The area
Cantref is a collection of scattered hill farms and homes in the heart of the Brecon Beacons. This is a lively community of around 200 people and thousands of sheep! There is a healthy mix of newcomers and families who have farmed here for generations.
The church
‘ most romantically situated …’ was the description by writer and historian Theophilus Jones in the 1800s. The first Christian recorded as being associated with the site was St Cynidr in the 6th Century- grandson of Brychan the King of Brycheiniog. The Normans rejected St Cynidr’s dedication in c1100AD in favour of St Mary with whom he shares the same Saints Day of 8th December.
The simple stone font may be medieval c1100 AD. And there is fine stained glass by acclaimed firm of H Mayer of Munich, unusual in a country church for that time.
The church has a 16th century tower with a welcoming nave and chancel rebuilt in the 19th century. The stained glass east window has lovely images of Jesus – the Good Shepherd – carrying a sheep and of St David. The approach to the church through the churchyard is lined with ancient yew trees. Our fine yew trees include two that are said to be more than 1500 years old. The drift of snow drops behind the church are worth seeing in the spring.
Thomas Powell
A former clergyman of Cantref has recently gained a rightful entry into the esteemed Oxford Dictionary of National Biography- a national record of men and women who have shaped British history and culture. Thomas Powell (1608 -1660) clergyman, writer and translator, fellow of Jesus College Oxford, was born at Cantref and followed his father as clergyman into this church from 1635 -1640. He was ‘ejected’ during the civil war and interregnum for continuing to read the Book of Common Prayer and preaching against the radical teachings that swept the region during which time he worried for his flock in Cantref. He did, however, survive to become reinstated eventually with the Restoration and later become Canon of St David’s. (Oxford University Press 2025)
He was a close friend and confident to Henry Vaughan who you can learn about on the Llansantffraid Church page. Six generations of the Powell family, spanning 300 years, ministered at Cantref Church and we still maintain a connection with the family today. It may be fitting then that the inscription on the bell dated 1762 at Cantref reads ‘Good Neighbourhood’.
For further information on the church building, click here for the CPAT Brecknockshire Churches Survey page.
Special events at Cantref Church
Cantref Church is well known and popular for its special St David’s Day, Harvest and Christmas Carol services, as well as concerts which make full use of the church’s excellent acoustic.
Services at Cantref are held on the third Sunday of the month at 10am and on days of Special Services shown on the calendar of events. We have invested in some very good heaters recently and like to offer excellent filter coffee and homemade cake after our services to promote friendship. We welcome dogs, and visitors.
Our church is permanently open to visitors. Just turn the medieval handle to the left and push hard! Enjoy the serenity inside and listen to the ever rushing Cynrig brook, the birdsong and sheep song.
Nearby churches
Why not try out services in each our 5 surrounding church’s of the Beacons Group.
Churchwarden and Ministry Area Council member
Julia Philips email: tircuebeasthouse@gmail.com
Location
Easiest to approach from the B4558 turning off the A40 to Llanfrynach. The church is close to the entrance of Cantref Adventure Farm. Parking is alongside the road. Post code for SatNav – LD3 8LR