Borderlands and Beacons Road Trip Itinerary
Explore the stunning beauty of the Borderlands and Beacons Road Trip! This route starts in Hereford, England and ends in Cefn Coed, Wales, covering a distance of approximately 76 miles. It is recommended to take 3 days to complete the trip, but you can take longer if you wish. The best time to drive is during the summer months when the weather is at its best and you will be able to enjoy the full range of activities available.
On your journey, you will pass through Abbey Dore, Abergavenny, Tretower and Brecon. These towns are full of attractions and activities, including the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Blaenavon Ironworks. The roads in this area are generally in good condition, although some parts may be narrow. You should also be aware that you will need to cross a border during the trip.
This road trip is perfect for anyone looking for an unforgettable experience. You can enjoy the breathtaking scenery, explore the culture and history of the region and make memories that will last a lifetime. What's more, you can do it all on a moderate budget. So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and hit the open road!
3
number of days
122 km
route length
fair
budget
family
good for
on the left
traffic direction
low
accident level
START
Hereford
Distance 122 km
Driving time 2.4 h
Pace: modest
31.7 kWh
Airports
BHX
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BRS
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Hereford is a beautiful city and a great starting point for the "Borderlands and Beacons Road Trip". Located in the West Midlands of England, Hereford is a city steeped in history and culture.
A must-see in Hereford is the Hereford Cathedral. The majestic building is a sight to behold, with its rich history and beautiful architecture. Hereford's old town is also worth exploring, with its cobbled streets and quaint, traditional buildings. The Herefordshire Market is a great place to pick up some local produce, and the Cider Museum is a great place to learn about the history of cider-making.
For those traveling by air, Birmingham International Airport (BHX) is the closest international airport to Hereford. Car rental is available at the airport, making it easy to start the road trip from Hereford.
There are plenty of sights to explore in Hereford, and it's a great starting point for the "Borderlands and Beacons Road Trip". Whether you're looking to explore the city's rich history, or just take in the beautiful scenery, Hereford is the perfect place to begin your journey.
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Hereford
- Abbey Dore
Distance 19 km
Driving time 0.3 h
Pace: modest
4.8 kWh
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Itinerary
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Are you ready for an exciting road trip starting in Hereford, England? This 12mi journey will take you less than an hour, and you'll be able to take in some of the most interesting sights in Kilpeck and Abbey Dore. As you drive, keep your eyes open for historical sites and scenic roads. In some sections, the roads may be narrow, so be sure to pay attention to your surroundings. Once you reach your destination, you'll find plenty of attractions and accommodation options, as well as recommended restaurants and campsites. All the information you need can be found in the "Itinerary" section of this stage. So, get ready to explore some of the best sights in Hereford, Kilpeck, and Abbey Dore!
Abbey Dore - England - Europe - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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2
Abbey Dore
- Abergavenny
Distance 23 km
Driving time 0.4 h
Pace: fast
6.8 kWh
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Embark on a road trip from Abbey Dore to Abergavenny, two charming towns located 14 mi apart in the Herefordshire and Monmouthshire counties of England. This journey is sure to be full of interesting historical sites, and can be completed in under an hour. Along the way, you will cross the border from Herefordshire to Monmouthshire.
Start your journey in Abbey Dore, a small village known for its 12th-century church, Abbey Dore Court, and its picturesque views of the River Dore. Then, take a short drive to Abergavenny, a market town with a rich history and a beautiful castle. While there, be sure to visit the ruins of Abergavenny Castle, the Abergavenny Museum and the Abergavenny Market.
This is just one stage of your journey, so make sure to check the itinerary for more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route. Have a wonderful trip!
Abergavenny - England - Europe - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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3
Abergavenny
- Tretower
Distance 31 km
Driving time 0.7 h
Pace: modest
8.2 kWh
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Embark on a 19mi road trip from Abergavenny to Tretower and discover the many wonders of Wales! This route takes less than an hour to drive, and along the way you'll pass through the UNESCO World Heritage site of Blaenavon. As you drive, keep an eye out for historical sites and the scenic roads. Some sections of the road are narrow, so pay attention to the signs. At the end of your journey, you'll reach the beautiful Tretower. More information about attractions, accommodation, restaurants, and campsites along the route can be found in the Itinerary of this stage. So, buckle up and get ready for a Welsh adventure!
Tretower - England - Europe - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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4
Tretower
- Brecon
Distance 22 km
Driving time 0.5 h
Pace: modest
5.7 kWh
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Are you ready for an exciting road trip? Starting in Tretower, Wales, you'll be driving through the breathtaking Llangorse and Brecon in just under an hour. The 14 mile drive is filled with stunning views, so make sure to keep your eyes peeled for some of the most spectacular sights. As you make your way through, you'll find that some sections of the road are quite narrow, so pay extra attention. And don't forget to take a few moments to admire the scenery!
If you're looking for the best spots to visit along the way, Llangorse and Brecon are definitely worth a stop. From historic castles to beautiful lakes and mountains, you'll find plenty of places to explore. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the Itinerary of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Start your journey today!
Brecon - England - Europe - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
Brecon - England - Europe - Road Trip - Wikipedia
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5
Brecon
- Cefn Coed
Distance 27 km
Driving time 0.5 h
Pace: modest
7.1 kWh
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Embark on a road trip from Brecon to Cefn Coed, and experience the beauty of the Brecon Beacons National Park. This 17mi journey takes less than an hour, and along the way you will encounter some of the most breathtaking views of the Welsh countryside. From the rolling hills of Brecon to the rugged peaks of the Beacons, you will be surrounded by some of the most picturesque landscapes in the region. As you drive, keep an eye out for historical sites, scenic roads, and other interesting sights. With a bit of luck, you might even spot a wild animal or two! When you arrive in Cefn Coed, be sure to take some time to explore the area and soak in the natural beauty. For more information about the attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the Itinerary of this stage.
Cefn Coed - England - Europe - Road Trip - Wikipedia
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Cefn Coed
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Cefn Coed is a small village located in the South Wales Valleys, and is the perfect ending point for a road trip. Named the “Borderlands and Beacons Road Trip”, this drive takes you through some of the most beautiful places in the area, and ends in Cefn Coed.
If you’re looking for some adventure, you can visit the Cefn Coed Colliery Museum. This interactive museum takes you back in time to explore the history of the coal mining industry in Wales. You can also enjoy the nearby Brecon Beacons National Park with its stunning views of the Brecon Beacons mountain range, and explore the area’s many walking trails.
If you’re looking for something more relaxed, Cefn Coed has plenty of quiet spots to take in the scenery. Take a stroll along the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal to experience the peacefulness of the Welsh countryside. Or visit the historic St. David’s Church, a Grade I listed building that dates back to the 12th century.
If you’re traveling by air, the closest international airport is Cardiff Airport (CWL). From there, it’s just a short drive to Cefn Coed, where you can end your “Borderlands and Beacons Road Trip”.
Cefn Coed - England - Europe - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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Borderlands and Beacons Road Trip at a glance
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Start:
Hereford
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End:
Cefn Coed
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Distance:
122 km
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Stay:
3 days
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Getting there:
Birmingham International Airport (BHX),
Bristol Airport (BRS)
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When to drive:
May, June, July, August, September
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More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
Embark on the Borderlands and Beacons Road Trip for an enchanting drive that weaves through the verdant countryside of Hereford, England, to the rugged beauty of Cefn Coed, Wales. Covering roughly 76 miles, it is advisable to set aside a minimum of three days for this adventure, though extending your stay would allow a deeper exploration of the region's offerings. This route is a tapestry of nature's splendor, cultural richness, and historical depth, tailored for those who yearn for a journey that satisfies the soul and sparks the intellect.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
- Hereford: Begin your journey in a city that dates back to the 7th century, celebrated for the magnificent Hereford Cathedral, which houses the famed medieval map, the Mappa Mundi, a UNESCO Memory of the World treasure, and the rare 1217 Magna Carta.
- Abbey Dore: Explore the tranquil ruins of Dore Abbey, a former Cistercian monastery set amidst serene gardens, reflecting the rich ecclesiastical heritage of the region.
- Abergavenny: Known as the `Gateway to Wales,` this market town is nestled on the edge of the Brecon Beacons and is home to the remains of Abergavenny Castle, a Norman fortress with a turbulent history, and a local market that's been thriving since the 12th century.
- Tretower: Delve into the past at Tretower Court and Castle, a unique site that showcases over 900 years of Welsh gentry life and offers a tangible connection to the region's medieval past.
- Brecon: Wander through this charming market town, where you can visit the Brecon Cathedral, with origins dating back to the Norman conquest, and venture into the Brecon Beacons National Park, a haven for outdoor enthusiasts with its stunning landscapes and astronomical Dark Sky Reserve status.
- Blaenavon Ironworks: Step into a pivotal chapter of the Industrial Revolution at this UNESCO World Heritage Site, which tells the story of the workers and technologies that shaped the industry and the world.
Best Time to Go:
Summer months are ideal for the Borderlands and Beacons Road Trip, promising favorable weather, lush scenery, and a vibrant atmosphere, as the region comes alive with festivals and events.
Potential Risks:
Adventurers should be mindful of occasionally narrow and winding Roads, and the presence of border controls when crossing from England into Wales, symbolizing the journey between two distinct national identities.
Facts for Roadtrippers:
- The Roads are well-maintained, offering a smooth driving experience across varied landscapes.
- The Trip can be enjoyed on a moderate budget, with a wide range of cost-effective accommodations and eateries, from cozy B to traditional Welsh pubs.
- The region is steeped in history, offering an immersive glimpse into the shared and distinctive heritage of both England and Wales, including the legendary King Arthur's reputed Welsh fortress at Carleon.
A good choice for:
The Borderlands and Beacons Road Trip is a mosaic of breathtaking vistas and cultural jewels. This expedition is more than a Scenic Drive; it's an odyssey through epochs and cultures, perfect for any traveler seeking a memorable escape that's rich in both natural beauty and historical significance, all achievable within a reasonable budget.
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