places to visit in wales from london

Top 10 places to visit in Wales (Best things to see & do)

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: September 2, 2023

A visitor to the UK simply won’t be able to get a complete picture of what makes Britain so special without spending at least a little time exploring Wales.

That rugged and wild country on Britain’s southwestern side, Wales is known for its dramatic landscape, mountainous national parks, sandy beaches, rolling hills and gorgeous coastlines.

In addition to its geographical blessings, Wales has a remarkably unique history, language and culture that has fascinated tourists for generations. You also won’t find friendlier and more hospitable people than the Welsh — they’ll welcome you to their country with open arms and a quick smile.

If you fancy the great outdoors, you won’t do much better than Wales. There are many national parks with miles of hiking and walking trails that are suitable for any skill level or ability. Whether you enjoy climbing a craggy mountain, padding across the gleaming sand or skipping over the cliff tops, there is a trek for you in Wales.

There are also an abundance of charming villages and towns that look as though they’ve come to life right from the pages of a storybook. Think stone cottages nestled near winding rivers, surrounded by the green rolling countryside. You could lose yourself wandering from village to village, taking in all of the beauty and culture.

For history lovers , Wales has 641 castles — more castles per square mile than any other country in Europe. If city life is more your speed, then take a trip to Cardiff. It has a castle too and an innovative art scene, world-class dining and a boisterous nightlife. You can even stay in a castle in Wales if that is on your bucket list!

With so many things to see in Wales it can be overwhelming planning an itinerary.

To help you to plan and remove the overwhelm we have chosen the very best Welsh sights, attractions, and places in this guide to the top 10 things to see and do when you visit Wales.

Looking for a place to stay in North Wales? Check out our North Wales location and accommodation guide which has special stays in North Wales for all budgets including hotels, B&Bs, holiday homes and more.

CONWY CASTLE

Caernarfon/carnarvon castle, snowdonia national park, railway station – llanfair…gogogoch, ffestiniog and welsh highlands railway, portmeirion, pembrokeshire coast national park, fast facts – wales, planning your trip to wales, top 10 places to visit in wales.

If medieval castles and English history are your passion, then a trip to Llandudno to see Conwy Castle is most certainly in order. It’s in North Wales , just west of the Isle of Anglesey and only a 3 ½ hour train ride from London.

The castle was built in the late 1200s by Edward I as an attempt to contain the Welsh people. Today it remains one of the most imposing and impressive castles in Wales. It sits atop a bed of solid rock, almost appearing to rise out of the earth toward the sky. Though the roof has long since crumbled, the walls still stand and visitors can wander through the largely intact castle interior.

Don’t miss exploring the eight towers, the great hall and the royal chambers. Be mindful, if the weather is damp, the steps leading to the towers can be a bit slippery. The climb is well worth it, however, as the views of the estuary of the River Conwy are breathtaking.

Conwy Castle is an understandably popular site, so it is best to purchase your tickets well in advance to make certain you won’t be disappointed when you arrive.

Click to purchase tickets for Conwy Castle

Although Cardiff has only been the official capital of Wales since 1955, it is a city that has truly come into its own. Don’t let its size fool you — Cardiff may only be the 11th largest city in Britain but it is a bustling urban centre known for its history, sports and vibrant cultural scene.

Cardiff began life thousands of years ago as a Roman fort on the banks of the River Taff. During the industrial revolution, Cardiff came to life and eventually became the biggest exporter of coal in the world.

Today, the city has some of the most exciting modern architecture in Britain including the Millennium Centre and the epic engineering feat that is the Cardiff Bay Barrage. There is always something going on in Cardiff — check online to see what festivals, sporting events or concerts may be happening during your visit.

For history buffs, Cardiff Castle is right in the city’s centre, and the Natural History Museum is one of the most popular attractions in Wales. When you’re finished learning, enjoy a meal at one of the city’s pop-up restaurants or take a detour into a pub.

If you want something a little wilder, there are plenty of places to let your hair down — Cardiff is known for its nightlife. Only two hours from London , it’s well worth the trip.

Read more | 15 Things to do in Cardiff

If you’re looking for a royal fortress straight from the Middle Ages, you need to visit Caernarfon Castle , on the banks of the River Seiont. Considering its grand scale and architectural drama, it might very well be the most intimidating structure in Wales.

King Edward I was not messing around when he hired master military architect James of St. George to build the castle, the walled town and the quay. The project took a whopping 47 years to complete and they did a great job — it’s still standing today, after all.

When you visit, make sure to explore the Eagle Tower at the western end of the castle. It’s the grandest of all the castle’s towers, has three turrets and boasts walls that are 18 feet thick. No wonder this was where the royals of days gone by would feel secure bedding down for an evening.

You can walk along the battlements, explore countless winding staircases, many of which lead to stunning views of the countryside beyond. Take note that many of the walkways are uneven, so it’s best to wear proper shoes.

Read more – Best castle stays in Wales

You could spend days exploring all that Snowdonia National Park has to offer. It has 823 square miles, including some of the most beautiful places in Wales.

If you’re dying to impress the folks back home, tell them that you climbed the tallest mountain in Wales — Mount Snowdon . At only 3,560 feet, it generally takes less than three hours to reach the top. There are six paths up, each with varying levels of difficultly.

One of the more accessible routes is the Llanberis Path — it’s a little longer but has a more gradual climb. If you aren’t quite ready to tackle a whole mountain, try the Cwm Idwal, a circular walk around some of the most stunning scenery in the park. Before you go, it’s best to check the park’s website for a comprehensive list of the walks, including detailed maps and difficulty levels.

Ready to get off your feet? Snowdonia National Park is an area of outstanding natural beauty and has several scenic villages. Beddgelert is one of the loveliest villages in Wales and is a perfect place to take a break, find a cosy pub and curl up with a pint.

Read more | Snowdonia National Park | Velocity 2 zip wire | Snowdonia Mountain Railway

Back in the 1880s, a sleepy little town on the Isle of Anglesey decided it needed to do something radical to attract more tourists. A local tailor suggested they expand their already tricky name of Llanfairpwllgwyngyll and perhaps create a sensation for visitors charmed by the idiosyncrasies of the Welsh language.

The town listened and today its name boasts a dizzying 17 syllables and 58 letters. Just as the tailor had hoped, tourists now come from all over the world just to get a peek of that astonishingly long sign at the local railway station.

It’s truly one of the most popular Welsh tourist attractions , so what visit would be complete without snapping a selfie in front of that sign?

While you’re there, stop in the tourism office and buy a t-shirt to show your friends back home that you really were there. If you want to be hardcore about it, you could even learn how to pronounce it.

One of the best ways to enjoy the gorgeous scenery of Wales is by rail. There are two fantastic options. The first is the nearly 200-year-old Ffestiniog Railway — the world’s oldest narrow-gauge railway. Climb aboard and travel just like a Victorian tourist.

The journey begins at the harbour in Porthmadog and travels nearly 14 miles through Snowdonia National Park until it reaches Blaenau Ffestiniog. During the trip, the train ascends into the mountains, reaching over 700 feet above sea level while hugging the mountainside.

All onboard are treated to magnificent views overlooking lush green pastures, ancient forests, towering waterfalls and serene lakes.

The second option is the Welsh Highlands Railway — the longest heritage railway in the UK. Along with its regular passenger cars, it offers some of the most luxurious accommodations of any heritage railway. Hungry? They’ll deliver made-to-order food right to your seat.

The train itself travels 25 miles through the county of Gwynedd, going from Caernarfon to Porthmadog. Along the way, you’ll skim the bottom of Mount Snowdon as you pass through the fairytale-like village of Beddgelert.

Have those cameras ready because it’s one of the most picturesque places to go in Wales.

Read more | Ffestiniog and Welsh Highlands Railway

Wouldn’t it be amazing if you managed to secure one of the most scenic spots on the Welsh coast and, after dreaming about it your whole life, decided to build your very own idyllic village? That’s exactly what Welsh architect Sir Clough Williams-Ellis did in 1925 when he set out to create Portmeirion.

Located next to the Dwyryd Estuary on the coast of Wales, he used fragments from old buildings and a tongue and cheek sensibility in creating his fantasy village. It took decades to finish his vision and create one of the most amazing Wales attractions.

Today, people come from all over the world to visit this make-believe haven that feels like an Italian village perched over the Mediterranean. Stroll along the paths through the well-tended gardens with gazebos and ponds. There are also hotels, restaurants, shops and a spa.

The most important thing to do while you’re there is to take in the charming ambience and enjoy the stunning views.

Read more | Portmeirion

One of the most interesting places to visit in Wales is the Isle of Anglesey, the largest Welsh island that lies just off of the northwestern coast. It’s 276 square miles and is separated from the mainland by the Menai Strait.

One of the most amazing sights in Anglesey is the Menai Suspension Bridge. Built in 1826 by Thomas Telford, it was the world’s first modern suspension bridge. Seeing it today is just as impressive as it must have been back then.

Exploring the island itself is a treat, especially for those who love history. The medieval Beaumaris Castle is on Anglesey as well as over 120 ancient monuments and archaeological sites.

Bird watchers take note. The island is home to multiple habitats — estuaries, wetlands, sea cliffs and rock-covered shores — so the variety of birds makes this one of the best places in all of Britain to bird watch.

Read more | Visiting Anglesey

No visit to Wales is complete without a trip to Llandudno, the Queen of the Welsh Resorts. This quaint coastal town in the north of Wales is celebrated for its charming pastel-coloured Victorian architecture as well as its lovely scenery and popular beach.

During the summer, you can windsurf and parasail or just relax and soak up some rays. North Shore Beach, also known as Llandudno Beach , is considered to be one of the best beaches in Wales not only for its beauty but because of its picturesque pier and promenade. There’s a playground and games arcade along with concession stands and cafes.

Other activities in the area include taking a ride on the Great Orme tramway, one of the oldest tramways in the world, dating back to the early 1900s. On the tram, you’ll pass through Great Orme Country Park and Nature Reserve and the views are simply unforgettable.

Read more | North Wales Travel Guide

One of the best places to visit in Wales is Britain’s only coastal national park, Pembrokeshire Coast National Park. This gem has everything from beaches to windswept cliffs.

During the spring, get ready to snap some pictures because the meadows are covered with gloriously coloured bluebells, harebells and cowslips.

If a vigorous walk is what you’re after, grab your hiking poles and head to the Wales Coast Path. It’s an 870-mile-long public footpath that follows the entire coastline and offers dramatic vistas of the Celtic and Irish sea along with the beaches below. The path is well-maintained and clearly marked, but don’t worry, you don’t have to walk the whole thing.

Just go to the park’s website and pick a doable walk, as there is something for every fitness level and desire. If you’d like to get wet, kayaking and surfing are popular activities at Pembrokeshire Coast as well.

Read more | Pembrokeshire

WHAT TO READ – Best books to read before you visit Wales include Resistance by Owen Sheers, Tea in the Heather by Kate Roberts and the Works of Dylan Thomas

WHAT TO WATCH – Best movies to watch before you visit Wales include The Englishman Who Went Up a Hill But Came Down a Mountain , How Green Was My Valley , and Submarine.

WHAT TO DO : Click here for recommended tours of Wales

WHERE TO STAY : Click here to find the best accommodation in Wales

WHAT TO EAT – Welsh cakes, laverbread, Bara Brith

WHERE TO EAT – There are a number of restaurants in Ewales with Michelin stars including Ynyshir , Eglwys Fach (Snowdonia) which was named the top restaurant in Wales in 2019.

PRINCIPLE TRAIN STATIONS – Cardiff Central and Swansea.

WHAT TO PACK: It can be very wet all year round in Wales (find out more about visiting Wales in the different seasons ) so take waterproof clothes, shoes and an umbrella!

TIP: If you plan to drive and are hiring a car it is better to go for a compact model – the roads can be narrow and parking spaces are tight. Also, plan plenty of time to get to destinations – they may look close on a map but narrow, windy and busy roads can add to journey time!

If you love stunning views and being out in nature, you won’t go wrong no matter where you go in Wales.

As the weather changes frequently, bring plenty of layers and some rain gear to be prepared for any eventuality. No matter what you choose to do, have a wonderful visit to Wales.

Looking for accommodation during your stay in Wales? My Wales accommodation guide has options for all budgets and for those of you who would like to spend the night in a castle there are 8 perfect castle stays in this post!

Learn more in my Wales Travel Planning Guide!

20 Beautiful (& Unique) Places To Visit In Wales: 2024 Guide

Wales is the smallest country on the Isle of Great Britain. It’s so small you can travel the length of this mountainous land in under five hours!

However, despite its small size Wales definitely packs a big punch and a visit to this culturally rich country should not be rushed.

With over 600 castles, Wales is referred to as the castle capital of Europe. There are nearly 33,000km of walking paths to wander and 3 national parks explore. There are award winning beaches, the fastest zipline in the world, a language as old as the Britons, oh and we have a dragon as our national flag!

Have I sold you on it yet?

Despite spending the last decade travelling the world, I always look forward to coming home and exploring more of what my Welsh homeland has to offer.

So, as a proud Welsh woman born and bred in the valleys of South Wales, I want to share my thoughts on the best places to visit in Wales.

Disclaimer:  Some links in this article are affiliate links, which means that if you purchase through them I receive a small commission, at no extra cost to you. This helps cover the cost of running this blog. Thanks for your support!

Map Of The Top Places To Visit In Wales

The 20 Best Places To Visit In Wales

1.  yr wyddfa (mount snowdon) – visit wales’ highest peak.

As a country carved by glaciers in the last ice age, many of the top attractions in Wales involve our most plentiful asset – mountains. It’s quite fitting therefore, that the top thing to do in Wales is to visit the country’s highest mountain, Mount Snowdon or Yr Wyddfa as it is now officially known. 

Yr Wyddfa is found in Eryri (Snowdonia) National Park , which offers spectacular vistas around every corner and has recently been added to the UNESO World Heritage List. It’s the first of 3 National Parks in this list.

Yr Wyddfa is 1085m and is the only major peak in the UK to have a train that runs to the summit. For this quirky uniqueness alone, it’s worth taking a ride on the Snowdon Mountain railway .  

Alternatively, for the full mountain experience I recommend hiking to the top. There are several hiking routes to the summit of Snowdon, which I describe in detail in this handy guide .  If you’re a mountain lover who wants to enjoy a quieter hike in Snowdonia National Park, take a look at this guide .

Prefer not to walk alone? If you’re looking for a Mountain Leader to guide you on a mountain adventure, please contact me here to discuss rates and availability.

Related Reading

• Top spots for winter camping in Wales
• Beautiful Landscape Photographs of Wales
• The 50 highest mountains in Wales

2. Bike Park Wales – Hit world leading mountain bike trails in the South Wales Valleys

Wales has a great network of cycle routes to enjoy but for more adventurous mountain biking, I highly recommend a trip to Bike Park Wales on the outskirts of my home town, Merthyr Tydfil.

Situated on a forested hillside, Bike Park Wales is the only mountain biking centre in the UK that provides an uplift service. That means you get all the fun of the downhill without all the effort of the uphill. Winner!

At Bike Park Wales there are 40 colour graded trails for all abilities. They offer bike rental, coaching sessions and have a cafe which even serves bottles of their locally brewed ale. Popularity here has soared in recent years so be sure to book your passes in advance .

For more things to do in Merthyr Tydfil, take a look at this guide .

3. Anglesey – Hike the coast and relax on the beaches

Anglesey or Ynys Mon is Wales’ largest island and offers visitors an array of activities to enjoy. Much of the coastline around Anglesey has been declared An Area of Outstanding Beauty, making it a beautiful place to visit in Wales. The coastline is ideal for walkers and many of the beaches are Award Winning.

In the south west you can visit a town with the longest place name in Europe: Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch.

If you buy me a pint I’ll say it for you 😉

The town was given this name by a local man as a marketing ploy and you have to admit it works! In the south east you can visit the moated castle of Beaumaris, which was the last of Edward I’s castles.

However, my personal favourite thing to do in Angelsey is to visit the tidal island of Ynys Llanddwyn. With it’s picturesque lighthouse and the 16th century chapel St Dwynwen (the Welsh Patron Saint of Lovers), it’s surly one of the top places to go in Wales.

Discover Anglesey at your own pace with this self guided audio tour!

4.  Zipworld – Experience the worlds fastest zipline

ZIpworld has helped transform some of Wales’ old quarries and mines into fun outdoor adventure playgrounds. Zipworld has several sites in North Wales and a newly opened site in South Wales.

At Bounce Below you can jump around on trampolines in a dimly lit slate cavern which is a serious amount of fun, although massively exhausting! At Penrhyn Quarry you can race around on go-karts or if you’re brave enough try out Velocity 2 – the world’s fastest zipline.

Other activities include roller coasters, tree top wires and even plummeting 100ft from a trap door!

Discover an epic 2 week Welsh road trip itinerary in this guide!

5. St David’s: Visit the smallest city in Wales

St David’s is a charming little city in Pembrokeshire, West Wales. In fact, it is the smallest city in the UK and about as far west as you can go in Wales. The city is built on the site of a monastery founded by the patron saint of Wales, St David ( Dewi Sant )

Given the history of this city your trip should, of course, include a visit to St David’s Cathedral. Also pay a visit to the adjacent medieval ruins of Bishops Palace.

After the history fix is complete be sure to wander around the pretty narrow streets, peeking your head into the numerous art galleries, cafes and it’s one and only pub! Then head out to the stunning Whitesands Bay.

From this sandy beach you can enjoy some of the best surfing Wales has to offer. Alternatively, if you’d prefer to keep your feet dry, visit St Davids Head for a breath taking walk around the peninsula. Keep your eyes open for dolphins and seals!

For your perfect stay in St Davids, try the gorgeous LLety Farm .

