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Welcome to Mid Wales & The Brecon Beacons


Thankfully, there are still some things left in the world that are not readily available on the internet.


Small Breeds Farm and Owl Centre


One of these things is a trip to see animals and, in this case, owls close up and personal. Of all the animals in the UK, the owl is one of the least seen creatures due to its nocturnal nature.


It’s an experience then to walk through the front gate of the Small Breeds Farm and Owl Centre and be greeted by a beady-eyed Tawny Owl.


The Small Breeds Farm and Owl Centre’s owner Jay Brittain says: “It’s a magical place to experience animals, birds and owls. Come and


enjoy a few hours of pure simple pleasure in an enchanting place where the rest of the world just doesn’t seem to exist.”


The Small Breeds Farm is definitely a hands-on adventure. Children are thrilled to hand feed animals like Kune Kune pigs, ever-mischevious Pygmy Goats, Dexter Cattle, Soay Sheep and Alpacas.


Some of the world’s most delightful ducks, geese and swans can be viewed from the raised boardwalk which spans the beautifully landscaped waterfowl enclosure.


Displayed around the main paddock is a fascinating collection of unusual poultry - chicks and ducklings are being hatched almost daily.


Jay adds: “The Pet Animal House displays guinea pigs, mice, chinchillas, rabbits and chipmunks whose antics entertain and fascinate both children and adults alike.”


Are you looking at me? A pair of Tawny Owls. Picture by Nigel Evans


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 


 


Rare breeds of chicken wander freely. Picture by Nigel Evans


  


The highlight of the centre for me was the Owl Garden. It’s been thoughtfully designed and planted to create an intimate and tranquil setting. This allows us a rare opportunity to observe all the British owls as well as many more


spectacular examples from around the world.


There’s something amazingly calm about the majestic Giant Milky Eagle Owl Numpy and Pewter the Great Grey Owl has serene wisdom.


Jay says: “We have the friendliest owls that you will ever have the pleasure of meeting. A real beak to nose experience!”


In the early part of each season it is often possible to observe young owls being hand reared.


Out & About Springrock Fishery


SPRINGROCK Fishery is set in stunning scenic surroundings of Mid Wales in a small village called Llandegley, just off the A44.


In a peaceful landscape enjoy a great day out beside a lake roughly 2.5 acres in size, jam packed with features such as plateaus, gravel bars and pits.


It is stocked with carp up to 24lb consisting of mirrors, commons, crucians, ghosts and koi.


Call 07970 092160 or email enquiries@spring rockfishery.co.uk.


A cast of thousands Dan-yr-Ogof Showcaves


VOTED ‘Britain’s Finest Natural Wonder’ the National Showcaves Centre near Abercrave in the Brecon Beacons has featured on the BBC’s


Craig-y-Nos Castle


This reputedly haunted house has been described as the jewel in the crown of the Brecon Beacons National Park.


Situated close the Showcaves Centre the castle was once the home of the celebrated opera singer Adelina Patti and features a Grade One listed Opera House.


It is now a hotel and has previously been used as hospital and children’s TB sanatorium. Admission is free call 01639 730205.


Countryfile programme.


You can walk deep into the caves and experience astounding geological formations. Other on site attractions include the Shire Horse Centre, a dinosaur park and covered children’s play areas. Located on the A4067 between Brecon and Ystradgynlais contact 01639 730284.


Penderyn Distillery


LEARN the history of whisky making in Wales and taste the products at the Penderyn Distellery’s visitor centre in this Brecon Beacons village on the A4059 near Aberdare. Call 01685 810651 for more information.


Tretower Court and Castle


THIS medieval coutryard house has been closed to the public for over a year for conservation works to take place but is due to reopen on Thursday, May 27, 2010.


The original house dates from the 14th century but was rebuilt by Sir Roger Vaughan in the 15th century. Attractions include surviving timberwork


and Classical style windows dating to the 1630s as well as a recreated 15th century garden.


Admission also includes entry to the motte and bailey castle which was established during the Norman conquest. Tretower Court and Castle is singposted Tretower village off the A479 three miles northwest of Crickhowell.


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