive through the Cambrian Mountains

If walking isn’t your thing – or you simply want to cover more ground – the roads around the Cambrian Mountains make for some of the best scenic drives in Wales.

Routes from Rhayader wind through open moorland and remote valleys where you can drive for long stretches without seeing much more than sheep and sweeping hills.

You’ll find countless places to pull over for photos or impromptu picnic stops, which makes even a simple drive feel like part of the holiday experience.

Our insider’s tip: It’s especially rewarding to explore in the early morning to witness the sun rise across the landscape – and the roads are nice and quiet then too.

Day trip to Devil’s Bridge Falls

Known for its dramatic waterfalls and unusual stacked bridges, Devil's Bridge Falls is one of the more iconic natural attractions in Mid Wales and is located about an hour’s drive from Rhayader.

The steep nature trail winds through woodland and gorge scenery, with plenty of viewpoints along the way. It’s more strenuous than some of the gentler Rhayader walks, but the scenery is definitely worth the effort.

There’s also a historic narrow-gauge railway nearby, which families often combine with the waterfalls for a full day out.

Our insider’s tip: The steps can be slippery after rain, so proper footwear with grip is essential for all ages.

Where to stay

Trannon Valley Lodges | Trannon Valley Lodge 1 | Trannon Valley Lodge 2 | Trannon Valley Lodge 5

If you’re looking for a peaceful base to explore Mid Wales, Trannon Valley Lodges offers the best of both worlds; secluded countryside surroundings with easy access to Rhayader and the Elan Valley.

Whether you’re planning a romantic hot tub break, a family lodge holiday or a dog-friendly escape filled with long walks and fresh air, staying nearby makes it easy to enjoy the very best things to do in Rhayader – and all at your own pace.

Browse our full collection of holiday lodges in Wales and start planning your next escape.

Written by Sarah Christopher | Brand Voice Strategist and Creative Copywriter 

With over 15 years of creative copywriting and strategy experience, I specialise in lifestyle and travel writing. 

It is an absolute privilege to tell the stories of the UK's most beautiful locations. Whenever I research or visit a new destination, I invariably fall in love with it a little - meaning my staycation bucket list is forever growing.