Check out the video below to see if you can spot seals hanging out at St davids Head!

6.  Cardiff – Explore Wales’ capital city

Not all capital cities are worth a visit but Cardiff most certainly is. Cardiff is a vibrant city which has a little something for everyone and makes it one of the best places to go in Wales.

At the centre of the city there is (of course!) a castle. Opposite Cardiff Castle you can find the Victorian Arcades which are filled with boutique shops. Join this Alleyways and Avenue Tour to find the best spots. The nearby streets are filled with restaurants and bars which offer a great night out, especially after a Welsh rugby match! 

For an exploration of the seafront head out to Cardiff Bay Barrage, which is Europe’s largest waterfront. If you’re looking for adventure here, try white water rafting or indoor surfing at Cardiff International White Water. The Bay is also home to the Senedd and is therefore the beating heart of Welsh Politics.

If you’re a Doctor Who fan you’ll know Cardiff is where this series is filmed and you can embark on your very own Doctor Who tour ! Or for the Gavin and Stacey fans, go behind the scenes at Barry Island in this half day tour . 

Extend your time in Cardiff with one of the top accommodation options below.

• Future Inn Cardiff Bay (⭐4, 📈8.3, Cardiff Bay, top location: 1.2 miles from city centre, £)
• The Parkgate Hotel (📈8.6, situated in the heart of Cardiff, 0.2 miles from city centre, ££)
• Radisson Blu Hotel, Cardiff (⭐4, 📈7.6, situated in the heart of Cardiff, 0.3 miles from city centre, £)

7.  Portmeirion – Experience a slice of Italy

Portmeirion is a quaint, Italian-inspired seaside town on the coast of Northwest Wales. I’ll be honest and say I found the visit a little strange as it’s sort of a themed city. Kinda like visiting Disneyland. However, it is very pretty and definitely one of the must-see places in Wales.

After exploring the small streets and giant chess board (yup!), allow some time to wander down to the waterfront for a stroll around the coast. You could even spend the night in the village at the beautiful Portmeirion Hotel .

What is the best way to explore Portmeirion?

The best way to explore any location/sightseeing is a guided tour, undoubtedly. Portmeirion is not an exception. With “Portmeirion, Castles and Snowdonia Tour” with a dedicated driver and expert local guide you will see so much more of Wales than you could cover independently (11 locations are included on this tour).

BOOK YOUR GUIDED TOUR HERE

8. Hay-on-Wye – Rediscover literature at this market town

Hay-on-Wye is a small market town in the County of Powys, close to the English border. As a child my mum and I would take regular visits to Hay-on-Wye on the hunt for interesting or unusual books.

Today Hay-on-Wye has over twenty bookstores to keep literary lovers enthralled. But a visit to Hay-on-Wye is as much about the buildings that house the books, as it is about the books themselves. The book stores vary from castles to boutique stores, to simple book shelves on the streets. Hay-on-Wye is a delightful place to visit in Wales.

Every year Hay-on-Wye hosts the Hay Festival of Literature and Arts, aka the Hay Festival. This festival lasts for 10 days and was described by Bill Clinton as the “Woodstock of the mind.”

If you plan your visit for a Thursday you can also enjoy Market Day, a tradition that has been running in the town for hundreds of years. In the market you can find books (of course), antiques and locally produced food.

Discover all the best things to do in Hay-on-Wye in this guide !

Need somewhere to stay? For a delightful glamping experience, try Golden Valley Shepherds Huts .

9. Govan’s Chapel and the Green Bridge of Wales – Enjoy a beautiful coastal walk

Pembrokeshire Coast National Park is the gem of West Wales and is a paradise for walkers and nature lovers.

Founded in the 6th century, St Govan’s is a remarkable little chapel built into the side of a limestone cliff in Pembrokeshire, West Wales. I first discovered St Govan’s purely by accident, whilst doing a hike from Bosherton.

Access to the chapel is a via a steep set of stairs. Legend has it that if you count the stairs on the way down and then again on the way back up, the number is never the same! Surely it’s well worth a visit just to find out?!

5km further around on the Wales Coastal path from St Govan’s you can find another highlight of the Pembrokeshire coast, the Green Bridge of Wales. This is a natural rock arch which has been carved away from the mainland by erosion. You can also find the Elegug sea stacks nearby which were once arches similar to the Green Bridge.

Did you know? The Wales Coastal Path is 870 miles long and is the first path in the world to follow a country’s coastline in its entirety. It has also been voted the second prettiest coastal path in the world!

10. Tenby – Visit Wales’ Prettiest Seaside Town

Wales has many pretty seaside towns which are contenders for this list however my personal favourite is Tenby. I spent many a childhood holiday playing on Tenby’s famous beaches but this seaside town is also packed with charm and history.

Tenby is a historic fishing village in South Wales with gorgeous colourful houses dotted around its harbour. These are best enjoyed with a relaxing stroll during the soft golden tones just before sunset.

In 2019 Castle Beach in Tenby was voted the UK’s best beach by the Sunday Times. This beach is the smallest of Tenby’s beaches. From Castle Beach at low tide you can access St Catherine’s island and fort. To the north of the beach climb the steps to Castle Hill which houses the remains of Tenby Castle. 

To learn all about the best things to do in Tenby, take a look at this guide.

BEST ACCOMMODATION IN TENBY

• Giltar Hotel (⭐3, 📈8.4, Tenby, beachfront, £)
• The Park Hotel (⭐3, 📈8.9, Tenby, beachfront, ££)
• Heywood Spa Hotel (⭐4, 📈8.8, Tenby, 0.7 miles from North Tenby Beach, £££)

11. Bannau Brycheiniog (The Brecon Beacons) – Cool off in Waterfall Country

Wales has an abundance of waterfalls and since the country receives so much rain every year they are often flowing at full pace. Many of Wales’ most beautiful waterfalls are spread out around the country, however there is one area in South Wales which has more waterfalls per square mile than anywhere else in the country. This area is known as Waterfall Country .

In Waterfall Country there are several waterfall trails to enjoy , however the most popular is the Four Falls Trail. On this walk you can visit four waterfalls and at the final fall, Sgwd yr Eira, there is the option to walk behind the powerful cascade.

For more information on the 4 falls trail, take a look at this guide or for more things to do in the Brecon Beacons see this post.

12. Pontcysyllte Aqueduct, Llangollen – Venture along this impressive structure

As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct near Llangollen is definitely one of the top things to see in Wales . This 18 arched bridge is the longest aqueduct in Britain and carries the Llangollen canal over the River Dee.

You will need a head for heights if you want to walk over the 306.9m bridge but there are also walking trails which lead both upstream and downstream from the bridge itself. Both of these trails offer fine views of this impressive structure.

13. Conwy Castle – Travel back in time at Conwy

Wales has so many castles you could visit one every day for a year and still not see them all. I even went to school in a castle (very Harry Potter I know!), so deciding which castle to put on this list was a difficult task. However, Conwy Castle is surly one of Wales’ top places to visit and makes it to the top of my Welsh castles list.

Conwy Castle is set on the banks of the river Conwy and has Snowdonia National Park looming in the distance. Conwy castle is arguably the most impressive of Edward I Welsh castles, which UNESCO considers one of the finest examples of 13/14th century military architecture in Europe. Edward’s Welsh castles are another of Wales’ World Heritage sites.

Explore the battlements on your visit and be sure to arrive early to avoid the crowds. For a self guided audio guide tour of Conwy’s highlights, click here .

Discover more about castles in North Wales in this guide .

14. Elan valley – See epic Victorian dams 

The Elan Valley showcases an epic feat of civil engineering as well as outstanding natural beauty, all in one hit.

Over one hundred years ago the Elan Valley was partly flooded with six dams and reservoirs in order to provide safe drinking water for Birmingham. But this once contentious project built out of necessity, has since become an area for visitors to revel in.

On the Estate there are 12 Sites of Special Scientific Interest and the Claerwen National Nature Reserve. It is the most important area for land birds in Wales and has been awarded International Dark Sky Status.

Try and visit Elan Valley after heavy rain so you can see the dams in full flow. For me, Graig Goch and Pen y Garreg are the most impressive dams on the Elan river but they are all impressive in their own right. Elan valley can be explored on foot but also has great cycle trails, so bring your bike and enjoy cycling through this special part of mid-Wales.

The best part about the Elan Valley is it’s much quieter than some of the other tourist sites in Wales. So make sure you add Elan Valley to your Wales bucket list.

15. Gower Peninsula – Hike the rugged Peninsula 

The Gower was the UK’s first Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and on a visit to this rugged peninsula you’ll quickly discover why. There are cliff-edged hikes to explore, beautiful beaches to relax on and multiple water sports to enjoy.

Located at the far end of the peninsula, Rhossili beach has been voted one of the top 10 beaches in the world and I’d certainly recommend a visit. If the tide is right, venture out onto the tidal island of Worm’s Head. This part of the Gower is also popular with surfers and coasteerers. Both super fun activities but brace yourself for the cold waters!

Experience more beautiful Gower beaches at 3 Cliffs bay, Port Eynon and Oxwich or for a pebble beach try Pwll Du. If you’re in need of a castle fix try Woebley, Pennard or Oxwich.

For more information about walks in the Gower, take a look at this guide.

16. Pentre Ifan – See the Stonehenge of Wales

Found in an unassuming field on the Preseli Hills is Wales’ most famous ancient site – Pentre Ifan Burial Chamber. Constructed over 5000 years ago, the remains of this ancient ruin provide a glimpse as to what must have been quite an incredible burial chamber.

Any archaeological buffs out there will also know that the Preseli Hills are also home to Spotted Dolerite – the rocks that form the inner sanctum of Stonehenge. Yes, those world famous rocks were dragged all the way from West Wales to the Salisbury Plain!

Even if you have no interest in Neolithic monuments, it’s very impressive to see a 20 ton capstone precariously balancing on the tips of 3 standing stones. You can push it as much as you like, I promise it doesn’t budge! 

17. Pen y Fan – Hike Southern Britains highest peak

The Brecon Beacons has many great hikes to enjoy from the Sugarloaf in the east to Llyn y Fan Fach in the west. However, the highest and most famous peak in the Brecon Beacons National Park is Pen y Fan.

At 886m Pen y Fan is big enough to warrant a decent workout and there are several routes that lead to the top of this famed peak. The easiest of these trails will take little over an hour but for more experienced hikers there are trails that involve full mountain days.

See my complete guide to hiking Pen y Fan to discover what you can expect on a day spent exploring the Central Beacons. However, if you’d prefer someone else to lead the way up this famous mountain, please get in touch and we can discuss rates and availability.

18. The Blue Lagoon – Paddle boarding, coasteering and more

For an adventurous exploration of Wales’ more modern history, head to the Blue Lagoon in Abereiddy. There is a cove near Abereiddy which was once a slate quarry and was active until the early 20th century. When a channel connecting the quarry to the sea was blasted, the Blue Lagoon was formed.

Abandoned quarries and slate mines all around Wales are being given a new lease of life as adventurous destinations (such as those at Zipworld) and the Blue Lagoon is no different. The Blue Lagoon is a popular spot for adventure sports such as coasteering and cliff jumping and has become a tourist hot spot.

Ruined quarry buildings around the lagoon provides evidence of its’ industrial past and add an eerie element to this otherwise beautiful Welsh tourist attraction.

19. Tintern Abbey – Explore Wales’ most famous Abbey

Located next to the village of Tintern, in the lower Wye Valley is Tintern Abbey, another of Wales’ top visitor locations. This British Gothic masterpiece was originally founded in 1131 by Cistercian monks, but was abandoned after the dissolution by Henry VIII.

This majestic ruin found new life as a tourist attraction thanks in part to poets like Wordsworth and was a source of inspiration for artists like Turner. Today the Abbey is managed by Cadw and is well worth the small entrance fee.

For more distant views of Tintern, try walking a section of Offa’s Dyke trail to a viewpoint known as the Devil’s Pulpit. Located just 6 miles from Tintern is the charming town of Chepstow. Known as the gateway to Wales, Chepstow has many sites to see and well-worth including on your Welsh itinerary.

20. Llandudno – Visit Wales longest pier

Built in the 1950s by the Mostyn family, Llandudno is Wales’ largest seaside resort. Llandudno is famed for its extensive pier. It’s also the town where Alice Pleasance Liddell, the inspiration for Alice in Wonderland, holidayed as a child.

Walk or take the tram to the nearby summit of Great Orme for incredible views and then kick back on one of Llandudnos’ beaches. Enjoy a Punch and Judy show, explore the prehistoric copper mines or simply stroll the promenade with an ice cream in hand.

Having barely changed in over a century, this charming Victorian town is jam-packed with activities to enjoy on your visit to Wales.

Getting To These Top Tourist Attractions In Wales

The towns and cities on this list can be easily accessed by trains and/or buses from other major cities such as Cardiff and London. For the best deals on cars and trains check out Busbud .

However, the more rural tourist attractions are often poorly serviced by public transport and require the use of a car.

For the best deals on car rental in Wales, I recommend Discover Cars .

Final Thoughts On The Top Places To Go In Wales

Wales is a small country with a lot to offer. If you love the outdoors, history or culture, a trip to this hilly land should definitely make it onto your UK bucket list.

Nature lovers can enjoy a hike in the mountains of Snowdonia, relax on the beaches in Anglesey, get wet behind waterfalls in the Brecon Beacons and spot dolphins off the Pembrokeshire coast. And those wanting to soak up the culture can get lost in the literature of Hay on Wye, delve into the history of Wales’ great castles and admire the Cathedral in UK’s smallest city.

I look forward to welcoming you on your trip to Wales. Iechyd da! (Cheers!)

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Louise is a Mountain Leader and Snowboard Instructor from South Wales. As a former Adventure Tour Leader she has spent the last 15 years travelling Asia, Africa and the Americas. Louise is a published photographer and is currently based in the UK.

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Wales has several internationally recognized places to stargaze © Matt Gibson / Shutterstock

For such a small country, Wales sure packs in a lot of adventure. Wherever you end up, let the landscape lead the way – whether that means climbing mountains, hiking along the castle-strewn coastline or venturing into underground caverns.

Get trip planning with our roundup of the best things to do in Wales .

Visit a castle

Wales has more castles per square mile than any other European country. Top picks include Unesco-listed Harlech Castle , which overlooks Cardigan Bay from its hilltop perch; fairytale-worthy, forest-shrouded Castell Coch , with its distinctive conical roofs; and Powis Castle , renowned for its elegant gardens.

Summit a mountain

If you haven’t schlepped up a Welsh mountain or two, some would argue you haven’t really been to Wales. The landscape here is as rugged and ridged as a dragon’s back, but even the highest peaks are surprisingly family-friendly, and kids will love searching for mythical dragon lairs, sleeping giants and bottomless haunted lakes. Mt. Snowdon (the country’s tallest at 3560ft) and Pen y Fan are spectacular hikes but can get incredibly busy. Avoid the crowds by heading to the remote Cambrian Mountains. Summiting Pen Pumlumon Fawr (2467ft) is made all the sweeter when you have the place all to yourself.

Head underground

Mining and the industrial revolution transformed the economy and landscape of Wales and are a quintessential part of the country’s heritage. Don a hard hat and descend 300ft below ground at the Unesco-listed Big Pit in Blaenavon to get a taste of what it was like to work there or opt for a less historically accurate experience at Zip World , where you can scramble along via ferrata or bounce on trampolines within the old Llechwedd Slate Caverns.

Eat Welsh food

By all means, try the Welsh classics – such as leek-filled Glamorgan sausages, Welsh cakes and bara brith – but save room for top-notch street food, vegan bakes and an ever-expanding selection of artisanal cheese ( Caws Cenarth makes a superb blue). For a fantastic introduction to Wales’s leading food producers and chefs (among others from around the UK) come in September for Abergavenny Food Festival . Foraging is on the rise too – join a coastal foraging course , scour the hedgerows for tasty weeds on a mindful walk with Wild Pickings , or bottle your own botanical gin with Brecon Beacons Foraging .

Hike the Wales Coast Path

Wales was the first country in the world to launch a trail that covered its entire coastline – and what a trail it is. Spanning 870 miles (1400km), the Wales Coast Path meanders over craggy cliff tops and windswept headlands and is dotted with pristine beaches, seaside towns and ancient castles. Pick a section – Llŷn Peninsula , Anglesey or the Gower are all good places to start – pull on your boots and get walking.

Tour a distillery

Welsh spirits are having a moment. In 2021, gin distillery Aber Falls launched its first whisky and plans to seek Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) status for the locally made tipple, while Penderyn Distillery opened its second location in Llandudno . Book a distillery tour, try a glass or three at any decent country pub, or make your very own bottle of gin at Hensol Castle in South Wales.

Watch a rugby match with the locals

For many people in Wales, rugby is more than a sport – it’s an expression of Welsh identity. It doesn’t get much better than watching a Six Nations game at Cardiff’s Principality Stadium – which is smack bang in the city center – but even if you can’t get tickets, match day in the capital is an experience in itself.

Go glamping

If the mere suggestion of going camping in Wales makes you think of tramping through wet and miserable weather, don’t panic. The spectrum of Welsh accommodations with a back-to-nature feel has expanded rapidly in recent years, meaning you don’t need to wrestle with a tent pole in the rain unless you want to. Bed down in a geodesic dome complete with onsen-inspired outdoor tub and log burner at Fforest Farm near Cardigan, stay cozy in one of The Secret Yurts with private hot tubs near Welshpool or lounge in a luxury safari tent at NightSky Glamping in Abersoch.

Spend the day at the beach

Wales has 45 Blue Flag (ie exceptionally clean and safe) beaches, as well as countless hidden coves and secluded bays. Pembrokeshire Coast National Park – the UK’s only dedicated coastal national park – has the lion’s share, and Barafundle Bay , Broadhaven South and Whitesands Bay are all absolute stunners. Wherever you go along the coast, you won’t be far from swimmable, surfable and walker-friendly shores.

