Maen Llia: The Enigmatic Bronze Age Standing Stone of Brecon Beacons
Discover Maen Llia, a majestic Bronze Age standing stone in the Brecon Beacons, steeped in legend, celestial alignments, and prehistoric mystery.
Maen Llia is a towering Bronze Age standing stone located on moorland within the Brecon Beacons National Park, Wales. Standing 12 feet tall and 9 feet wide, this ancient Old Red Sandstone monolith is steeped in legend and archaeological mystery. It aligns with lunar standstills and nearby prehistoric monuments, suggesting celestial and ritual significance. Its striking diamond shape and remote moorland setting make it a captivating historical landmark and tourist attraction.
A brief summary to Maen Llia
- Sarn Helen, Brecon, LD3 8SU, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 3 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during late afternoon in spring or summer to witness the stone’s shadow stretching toward the Afon Llia river.
- Bring sturdy footwear for walking on uneven moorland terrain around the stone.
- Respect the monument by avoiding climbing or touching the stone excessively to help preserve it.
- Explore nearby prehistoric sites such as Maen Madoc and the surrounding henge and cairns for a fuller archaeological experience.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Information Boards
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
Getting There
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Car
Driving from Brecon town, the journey to Maen Llia takes approximately 30 to 40 minutes via minor roads including the A4067 and local routes. Limited parking is available in a small lay-by near the stone. Note that roads are narrow and rural, so cautious driving is advised.
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Bus and Walk
Take a regional bus service from Brecon to Ystradfellte, which runs several times a day. From Ystradfellte, it is a 3.5 km (about 45-minute) walk across moorland terrain to Maen Llia. The walk involves uneven ground and is not suitable for wheelchairs or strollers.
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Walking
For experienced hikers, a 5 km walk from Heol Senni village offers a scenic route through the Brecon Beacons moorland to Maen Llia. The trail is rugged and exposed, requiring good weather and appropriate footwear.
Maen Llia location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Maen Llia
An Ancient Sentinel on the Moorlands
Maen Llia stands prominently on the windswept moorland of Fforest Fawr in the Brecon Beacons National Park, Powys, Wales. This imposing monolith, made from intraformational conglomerate of Old Red Sandstone, rises approximately 3.7 meters (12 feet) high and spans 2.8 meters (9 feet) wide, tapering to a thickness of about 0.9 meters. Its roughly diamond-shaped form, partly covered in moss, rests on a deliberately constructed stone and earth mound, marking it as a significant prehistoric monument. Erected during the Bronze Age or possibly the later Neolithic period, Maen Llia has stood for over three millennia, witnessing the passage of countless generations across this rugged landscape.Legends and Lore of the Stone
Local folklore imbues Maen Llia with a mysterious life of its own. A popular legend claims that the stone moves to the nearby Afon Llia river to drink water at dawn, triggered by the crowing of a cock. This enchanting tale likely originates from the stone’s shadow, which stretches across the moorland to the river when the sun is low in the evening from April to September. This shadow alignment has inspired stories that blend natural phenomena with myth, enhancing the stone’s enigmatic aura.Archaeological and Astronomical Significance
Maen Llia is not an isolated monument; it forms part of a unique geometric pattern with other prehistoric features nearby, including a low heather-covered henge, a recumbent stone row, and a cairn. This arrangement exhibits precise geometry, some aspects of which are unparalleled worldwide, with parallels drawn to Stonehenge. The stone itself aligns roughly north to south and is associated with lunar standstill events—major and minor lunar rising and setting points—suggesting it may have served as a celestial marker or calendar for ancient peoples. While definitive confirmation of these alignments remains a subject of ongoing research, the evidence points to Maen Llia’s role in prehistoric ritual and navigation.Physical Presence and Environmental Context
Situated near a minor road known as Sarn Helen, a Roman road that once traversed the region, Maen Llia occupies a strategic position on a natural pass between hills. The stone’s large, flat surfaces warm noticeably under the sun, a feature that may have held significance for its builders. Its remote moorland setting, framed by the hills of Fan Fawr and Fan Gihirych, offers visitors a profound sense of solitude and connection to the ancient landscape. Nearby, another notable standing stone, Maen Madoc, lies approximately 2 miles to the south, bearing an inscribed memorial, contrasting with Maen Llia’s unmarked surface.Visitor Experience and Preservation
Today, Maen Llia is a scheduled ancient monument and a popular destination for those exploring the Brecon Beacons. An information board shaped like the stone itself provides historical context for visitors. While the stone has suffered some modern graffiti, it remains largely intact, inviting contemplation of the prehistoric peoples who erected it. The surrounding moorland, characterized by heather and open skies, enhances the atmospheric experience, especially during the times when the stone’s shadow reaches the river, linking natural cycles with ancient human activity.Continuing Mysteries and Research
Despite extensive study, many questions about Maen Llia remain unanswered. Its original purpose—whether as a boundary marker, religious symbol, or astronomical tool—is still debated. The ongoing research into its alignments with lunar events and its relationship to nearby monuments continues to shed light on the sophisticated understanding of the cosmos by Bronze Age societies in Wales. Maen Llia stands as a silent testament to this ancient knowledge and the enduring human fascination with the landscape and sky.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
YHA Brecon Beacons
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The Brecon Castle Hotel
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Y Gaer Museum, Art Gallery & Library
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Brecon Town Tours - guided history walks
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Duke of Wellington Monument
15.3 km
Historic bronze statue honoring the Duke of Wellington, a commanding presence in Brecon’s town centre and a testament to local artistry and British heritage.
