Brecon is now home to a group of expertly trained guides ready to share the town's rich heritage and hidden stories.

Of the 13 participants who embarked on the rigorous Brecon Official Tourist Guides course, 10 have qualified as Brecon Cathedral and Brecon Town Guides, while two achieved accreditations as Brecon Cathedral Guides.

The 12-week course, delivered by trainers from the Wales Official Tourist Guides Association, included weekly sessions alongside extensive independent research. Participants developed an in-depth portfolio on Brecon’s history, landmarks, and notable figures. Training adhered to globally recognised quality standards, equipping guides with skills to lead engaging, informative, and safe tours.

Speaking about the achievement, Carol Williams, Sustainable Tourism Officer, Bannau Brycheiniog National Park, who supported the guides during their training, said: "We are delighted to welcome this talented group of guides who bring passion, knowledge, and unique skills to their tours. Their work will not only enhance visitors’ experiences but also help uncover the hidden stories and heritage that make Brecon and the National Park so special."

The newly qualified guides, who received White Badges and certificates from the Wales Official Tourist Guides Association, are a diverse group with unique talents and backgrounds. Among them are a former Beefeater, a historian, teachers, and a Welsh-speaking guide. Tours will showcase key locations like Brecon Cathedral, the Royal Welsh Regimental Museum, y Gaer, and lesser-known gems, bringing Brecon’s historical stories to life.

All of the guides shared the same sentiments, with one of them saying: "This course has been a fantastic experience. Not only have we gained a wealth of knowledge about Brecon, a history-rich town in the heart of Bannau Brycheiniog National Park, but we’ve also learned so much from each other. We’ve built a strong network of friends and fellow guides, all passionate about sharing Brecon’s unique stories with visitors."

This initiative, supported by the Shared Prosperity Fund, Brecon Town Council, Brecon Cathedral, and Brecon Beacons Tourism, promises to enhance visitors’ experiences while supporting the local community.

To book a guide, visit: www.breconofficialtownguides.org