Is there anything better than a scenic drive through Wales and a delicious lunch to top it off? This autumn, as we wove our way through the Brecon Beacons looking for a place to rest and refuel, we found ourselves back at an old favourite – Hills Brecon.
Travelling through Powys on a crisp, slightly overcast day, the vibrant autumn leaves were at their peak, creating a stunning backdrop of fiery oranges and reds. The twisting roads were perfect for the Mini Clubman, its turbo fluttering as we hugged each bend.
And there, nestled among the hills and waiting for us, was Hills Brecon – with its unbeatable slogan, “Straight Outta Cymru.” It’s their clever, Welsh twist on “Straight Outta Compton,” and we love it. It’s an honest nod to their roots and their commitment to delivering authentic, homegrown quality.
We hadn’t been to Hills in years, so we decided to test our luck without a reservation. It’s a popular spot that tends to book up quickly, so if you’re planning a visit, booking ahead is always wise. But today, luck was on our side – we were greeted warmly and asked to wait just five minutes on the comfy sofas while they prepped a table for us. Hills Brecon has become a bit of a local legend since it opened in 2017, and with good reason. If you haven’t heard of it yet, you may just be missing out on some of the best burgers in Wales.
This small, family-run restaurant has built a stellar reputation, and their motto isn’t just for show – they’re all about sourcing locally, working with Welsh suppliers like Paddy Sweeney Butchers, Meat Matters Ltd, and Huntsham Farm. With such high-quality ingredients, they take pride in every bite, which is clear the moment you taste their food.
Our order included a cheeseburger (£13) and a cheeseburger with bacon (£15.50), both served with their signature double patties. The bacon added a perfect smoky flavour to the juicy, thick burgers – absolute perfection in every bite.
For the little one, we ordered the children’s cheeseburger meal (£7.50), complete with fries and a choice of beans, peas, or corn on the cob. The kids’ portions were spot on, with just the right amount of everything.
To spice things up, we tried their “Spice Bag” (£11.50), which came loaded with salt and pepper tots, chicken tenders, and a pot of shop curry sauce. The tots were lightly seasoned, and when dipped into the curry sauce, they packed a perfect kick of flavour. The portion was huge, easily shared among the three of us, and the extra fries (£5) we’d ordered were left mostly untouched – testament to how satisfying it all was. Hills may not be the cheapest place to grab a burger, but you really do get what you pay for: top-quality beef and fresh ingredients, all carefully crafted.
Since it was autumn, we opted to sit inside, but on a warmer day, their outdoor seating provides a spectacular view of the Brecon Beacons. Hills Brecon has become a place where quality meets passion, all wrapped up in a bit of Welsh pride.
So, if you’re passing through the Brecon Beacons and craving a truly good burger, add Hills to your list. It’s a perfect pit stop, blending fantastic food with friendly service and a strong sense of local identity. Make sure you save the address – Bishops Meadow, Hay Rd, Brecon LD3 9SW – and don’t forget to book ahead if you can! And remember, it’s “Straight Outta Cymru” – because, really, could it get any better than that?
