The perfect Day out
You’d think, given that we already have our own pigs, we might choose something a little different for a family day out in Wales. But when I spotted the “Piggy Walk & Pignic” experience with Good Day Out in the Brecon Beacons, I couldn’t resist. It sounded so delightfully quirky that even as seasoned pig-owners, we wanted to try it. Plus, we thought it might be something our guests at Goytree Glamping and Treehouses would love — and of course, we had to “test” it ourselves first (such a hardship).
It was just under an hour’s drive from The Goytree, a straight run up past Abergavenny and Brecon. It’s the kind of trip that’s easy to slot into a weekend stay, especially if you’re looking for unusual things to do in South Wales.
So off we went — me, Matt, and our two daughters (11 and 6). Although most people who go are adults (and the usual recommended age is 10+), we felt our girls would be fine given that they’re used to being around animals and know how to be calm and respectful. The welfare of the pigs and the way they interact with people is, quite rightly, the top priority for the pig-walking owners, so it isn’t your typical ‘petting farm’ experience. In fact, the company suggests that families book a private experience if children are coming along, so everyone (pigs included) can relax and enjoy themselves.
Meeting the Pigs
We were introduced to two sets of pigs. The first four were the youngsters — full of beans, bustling about, practically bouncing their way to the river. The girls were a little nervous about feeding them at first. Understandable, really, since we’ve drilled into them never to put their fingers anywhere near our pigs’ mouths. But they soon got the hang of it, carefully posting chunks of swede and carrot into the waiting jaws.
By the time we met the older trio, everyone was relaxed. These pigs were proper plodders — slower, calmer, happy to take their time. There was something oddly soothing about strolling alongside them as they waddled to the river, stopping only to accept another snack.
River Paddles and Piggy Celebrities
The river stops were a highlight — on a hot day, it would have been very tempting to wade in with the pigs. The girls loved watching them splash about. We also heard about the pigs’ celebrity encounters — apparently, they’ve been on ITV’s This Morning and rubbed snouts with some famous faces. Who knew we’d been walking in the trotters of stars? The company that organises the walks has been running these tiny group encounters for over 12 years, and they clearly know their stuff. They work closely with the pig owners and exclusively market the experience.
The “Pignic”
No experience in Wales is complete without tea and cake, and the “pignic” picnic did not disappoint. We tucked into plentiful delicious cakes, biscuits and tea (and squash for the kids) while the pigs snoozed contentedly nearby. Honestly, it was the perfect ending.
Final Thoughts
As a family, we all came away grinning. It was funny, heart-warming, and so different from your usual family day out in Wales. The girls are already asking when we can go back.
For our guests, I’d say it’s absolutely worth adding to your itinerary if you’re staying with us at The Goytree. It’s especially great for adults or couples looking for unique experiences in Wales or anyone wanting a memorable activity in the Brecon Beacons.
Pig walking in the foothills of the Welsh mountains? 10/10 would recommend.
How to Book Your Pig Walk
- Experience provider: Good Day Out
- Where: Brecon Beacons (approx. 55 mins from The Goytree, via Abergavenny & Brecon)
- Duration: Around 2 hours
- What’s included: Guided pig walk, feeding, riverside stop, stories about the pigs (and their celebrity moments), plus tea & cake “pignic” at the end
- Perfect for: Adults, couples, and families (well behaved children welcome with adults)
- Group size: The join-in sessions have a maximum of 8 people, usually adults, but private sessions are available as long as there are no prior bookings.
- Good to know: Wear sturdy waterproof shoes — pigs like mud! And it opens up the option of paddling with the piggies in the quiet river.
- Accommodation: Looking for a place to stay? Our off-grid treehouses and yurts are made for wild-hearted escapes. Explore The Goytree → www.thegoytree.com
Bee’s Bower – off-grid accommodation for your for Pig Walking adventure. The perfect romantic weekend away in nature.