Ride the Ffestiniog Railway

Sure, it’s a little twee and touristy, but if you’re a lover of steam trains or slow, scenic travel, a journey along the Ffestiniog Railway is a delight. Established in 1836 to transport slate between the quarry and port, it’s now a heritage attraction – and the world’s oldest surviving narrow-gauge railway. You’ll trundle between Porthmadog and Blaenau Ffestiniog – both part of the newly minted Unesco-listed slate landscapes of North Wales – past rushing rivers, forested hills and soaring peaks. Splash out on a 1st-class observation carriage for the best views.

Experience an eisteddfod

The ultimate celebration of Welsh culture, the National Eisteddfod of Wales is an annual event that sees musicians, poets, dancers, actors and creatives from across Wales come together to perform, compete and share their talents with the nation. The event is conducted through the medium of Welsh, but Welsh learners and non-Welsh speakers are welcome to attend (time to start that Welsh Duolingo course !). There’s also a youth-specific festival held earlier in the year.

Watch wildlife in its natural habitat

Wales’s bounty of unspoiled landscapes provides sanctuary for an abundance of wildlife, especially birds. Keep your eyes peeled for red kites in Mid-Wales (these birds of prey have been brought back from the brink of extinction); spot guillemots and razorbills at Southstack Cliffs RSPB Reserve ; or take a boat to Skomer Island, a haven for Manx shearwaters and a colony of breeding puffins between April and August. Porpoises, dolphins and seals can also be spotted year round off the west coast.

Go stargazing

Wales’s rural landscapes offer some of the best stargazing in the UK. Both Brecon Beacons National Park and Snowdonia National Park are designated International Dark Sky Reserves, and privately owned Elan Valley Estate is an International Dark Sky Park, meaning light pollution is at its lowest here. The UK Dark Sky Discovery Partnership also lists many other spots where you’re likely to get stellar views, including the beautiful beaches of Broad Haven South and Poppit Sands in Pembrokeshire.

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28 of the Best Places to Visit in Wales in 2024

Written By: The Planet D

Updated On: February 8, 2024

Did you know that Wales has more castles per square km than anywhere else in Europe? That’s just one of the many reasons to visit Wales. We’re rounding up all the top places to visit in Wales that will entice you to add it to the top of your UK bucket list . Wales, one of the four nations that make up the United Kingdom, has often been overlooked in favor of its more prominent neighbors: England, Scotland , and Northern Ireland but once you visit Wales you’ll wonder why you never thought of it earlier.

Table of Contents

Places to Visit in Wales

This tiny country is filled with imposing castles, striking landscapes, and amazing adventures. The Welsh are a quirky bunch who like to jump off things, dangle high in the sky, and speak an entirely different language. With a rich history and a land filled with imposing castles, Wales is also a fantastic destination for culture as much as it is for adventure.

So get ready to learn a phrase or two of the Welsh language, get your adrenaline on, and step back in time because we are going to share all the best places to visit in Wales that will make you want to pack your bags right now.

1. Snowdonia National Park

Snowdonia National Park in North Wales is one of three national parks in the country and it tops our list for its pure beauty. Located in northwestern Wales, the park covers over 800 square miles of rolling hills, lakes, and a vast rugged landscape.

Adventure lovers will love exploring the Snowdon mountains and they can hike the many trails to explore the incredible mountain views. The star attraction is going to the summit of Mount Snowdon, the highest peak in all of Wales standing proud at 1085 meters (3645 feet). Want to hike up the Snowdon Mountain Summit ? Book this guided hike with an expert guide.

2. Snowdon Mountain Railway

If you have limited time, you can take the Snowdon Mountain Railway up to Britain’s highest visitor center. The century-old narrow-gauge railway opened in 1896 and its historic steam train travels up five miles to the peak of Mount Snowdon.

When you arrive you get out to do some hiking and take in the extraordinary views from the 1085-meter (3645-foot) peak. You can take the train back down or hike down the mountain. Watch our video of our trip up to Mountain Snowdon

3. Llanberis

Llanberis is a great place to make a base when exploring Snowdonia National Park. Plus there is plenty to see including the National Slate Museum, and another historic railway, the Llanberis Steam Railway.

Besides Snowdon Mountain, Snowdonia National Park houses 14 mountains over 3000 feet making it one of the best-hiking destinations in the United Kingdom. Climbing, mountain biking, and horseback riding are also popular in Snowdonia.

This sunrise hike takes you from the village of Llanberis for an early morning hike to watch the sunrise from the top of Snowdon/Yr Wyddfa with a qualified mountain guide.

Places to Stay in Llanberis

• ERW Fair Guesthouse is a family-run B&B in Llanberis
• Padarn Hotel – Great location within walking distance of the Snowdonia Mountain Railway.

4. Bounce Below

Bounce Below is a giant underground trampoline that offers adults playtime in the ultimate jungle gym. The series of trampolines, nets, ladders, and slides make for a heart-pounding experience that gives as many thrills as it does laughs.

Located at Llechwedd Slate Caverns in Blaenau Ffestiniog, the cave is twice the size of St. Paul’s Cathedral and is the result of an old mining quarry. Let me tell you it’s huge so give yourself at least a half day to enjoy this! Read more: Bounce Below – The Ultimate Underground Trampoline for the Kid in You!

5. ZipWorld

The Llechwedd Slate Caverns is definitely the place to visit for unique adventures. After jumping around at Bounce Below, make sure to do the Via Ferrata and Zip Line. This hair-raising course takes three hours to complete and takes you through a dozen zip lines while you traverse along high cliffs plunging to the caverns below.

There are caves, ropes, and bridges to cross and it’s an excellent adventure for those seeking something unique to do in Wales. If you want something really fast, head outside to the Titan Zipline, it’s the fastest in Europe!

6. Portmeirion Tourist Village

One of the most unique places in Wales is the Italian-style town of Portmeirion. Portmeirion is a quirky tourist village in Gwynedd, Wales. Nobody lives in this town, but it’s a wonderful stop on your visit to Wales that gives a quiet retreat in a very different destination.

It was designed by Sir Clough Williams-Ellis who modeled Portmeirion after the Italian Riviera village of Portofino located very close to the Cinque Terre .

Spend a day eating ice cream and have some hot coffee with fresh scones and cream as you explore the fairytale village. Or better yet, stay overnight at the Portmeirion Hotel where you feel as if you have stepped back in time.

We loved our stay at Hotel Portmeirion – The advantage of staying here is you have most of the village to yourself in the morning and evening before and after the tour busses have left.

7. Llandudno

Llandudno is the Queen of the Welsh Resorts. It is the largest seaside resort in Wales situated on a narrow strip of sand that connects the Welsh mainland and the Great Orme. The splendid Welsh resorts of Llandudno and Conwy lie between two gorgeous sandy beaches. The Hop on Hop Off bus offers two different routes to enjoy views all the top attractions.

Llandudno has two wonderful beaches, making the perfect place to visit in the summer. Its beautiful seaside promenade makes for a lovely stroll out to the pier that juts 700-meters (2,300-foot) into the bay. Be sure to hop on the Great Orme Tramway, the only cable-hauled tramway on a public road in Great Britain.

We stayed at Llandudno Bay Hotel and loved it. This boutique hotel is located on the Llandudno Promenade with sea views.

8. Conwy Castle

Wales is the castle capital of Europe and one of our favorite castles to visit in Wales is Conway Castle in North Wales. Commissioned by Edward I, Conwy Castle has stood the test of time since it was built between 1283 and 1289. It is considered one of the greatest fortresses in Europe and is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site.

This magnificent castle has imposing walls taht have stood the test of time that still surround the grounds and small town of Conway today. When you go inside Conwy Castle, you’ll witness the great hall, chambers, and kitchen, and a more secluded inner ward with private chambers and a royal chapel.

When visiting Conway, be sure to stop and see Britain’s finest townhouse of the golden Elizabethan age the Elizabethan Plas Mawr, and the Smallest House in Great Britain.

9. Harlech Castle

Harlech Castle is the most dramatic fortress from Edward I’s 13th-century ‘iron ring’. and is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is located in the town of Harlech in west Wales, in the county of Gwynedd. Looking over Tremadog Bay from the top of a sea cliff is a stunning view.

Harlech Castles is one of the top places in Wales to see. Make sure to go inside to explore the castle tower. If you’d like to visit the castle, it opens at 10:00 am and costs £6.90 pp

10. Great Orme

Witness the towering cliffs of the Great Orme in North Wales to see fantastic wildlife, from seals to seabirds as you take a Sea Fishing trip in North Wales. We hopped aboard a fishing boat to learn all about lobster fishing.

This unique adventure takes people out on this unique adventure where you board his fishing boat to check his lobster traps in the bays.

Not only do you learn how to catch a lobster, but to also understand the conservation of this popular seafood entrée known as the Black Gold of the Sea. For more information on fishing trips and lobster safaris to the Great Orme visit: Sea Fishing Trips North Wales 

11. Pontcysyllte Aqueduct

One of the most picturesque scenes in Wales is the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct that carries the Llangollen Canal across the River Dee. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct is the highest canal aqueduct in the world.

Its 18 arches rise 38 meters (126 ft) feet into the air spanning 1000 feet. Pedestrians can walk beside the water or you can take a canal boat. But if you are looking for something adventurous, try taking a guided canoe tour

12. Pembrokeshire Coast National Park

One of the wildest and most rugged places to see in Wales is the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park located on the West coast of Wales. The best way to explore the Pembrokeshire Coast is by going Coasteering. Coasteering was invented in Wales and we decided that if we were ever going to give the adrenaline adventure of Coasteering a try anywhere, it would be here. Check it out here.

Coasteering is a unique adventure sport or coastal exploration where you traverse along the coast of Wales by rock climbing, cliff jumping, and swimming into sea caves. It offers remarkable views and as much adventure as you desire. You can jump from 10 meters or you can simply slip easily into the sea. We went Coasteering with Preseliventure, book your adventure here.

13. Pembrokeshire Coast Path

If you don’t want to jump in the water, you can hike the Pembrokeshire Coast Path. It covers a distance of 186 miles (299 km) along the west coast of Wales and offers some of the most breathtaking coastal scenery in the world. The Pembrokeshire Coast Path takes you through rugged sea cliffs, sandy beaches, and churning waters of the Irish Sea.

The Pembrokeshire Coast Path is divided into 14 sections, each offering a unique and unforgettable experience. Some of the highlights include the dramatic cliffs at St. David’s Head, the secluded beaches at Barafundle Bay and Marloes Sands, and the picturesque harbor at Solva.

Hiking the entire path usually takes around two weeks, but there are plenty of shorter sections that can be completed in a day or two.

14. St. David’s Cathedral

While in Pembrokeshire make sure to visit St. David’s Cathedral located in the heart of the city of St. David’s. Within the cathedral is the Shrine of St. David, which is believed to contain the remains of the Patron Saint of Wales. The shrine is adorned with intricate carvings and is a place of pilgrimage for many visitors to the cathedral.

The cathedral has a long rich history, dating back to the 6th century when The Patron St. David founded a monastery on the site. The original building was made of wood and was later replaced with a stone church in the 12th century. Over the centuries, the cathedral was expanded and rebuilt several times, resulting in the structure that stands today.

Visitors can take a guided tour of the cathedral to learn more about Welsh history and architecture, or simply explore the many nooks and crannies of the building on their own. St. David’s Cathedral is considered one of the holiest sites in the country

15. Porthgain

The village of Porthgain is so picturesque that the BBC Movie, The Finest with Bill Nighy and Sam Claflin of Hunger Games fame shot here while we visited. There is an excellent pub that you must stop in for a pint, the Slooth, and it is also a picturesque coastal walk that is so perfect, that the Red Bull Cliff Diving Event took place here in 2013.

You don’t have to jump off the massive cliffs, but walking along the coast offers extraordinary views of the coast of Wales. For hiking this is an excellent place in Wales.

16. Gower Peninsula

If you are looking for another place in Wales for beaches, the Gower Peninsula in South Wales is known for its long sandy beaches and clear waters. Rhossili Bay is an iconic beach with dramatic sea cliffs stretching 3 miles (5.8km) to Worm’s Head which got its name from the Viking word for a sea serpent.

Some beaches to check out in the Gower Peninsula include Llangennith Beach, Three Cliffs Bay, Oxwich Bay, and Rhossili Bay. Caswell Bay is popular with surfers.

17. Cardiff

Cardiff is the capital city of Wales and no trip would be complete without visiting this bustling urban center. It’s a great place to make a base while exploring South Wales and there are plenty of things to see and do.

Book this Cardiff guided Walking Tour with a local guide to admire the Cardiff Castle, National Museum of Wales, Cathays Park, and the Cardiff Civic Centre which was built during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

A good place to make a base is Hotel Indigo located in the heart of Cardiff near all the major attractions including the castle, St David’s Hall and principality stadium.

18. Cardiff Castle

One of the most popular things to do in Wales is to visit Cardiff Castle. This medieval castle is located in the heart of the city and dates back more than 2000 years. In the 11th century, the castle was the seat of the Welsh king, Rhys ap Tewdwr, and later served as the residence of various powerful Welsh lords and princes.

In the late 13th century, the castle was seized by English forces under the command of King Edward I, who rebuilt and expanded the fortress to help secure his hold over Wales.

Today, visitors to Cardiff Castle can explore its ornate Gothic-style mansion, its impressive clock tower, and the Welsh Military Museum.

19. National Museum Cardiff

If you are a history buff, the National Museum Cardiff is not to be missed. The building features a stunning atrium, a beautiful rooftop garden, and a range of galleries and exhibition spaces ranging from historic artifacts to contemporary art.

There are permanent and temporary exhibits that are fun for the whole family. Kids will love the interactive exhibits where they can explore a replica Victorian schoolroom, try on medieval armor, and learn about Welsh history, myths and legends.

One of the best things about the National Museum of Cardiff is that admission is free.

20. Carreg Cennen Castle

There are more than 100 castles to explore in Wales that are in excellent condition and there are countless more ruins. We were told that if there is one castle to visit, make it Carreg Cennen Castle just north of Cardiff.

This dramatic fortress is part of King Edward I’s 13th-century ‘iron ring. They weren’t lying when someone told us that we can often be the only person there. We had it all to ourselves. The castle’s walls are still standing but what makes this castle so special is the fact that it is in ruins.

21. Brecon Beacons National Park

The third installment of the three national parks to visit in Wales is Brecon Beacons National Park is an outdoor lovers paradise. From stargazing to mountain biking its rolling hills, there is something for everyone. With four mountain ranges, there are plenty of places to explore within its 520 square miles.

Brecon Beacons National Park houses the Fforest Fawr UNESCO Global Geopark and it is a dark sky preserve. The Beacons Way is a 100 mile route through the national park and the Taff Trail is a long-distance cycling route that goes through the park from Brecon to Cardiff.

Book this adrenaline adventure from Cardiff to Brecon Beacons . Start with a guided tour of world famous Rhondda Valley in Southeast Wales before beginning your adrenaline-fuelled adventure of canyoning, swimming, and jumping into crystal clear mountain streams

22. Llandeilo

Llandeilo is another picturesque fishing village in the county of Carmarthenshire in Wales and is a good base to explore Dinefwr Castle and Park, the Brecon Beacons National Park, and the Carreg Cennen Castle. When in Llandeilo, you will also be near two notable Gardens – The National Botanic Garden of Wales and Aberglaseny Gardens.

Llandeilo has a history that dates back over 1,000 years, and there are a number of historic landmarks to explore in the town. One of the most notable is the ruined Llandeilo Castle, which dates back to the 13th century and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Llandeilo is particularly famous for its food scene, with a number of high-quality restaurants and cafes serving up delicious Welsh cuisine and locally sourced produce.

23. Aberaeron

One of the most colorful places in Wales is the lovely seaside town of Aberaeron. Make sure to try its honey ice cream in which has been locally made by the Holgate family for 35 years.

We stayed at the Harbour Master Hotel , a lovely hotel overlooking the sea with a great restaurant. Aberaeron is also known as the Lobster Capital of Wales, so be sure to enjoy locally caught lobster in the evening.

24. Devil’s Bridge Falls

Devil’s Bridge is a village named after the bridge it is famous for. It has been a tourist attraction since the 1700s. Devil’s Bridge is actually a series of three bridges built on top of one another. The original dates back to medieval times. Instead of demolishing the bridges when they became unstable, they simply built another atop them.

Legend has it that it got its name after an old woman lost her cow and saw it grazing on the other side of the river. The Devil appeared and agreed to build a bridge in return for the soul of the first living thing to cross it.

So, when the bridge was completed the woman threw a crust of bread for her dog to retrieve. When the dog jumped over the bridge, it was the first living thing to cross the bridge.

25. Aberystwyth

Aberystwyth is a seaside town in West Wales, in the county of Ceredigion. One of the main attractions in Aberystwyth is its beach, which is a long stretch of golden sand that is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.

The beach is backed by a promenade that offers stunning views of Cardigan Bay, and there are a range of cafes, restaurants, and bars nearby where visitors can enjoy a meal or a drink.

Aberystwyth is also home to a number of historic landmarks and attractions, including Aberystwyth Castle, which dates back to the 13th century and offers stunning views of the town and the surrounding countryside.

Other notable landmarks include the National Library of Wales, which houses a collection of Welsh books and manuscripts, and the Vale of Rheidol Railway, which takes visitors on a scenic journey through the Welsh countryside.

