Best of the Brecon Beacons

Wales… an area of stunning country scenery. Often stigmatized and harshly ridiculed, behind the deep valleys and plush green hilltops, you’ll find more than just sheep!

Each year, nestled nicely in the beating heart of the Brecon Beacons, Greenman festival brings indie, rock and folk music lovers from all over the world together to celebrate all that is wonderful about music and welsh culture. With over 1,500 performers and some truly incredible poetry, literature and art shows on offer, this four-day extravaganza is one not to miss. At Licklist, we know Wales is brilliant. Greenman festival epitomizes everything we love about the British summer.

Where did it all start?

For ten years, Greenman has been putting on some of the greatest parties and shows. Created and organised by Fiona Stewart and her family, the festival is a chance for people to soak up everything the summer has to offer. From annoying wasps to lukewarm cider, Greenman has it all. The Welsh festival is known for its friendly, laid-back atmosphere and is perfect for families. This year will be no different.

What’s on?

Alongside some of the greatest music acts ever to grace the folk and indie stages, Greenman offers a complete artist experience. With art exhibitions, poetry readings and literature discussions, the weekend will have you feeling like a real Machiavellian man.

But let’s no forget, music is central to Greenman’s success. There are ten different entertainment areas at the festival. On a Friday, Beirut and Augustine’s take over the Mountain stage, while The War on Drugs and Boy and Bear headline on Saturday and Sunday respectively.

If that wasn’t enough, Huw Stephens takes to the decks, playing some of his favourites tunes on Friday night and keeping festival goers swinging, swaying and moving long into the Welsh night. And to sweeten the deal, the likes of Michael Chapman and Sun Kil Moon with be performing throughout the weekend. We know, it’s a pretty good deal!

As we said, Greenman is the complete arts festival. So for a slice of great comedy, head over to the Last Laugh area. Comedians such as Josh Widdicombe and Gemma Whelan will be splitting sides throughout the four-day festival, keeping the mood light and welcoming.

When in Wales…

With regards to feeding the hordes of party lovers, Greenman has a long tradition of sampling some of the best local food and drink. Alongside local sausages from Glanusk Park are the world food stalls, which will be offering some of the best Eastern, French and Spanish food around. To wash this all down, here at Licklist we recommend some of the locally brewed cider and ale; the perfect drink for a boiling hot summer's day.

Pitching up…

Greenman offers four different camping areas; general camping, family camping, Live-in-Vehicle camping and disabled camping. Each area has its own toilets (that are regularly cleaned), boiling hot showers (to wash away the shame) and fresh water taps. But if none of that appeals to you, there’s always the Hotel Bell Tents. Often frequented by the rich and famous, this VIP area combines the luxury of hotel life with the classic festival raw animal living of muddy feet and random headbands. Offering Egyptian cotton bedding, these facilities are obviously more expensive. But trust us, they really know how to treat you like a VIP.

Something a bit special….

Greenman isn’t like other festivals. Rather than being a haven for arrogant teenagers and nachos, the warm atmosphere and unforgettable shows makes this Welsh celebration one of the best festivals around. With all-night bonfires and some luxury attractions, you won’t forget a weekend here.

By Gurjot Thind