Brecon Beacons
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Visit Brecon
15.4 km
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Brecon Barracks
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Historic military hub in Brecon, home to the Royal Welsh Regiment and its museum, set within the stunning Brecon Beacons National Park.
The Royal Welsh Regimental Museum
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Brecon Cathedral
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Brecon Walk Way
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Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal
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Castell Morlais 'morlais Castle'
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Brecon Mountain Railway
16.5 km
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Cyfarthfa Castle Museum and Art Gallery
16.6 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Fforest Fawr Geopark
1.9 km
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Good Day Out Pig Walking in the Brecon Beacons with KuneKune pigs
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Walk friendly KuneKune pigs through scenic Brecon Beacons and enjoy a charming countryside 'Pignic' with tea and cakes.
Fan Fawr
4.6 km
Fan Fawr: A majestic peak in Wales’ Brecon Beacons, blending stunning glacial landscapes with rich geology and timeless Welsh legends.
Fan Frynych
4.9 km
Explore Fan Frynych’s rugged summit and the dramatic cliffs of Craig Cerrig Gleisiad in this rich, glacially-carved nature reserve within the Brecon Beacons.
Pen-y-Fan walk carpark
6.3 km
Primary access point for hiking Pen y Fan, South Wales’ highest peak, nestled in the scenic Brecon Beacons National Park.
National Trust - Brecon Beacons
6.3 km
Explore Pen y Fan and the Brecon Beacons from Pont ar Daf, where nature, adventure, and modern facilities meet in Wales’ iconic mountain park.
National Trust - Pont ar Daf
6.4 km
South Wales's premier mountain gateway—where 200,000 annual walkers begin their ascent to Pen y Fan's windswept summit.
Ogof Ffynnon Du National Nature Reserve
6.6 km
Explore the UK’s deepest cave beneath wild moorlands and historic ruins in the breathtaking Ogof Ffynnon Ddu National Nature Reserve.
Porth yr Ogof
6.7 km
Explore Wales’ largest cave entrance, a thrilling limestone labyrinth carved by the Afon Mellte in the heart of Brecon Beacons National Park.
Four Waterfalls Walk
8.0 km
Discover the enchanting Four Waterfalls Walk, a scenic 9 km trail through ancient woodland and cascading falls in Wales’ Brecon Beacons National Park.
Sgwd Clun-Gwyn Waterfall
8.2 km
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Cefn Llechid
8.6 km
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Brecon Beacons
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Explore the breathtaking peaks, rich heritage, and star-studded skies of Wales’ iconic Brecon Beacons National Park.
Sgwd Isaf Clun-Gwyn
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Cadair Fawr
8.7 km
Accessible mountain views across South Wales' rolling landscape, perfect for all abilities.
Essential places to dine
The Tanners Arms
8.5 km
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Usk & Railway Inn
9.6 km
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Penycae Inn Ltd
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Cozy gastropub in the heart of South Wales offering fine Welsh cuisine, scenic mountain views, and a unique family-friendly atmosphere.
The Tai’r Bull Inn
9.9 km
A cosy Welsh country pub and B&B offering hearty fare, real ales, and warm hospitality in the heart of Brecon Beacons National Park.
The White House
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A charming country inn near Brecon Beacons offering warm hospitality, fresh local cuisine, and cozy rooms for a relaxing Welsh getaway.
Castle Coaching Inn
10.8 km
Historic Welsh inn in Trecastle offering cozy rooms, traditional cuisine, and warm hospitality near Brecon Beacons National Park.