26. Caernarfon Castle

Located in the town of Caernarfon, Gwynedd, in North Wales, Caernarfon Castle is a medieval castle that was built by King Edward I. A Unesco World Heritage Site, the castle was built between 1283 and 1330, with the intention of serving as a royal palace and a military stronghold. King Edward, I wanted to make a statement about his conquest of Wales and to reinforce the English Crown’s authority over the Welsh people.

The castle has a connection with the Prince of Wales began in 1911, the future King Edward VIII was invested here as the Prince of Wales. Since then, the investiture of each new Prince of Wales has taken place at Caernarfon Castle.

The castle features a series of impressive towers and ramparts. One of the most notable features of the castle is its polygonal towers that visitors can climb to the top for views of the surrounding Welsh countryside.

27. Hay on Wye

Hay on Wye is the country’s national booktown located in Powys near the border with England. The town is famous for its large number of second-hand and antiquarian bookshops, as well as its annual literary festival. The Hay Festival has been running since 1988.

The festival is a celebration of literature, arts, and culture, and brings together a wide range of writers, poets, artists, and musicians from around the world. The Hay Festival takes place over 10 days in mid-May and June in Hay on Wye and has featured the likes of Margaret Atwood, Bill Clinton, and Salman Rushdie.

Hay on Wye was founded in the early 19th century as a market town, but it became famous in the 1960s when Richard Booth, a local bookseller, began promoting the town as a center for books. Today, Hay on Wye has around 20 bookshops, many of which are located in historic buildings and offer a wide range of rare and unusual books.

28. Center of Alternative Technology

To step out of history for a bit, The Centre for Alternative Technology (CAT) is a great change of pace. The educational and research center located in Machynlleth, Wales was founded in 1973 by a group of activists and environmentalists who wanted to promote sustainable living and demonstrate practical solutions for a low-carbon future.

CAT is set on a 7-acre site and is home to a variety of educational exhibits and interactive displays. Visitors can learn about renewable energy, organic gardening, sustainable building techniques, and many other topics related to sustainability and environmentalism.

Getting Around Wales

The best way to get around Wales is by rental car. We flew into Machester, England, and picked up our car at the airport before heading out to explore Wales in a counter-clockwise direction. It was a great route to see all the top Wales attractions over the course of 8 days in Wales. Check rental car prices at RentalCars.com

The Welsh Language can be a bit of a tongue twister to get your head around but don’t worry everyone speaks English in Wales. The hardest part of the trip is just trying to read some of the signs. But then again, isn’t learning another language part of the fun of traveling?

So there you have it! These are our recommendations for the best places in Wales. From its imposing castles to rugged coast, there are so many things to do in Wales, I’m surprised it isn’t on more people’s radar.

While writing this article, it made me want to go back. There is still so much more to see and do. What’s your favorite place in Wales?

Read More About Travel in Great Britain

• Where To Stay In London – A Guide to The Best Areas and Places
• London Landmarks – 18 Famous Places in Photos
• How to Get from London Airport to City Centre
• 3 Days in London – The Ultimate London Itinerary
• 22 of the Top Things to Do in London, England
• 21 Best Things To Do in Edinburgh, Scotland
• 15 Best Cities in Scotland To Visit
• North Coast 500
• 27 Best Things to Do in Northern Ireland

Our trip to Wales was in partnership with  Visit Britain and Visit Wales

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

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4 thoughts on “28 of the Best Places to Visit in Wales in 2024”

Stunning photos of my home country. Wales has to definitely be on every traveller’s list when they come to the UK. Highly recommend Conwy castle and the surrounding area, the Victorian seaside town of Llandudno and Betws-y-Coed, a hiker’s paradise!

Wow… its very beauty, amazing…

I never really think of Wales when pondering new destinations, but your blog post makes it look pretty cool. I like the landscape and history. Great photos, especially the main pic of the castle.

I have hiked Mt Snowdon and it was so cool! I’d love to get to some more of these places and adventures you recommend!!

10 best places to visit in Wales: Welsh travel destinations

Wales is a country of wild rugged beauty, stunning beaches, and warm, friendly locals. One of the most obvious differences between Wales and other countries in the UK is our language. In fact, Welsh is one of the oldest languages in Europe and is something that we're justifiably proud of.

Wales is famous for its imposing castles, and it was said that there was one castle every 12 square miles in the medieval ages, making Wales the most castellated country. From the 11th century Norman invasion to the 15th century when Owain Glyndwr's army rose up against the English, the country endured 350 years of conflict with England. 

When planning a break in the UK, Wales should feature highly on your list of destinations. Within easy reach by rail, it’s a country well worth exploring, so read on for our top ten places to visit in Wales. 

1. Eryri National Park 

Covering an area of approximately 825 square miles in the northwest corner of Wales lies Eryri National Park . Easily accessible by train from Bangor or Betws-y-coed, this is the first and arguably, most impressive, of the three National Parks set within Wales, and is visited by around 10 million people every year.   Within the Park are several small villages, including the picturesque Beddgelert and Betws-y-Coed. These offer a choice of warm, welcoming hotels and guest houses that make the perfect base for exploring the wild beauty of Eryri. 

The first thing to notice about this National Park are the mountains, with over half measuring more than 300 metres. Yr Wyddfa itself is an impressive 1,085 metres and is the tallest in Wales. Water, too, is a major feature of the Park, and over 700 km of rivers flow down the mountains and through the valleys. Llyn Tegid near the village of Bala is the largest natural lake in Wales. 

All year round walkers arrive to challenge themselves with the steep slopes and tough climbs of Yr Wyddfa, but for those more enthusiastic about the view at the end, the Yr Wyddfa Mountain Railway takes you on a leisurely climb to the summit. 

      View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by Suze Haworth (@suzehaworth)

2. Caernarfon Castle

Easily reachable from Bangor station, Caernarfon Castle is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Wales, with the name often anglicised to Carnarvon Castle.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, construction on the impressive motte and bailey castle began in the 11th century and continued with Edward I of England replacing the older structure with the impressive stone building in the late 1200s. 

The castle was intended to be a fortress and palace for the English king, and it served as such for many years. Playing a significant role in Welsh history, it was used as a prison during the Wars of Independence and the English Civil War, and it was also the birthplace of Edward II of England.

Although its design was dictated by the lie of the land, its towers and turrets were a dramatic symbol of England’s rule, and many of them still survive making this a must-see on your trip to Wales. 

Cardiff, the capital of Wales and our largest city, is vibrantly multicultural with plenty of things to see and do . Whether you’re arriving by train or car, Cardiff has several of the top attractions that Wales has to offer. 

Mention Cardiff to anyone and most thoughts turn to the glorious castle . Standing in the centre of the city, its 11th-century motte and bailey construction was dramatically added to in the mid-1800s by John, 3rd Marquess of Bute. Employing the architect William Burges, he began a transformative reconstruction of the castle in the Gothic Revivalist style. Richly decorated rooms, such as the Moorish themed Arab Room, two-storey banqueting hall, and the beautiful Roof Garden, with intricate carvings and lavish paintings, are open to the public, as are the surrounding landscaped gardens. 

Cardiff Bay is one of the most widely visited places in the city, and with its cosmopolitan vibe, choice of places to grab a bite to eat, and boutique stores, it’s the perfect spot to stop and watch the world go by. 

Just outside Cardiff, you’ll find St Fagans National Museum of History . Set in the tiny village of St Fagans, the open-air museum is home to a multitude of buildings and artefacts from across Wales, brought together on this one site. The buildings include farms, a mediaeval prince’s hall and a Victorian school. Not only is admission free, but the museum is dog-friendly, too. 

With galleries, theatres, and everything you’d expect in such a cultural and historic capital, Cardiff should be on your list of places to visit.  

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4. Bannau Brycheiniog National Park

Get off the train at Abergavenny railway station and you’re right on the doorstep of one of the natural treasures of Wales - the Bannau Brycheiniog National Park .

Including the tallest peak in South Wales - Pen y Fan and the Black Peaks, the Bannau Brycheiniog are named after the act of lighting warning beacons across the hills when invaders threatened. 

With endangered flora and fauna, peat bogs that are so crucial in our battle against climate change, and dramatic landscapes, this National Park has plenty going on every single day. Tours of the Park’s cave system, stargazing adventures and guided climbs up the tallest mountains will encourage even the novice walker to get out and explore. 

5. Hay-on-Wye 

On the northeastern point of the Bannau Brycheiniog, just on the border between Wales and England lies the glorious market town of Hay-on-Wye, often abbreviated to Hay. For bibliophiles everywhere, this is the place to come and is home to over twenty bookshops. Over ten days at the end of May, more than 80,000 visitors enjoy the annual Hay Festival . Hay also hosts the music and philosophy festival HowTheLightGetsIn every May, and this regularly sees famous faces giving talks, including Philip Pullman, Sarah Pascoe, and Noam Chomsky.

With almost 150 listed buildings, luxury hotels and restaurants serving cordon bleu menus, this delightful town is well worth a visit. 

      View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by Hay on Wye (@hay_on_wye)

6. Aberystwyth

Lying on the west coast of Wales is the popular seaside resort of Aberystwyth . Easy to get to by rail, the sweeping promenade draws the summer tourists and stretches from the harbour in the south to the dramatic rise of Constitution Hill in the north. The promenade is dominated by the impressive pier, reaching out over the waves of the Bay. Its original length was 242 metres, but due to the wild storms that have battered this beautiful coastline, it has been reduced. 

Aberystwyth Castle with its imposing flint flecked walls was one of the greatest of the Welsh castles. Now, however, its ruins are scattered throughout the town thanks to Oliver Cromwell’s slighting of important buildings in the mid-1600s. 

Whether a relaxing break by the sea or enjoying the attractions , is your thing, Aberystwyth has it all.    

        View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by Lewis Thomas (@lewisgthomas)

7. Aberaeron 

Just along the coast from Aberystwyth, lies the picturesque town of Aberaeron. Unusually, the town was the vision of one man - the Rev. Alban Thomas Jones Gwynne, and he began the plans in 1805. Starting with a harbour, houses for the workers, and a school for their children, the town took shape. Gwynne saw crafts as an integral part of life in Aberaeron, and he included a bootmaker, blacksmith, baker and hat maker in his designs. 

Bordering the harbour, the buildings’ Regency architecture offers a classic elegance unusual in Wales, and their brightly painted facades make this pretty town a lovely place to visit. 

      View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by Adrian McGarry (@adrianmcgarry)

8. Tenby 

Tenby has been one of the most popular seaside towns in Wales since the early 1800s. Tenby harbour boasts a beautiful beach or you can head out to sea on a mackerel fishing trip from here. There’s also the option of visiting Caldey Island , an oasis of calm owned and run by a community of Cistercian monks. It will take you about 20 minutes by boat to get there. 

With two sweeping golden beaches - Castle Beach being named by the Sunday Times as the best in the UK - pretty pastel-coloured houses, and numerous independent boutiques, it’s no surprise that visitors still flock to the town.  

9. St. David’s Cathedral 

St David’s , on Wales’ Pembrokeshire coast, is the UK’s smallest city and the resting place of the patron saint of Wales. Given city status in the 1100s, the vast, impressively preserved cathedral overshadows the small settlement. Founded in 589, the monastic community grew, and although attacked numerous times, continued to survive. In 1115, Bishop Bernard began work on a new cathedral, and after Pope Calixtus II bestowed a papal privilege upon the site, it became the centre of pilgrimage for the Western world, necessitating a larger, more impressive cathedral. 

The Pembrokeshire Coast is the third National Park in Wales and this stunning maritime landscape incorporates rugged cliffs, secluded beaches, and inland waterfalls leading to wooded estuaries. With rare flora and fauna, this ecological wonderland should be top of everyone’s to-do list.  

      View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by @annarhystory

10. Conwy Castle 

The North Wales town of Conwy is popular with tourists who flock to the town to see the glorious Conwy Castle . A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the organisation considers it one of Europe’s best surviving examples of 13/14th-century military architecture.

Towering over Conwy, the defensive castle walls surround the town, and using the spiral steps in the towers, visitors are able to walk an entire circuit of the walls - nearly 1.5 km. The great Mount Yr Wyddfa can be seen in the distance, with the mediaeval streets of Conwy and harbour mouth lying far below. 

Spanning the river near the castle is Thomas Telford’s suspension bridge. Finished in 1826, its construction echoes the design of the castle turrets, making an impressive sight. Now owned by the National Trust, only pedestrians are allowed to cross the bridge. 

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The 18 best things to do in Wales

There are so many spectular things to do and places to wander in this underrated Celtic gem. These are some of the absolute best.

Anyone who visits Wales, falls a little bit in love Wales. And with very good reason. This nation may be small but boy is it crammed with irresistible Celtic charm, magnificent landscapes and exhilarating culture. There's nowhere quite like it. 

It’s the perfect place to rejuvenate, to give your mind a rest and to bathe in the genial hospitality of Welsh people. Take a long and thoughtful hike across the length of its coast or immerse yourself in the exciting buzz of its capital full of passionate sports fans and innovative talent. Whatever kind of getaway you're after, here are some of the very best things you can see and do in Cymru. 

RECOMMENDED: 

📍The best places to go in Wales  🍴 The best   restaurants in Cardiff 👀 The best   things to do in Cardiff 🌤️ The best  things to do in the UK

This article was recently updated by  Amy Houghton , a writer from the Brecon Beacons. At Time Out, all of our  travel guides  are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our  editorial guidelines .

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Best things to do in Wales

1.  Climb to the top of Wales

Where is it?  Yr Wyddfa, Snowdonia National Park

What is it?  The highest mountain in Wales and the busiest in the UK

Why go?  Climbing Yr Wyddfa (Mount Snowdon in English) takes anywhere between five and seven hours depending on the route taken, but the 1,085-metre peak offers the most magnificent views in all of Wales. Heading this way in winter is a no-no, but the mountain gets plenty busy through spring, summer and autumn, with more than half a million hikers dragging themselves up to the top every year. Those worried about fitness issues can take the quaint train – an hour-long ride to the top that offers plenty of gorgeous views along the way.

2.  Travel back through Welsh history

Where is it? St Fagans National Museum of History, Cardiff

What is it? Award-winning living museum and Wales’ most popular open-air attraction. 

Why go? To really imagine everyday life for Welsh people through the centuries. There are over 50 historic buildings for you to weave your way through, including Iron Age roundhouses; a Victorian school complete with the Welsh Not, which was used to basically force Welsh children to speak English; 20th century ‘Gwalia Stores’, a common name for Welsh grocery shops and the Elizabethan St Fagans Castle and grounds. It's also got a working farm, and two working mills making bread that you can buy at the on-site bakery. Did we mention that you can see all this completely for free?

3.  Get lost in a town full of bookshops

Where is it?  Hay-on-Wye, Monmouthshire

What is it?  A small market town in mid Wales known for its love of all things literature

Why go?  There are few things more comforting than the dusty atmosphere of an old bookshop, and the small town of Hay-on-Wye is famous for the things. Known colloquially as the ‘town of books’, Hay has more than two dozen bookshops dotted around its streets, selling everything from new releases to the classics of yore. When it comes to literary tourism in the UK, Hay-on-Wye is a real bucket-list spot.

4.  Soak up the rays on Rhossili Bay

Where is it?  Gower Peninsula, Swansea

What is it?  A three-mile stretch of golden sand and coastline that runs as far as the eye can see, pun possibly intended.

Why go?  Rhossili Bay is a constant contender when judging the best beach in Wales, as well as perpetually featuring in the top ten UK-wide. Besides its award-winning beauty, nearby pubs like The King’s Head and Worm’s Head offer some of the best pub grub around – with a side of beautiful beer-garden views. It's also a fave among surfers. The best thing? It’s dog-friendly, so your furry friends can join in the sandy fun too. 

5.  Storm a world-famous castle

Where is it?  Caernarfon, Gwynedd

What is it?  Arguably the most aesthetically impressive of the many castles of Wales

Why go?  Wales has a curious relationship with its castles. Some are beautiful examples of medieval architecture and a major pull for tourists, while others like the so-called Ring of Iron as a painful reminder of King Edward I’s conquest of Wales in the twelfth century. Of all the castles, Caernarfon’s is possibly the most arresting. It's a Unesco World Heritage site said to be designed on the famous walls of Constantinople (today’s Istanbul). Caernarfon is a charming town with plenty of attractions, but few come close to matching the might of its eponymous castle.

6.  Become one with nature in the Beacons

Where is it?  The Brecon Beacons National Park (aka Bannau Brycheinog).

What is it?  A breathtaking mountain range with the highest peak in South Wales.

Why go?  Stretching from near Llandeilo in the west to the English border in the east, Brecon Beacons National Park covers more than 500 square miles of natural beauty. Head for the hills towards the mighty Pen Y Fan, at 886 metres above sea level; it’s the highest peak in South Wales. The Beacons are also known as Waterfall Country, so you'd be a fool to bypass the Four Waterfalls Walk .  If party vibes are more your thing, then the  Green Man  music festival will make your heart sing.

7.  Explore a village like no other

Where is it?  Portmeirion, Gwynedd

What is it?  A tourist village designed and built in the style of rural Italy

Why go?  There’s nowhere quite like  Portmeirion . Designed and constructed by Sir Clough Williams-Ellis between 1925 and 1975, this small village is as cute as it gets, with gorgeous architecture and movie-set style waiting around every corner. Williams-Ellis made it clear that his desire was to bring the atmosphere of the Mediterranean to North Wales, and most will agree that he succeeded. The village is best visited by car, although Minffordd railway station is just over a mile away.

8.  Wander Britian's smallest city

Where is it? St David’s, Pembrokeshire

What is it? The tiniest city in the UK thanks to its spectacular cathedral, one of the ‘great historic shrines of Christendom’. 

