Llanidloes is at the heart of the ancient medieval kingdom of Arwystli, the first town on the River Severn and the gateway to the Cambrian Mountains of mid-Wales.
This tiny market town typically flies under the radar of most travellers but is a worthy stop for historic architecture, proper pubs and a vintage tea room. Known for its 17th-century timber-framed market hall and a few independent shops and cafes, Llanidloes has the perfect mix of bougie shops and small-town charm and is close to plenty of natural attractions like the Hafren forest.
Here's why you should visit Llanidloes for your next day trip to Wales.
Browse the shops and market
There is a surprising range of small boutiques surrounding the timbered Old Market Hall where you can shop for vintage clothing, walking boots, toys for the kids, old and new books, fair-trade food or furniture.
If you're in Llanidloes on a Saturday, you can't miss the Llanidloes Charter Market, which runs from 9am to 4pm. This charming market has been part of the town's fabric since 1280. It’s now buzzing along Great Oak Street, and what’s even more special is that the market traders themselves run it.
In 2012, when Powys County Council and the Town Council couldn’t quite keep the market going, a group of local traders and residents banded together to save the day and keep this historic gem alive.
Expect to find everything from local produce and antiques to unique crafts and clothing – there’s always something interesting to stumble upon.
Have afternoon tea at Cobblers Tea Room
Vintage chic Cobblers Tea Room on High Street is one of the best tea shops in mid-Wales and is the perfect snug spot for homemade cakes, afternoon tea, sandwiches and warming homemade soup.
Step inside and you’re met with the comforting smell of freshly brewed coffee and baked goods still warm from the oven. This cosy, traditional tea room has welcomed visitors since coming under new management in December 2018, becoming a local favourite.
Their well-priced menu features loads of homemade delights, including incredibly moreish Welsh rarebit. Cakes are baked on-site, and seasonal offerings include mince pies in winter and gelato in summer.
Have a proper pub tea
There are several decent boozers in Llanidloes where you can sup local ales and feast on pub classics like fish and chips, curry and steak and kidney pie.
The Red Lion is right in the centre of Llanidloes with two main bars, including a cosy lounge room with a roaring fire and nine en-suite bedrooms upstairs if you want to make a weekend of it. Their Sunday carvery is also highly recommended.
Equally as charming, the Whistling Badger is worth popping into for a cask ale after a day of exploring. This a family-run pub and B&B is just a stone's throw away from the Old Market Hall.
Explore Clywedog Reservoir
Llyn Clywedog is a stunning man-made reservoir created by the Clywedog Dam built between 1965-67 to regulate the Severn River. The dam stands 236ft tall, holds 11 billion gallons of water and is Britain's tallest mass concrete dam. The lake spans 615 acres (about 230 football pitches) and stretches six miles, surrounded by scenic walks and remarkable viewing points.
It's also a wildlife haven with buzzards, red kites, and occasional ospreys. Love the outdoors? The lake is also very popular for fishing, sailing, and wildlife spotting, with the Llanidloes Angling Society and Clywedog Sailing Club hosting events.
Make sure to stop by the Wynford Vaughan-Thomas lookout point. Vaughan-Thomas was a well-loved Welsh broadcaster and loved nature. From his viewpoint you can see the whole of Eryri (Snowdonia) National Park.
Hike in the Hafren Forest
Llanidloes is the gateway to the Hafren Forest, a carefully managed woodland with a fascinating history. Originally planted in the 1930s by the Forestry Commission, it was designed for timber production, but today it offers much more than rows of trees.
Managed by Natural Resources Wales, the forest balances commercial forestry with conservation and public enjoyment, making it a vital habitat for wildlife and a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.
The name Hafren comes from the Welsh word for the River Severn (Afon Hafren), which begins its epic journey to the sea right here. Over the decades, Hafren Forest has evolved into a popular and accessible walking destination, with its mix of natural beauty, heritage features and well-maintained trails attracting visitors year-round.
Source of the Severn Trail
If you’re up for a walking challenge through the forest, the Source of the Severn Trail in the Hafren Forest is the ultimate day hike adventure. This seven-mile route takes you deep into the forest, past Blaen Hafren Falls and onto the open moorland of Pumlumon.
The climb to the source is steep and rugged, with stone slabs marking the way across boggy terrain. At the top, you’ll find the hidden source of the River Severn, marked by a simple carved wooden post. This quiet, windswept spot feels worlds away from the dense forest below.
The trail passes heritage sites along the way, including the remains of a mine, a farmstead, and a standing stone. Look for the map panels installed at key points. They help you gauge how far you’ve come and how much further you must go.
Stay at Hafren Forest Hideaway
If you plan to make a weekend of it, Hafren Forest Hideaway offers a peaceful base just a short drive from the forest trails. Located near Staylittle, this cosy retreat has room for up to 13 guests, making it ideal for families, friends, or even solo adventurers who fancy a bit of downtime surrounded by nature.
The accommodation is flexible, with options for self-catering or home-cooked meals prepared by the friendly hosts, Sarah and Darren. After a day exploring the trails or visiting the source of the River Severn, you can relax in the spacious lounge, complete with a wood burner to warm you up on chilly evenings. Outdoor enthusiasts will love the location, with nearby hiking, mountain biking, and fly-fishing opportunities.
