Bwlch

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Map sources for Bwlch at grid reference SO150220

The word bwlch means a mountain pass in the Welsh language and is used in many places names throughout Wales.

[edit] Location

Bwlch is a small village on a mountain pass, where the present day A40 road now runs, between Brecon and Crickhowell in Powys, southern Wales.

[edit] History & Amenities

The village is situated quite high up (about 200 metres (656 ft) above sea level, and 100 metres above the valley floor) and commands panoramic views of the south-western flanks of the Black Mountains, with the Brecon Beacons to the south and west. The Beacons Way long distance footpath passes through Bwlch. Llangorse Lake is also nearby, as is the town of Crickhowell, some 5 miles (8.0 km) downhill to the east in the valley of the River Usk. Tretower Castle and Tretower Court are three miles to the east. Bwlch also has a standing stone alone in a field close to the A40 road. The mountain pass was once guarded by Blaenllynfi Castle, a Norman castle now a ruin.

Most of the business received locally is due to tourists, with holiday accommodation being plentiful. The area is very popular for hillwalking, cyclists and horseback riders, but the local area is very susceptible to tourist trends. The population of the village itself is small. The community does have pubs and shops. There is a small park with four pieces of play equipment which all have a healthy layer of moss. There is also a phone box.