Why go? No bigger than your average village, St David’s was granted city status in 1995. It was the Welsh patron saint, St David (see what they did there?) built his monastery, so there’s plenty of holy significance there. But beyond the huge cathedral, this city has a thriving arts scene, is close to stunning coastline at Whitesands Bay and for posh foodies has Michelin star restaurant Blas or for experimental foodies, there’s Grub Kitchen , the UK’s first full-time edible insect eatery.

9.  Walk the length of the country

Where is it?  Offa’s Dyke and the  Wales Coastal Path

What is it?  One is a ninth-century border turned into a walking route, while the latter is a path that covers the entirety of the Welsh coast.

Why go?  Wales is unique in that it is the only country in the world with an official walking path covering the entirety of its borders. Well, that should be two paths, but the point stands. This is a land that offers an accessible yet difficult walking challenge. The Wales Coastal Path is a footpath stretching 870 miles from Chester to Chepstow, while the Offa’s Dyke Path roughly covers the inland stretch between those two spots. Walking the whole thing might be a little excessive, but there are plenty of stretches that can be enjoyed over a day or two. There’s no better way to experience the natural beauty of Wales.

10.  Go on a sporting pilgrimage in the capital

Where is it?  Cardiff

What is it?  There are few things more exciting than Cardiff on match day.

Why go?  The quintessential Welsh tourist experience? There may be more important things when it comes to history and tradition, but it doesn’t get much more thrilling than visiting the capital on a major rugby or football occasion. Cardiff is at its best when the Dragons are doing battle at the Principality Stadium or the neighbouring Cardiff City Stadium, and the pubs and bars of the city evolve into an entirely different beast. Win, lose or draw, Cardiff on match day is an incredible experience.

11.  Learn to pronounce the longest town name in the UK

Where is it? Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch, Anglesey.

What is it? A small village with a famously tongue-twisting name

Why go? Originally called Llanfair Pwllgwyngll, the name of this village in Anglesey was extended in the nineteenth century in the hope of luring tourists to its town. In that regard, it has been a major success. There isn’t much to do here beyond sitting in a couple of pubs or wandering the aisles of the station shop, but taking a photograph of the famous train station sign is one of the great tourist rites of passage when visiting Wales.

12.  Go puffin spotting

Where is it?  Puffin Island, Anglesey

What is it?  As the name suggests, an island dominated by puffins.

Why go?  Known as Ynys Seiriol in Welsh, Puffin Island is an uninhabited chunk of land off the eastern tip of Anglesey that is home to a huge variety of fauna, most famously the cute little birds that give it its name. The masses of puffins aren’t the only birds worth spotting, however, as the island is also home to one of the largest great cormorant colonies in the British Isles, as well as guillemots, razorbills and others. Tours of the island are available but don’t forget the camera and the binoculars.

13.  Ride the rails in the Welsh highlands

Where is it? West Highland Railway, Gwynedd

What is it? A narrow-gauge railway running from Caernarfon to Porthmadog via a host of fascinating and fabulous sights

Why go? This award-winning heritage railway is a charming way to explore the many isolated marvels of this stretch of the country. The vibrant port town of Porthmadog is a delightful starting point, while adorable Beddgelert is another to add to the list of beautiful Welsh villages with compelling stories to tell.

14.  Tickle your funny bone in the old capital

Where is it?  Machynlleth, Powys

What is it?  The old capital of Wales, home to one of the UK’s best comedy festivals.

Why go?  Many people new to Wales are surprised to discover that  Cardiff  has only been the Welsh capital since 1955. The long and storied history of the Welsh nation has many other cultural and political centres, one of which is now a peaceful mid-Wales town that is energized by laughter in the summer. Machynlleth was the seat of Owain Glyndŵr’s Welsh Parliament in 1404 and is thus considered the ancient capital of Wales. Its annual comedy festival is a hotbed of rising stars and established names.  

15.  Go underground at the Dan-yr-Ogof Caves

Where is it?  Brecon Beacons/Swansea

What is it?  A show-stopping series of caves to explore… and a life-sized dinosaur park

Why go?  Go deeper underground and explore a 17km cave system that’ll rock your world. You’ll notice a few familiar reptilian faces poking through the foliage and rock formations along the way, as more than 200 life-sized dinosaur models are living here too. There isn’t a reality where dinosaurs aren’t super-awesome, making Dan-yr-Ogof a must-visit in the southern half of Wales. 

16.  Learn about a hard day’s work (and a national industry)

Where is it?  Big Pit National Coal Museum, Blaenavon

What is it? A former colliery and underground coal-mine labyrinth

Why go? Don your hard hat and venture down into the dark coal mines at the Big Pit Coal Museum. It’s a deep dive into Wales’ rich industrial past. Your ex-miner guide will teach you what life was like for the working classes during the area’s mining heyday. They’ll give you the lowdown on the story of coal extraction and how the valleys played a vital role in exporting the stuff around the world.

17.  Visit the smallest house in Great Britain

Where is it?  Conwy, Gwynedd

What is it?  A bright red miniature house that was once home to an extremely tall fisherman

Why go?  Conwy is one of the most beautiful towns in  Wales , famous for its castle and its defiant commitment to independent businesses. In amongst it all stands a vibrant red house that is the smallest in Great Britain. A woman in traditional Welsh clothing waits outside the house to provide information for visitors, and tours of the tiny house cost just £1. The red colour of the house means that, ironically enough, you can’t miss it.

18.  Jump on the bandwagon with Reynolds and McElhenney

Where is it?  Wrexham, Clwyd

What is it?  The long-suffering supporters of one of Britain’s oldest football clubs have cause for optimism thanks to its celebrity owners.

Why go?  The footballing world is bizarre, but few stories have caused as much head-scratching as this. In early 2021, Hollywood actors Rob McElhenney and Ryan Reynolds became owners of  Wrexham AFC , breathing new optimism into the town. Wrexham was once the largest town in Wales and an industrial powerhouse, but can the football team’s new proprietors bring optimism back into the area? This will either go very well or very badly. The spotlight is back on Wrexham, to say the least.

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• United Kingdom , Wales

Planning a trip to the UK this year and need some help figuring out what to see in Wales? As someone who lives next to the border of this magical little country, I’ve got a few destinations that’ll blow your mind! From the castles and villages in the north to the coast and national parks in the south, here are my ten best places to visit in Wales, UK.

Psst. This post contains affiliate links. Read our disclosure .

First thing first: yes, Wales is a country.

And yes, it is ridiculously amazing.

A personal favorite destination of mine (heck, I pretty much live there!), I can wholeheartedly say there has never been a better time to visit Wales than in 2023!

Because this little, underrated country in the United Kingdom has been named one of 23 best places to go in 2023 by CNT Traveller .

And boy, oh boy, I can tell you now Wales is going to blow up as a hot new place in no time. (Kinda like how Bali blew up in the last five or so years!)

With its rolling green hills, towering mountains, quaint villages, beautiful national parks , gorgeous coastlines, and incredible hikes , there are more than a few reasons to visit Wales in 2023 .

So, if you’re ready to plan a trip there, don’t forget to add these wondrous Wales destinations to your itinerary! They’re going to blow you the F away.

Psst, don’t forget to read my awesome 7-day Wales itinerary next! This will help you plan your trip to Wales alongside this post.

Table of Contents

10 BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN WALES

Snowdonia national park.

Towering mountains? Check. Cascading waterfalls? Check. Crystal clear lakes? Check. Wildly breathtaking views? Infinite checks.

Snowdonia hails at the top of this list because it’s a top destination in Wales that’s a MUST if you decide to visit this amazing little country.

Even cooler, Snowdonia has something to offer for everyone. If you’re an avid hiker or adventurer, the trails here are mind-blowing.

A few of my favorites include Watkin Path (which features gorgeous Fairy Pools !), Moel Siabod, Aber Falls Walk, Llyn Ogwen circular walk, and Tomen y Mur.

Although, Snowdonia isn’t just one of the top places to visit in Wales because it’s heaven for hikers!

If you just like good views or are traveling as a family with kids, head up to Snowdon Summit on the Snowdonia Steam Train (SO much fun!).

A couple other great activities for explore the Llechwedd Slate Caverns , have some laughs at Greenwood Forest Park , or check out all the awesome things to do at Zipworld .

Isle of Anglesey

Hands down, visiting Anglesey is one of my personal favorite things to do in North Wales .

(Although, it’s not just me who loves this ridiculously awesome island… it’s also a favorite amongst locals! On a UK Bank Holiday weekend, they flock to Anglesey in swarms for a cheeky getaway.)

With gorgeous sea views, coastal hikes, cute little seaside villages , and vast beaches to stroll, it’s the perfect place to spend a day exploring or breathing in the restorative ocean air!

A few great things to do in Anglesey include:

• Venturing on a coastal hike (there are a variety for both little ones and avid adventurers alike).
• Visit Beaumaris Castle.
• Explore Parys Mountain, aka what was once the largest copper mine in the world! (It’s now completely abandoned.)
• Admire South Stack Lighthouse (a great hike).
• Check out The Dingle Nature Reserve.
• Stroll one of the many beaches — some good ones include Penrhos Beach, Newborough Beach (great lighthouse), Benllech Beach, and Traeth Llygwy.

Interested in exploring England, too? Don’t miss out on reading my post on 10 outstanding places to visit in England for travel inspiration!

Ever wanted to visit the smallest house in Great Britain ? Or a castle with some of the earliest surviving stone machicolations  in Britain?

Head to Conwy!

While Conwy will only be a short little stop on your trip to Wales, this is definitely one of the coolest cities in the country.

Steeped in history and featuring the gorgeous Conwy Castle (one of the best I’ve ever seen!), Conwy boasts beautiful views of both the surrounding countryside and the sea, a remarkable suspension bridge, lovely cobblestone roads, and — of course — the quirkiest building you’ll ever see (aka the Smallest House in Britain!).

Not to mention, Conwy is a great point for exploring other tourist attractions in Wales.

Such as Llandudno, which has a great pier; the Great Orme, which is a fantastic drive and features a cool cable car; Bodnant Garden, which is a century-old beautiful 80-acre garden; and you can easily slip to Snowdonia National Park from here.

Pembrokeshire Coast

Who else loves sparkling blue ocean views, rocky cliff sides that make your heart skip a beat, endless sandy beaches, a coastline dotted with little islands, and alluring wildlife wherever you turn?

Then the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park is your own personal heaven.

The only coastal national park in Britain , Pembrokeshire has a lot to offer in terms of outdoor adventures, making it one of the best destinations in South Wales!

A few great things to do in Pembrokeshire include:

• Going on a long, beautiful coastal hike.
• Heading out to Skomer Island Nature Reserve to spot some puffins, seals, porpoises, dolphins and more.
• Visiting the smallest town in the UK (more on that below!).
• And exploring one of the many historic sites in the area, like the Neolithic Stones Pentre Ifan and the ridiculous amounts of castles.

If you want to explore Pembrokeshire Coast National Park and the rest of South Wales, but aren’t keen on planning the trip yourself, check out this 5-day small group tour that departs from London and visits Snowdonia National Park, the Pembrokeshire Coast, St. Davids (aka the smallest city in Britain!), and more.

Have you ever wanted to explore the magical country of Scotland? I’m a HUGE fan… and have a fabulous post on 15 crazy awesome places to visit in Scotland you’ll love!

If you’re wanting to visit one of the most picturesque, quaint little villages in Wales, look no further than Llangollen!

Gorgeous cobblestone roads, Tudor-style architecture , cute eateries, wondrous little local shops, and amazing views of the surrounding rolling green hills, castle ruins , and more, Llangollen is without a doubt one of the most beautiful villages I’ve ever set my eyes on.

In the summertime, Llangollen is bustling with tourists and locals alike who come here to soak up the warm sun in the River Dee, which is great for a refreshing swim, and hike around the nearby mountains and hills.

Although, not only is Llangollen a gorgeous gem of a destination due to its picturesque setting, it also has a cool history worth checking out.

Did you know Llangollen Bridge, which was built in the 16th century, was the first stone bridge to cross the Dee river?

Or that the Castell Dinas Brân ruins situated at the top of the hills near Llangollen were built in the 1260s on the site of an Iron Age hillfort?

Even cooler, the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct , which is a remarkable 18-arched stone and cast iron bridge for the Llangollen Canal, is just nearby and is a ridiculously cool site to see! (More on that below.)

Brecon Beacons National Park

With beautiful cascading waterfalls , moss-covered magical forests, lush green mountains, crystal clear lakes (or Llyn, as they’re called in Welsh!), and wondrous hikes that’ll blow your hiking socks off, Brecon Beacons National Park is a fantastic destination in South Wales!

Personally, my mind was blow by the sheer amount of waterfalls!

Like there are SO MANY — both big and small. At every turn in the road, you come across another… and another. And another !

Additionally, the main town of Brecon is incredibly cute and perfect for walking around in.

Or, if you want to breathe in the fresh air of Brecon Beacons, head out on the Brecon Mountain Railway to see the Welsh countryside. Or heck, if you’re a more adventurous traveler, have a go at rock climbing!

Brecon Beacons National Park has so many great activities for every type of traveler on a trip to Wales.

Portmeirion

Want to discover a unforgettable slice of Italy… in Wales?

Portmeirion is just that!

Designed and built by Sir Clough Williams-Ellis between 1925 and 1975 in the style of an Italian village, Portmeirion is definitely one of the more peculiar places to visit but a requirement nonetheless!

As you stroll through this fantismal destination, the Italian-style architecture and bright colored buildings evoke the feeling of visiting the relaxing Mediterranean.

If you’re yearning to add a little pop of color and Italia to your trip, definitely add Portmeirion to your best of Wales list!

A famous cathedral ? Check . ✓ Gorgeous coastal views? Check . ✓ Instagram-worthy little village streets? Check . ✓ Cool history featuring the Patron Saint of Wales himself? Check . ✓ The UK’s smallest city? Double check! ✓✓

Safe to say, St. David’s is a pretty cool place to check out! And actually one of the more famous places to visit in Wales that you will absolutely love.

Founded in the 16th century (although the cathedral dates back to the 6th century!), St. Davids holds immense history that’s pretty freakin’ cool.

For example, the original St. Davids cathedral was frequently plundered by the Vikings and burned down in 1087.

And many famous characters frequently visited this small little city, including William the Conqueror in 1077, Henry II in 1171, and Edward I and Queen Eleanor in 1284!

Now part of the Church of Wales, the cathedral holds historic treasures, including 800-year-old bishop staffs gilded with gold, 13th century silver chalices, and a 1620 edition of the Welsh Bible.

Even better, since St. Davids is located on the Pembrokeshire coast, it is an easy day stop when you’re driving through the area!

Ever thought of hiking in the Lake District? Read my post on hiking Loughrigg Fell and my best tips HERE !

Pontcysyllte Aqueduct

As mentioned earlier, the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct is located close to Llangollen and, as a World Heritage Site, is a ridiculously cool tourist attraction in Wales!

A wondrous marvel to behold, the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct is an 18-arched stone and cast iron bridge that carries canal boats over the River Dee.

Known as “ the stream in the sky “, Pontcysyllte is the longest aqueduct in Britain and, as an American who didn’t even know what canal boats were before I came to Wales, this place literally blew my mind.

So, with that in mind, if you’re ready to walk across a very narrow bridge and get marvelous views of the Welsh countryside , don’t forget to add this place to your Wales bucket list!

The bustling capital city of Wales, Cardiff is located in the south and features a raving nightlife, fantastic eateries ( tons of vegan options! ), cool local shops, a beautiful bay area called the Mermaid Quay, the incredible Cardiff Castle, and an amazing shopping experience at what is known as the Victorian arcades.

Although I know not everyone is a city-lover (me included — I’m more of a mountain hiker and outdoor traveler), Cardiff is small enough and is easily walked through where it doesn’t feel like a bustling city!

Thus, if you’re looking for good eats (being a capital city, it has more than you average Wales destination) and great shopping, Cardiff is perfect!

Alternatively, Cardiff is a great base for exploring the South of Wales! A couple day trips from Cardiff could include Brecon Beacons, Pembrokeshire Coast, and St. Davids.

Map of the Best Places to Visit in Wales

Need to get a visual of all the top places to visit in Wales? I’ve got you!

Check out the Wales map below, where you can find little blue dots on all the destinations I listed above.

Top Tips for Visiting Wales

When planning your trip to the UK, don’t forget to keep these top Wales travel tips in mind. While this little country is pretty easy to get around and the country primarily speaks english (you might get a few Welsh-speaking locals in the countryside!), there are a few things to know before you go.

• Rent a car . While you can get around Wales quite easily by train and bus, the best way to see the country, without a doubt, is by car! With a car, you can see all the best places and little nooks and crannies that Wales has to offer. For instance, the only way to really get to the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct is by vehicle. I always use Kayak.com to find the best prices on rental cars!
• Download offline Google maps . Cell service in Wales can be intermittent! So instead of getting lost, make sure you download offline Google maps before you start your journey.
• Buy travel insurance (with rental car insurance if getting a vehicle) . This ensures you are covered if anything sketchy happens, such as getting into a car accident or having a nasty fall. My favorite travel insurance is by far World Nomads. Click here to get a quote .
• Pack an outlet adapter . If you aren’t from the UK, you will need to use an outlet adapter to charge all of your electronic devices. I love using this one , which is a universal adapter that has plug-ins for countries across the globe and it comes with two USB ports.
• Check if you need a visa . For someone like me, who is a US citizen, I get a six-month visa on arrival. However, this may not be the case for your country. I recommend using iVisa to check if you will need a visa for the UK.
• Plan your activities in advance . Depending on the time of year, Wales may be very busy. During the summer, this little country gets ridiculously packed with tourists, thus I advise booking all of your accommodations and activities in advance. On the flipside, winter, late fall, and early spring is less crowded and there are more opportunities to have attractions to yourself.

If you’re ready to have the best holiday (aka vacation) in Wales, don’t forget to add these places to your must-visit list!

Personally, if I had a limited amount of time in the country, my favorite places in Wales would have to be Snowdonia, Anglesey, and Portmeirion — which are all located in the north!

Are you considering visiting Wales this year and are here to help plan your trip? Let me know your situation in the comments below! And if you have any questions for this Wales lover, don’t hesitate to get in touch.

Not sure what to check out next? Readers love these posts:

• 3 fantastic, lesser-known alternatives to popular UK destinations
• 15 crazy awesome places to visit in Scotland
• 10 outstanding places to visit in England that you must add to your UK bucket list
• 10 odd essentials I’ll never travel without
• 11 must-have packing essentials for a first trip to Europe

Like this post on the best places to visit in Wales? Pin it!

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Article comments.

A well detailed and helpful post. Thank you for sharing, it’s definitely going to help lots of folks out there. You always post handy information, some of which I share on Facebook.

Are all these places doable in 7-9 days please?

Hi Michelle! Definitely 🙂 I recommend checking out my 7-day Wales itinerary, which features these locations: https://www.thewanderfulme.com/7-day-wales-itinerary/

Note that you might be driving a lot BUT it’s worth it!

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Home » Europe » UK » 14 Best Places to Visit in Wales

14 Best Places to Visit in Wales

By Author Laura Longwell

Posted on Last updated: August 25, 2021

With grand stone castles, colorful villages, and rivers and hills that thrive in the bounty of Welsh rain, there are so many beautiful places to visit in Wales. A trip here is packed with man-made and natural beauty.

A country roughly the size of New Jersey, Wales is easy to get around, and you can visit lots of destinations in a relatively short period of time. But a visit here isn’t about rushing. There are so many places to see that it’s worth taking the time to wander the countryside, have a cup of tea in a relaxed cafe, and gaze out on medieval ruins. You won’t regret it.

Hay-on-Wye is the place for book lovers. With about 20 bookstores, you can’t go more than a few steps in Hay without seeing something that celebrates the love of the written word.

This tiny village on the Welsh/English border is both the National Book Town of Wales and the site of the annual Hay Festival, which attracts writers, artists, and language lovers of all kinds. You’ll find classic bookstores, free libraries, and honesty book shops where you make your selection and leave your money in the box nearby.

You can walk the whole town of Hay-on-Wye in less than a half-hour. Along the way, you’ll see antique shops, boutiques, clothing stores, and cafes where you can try a cup of tea and local cake.

While the whole setting is about as charming as a town can get, we found a sign of the times, too. In the window of a recently closed bookstore, the owner posted a note about the irony of loving the bookstores in Hay and then going home to order your selection from Amazon. So, if you stop into Hay, consider leaving with a great book for the flight home.

Conwy Castle

Conwy Castle was the most magnificent castle we visited on our Wales vacation. As we arrived, it was clear that a fast-moving storm would be upon us very soon, so we ran to see the outdoor portions of the castle before the rain came.

Conwy Castle is impressive for its size and its age, which is why a visit here is one of the top things to do in Wales. At over 700 years old, this medieval fortress still towers over the town of Conwy that surrounds it. We’ve seen castles and palaces around Europe , but this one takes the cake. Ask anyone to describe their image of what an ancient castle would look like, and they would likely describe something very much like Conwy.

With restored spiral staircases and eight towers, you can walk a complete circuit around the battlements of the castle. From the top, there are stunning views of North Wales, including the mountains of Snowdonia and the harbor of Conwy.

The scenery and architecture of Conwy Castle is truly spectacular. It seems miraculous that the whole thing was built in just four years from 1283 to 1287. King Edward I wanted to solidify power in Wales and create points of defense, and he amassed an army of workers from all over England to make it happen.

Over the centuries, the castle has been the home of kings, seen battles, been stripped down, and built up again. Thanks to restorations and repairs in the 19th and 20th centuries, it now seems as grand as ever. Along with Caernarfon, Beaumaris, and Harlech castles, Conwy Castle is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Welsh Tea Room Tu Hwnt I’r Bont

A tiny cottage on the banks of the River Conwy, Tu Hwnt I’r Bont (Beyond the Bridge) looks like it belongs in a fairy tale. The ivy-covered building that burns with bright red leaves in the fall (we missed it by just a few days) welcomes visitors for bara brith, homemade cakes, and other Welsh tea specialties every day of the week.

Inside, Tu Hwnt i’r Bont feels very much like the 15th-century building it is. The small space with creaky wood and thick stone walls is a unique kind of cozy. It is the perfect place to be on days when it’s raining, which is often in this part of Wales.

We didn’t hold back on our visit and jumped straight in for the full afternoon tea. It was enough food to hold us for a couple of meals and we enjoyed every bite.

Caernarfon Castle

Since 1283, Caernarfon Castle has looked out over the River Seiont. This massive structure was built by Edward I to fortify the rebellious area of north Wales and—essentially—to show the Welsh who’s the boss.

If you’re a fan of The Crown , Caernarfon Castle will be familiar as the site of the investiture of Prince Charles as the Prince of Wales, as the scenes were filmed here. In one of the castle’s rooms, you can see the footage of the actual investiture in 1969 along with information about the role. In short: Edward II, who was born in Caernarfon in 1284, was made the first Prince of Wales in 1301, so it is tradition for the monarch’s oldest son to assume the title.

Caernarfon Castle is huge, and its polygonal towers and colored stones set it apart from other castles of the era, making it one of the interesting places to go in Wales for architecture lovers. Though it was never completed, the castle served as the administrative center of North Wales and played an important role in rebellions and wars over the centuries. A walk through its corridors today is a step back in time.

We spent our first several days in Wales based in Pembrokeshire, which gave us ample opportunities to explore nearby towns like Tenby.

A walled medieval town, Tenby has been a popular getaway destination for 200 years with people from all over England and Wales coming to enjoy its beaches. The main attractions are South Beach and North Beach, which combine for 2.5 miles of sandy coastline. You can also walk the Pembrokeshire Coast Path, visit the 15th-century St. Mary’s Church, or take in views of the two coastal islands—Caldey Island and St. Catherine’s Island.

Among the narrow cobblestoned streets of Tenby, there are lots of cafes, pubs, and little shops to enjoy. Within our first hour in town, four locals had already stopped us to offer assistance and recommendations, so you won’t lack for kind advice on what’s fun to do in Tenby.

Snowdonia National Park

One of the main Wales attractions, Snowdonia National Park is a place to choose your own adventure. At a sprawling 827 square miles, the park offers a tremendous number of choices for things to do and see whatever your interests and activity level may be.

For a lot of visitors to North Wales, summiting Mount Snowdon—the mountain after which the park is named—is a Wales bucket list activity. At nearly 3600 feet, the mountain is the highest point in Wales and England, and views from the top can stretch all the way to Ireland on a clear day. There are six routes to the top, including the Snowdon Mountain Railway, so the choice for getting there is yours.

In addition to the mountain climbing and endless chances for walking, hiking, and biking, a visit to Snowdonia National Park can be high octane. You can zip line over Penrhyn Quarry at speeds of up to 100 miles per hour (which sounds terrifying to me, but to each their own), take an epic white water rafting adventure, or go caving.

We took a decidedly lower key approach in the park. We took several different beautiful driving routes through the mountains, past small towns, and beside rushing waterfalls. It was hard to resist the desire to stop literally everywhere. The ivy-covered buildings, winding lanes, and mountain scenery is irresistible. In addition, some of the other sites on this list of places to see in Wales are in and near Snowdonia, including the UNESCO World Heritage castles like Conwy and Beaumaris.

Pontcysyllte Aqueduct

At first, the idea of visiting an aqueduct not built by an ancient civilization didn’t seem overly impressive. A little bit dull, even. But we went anyway. And we discovered we were very wrong, as often happens about this kind of thing. It turns out that Pontcysyllte Aqueduct is one of the most unique places to visit in North Wales.

The Pontcysyllte Aqueduct, which opened in 1805, is a remarkable feat of 19th-century engineering and metal architecture. At 126 feet high, it carries a canal above a river that lies in the valley below. With 18 giant arches, the aqueduct stretches for over 1000 feet—a work the Romans would have been proud of.

The aqueduct–a UNESCO World Heritage Site–is remarkable from far away, but walking on the small path beside the water is even more interesting. We watched boats cross along the bridge and were only a few feet from the passengers, in awe as they went by.

The most interesting bit came when the kayakers arrived. Soaring above the valley, they loudly questioned the wisdom of their decision as they paddled. It was, of course, a little too late for second guessing.

The Quay House is the smallest house in Great Britain, according to the Guinness Book of World Records . With a few steps inside, it’s easy to see how that could be true—we could hardly turn around without hitting the walls.

The house was built in the 16th century and was occupied until 1900. Its last resident—a man over 6 feet tall—had to move out then when the house was declared unfit for living. For a small fee, you can see the interior of the space. You can’t miss it in Conwy because the outside is painted bright red.

Tintern Abbey

Like many people, the first time I heard of Tintern Abbey was in my high school English class. Thanks to Wordsworth and his “Lines Composed a Few Miles Above Tintern Abbey,” I knew exactly nothing of the Abbey, but it occupied a mythical place in my mind. When we decided to visit Wales, I knew we had to go.

The reality of Tintern Abbey is just as haunting and mist-shrouded as we had imagined. There’s just something about medieval ruins that has a magical quality, whatever they are. It’s undoubtedly one of the prettiest places to see in Wales.

Tintern Abbey was originally founded by Cistercian monks in 1131. It was almost entirely rebuilt and enlarged in the 13th century and lasted only another 300 years before being dissolved in 1537.

Although not all the church is preserved, spending a little time walking through the Gothic structure feels like you’ve discovered something special from another time. During our fall visit, we were almost alone as we watched the arches and glass-less windows cast shadows on the grass and across the valley. If you’re in South Wales, don’t miss visiting here.

Welsh Wineries

A somewhat rainy, somewhat cool part of the UK, Wales was not a place we expected to encounter local wines. But it turns out that there are more than a dozen commercial wineries across the country from near Tintern Abbey up to Anglesey.

The Romans introduced wine to Wales over 2000 years ago and French monks helped the cultivation along, so there is a rich history here. Modern wineries in Wales grow 20 kinds of grapes, including familiar varieties like Pinot Noir and Chardonnay and less common ones like Kernling and Reichensteiner.

We stopped at Llanerch Vineyard not far from Cardiff for a tour and wine tasting. In addition to the winery, they offer a restaurant, hotel, and cooking school, so a visit here can be a nice getaway when you’re looking for things to do in South Wales.

Pentre Ifan burial chamber

We hadn’t planned to go to Pentre Ifan, but multiple signs along the road encouraged us to make the stop. After a brief detour down a road that made us wonder if we were going in the right direction, we arrived at the Neolithic burial chamber.

This striking dolmen, which was built around 3500 BC, is composed of three side stones supporting a capstone that’s estimated to weigh 16 tons. Two more upright stones form an entrance, while a sixth blocks that entrance.

Though no evidence of burial has been found at Pentre Ifan, it’s likely that the tomb was used for communal burial for a long time. At some point, the bones were probably moved to another site.

Looking at it now—this stunning rock formation in the middle of a field—it’s easy to see why Pentre Ifan has been the subject of intrigue for centuries. For more than 400 years, it has been sketched, studied, and written and speculated about. One of the most complete stone dolmens anywhere, it’s certainly worth a detour.

St. Davids Cathedral

St. Davids Cathedral is simply stunning. Typically, important grand cathedrals are located in the middle of major cities, but St. Davids Cathedral is made even more remarkable for its setting in Pembrokeshire Coast National Park in a city with fewer than 2,000 residents. Part of its magnificence is that it’s a complete surprise and one of the best places to visit in Wales.

OK, maybe it’s not that surprising if you’re Welsh and know the story of St. David. But, as visitors, we weren’t expecting it.

St. David, the patron saint of Wales, first founded a monastic community here in the 6th century. His bones and those of St. Justinian are kept as the cathedral’s relics behind the High Altar. As a result, this has been an important pilgrimage site for centuries. Amazingly, the current cathedral dates from 1181, though it has been restored many times.

If you have the opportunity to visit St. David’s, walk the few steps to the ruins of the medieval Bishops Palace. Dating from the 14th century, the ruins give a glimpse into how important this site was to pilgrims even 700 years ago. From the ancient walls, there are great views of the whole St. Davids complex.

Llanfairpwll

Very few people can properly pronounce the name of this little village in North Wales, and we are not among them. So, we just have to call Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch “the place with the really long name.”

Llanfairpwll (for short), on the island of Anglesey, has the longest name in Europe and the second-longest one-word place name in the world. Literally translated, it means, “The church of St. Mary of the pool of the white hazels near the rapid whirlpool and the church of St. Tysilio of the red cave.

There’s not too much happening in this village of 3100 residents but stopping by the train station for a photo is fun when you’re driving through North Wales. There’s a huge souvenir store, too, where you can get your fix for anything Welsh. (Hear a proper pronunciation here ).

Caerphilly Castle

Not far from Cardiff, Caerphilly Castle is one of the grandest castles in the South of Wales and the second largest fortress in Britain, only behind Windsor Castle. When it was built beginning in 1268, it impressed in every way from its unique architecture to its water defenses. Its ability to inspire awe has transcended the centuries.

Caerphilly Castle was built by Gilbert de Clare, Lord of Glamorgan, to defend against the attacks of Llywelyn ap Gruffydd, the last Prince of a united Wales before the conquest of Edward I. It served its purpose, but the castle’s usefulness waned over the years until it was abandoned in the 15th century.

In the 18th century the Marquesses of Bute set about repairing and restoring the massive structure stone by stone. They saw that its drawbridges were repaired and its surrounding lake defenses reflooded. They restored the towers and the gatehouses with each piece breathing life back into the dilapidated structure.

Today, everything comes together at Caerphilly Castle. You can cross the drawbridge and be dwarfed by the tower overhead. You can walk the dam platform where knights jousted. You can even play a game of giant chess on the lawn and get married in the restored great hall, if the medieval spirit moves you.

It’s worth mentioning that Caerphilly Castle makes a big effort to have things that will engage younger visitors. With displays that cater to kids, games, and even a storytelling dragon to explain why one of the main towers is split, they make history relevant for the whole family.

Laura Longwell is an award-winning travel blogger and photographer. Since founding Travel Addicts in 2008, she has written hundreds of articles that help over 3 million people a year get the most out of their travel. In that time, she has visited nearly 60 countries on 5 continents, often returning to favorite destinations over and over again. She has a deep love of history, uncovering unexpected attractions, and trying all the good food a place has to offer.

In addition to Travel Addicts, Laura runs a site about her hometown of Philadelphia—Guide to Philly—which chronicles unique things to do and places to see around southeastern Pennsylvania. Her travel tips and advice appear across the web.

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Wayne Stiles

Monday 29th of May 2023

Nice post. Thanks for the photos!

The Best Tours To Wales From London 2024 (By A Local)

Want to find the best tours to Wales from London?

I am here to help!

No matter if you are looking for a small group tour or a quick day trip to Wales, there are plenty of options available for you to experience this amazing part of the UK.

But which tours are worth it?

I am Welsh and have explored Wales hundreds of times. I have also visited Wales from London, so I know exactly what to expect on this journey!

To help you have the most amazing time, these are the top Wales tours you should consider booking for your next trip!

THIS Wales Small Group Tour From London is the best option

✔️ Luxury Transport

✔️ Amazing Local Guide

✔️ Great Accommodation

Visiting Wales From London: Quick Guide

It may be a surprise that I have done a tour to Wales from London even though I’m Welsh.

I had a friend visiting the UK who asked me to join when this tour during a trip and it would have been rude not to!

I have also flown from various London Airports and had to travel back and I will warn you now, some of the routes take a LONG TIME.

This is why booking a tour is a no-brainer.

Not only do you have your transport and itinerary planned, but you also get to sit back and make the most of your trip with an expert guide!

I do recommend you spend a few days exploring Wales because there is a lot to do. However, I know time isn’t always on everyone’s side.

To help you out, these are the best options to visit Wales from London:

✅ Book A Guided Tour

✔️ Round Trip Transport From London

✔️ Local Guide & Driver

✔️ The BEST Sites In Wales

✅ Do A Self-Guided Tour

✔️ Explore At Your Own Pace

✔️ Can Keep Costs To Your Budget

✔️ Create Your Own Itinerary

💡 The QUICKEST Way Is To Drive Or Book The Train

The Best Tours From London To Wales:

1. 🏆 5 day wales small group tour from london (top option).

⭐️ Rating: 5 Out Of 5 Stars(66+ Reviews ) | ⏳ Tour Length: 5 Days| 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁷󠁬󠁳󠁿 BOOK NOW

This Tour Includes:

-Expert Local Guide -4 Nights En-Suite Accommodation With Breakfast – Luxury Transport -No Planning -The Most Beautiful Sites In Wales ❌ Takes 5 Days

Why pick this tour?

This Wales trip from London includes all of my favourite places in the whole wide world and sites you HAVE to see when visiting Wales ! 😍

The incredible tour allows you to skip the stress of finding your own way from London to Wales so you can just relax and enjoy pre-planned itinerary.

It is perfect for anyone wanting to experience the best of Welsh culture, history , and beautiful landscapes without having to worry about transportation and accommodations.

You’ll stay four nights at 3-star hotels or bed and breakfasts while having the full attention of a local guide who will show you all the must-see spots in Wales.

You get to visit/travel through many places in the 5 days. Our driver & guide Russell was the best, knowledgeable and personable. I would highly recommend this tour! (Read More Reviews Here )

Stopping at Aberystwyth , Snowdonia National Park, Harlech Castle, and Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, you will see why so many people fall in love with this part of the UK.

