Brecon - Town & Canalside

Navigating The Route

This is a circular Detective Mystery through Brecon’s town streets, canalside paths, riverside views and historic centre, with Detectives helping DCI Viola Lynn untangle the curious cold case of jazz musician Nota Perfect.

The investigation covers approximately 2 miles and should take around 2 hours to complete. You’ll weave through Brecon’s twists and turns, follow the calm canal, patrol around the theatre area, pass the Museum, Art Gallery and Library, cross near the River Usk and return through the town centre.

Terrain is good throughout, making this Trail suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs. The towpath can get slippery when wet, so watch your footing near the water. You’ll also be patrolling beside busy roads and along the canalside, so keep younger Detectives and canine colleagues close throughout.

Getting There

Time to gather your squad and strike the first note in this mysterious case:

By car - Park at The Watton Long Stay Car Park, just off Heol Gouesnou and opposite Gwenllian Morgan Court (LD3 7EE), using ///hires.daisy.jolly. The investigation begins from here. Leave by the vehicle entrance, turn right and wander down towards the main road to start the case along Watton.

By public transport - Make your way into Brecon town centre, then head for The Watton Long Stay Car Park, just off Heol Gouesnou and opposite Gwenllian Morgan Court, to begin the investigation.

Need the Loo?

Even the sharpest investigators need a comfort break during a tricky case. Toilets are available at the car park, around Clue 04 and again around Clue 20, so you should have a few handy chances to pause before the investigation hits its higher notes.

Bring Your Furry Sidekicks

Four-legged Detectives are welcome on the case 🐾

This Trail is great for dogs and includes town pavements, canal towpaths, riverside sections and busy road areas. Keep canine colleagues close near traffic, crossings and the water’s edge, and take extra care along the canal if the towpath is wet or slippery.

Food & Drink Stops

Solving a jazz mystery can leave any squad feeling peckish.

You’ll find plenty of chances to pause for refreshments and stock up on supplies while patrolling the town. If you’ve packed a picnic, there’s a good opportunity to enjoy it near Clue 16, weather permitting - ideal for reviewing the evidence while keeping one ear open for suspicious saxophone solos.

Want to Make a Day of It?

Brecon Canal and Towpath

The canal section gives this investigation a peaceful waterside stretch, with wildlife, reflections and a slower pace after the town streets. It’s a lovely place to linger, but keep safely back from the edge and take care if the towpath is damp.

Theatr Brycheiniog and Canal Basin Area

The route passes the theatre area beside the canal basin, where the case begins to pick up a properly musical rhythm. It’s a natural pause point on the route, with sculptures, street furniture and waterside atmosphere to enjoy before the clues pull you back into town.

Y Gaer - Museum, Art Gallery and Library

Detectives pass Brecon’s Museum, Art Gallery and Library on the way towards the town centre. It’s a strong extra stop for anyone who wants to dig deeper into local history, art and culture while the case is unfolding.

Brecon Cathedral and Heritage Centre

There’s an optional detour just under 1/4 mile uphill to Brecon Cathedral and the Heritage Centre. Both are well worth a visit if your squad has time and energy. Just remember to return to the same point afterwards to continue the investigation.

Brecon Market Days

Brecon’s market days are Tuesdays and Fridays, and they’re well worth a visit if your investigation happens to fall on the right day. Add a little extra time for a browse, a snack stop or a post-case wander once the final suspect has faced the music.