Penderyn Distillery — Wales' only and one of the world's smallest independent whisky distilleries, nestled in the village of Penderyn on the southern slopes of the Brecon Beacons National Park (Bannau Brycheiniog). Founded in 2000 by a group of friends dreaming over pints in a Hirwaun pub, they hired "the Einstein of whisky" Dr Jim Swan as master distiller and commissioned Dr David Faraday to design a unique single copper pot still (Faraday Still), producing a remarkably pure and light new spirit at an industry-leading 92% ABV. Double-aged in American bourbon casks and Portuguese Madeira wine casks, the first bottle was unveiled on St David's Day 2004 by Prince Charles himself. Today Penderyn has won over 100 double gold/gold medals worldwide and exports to more than 50 countries. From the distillery tour and selecting two favourite whiskies at the tasting bar, to walking behind the curtain of Sgwd yr Eira waterfall, to the green deep breaths of Garwnant Forest and Dare Valley Country Park — this is the perfect fusion of Welsh terroir and craftsmanship.
From distillery tour and tasting of classic Madeira Finish whisky, to walking behind the curtain of Sgwd yr Eira waterfall, to deep breathing in Garwnant Forest
Arrive at Penderyn Distillery in the morning for a 1-hour guided tour — walk through the mill room, mash tun, Faraday single copper pot still and a pair of traditional pot stills, learning how new spirit at 92% ABV journeys from bourbon casks to Madeira casks to achieve Penderyn's signature light, fruity style. After the tour, choose two whiskies to sample at the tasting bar (Madeira Finish, Sherrywood, Portwood, Rich Oak and more). Enjoy a Sunday roast at The Red Lion Inn or a classic burger at Laura's Diner for lunch. In the afternoon, change into hiking boots and set off from near the distillery, crossing the summit of Moel Penderyn, descending into the Afon Mellte gorge, walking behind the curtain of Sgwd yr Eira waterfall (an experience like no other!), and finally reaching Garwnant Forest Visitor Centre for a cup of tea and a stroll along the Sculpture Trail. If time allows, drive 5 minutes to Dare Valley Country Park and wander across 500 acres of reclaimed coal mining land, witnessing the rebirth of a Welsh valley from industry to ecology.
A 12th-century coaching inn perched on the hilltop of Penderyn village, overlooking the entire Brecon Beacons National Park. Flagstone floors, log fires, traditional gravity-fed real ales and cider straight from the barrel, paired with menus crafted from the finest Welsh seasonal ingredients — the Sunday roast is legendary. Just a 10-minute walk from the distillery and a 40-minute walk from Sgwd yr Eira waterfall, it's the perfect lunch stop for a "whisky + waterfall" day trip. TripAdvisor Travellers' Choice winner, offering vegetarian and gluten-free options. Average £12-25 per person.
A popular food spot in Penderyn village, famous for its amazing handmade burgers — juicy beef patties, crispy bacon, melted cheddar cheese stacked high, with vegetarian and gluten-free options too. Casual diner style, affordable prices, the perfect quick energy refuel after a distillery tour. Finish with Mario's Ice Cream (widely considered the best artisan gelato in Wales) for dessert — perfection! Average £8-15 per person.
A fine dining restaurant near Hirwaun, reinterpreting traditional Welsh flavours with a modern approach. The menu changes with the seasons, using locally sourced Welsh lamb, black beef and organic vegetables direct from the farm. Signature dishes include slow-braised Welsh lamb shoulder with mint sauce and black beef Wellington. Warm and elegant atmosphere, the ideal dinner choice to reward your palate after an in-depth distillery tour. Average £20-35 per person.
A contemporary artisan pizza van parked at The Red Lion Inn, created by the Red Lion team. From classic Margherita to slow-cooked Welsh beef with leek artisan pizzas, thin crispy bases, wood-fired and generous toppings. In summer, enjoy your pizza in the beer garden with a Penderyn Distillery bourbon cask-aged whisky sour, watching the sunset paint the Brecon Beacons sky in shades of crimson. Average £10-18 per person.