This is one of the best tours to Wales from London because it allows you to meet people in a small group setting with a maximum of 16 passengers.

2. 5 Day Wales & England Group Tour From London

⭐️ Rating: 5 Out Of 5 Stars(40+ Reviews ) | ⏳ Tour Length: 5 Days | 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁷󠁬󠁳󠁿 BOOK NOW

-Transport In Luxury Vehicle -Small Group Tour – Knowledgable & Local Guide -Accommodation For Whole Trip -The Best Sites In Wales & Central England ❌ Not Budget-Friendly

This small group tour is an amazing way to explore some of the best sights that both Wales and central England have to offer, all in one swoop!

You’ll get to take in the amazing scenery of Snowdonia , explore the charming streets of Stratford-upon-Avon and picture-perfect Peak District as well as spend time discovering York, Cambridge and many more attractions.

Going on a group tour means you’ll receive a personalized experience, as the guides can accommodate any specific interests of the group. Plus they can even add additional spots and attractions as well!

And with luxury transport provided, you won’t have to worry about getting from A-B either.

It’s worth noting that not all admission fees are included. However, this tour covers the cost of visiting Conwy Castle, one of the best Castles to tour in Wales!

If you want to be absorbed in beautiful landscapes and history, then this is for you!!! A small group made this tour even better! (Read More Reviews Here )

The stops included in this tour are some of the most stunning places in the UK and I cannot recommend them enough!

I may be a bit biased being Welsh but it is worth booking this tour just so you can experience the amazing Snowdonia National Park! 🤩

This is absolutely one of the best Snowdonia tours from London that you can book year-round.

3. 2 Day Private Wales Tour To Cardiff And Aberfan From London

⭐️ Rating: I’m Brand New! | ⏳ Tour Length: 2 Days | 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁷󠁬󠁳󠁿 BOOK NOW

-Breakfast -Airconditioned Transport – Hotel Pick-Up -Explore The Stunning Brecon Beacons National Park -Visit The Amazing Sites In Cardiff City ❌ Little Reviews So Far

If you are looking for a great day trip to Wales, this is the best option for you!

Travelling to Wales from London can be a daunting experience and requires a lot of planning. So why not make it easier?

This Private Wales Tour From London will make your journey relaxing and enjoyable, as the air-conditioned transport takes you through some of the most beautiful scenery in Britain.

It’s the best tour to book if you want a 1-1 experience and avoid spending your time with a group!

Cardiff is a great place to spend a night or two when visiting Wales because it offers something for everyone, day and night.

With the included admission fees on this tour package, you’ll get to experience some of the top attractions Cardiff and its surroundings have to offer.

Admissions fees are not usually included in London to Wales Tours so it’s great value for money!

You will see the capital city through a local’s eyes on the guided Cardiff City Tour which is an amazing experience

Then visit out into the stunning Brecon Beacons National Park for a full day exploring its lush countryside. You will also get the chance to visit the Aberfan Disaster Memorial Garden and learn about the history of Wales.

This amazing tour is fully private and can be adapted to whatever your wants and interests are.

So, if there’s something you particularly want to experience, you can!

4. Cardiff Day Tour From London

⭐️ Rating: 4 Out Of 5 Stars(29+ Reviews ) | ⏳ Tour Length: 13 Hours | 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁷󠁬󠁳󠁿 BOOK NOW

-All Entrance Fees Included -Air-Conditioned Vehicle – Knowledgable Local Guide -Free Time To Explore

Cardiff is a really popular City to visit because not only is there so much to do, but you can explore the rest of Wales from here really easily!

But if you want a flying visit to Wales from London, this is the tour for you .

There are so many tours to Wales from London that last days, but if you don’t have much time for your trip, I’d consider booking this one.

This day trip to Wales from London not only includes transportation and all entrance fees but also gives you an opportunity to visit two of the most iconic places in Wales – Cardiff Centre and Cardiff Bay.

This is a great way to see Cardiff, Wales from London. The panoramic tour is wonderful and there is plenty of time to see the Cardiff Castle and visit the City. (Read More Reviews Here )

You’ll have plenty of free time to explore these areas at your own pace, so don’t forget to bring a day bag for all the amazing delicacies and souvenirs you’ll want to take home with you.

You’ll also benefit from having a local guide who will be able to provide you with interesting facts and stories about the areas you visit.

Perhaps one of the coolest things about this tour is that it includes entry to Caerphilly Castle, a 13th-century castle which is set in the beautiful rolling hills of South Wales .

If you have limited time but want to get a taste of what Wales has to offer, book this day trip to Cardiff from London!

Visiting Wales From London Frequently Asked Questions

I’m sure you have a few questions you still need to answer before booking your adventure to Wales.

To help you out, these are the commonly asked questions and answers visitors have:

You can get a taste of Wales in one day if you stick to one area. However, if you want to visit North and South Wales and spend some time exploring the coast, you will need at least 5-10 days.

A day trip to Wales from London is possible. However, you will want to just visit one area. The journey can take a few hours so you may want to visit somewhere along the M4 corridor like Cardiff.

If you just want to explore one city or area, public transport can be ok. However, if you want to see the beaches, mountain views and hidden lakes, you will want to hire a car or book a tour.

No passport is needed as they are both part of the UK. There is also no border control so you can drive straight over from England to Wales with no problems.

It can be, if you plan the right way. Most areas of Wales are cheaper to eat and drink but if you are in the Cities like Cardiff or Swansea, prices may be more expensive. If you want to visit Wales cheaply, booking a tour with accommodation and meals included is the best way.

Final Thoughts: The Best Tours To Wales From London

From vibrant cities to rolling countryside, Wales has something for everyone looking for a break from the hustle and bustle of London.

Wales is a country that truly offers something for everyone. From places that offer breathtaking views of Snowdonia National Park to the charming little towns along the Welsh coast, these are just some of the amazing experiences waiting for you!

Whether you’re after an exciting adventure to fill a few hours, or multi day tours of Wales to really get under the skin of this enchanting country, this guide will have helped you choose your perfect Welsh experience.

✅ If you still can’t decide which tour to book, THIS 5 DAY WALES HIGHLIGHTS TOUR will show you the very best of Wales!

I hope you found this article useful! To make the most of your trip, take a look at these posts:

✔️ The Best Lodges With Hot Tubs In North Wales

✔️ Can Americans Drive In The UK?

✔️ Must-Have Travel Items For Europe(From A European)

✔️ Can You Drink Tap Water In The UK?

✔️ Best Ghost Tours Europe And The UK Has To Offer

Lowri Thomas is the founder of Many Other Roads. She lives and travels in Europe and has explored more than 40 countries. She is joined on her travels with her dog Scout and they explore Europe mostly by road. Born in Wales, she also shares the best things to do in Wales, UK and beyond. She helps over 50,000 people per month plan epic Europe adventures and road trips.

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5 Places in Wales Locals Visit for Gorgeous Hikes, Epic Stargazing, Castles, and Rugby

Here's how to see the very best of this proud Celtic nation.

Rory Fuller/Travel+Leisure

The Welsh love Wales. This proud country of three million people is culturally distinct from the rest of the U.K. and geographically unique. Called Cymru (cum-ree) in the Welsh language, the people of this Celtic nation have a reputation for being passionate about rugby (and football), but most of all about Wales itself.

Surrounded by the Irish Sea to the north and west and bordered by England to the east, Wales is a land of mountains, rolling countryside, and, yes, castles (427 at last count). Living in Wales, I'm always exploring its hidden corners in search of quintessential Welsh experiences and lesser-visited locations. Here's where the Welsh go on their days off.

Llanthony Priory, Brecon Beacons National Park

Rory Fuller

If you're after something genuinely idyllic, you don't have to start too far into Wales. The Welsh Marches that separate Wales and England are some of the most beautiful countrysides in Britain, none more so than Hatterall Ridge in the remote Vale of Ewyas. A wild part of the Black Mountains in the popular Brecon Beacons National Park , Hatterall Ridge is a natural part of the 177-mile-long historic Offa's Dyke Path that connects south and north Wales. It's also its highest point at 2,310 feet, and from Hatterall Ridge, it's possible to see over into Longtown below, in England. However, it's what's behind you that's most captivating. Though mostly in ruins, the 12th-century Llanthony Priory in the Vale of Ewyas is one of Wales' great medieval buildings. Yet within its boundaries is that most British of institutions — a small pub — with a hotel nearby. It's best visited after completing a five-mile circular walk up Hatterall Ridge. Twelve miles north is the famous "book town" of Hay-on-Wye, while 12 miles south is the Michelin-starred Walnut Tree Inn beside another classic short walk, The Skirrid .

Stargazing in the Elan Valley

More of the night sky is protected in Wales than any other nation. The darkest and most visually epic by day is the 45,000-acre Elan Valley, a vast chain of man-made dams, reservoirs, and an aqueduct that's also a certified International Dark Sky Park . It's about 100 years old and looks like it, with an iconic Victorian pump house on Garreg Ddu and a vast wall of water at Caban Coch dam at the entrance. It's best seen by bike, which you can rent, or by car, with the Elan Valley Hotel right by the entrance.

Nearby at Rhayader is Gigrin Farm and its Red Kite Feeding Station, which operates daily at 2 p.m. (from five hides). Tickets to photograph the incredible sight of hundreds of birds of prey swooping down must be booked in advance.

The Standing Stones of Pembrokeshire, West Wales

Stonehenge is for tourists. If you want to go deeper into Britain's mysterious neolithic history — and discover the origins of that iconic English monument — visit Pembrokeshire Coast National Park in West Wales. In addition to 186 miles of incredible clifftop coastal walks, this region contains dozens of bizarre monuments from 5,000 years ago, many of them in spectacular coastline locations.

One of the most dramatic is Carreg Coetan Arthur , a tomb in a boulder field on St. David's Head with spectacular seascape views. Another is Carreg Samson , a short walk from the tiny harbor at Abercastle. However, the most impressive and most famous is Pentre Ifan , a large capstone near Newport. Not far away is Waun Mawn in the Preseli Hills, where the oldest "bluestones" of Stonehenge originally stood.

Beddgelert, Snowdonia National Park

Idyllic mountain scenery is what you get in Beddgelert, a small and perfectly formed stone-built village in the shadow of Snowdon ( Yr Wyddfa in Welsh), the highest mountain in Wales and England at 3,560 feet. From Beddgelert, the region's highlights are within reach, from the stunning glacial lake of Cwm Idwal to Llanberis, where you can hike up the mountain (or cheat and take the Snowdon Mountain Railway ), take a circular walk around Llyn Padarn lake, or visit the lofty Dolbadarn Castle for spectacular views. Then, return to Beddgelert for a pint in its pubs, Prince Llewelyn and Saracens Head Hotel, before camping, glamping, or opting for secluded luxury at Forest Holidays and its woodland chalets complete with hot tubs.

A Rugby Match at Cardiff's Principality Stadium

It's not quite the biggest sports stadium in the U.K., but Cardiff's Principality Stadium is certainly the best. What helps make it a standout for atmosphere is its retractable roof, which is useful on rainy match days and turns the place into a cauldron of excitement. Hearing 74,500 rugby fans belt out Welsh hymns like "Bread of Heaven" and, in particular, the national anthem, "Hen Wlad Fy Nhadau," is an experience like no other. Try the Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) for tickets or take a stadium tour while you're in Cardiff. The Principality is also one of the few stadiums in Europe to be right in the center of a city. So, on match day, Cardiff — the capital city of Wales — buzzes with people, and the pubs become packed. As a bonus, it's across the road from one of Britain's weirdest fairy-tale castles that gives the capital of the "Land of Castles" a special feel.

Best places to visit Wales UK: The Ultimate Wales Travel Guide

My dream to explore Wales was due to several factors. Wales was my mum’s favourite country which she first saw in the 1940s during WWII when she was sent out of London in Operation Pied Piper to Wales to be protected from the bombs dropping on the city.

Taking the opportunity to visit Wales and take a Wales road trip, learning about the Welsh people and their Celtic history I became fascinated with Welsh history and in particular medieval Wales. Travelling the rugged coastline of Wales and taking in the breathtaking views is a dream come true for a slow traveller. 

A friend introduced me to the Sharon Penman books , The Welsh Princes Trilogy—Here Be Dragons, Falls the Shadow, and The Reckoning —these are historical novels about a turbulent time in British history.  These books gave me my travel inspiration and allowed me to see historic Wales through a Welsh state of mind.

Wales is a stark green and black land full of ruined castles, historic buildings, stunning mountains, and steep valleys with white dots of sheep herds. Welsh music and singing resonate across the valleys and of course, the symbol of Wales the red dragon flies over historic towns of Wales, castles, cities and villages full of history.

There are four UNESCO World Heritage sites in Wales, the  Slate Landscape of Northwest Wales  is made up of six sites around the county of Gwynedd that are all relics of the slate industry, which, in the 19th century, dominated this region of the country.

• Wales Travel Guide

Wales, a country with stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture, offers an unforgettable travel experience. Located in the southwest part of the United Kingdom, this small nation is often overlooked by tourists, overshadowed by its bigger and more famous neighbors, England and Scotland. However, those who venture to Wales are rewarded with breathtaking natural beauty, charming towns, and fascinating historical sites.

There are 3 National Parks in Wales: Snowdonia, Brecon Beacons and Pembrokeshire Coastal. They all offer very different activities and are located about a couple of hours from each other. One of the highlights of a visit to Wales is its dramatic coastline. With over 1,200 kilometers of pristine shores, Wales boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in the UK, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or simply enjoying a relaxing walk by the sea. For outdoor enthusiasts, Snowdonia National Park is a must-visit destination. Nestled in the heart of the country, the park offers majestic mountains, stunning lakes, and exhilarating hiking trails.

Wales is also renowned for its rich medieval heritage. Castles are a common sight in many Welsh towns and cities, each with its own unique stories to tell. Cardiff Castle, Conwy Castle, and Caernarfon Castle are among the most popular ones, showcasing the country’s fascinating history and architectural wonders. Wales has more castles per square mile than anywhere else in the world.

The quartet of castles built by Edward I during his long-lasting invasion of Wales are some of the finest, and best-preserved examples of medieval military architecture in the UK. The four strongholds, namely Conwy Castle in the county of Conwy, Harlech Castle and Caernarfon Castle in Gwynedd, and Beaumaris Castle on the island of  Anglesey .

Nicknamed the ‘stream in the sky’, the 307 metre-long  Pontcysyllte Aqueduct  carries narrowboats on a slender runnel of water some 38 metres (126ft) above the River Dee. With its 19 symmetrical metal arches and lockless design. And the South Wales hub for coal mining and iron production in the Blaenavon industrial landscape. Most of the infrastructure from this period has long disappeared, but the preserved buildings and industrial machinery in the former mining town of Blaenavon, stand as a monument to this important chapter in recent Welsh history.

• How to get to Wales: travel information

Cardiff Airport sits just on the outskirts of the city and boasts convenient bus and rail connections to not only the city center but also various parts of South Wales. A flight of approximately 80 minutes will transport you to key European hubs like Amsterdam and Paris, while domestic travelers can enjoy frequent services to destinations such as Newcastle, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Aberdeen, and Belfast.

While Cardiff Airport stands as the largest airport in Wales, the nation remains easily accessible from nearby English airports. Liverpool John Lennon Airport and Manchester Airport, both strategically located, serve as excellent gateways for North Wales, with Liverpool merely around 40 miles or 60 kilometers away from Wrexham. For example to get to Llandudno or Conwy from Manchester airport is only an hour and a half drive.

There are three primary motorway connections linking Wales and England. The M4 serves as the vital highway connecting London to South Wales, extending all the way to Pont Abraham in Carmarthenshire, West Wales. As you venture into Wales, your journey will take you across one of the two magnificent Severn Bridges.

Air Travel for North Americans – you would have to fly into either London, Liverpool or Manchester Airports and then choose you method of travel from them to Wales.

The South Wales Main Line connects the trains from London to Newport, Cardiff, Swansea and other destinations in South and West Wales. On direct trains, the journey time between London Paddington and Cardiff is a little under two hours. From London Euston Station, trains run across Mid Wales to   Aberystwyth and up to the Llŷn Peninsula. There are also several trains that run to North Wales, stopping in the cities of Llandudno, Conwy, Bangor and Holyhead on the island of Anglesey. Check out the website Transport for Wales if you need more assistance.

Ferry services operate between the west coast of Wales and the Republic of Ireland across the Irish Sea (Fishguard or Pembroke to Rosslare, and Holyhead to Dublin). The frequency of the services means it’s easy to combine a stay in Wales with a quick jaunt over to Ireland, and the quickest ferries make the crossing in just two hours.

Wales has six ports that accept cruise ships , offering a range of services and facilities: Newport, Cardiff and Swansea in the Bristol Channel; Fishguard and Milford Haven in West Wales; and Holyhead on the island of Anglesey.

Castell Coch

Tintern abbey, hope and caergwrle, machynlleth, newcastle emlyn, caldey island, cosmeston medieval village, pontcysyllte aqueduct.

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23 Historic Towns in Wales You Should Visit

During the reign of  Edward I of England  (1272–1307), a series of castles were constructed in Wales with the purpose of subduing the population and establishing English colonies in Wales.

This UNESCO World Heritage site includes Beaumaris, Caernarfon, Conwy, and Harlech. These castles of Edward I are considered the pinnacle of military architecture by historians.

Beaumaris on the Isle of Anglesey which is French for fair Marsh is part of the UNESCO heritage site that includes Beaumaris Castle . Anglesey lies on the North Welsh coast.

Built by Edward I this castle was to be his crowning glory but it was never finished. The castle featured the best of medieval defensive designs with its round towers, inner and outer circuit walls, massive towered gates and a fortified dock. Beaumaris Castle is considered one of the finest surviving examples of a concentric medieval castle.