The Red Lion Inn, Penderyn
10.8 km
A cozy Welsh gastropub blending traditional charm, local flavors, and legendary roasts in the scenic village of Penderyn.
Abercrave Inn
11.7 km
A rustic Welsh country inn offering hearty home-cooked meals, cozy charm, and a peaceful rural retreat in Abercraf.
Gorkha & Khukuri
14.3 km
Savor authentic Nepalese cuisine in a serene Brecon setting, where tradition and flavor unite at Gorkha & Khukuri.
Carnivore By The Mine
15.0 km
A cozy meat-lover’s haven in Neath, blending hearty dishes with heartfelt mining heritage and warm local charm.
Aberglais Inn
15.2 km
Cozy pub and restaurant in Merthyr Tydfil offering hearty British classics, vegan and gluten-free options, with a warm, friendly atmosphere.
The Gurkha Corner
15.3 km
Experience authentic Nepalese and Himalayan cuisine with warm hospitality in the heart of Brecon at The Gurkha Corner.
Tad cod
15.3 km
Savor authentic fish and chips at Tad Cod in Brecon – where tradition meets taste in every bite.
Brecon Tap
15.3 km
Experience authentic Welsh hospitality at Brecon Tap – a charming pub offering delicious food and drinks in the heart of Brecon.
The George Hotel - JD Wetherspoon
15.3 km
A welcoming traditional pub and hotel in Brecon, offering hearty British fare and comfortable rooms near the Brecon Beacons.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The UK Loose Leaf Tea Company Ltd
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Hay & Brecon Farmers Brecon
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B&M Home Store with Garden Centre
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Mind
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CERTAS - BRECON
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Bi Ped Cycles
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Bentley & Co Home Interiors & Coffee Shop
15.2 km
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Kitty Keane's Vintage
15.2 km
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Dressed To Impress!
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Gibb Outdoors
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Premier
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Centre Of Attention
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Clarks Toys
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Welsh Delights
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The Vapour Den
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Shoemakers Arms
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Drovers Arms
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The Three Horseshoes Inn
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The Rorkes Drift
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The Sarah Siddons
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hop in beer and gin
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The Lounge Bar & Cafe
15.3 km
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Markets Tavern
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Royal Oak
17.8 km
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The Pwllgloyw Arms
18.0 km
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The Star Inn
19.2 km
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Lakeside Bar
22.0 km
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Coach & Horses
22.1 km
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The Red Lion Llangorse
22.6 km
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The New Inn
22.6 km
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Northcote Conservative Club
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Brecon Jazz Club (Muse Arts Centre)
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The Kirkhouse Nightclub (Koolers)
17.6 km
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Pure Bar & Nightclub Ltd
18.0 km
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The Top Club
26.1 km
Experience Blaengarw’s vibrant nightlife at The Top Club, where electrifying entertainment meets community spirit in the heart of South Wales.
The Arch Bar & Nightclub
27.7 km
A lively Neath hotspot blending nightclub energy, live music, pub charm, and Thai cuisine in one vibrant venue.
Squares Night club
29.6 km
Experience Porth’s vibrant nightlife at Squares Nightclub, where music, dance, and unforgettable evenings come alive every weekend.
Jimmy's Bar
33.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and live music scene at Jimmy's Bar, Port Talbot’s lively local hotspot with a welcoming atmosphere.
Jac’s Mansion
34.1 km
Experience welcoming, vibrant LGBTQ+ nightlife at Jac’s Mansion, Builth Wells’ iconic gay nightclub with a lively, inclusive atmosphere.
Eclipse Nightclub
34.4 km
Experience Pontypridd’s vibrant midweek nightlife at Eclipse Nightclub, where music, dancing, and community come alive every Wednesday night.
Popworld - Swansea
37.3 km
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PlanB
37.6 km
Swansea’s energetic two-floor nightclub with a focus on dance music, lively DJs, and great drink deals for a night to remember.
Cuba Escape
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Experience Swansea’s vibrant nightlife at Cuba Escape, where live music, energetic crowds, and a colorful atmosphere come together for unforgettable nights.
Sin City
37.8 km
Energetic Swansea nightclub with live music, affordable drinks, and a lively atmosphere on Dillwyn Street.
The Rainbow Rooms Bar & Club
38.9 km
Experience lively nights and vibrant music at The Rainbow Rooms Bar & Club, Gorseinon’s premier destination for unforgettable nightlife.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Relaxing
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Myth & Legends
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly