Plan Your Visit

A race worth travelling for...

The Black Beacon takes place in the heart of South Wales, with easy access from across the UK and Europe. Whether you're travelling for race day or making a full weekend of it, the surrounding mountains, waterfalls and historic Welsh towns make this a destination worth exploring.

Each November, runners arrive from across the UK and beyond to take on one final mountain challenge before winter sets in. From rugged ridgelines and dramatic landscapes to the warm welcome waiting at race HQ, The Black Beacon offers far more than just a race — it’s a memorable mountain running experience in one of the most beautiful parts of Wales.

Getting to Hay-on-Wye

The Heart of the Peaks

By Car

South Wales is easily accessible via the M4, M5 and A470, with race locations within straightforward driving distance of Cardiff, Bristol and Birmingham.

By Plane

Cardiff and Bristol airports both offer convenient access for international runners travelling to the event.

By Train & Bus

Rail links into Cardiff, Merthyr and Abergavenny connect with local transport and taxi services to the race area.

The Rome2rio website can help you explore connecting transport options: Rome2Rio

Explore the area

Your adventure will cover a lot of the sights of the area including the famous waterfalls of Pontneddfechan and Waterfall Country and the iconic peaks including Pen y Fan, Hay Bluff and the Black Mountains.

However, if you are staying locally or bringing friends and family there is plenty more to explore in the area such as:

Hay-on-Wye, the 'town of books' with 26 book shops and a selection of independent cafes, pubs and local Welsh hospitality.

Abergavenny is a foodies delight with 50 independent restaurants and cafes!

Brecon, this market town has an excellent theatre, accommodation, beautiful river and canal walks and the must visit Llanfaes Dairy ice cream parlour.

There are reminders of the rich history of the area with numerous castles, abbeys, country houses and museums within easy reach of Hay-on-Wye.

Accomodation

Hotels & B&Bs

Hay-on-Wye and nearby towns including Brecon, Merthyr Tydfil and Abergavenny offer a wide range of hotels, guesthouses and traditional Welsh B&Bs.

Camping, Campervans & Bunkhouses

Campsites, campervan facilities and bunkhouses are available in Hay-on-Wye and surrounding areas, for runners wanting a more adventurous race weekend.

Stay Local

Many runners choose to bring friends and family and extend their trip, exploring the mountains, waterfalls and local trails.