In the 14th century St Mary and St Nicholas Church you will find the stone coffin of Princess Siwan or Joan as she was known in English. She was the illegitimate daughter of King John and the wife of Llywelyn The Great, Prince of Gwynedd. Sadly after the Dissolution of the Monasteries, her tomb was used as a horse trough but has now been restored.

In Beaumaris, you can also visit the Beaumaris Gaol a Victorian prison, walk along the beach and enjoy the beauty of the Strait. Take a moment to visit the gardens of  Plas Newydd and the ‘Hidden Gardens at Cadnant’ are simply stunning.

Castell Coch , or the ‘Red Castle’, is set in the ancient beech woods of Fforest Fawr and rises from the forest like a fairytale castle. Built by the Marquess of Bute this incredible castle is a masterpiece of the High Victorian era.

But it’s no exotic folly. Underneath the faux medieval trappings are the remains of a 13th-century castle, once used as a hunting lodge by the ruthless Marcher lord Gilbert de Clare.

The Wye Valley straddles the border of Wales and England and is an area of outstanding natural beauty. Tintern Abbey sits on the Wye River just south of Monmouth and Chepstow Castle. The Cistercian Abbey of Tintern is one of the greatest monastic ruins of Wales. it was founded by Walter de Clare Lord of Chepstow and it was the second Cistercian monastery in Britain and the first in Wales. Until its dissolution in 1536, it was an extremely prosperous Abbey and due to its location during the middle ages, it suffered very little in the Welsh uprisings and the battles to bring the Welsh into the control of the English.

Tintern’s crowning glory was its great church, which rivals the Abbey of Rievaulx in Yorkshire which was built between 1269 and 1301.

Cardigan is the gateway to the superb Pembrokeshire coast National Park. This historic Welsh town on the River Teifi was the capital of the Welsh kingdom of Deheubarth. Its history began with the building of a Norman Castle and the town grew up around it.

The very first Welsh eisteddfod was held in Cardigan in 1176, and it was held by Rhys ap Gruffydd of Deheubarth who held a festival of music and poetry in his court which became a tradition throughout Wales even into the modern day.

Just across the river from the Castle stands the ruins of St Dogmael’s Abbey .  Entry to this beautiful Abbey is free and well-behaved dogs on leads are welcome. The Coach House  Museum  is also free to visit and houses many relics and artefacts from the Abbey grounds. The museum displays a chronological history of the Abbey’s fascinating and turbulent past.

According to the legends Merlin was born just outside Carmarthen on Bryn Myrddin a tree-covered hill where he was trapped by Vivien. The legends say that he was in love with her and taught her all his spells but after learning them she imprisoned him. The legends also said that an ancient oak stood at the corner of Oak Lane Priory Street and when it falls so will the town. Pieces of the oak can be seen in the town museum.

Carmarthen is believed to be the oldest town in Wales and the Castle is one of the most frequently invaded. Around 1094 the Normans built a castle here but it was destroyed in 1215 and rebuilt in 1223.

Rhys ap Gruffudd was one of the leading figures of 12th-century Wales. He owned Carmarthen until his surrender to King Henry II in 1158. But the collapse of the building, like many others in Britain, was associated with the outbreak of the English Civil War of the 1640s.

Cardiff is the capital of Wales and the heart of the city was formed during the medieval period many traces from this time survive today, especially close to the castle. The castle dates from the 11th century when the Normans conquered Glamorgan. It was begun by William the Conqueror on his return from St David’s in Pembrokeshire, in 1081.

Cardiff Castle was originally built in wood. In the 12th century, Robert Consol, Duke of Gloucester, rebuilt it in stone. At this time, the Castle’s west and south walls were raised, building upon the ruined walls of the Roman fort .

In the 15th century, the town was destroyed by Owain Glyndŵr’s Welsh army. The Castle lay in ruin until Richard Beauchamp, Earl of Warwick, restored the defences and castle buildings.

If you are visiting Carmarthenshire don’t forget to stop by the Dylan Thomas Castle House in Laugharne, Carmarthenshire. This is a Georgian mansion. Described by Dylan Thomas as “the best of houses in the best of places”, it is one of many buildings of note in the medieval township.

Laugharne castle was built in 1116 and was the meeting place of Henry II of England and Rhys ap Gruffudd where they agreed on a treaty of peace. When Henry II of England died in 1189 the castle, was seized by Rhys ap Gruffudd in the same year. The castle may have been burnt down at that time. It was rebuilt by the Normans, and in 1215 was captured by Llywelyn the Great in his campaign across South Wales. By 1247 the castle was destroyed by Llywellyn.

Edward II was born here on April 25, 1284, There is a legend that Edward I had promised the Welsh nobility a prince “ that was bourne in Wales and could speake never a wrod of English “, then named his newborn son the Prince of Wales.

Caernarfon Castle is recognised around the world as one of the greatest buildings of the Middle Ages. This fortress-palace on the banks of the River Seiont is grouped with Edward I’s other castles at Conwy, Beaumaris and Harlech as a World Heritage Site.

Brecon lies on the River Usk where it is joined by the Rivers Honddu and Tarell, in the northern portion of Brecon Beacons National Park. You will find a few parts of the ancient city walls built around 1100.  Brecon was created by the Norman Lord Bernard de Neufmarché after he defeated the Welsh ruler Rhys Ap Tewdwer at the Battle of Brecon in 1093.

Brecon castle was built in a naturally defensive place at the crossing of the Usk and Honddu rivers, where it could guard the ferry and benefit from water mills. In the second half of the 12th century, the castle passed into the hands of the de Braose family, as a result of strategic marriages.

When they rebelled against the English King John, he conquered the castle in 1207. Brecon soon became the target of attacks by the Welsh of Llywelyn ap Iorwerth, who raided the castle and town in 1217, 1231 and 1233. During the latter, the town was burnt, but the castle managed to defend itself.

In the second half of the 13th century, Brecon was repeatedly attacked by the Welsh of Llywelyn ap Gruffydd, who for a short period managed to capture the castle in 1263 two years later, the castle was recaptured by Prince Edward, but in the same 1265, it was again conquered by the Welsh.

In 1322, the castle was taken over by King Edward in 1399 Henry of Lancaster took the English throne as Henry IV, and entrusted Brecon to Sir Thomas Berkeley who prepared Brecon for defence against the rebellious Welsh of Owain Glyndŵr.

In the 15th century, Brecon passed to the Dukes of Stafford of Buckingham. The last of them were executed during the reign of Henry VIII Tudor, and the castle complex began to fall into ruin it was later dismantled by the Parliamentarians during the Civil War. The first repair works began in the 19th century, thanks to which the castle was transformed into a hotel.

The walls of Brecon were also destroyed by the war and only small areas survive near Plough Chapel and Watton Mount.

Chepstow Castle was first built c. 1067 by William FitzOsbern and then significantly improved c. 1190 CE by Sir William Marshal one of England’s greatest knights who served four kings and acted as regent for Henry III of England.

Chepstow Castle then became the home of a succession of rich and powerful medieval and Tudor nobles. Probably because of its formidable appearance, the castle was never attacked and today remains as a great example of military castles and can boast the oldest castle doors in Europe.

In the Middle Ages Chepstow was a town of great importance in the export and import trade due to its home on the harbour. wine was also imported by the town and the port has been continuously developed since those times.

Keeping up its reputation as an entertainment town Chepstow is Famous as the home of the Welsh National , which takes place each December and it’s also a popular venue for live music and entertainment.

Criccieth castle may have given Criccieth its name: ‘Crug Caeth’ means the jail on the hill. In the centre of the town lies Y Maes, part of the original medieval town common where fairs have been held for more than 700 years.

The castle was built in 1230 by Llywelyn ab Iorwerth (Llywelyn the Great) and in 1282 it became part of a ring of castles surrounded by Edward I’s conquered territories. In 1294, Madog ap Llewelyn led an uprising from native Welsh people angry against English rule. Criccieth was besieged for several months.

Much later, Edward, I took control of Criccieth Castle, which eventually led to the Welsh residents of the area revolting against this. Just over 100 years later in 1404, the castle was completely sacked and was never reoccupied. An exhibition on the Princes of Gwynedd can be found within the castle.

Since Victorian times the town has developed into a seaside destination where you can enjoy walks on the beach, rock pooling, water sports, fabulous fish and chips and icecream.

There’s even a traditional Welsh clog maker who still has his workshop in the town. The town sits on the Wales coast path , and there are plenty of quiet trails running out of the town for walking and cycling.  

Conwy is the most complete medieval walled town in Britain with a magnificent medieval fortress towering over the town for over 700 years. Climb to the top of one of  Conwy Castle’s  eight towers to get a stunning view over Conwy and the surrounding area. You can explore the inner and outer wards with their many rooms and the castle walls with their 21 towers that completely enclose Conwy town. 

Conwy Castle was built by Edward I to protect and maintain, along with several other castles, his newly acquired dominance in the region. Conwy Castle is listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site.

The ruins of Aberconwy Abbey can be found at St. Mary and All Saint’s Church . The abbey was also the burial place of Llywelyn ap Iorworth, (Llywelyn the Great) and was the burial place of many of the native Princes of Gwynedd, including Gruffydd ap Cynan, and Llewelyn ap Maelgwyn. Llywelyn’s son and successor Dafydd ap Llywelyn were also buried there in 1246. Llywelyn’s other son, Gruffydd ap Llywelyn, died trying to escape from captivity in the Tower of London in 1244, his body was later repatriated and interred at the Abbey.

In Conwy you can also visit the oldest townhouse in Wales Aberconwy House dates to the early 14th century, making it the oldest recorded dwelling house in Wales. Two other houses to visit include Plas Mawr or the Great Hall,  which is quite simply the finest surviving Elizabethan townhouse anywhere in Britain.

The Smallest House in Britain can be found at the end of a terrace of houses on Conwy’s quayside. The house is just 72 inches wide by 122 inches high. It was occupied right up until May 1900.

Denbigh castle is situated on the south side of the town high on a hill originally a wooden motte and bailey it was rebuilt by the English in stone. It was granted to Dafydd ap Gruffydd by Edward I after Dafydd assisted the English king put down a Welsh rebellion in 1277.

Construction of the castle and the town’s outer wall was interrupted when the town was attacked by the Welsh in 1294 and possibly captured. The main feature of the castle is the gatehouse which consists of three towers. In medieval times the houses were contained within the town walls on the hill but due to its steepness these houses were abandoned and the town was relocated to the valley floor below.

Within Denbigh’s walls lays the ruins of Leicester’s Church built by Robert Dudley . It was Elizabeth I who gave the castle to him and he began building the Church for Protestant worship. However, the money ran out and the church was never finished.  

Flint lies on the estuary of the River Dee and is home to the first castle built by Edward I in 1277 which was to be his “ Iron Ring ” of fortresses across Wales. Both castle and town were attacked by the forces of Madog ap Llywelyn during the revolt of 1294-5; the defenders of the town burnt it in order to deny its use to the Welsh.

Flint was the setting of another turning point in history this is where King Richard II came face to face with his rival to the crown Henry Bolingbroke. Flint Castle , is famous for featuring in Shakespeare’s play Richard II. The castle is where Richard II is captured.

Hope and Caergwrle have had a turbulent past due to their location on the border of Wales and England. Successive waves of invaders from England sought to take Welsh lands and ownership of the settlements changed several times.   

Caergwrle Castle Hill and Caer Estyn provided excellent defensive positions. In the late 13th century, Llywelyn ap Gruffydd, Prince of Wales, refused to pay homage to the new English ruler, King Edward I. In retaliation, Edward invaded Wales in 1276 and forced Llywelyn to retreat into Snowdonia. Llywelyn’s younger brother, Dafydd, joined forces with Edward as he felt Llywelyn had cheated him of his inheritance.

As a reward, Edward gave Dafydd the rich lands around Caergwrle and Hope and, in 1277, Dafydd began to build his castle at Caergwrle. However, Dafydd felt unfairly treated when English lords were given more power and, five years later, he changed sides and fought against the English invaders.

Llywelyn was killed in battle but Dafydd was captured. In retribution for his defection, he was convicted of high treason and was the first person in England to be hung, drawn and quartered for that crime.

Caergwrle Castle didn’t fare much better. Edward began to rebuild it but, a year later, a fire ripped through the wooden parts of the castle and the work was abandoned.   

In 1400 Owain Glyndŵr rebelled and proclaimed himself Prince of Wales, and by 1403 he had infiltrated Flintshire, urging revolt. The local Welsh flocked to join his forces and burned the English settlement of Hope. Gradually, King Henry IV’s armies regained control.  

None of Edward I’s mighty coastal fortresses has a more spectacular setting than Harlech Castle set on a sheer rocky cliff overlooking the sea. In Snowdonia National Park the peaks of Snowdonia rise in the back and the Castle is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Harlech was completed from ground to battlements in just seven years its classic ‘walls within walls’ design makes the most of daunting natural defences.

In 1294 the rebellion of Madog ap Llewelyn (a distant cousin of Llywelyn the Great) took place against Edward 1 (Longshanks) the castle held out – thanks to the ‘Way from the Sea’. This path of 108 steps rising steeply up the rock face allowed castle defenders access to food and water brought to the steps by ships.

During the 15th-century Wars of the Roses, Harlech was held by the Lancastrians for seven years, before Yorkist troops forced its surrender in 1468, a siege memorialised in the song “Men of Harlech”. Following the outbreak of the  English Civil War  in 1642, the castle was held by forces loyal to  Charles I .

UNESCO  considers Harlech, along with Beaumaris, Conwy, and Caernarfon, to be one of “the finest examples of late 13th-century and early 14th-century military architecture in Europe”, and it is classed as a World Heritage Site.  In 2015 a new footbridge was installed which links a new visitor centre in the refurbished Castle Hotel, opposite the castle, replacing long flights of timber steps. It occupies the position of the castle’s original drawbridge. 

A 1000-year-old road in Harlech,  Ffordd Pen Llech was recognized by the Guinness World Records in 2019 as the steepest residential street in the world with a gradient of 1:2.67 (37.45%).

The Lockheed P-38 Lightning, nicknamed the Maid of Harlech , crashed on a Harlech beach in September 1942 when its pilot, Second Lt Robert Elliott, 24, of North Carolina, got into difficulties during a training exercise. The aircraft is one of the only known aircraft of its type still surviving substantially intact and is of international significance.

While the exact location of the Lockheed P-38 Lightning fighter aircraft remains confidential, to protect the plane, it remains there today.

Llanrwst is a pretty, hidden gem in Wales and it’s most well-known for the picturesque  Ty Hwnt i’r Bont tea room which you have probably seen on Instagram, and the nearby three-arched stone bridge said to be built by Inigo Jones.

In the middle of the town is the Parish Church of  St Grwst  which is home to a stone coffin that is said to be the tomb of Llywelyn The Great. Then check out the nearby almshouses before heading out of town to  Gwydir Castle  (open seasonally), a 16th Century Tudor courtyard house built for the powerful Wynn family. While there, ask for the key to the nearby  Gwydir Uchaf Chapel . This was the castle’s private chapel and inside you will find a beautifully painted interior.

Gwydir Castle is an ancient Welsh house regarded as one of the finest Tudor houses in Wales, the castle was formerly the ancestral home of the powerful Wynn family. By 1994 the house and its surrounding grounds had become derelict, it’s taken a monumental 20-year effort to restore the property by the current owners to get it to where it is today, with works still ongoing to fully restore it to its former glory.

Machynlleth is truly a gem – a rural market town with a quirky, eco-friendly vibe nestled within the beautiful  UNESCO Dyfi Biosphere . There are loads to do and see just wandering around. There are plenty of antique stores, alternative lifestyle shops and galleries featuring local artists and craftspeople. There’s a bustling market on Wednesdays and even an annual world-famous comedy festival.

On Heol Maengyn which is the high street, there is a splendid Victorian clock tower, and on Wednesdays, the market (which was launched by Royal Charter in 1291) continues to this day. It was also the site of national hero Owain Glyndŵr’s 1404 parliament – the original Senedd. The Owain Glyndŵr Centre is the local history museum that tells his story.

Other attractions include  Y Plas  (The Mansion); a house and gardens formerly owned by the family of the  Marquess of Londonderry, which was given to the people of Machynlleth in 1948.

Newcastle Emlyn in Carmarthenshire is a town on the River Teifi, known for its 13th-century ruined castle, set on high ground in a loop of the river. According to legend, the castle was the home of the last dragon in Wales. The historic town centre is a conservation area, with a wealth of interesting old buildings.

Founded around 1240 by the Welsh Prince, Maredudd ap Rhys, Newcastle Emlyn castle is unique in that very few Welsh-built stone castles can be found in West Wales. Following a series of attacks and refurbishments over the following centuries, the castle was finally blown up with gunpowder in 1645 during the English Civil war.

The dragon gates at the castle are inspired by the legend which tells that the last Dragon in Wales was killed there. During a town fair when the town was full of people, a Wyvern (a fierce winged creature) breathing fire and smoke landed on the castle walls and settled down to sleep. Its appearance in the castle at first brought terror to all but, after the fear had died down, a few brave townsfolk sought to destroy the fearsome monster.

A soldier approached the dragon from the river Teifi and floated a red cloak in the river. The dragon awoke, saw the cloak and went to attack it but was shot at by the soldier. The wyvern, in its death throes, floated down the river. The legend tells of the great joy of the townsfolk when they saw the monster dead. Today, the legend of the last dragon In Wales is kept alive in the sculptures and plaques that sit within the dramatic castle ruins.

Pembroke was founded by Henry II and is the home of Pembroke Castle , a superb medieval fortress and the birthplace of Henry Tudor, later to become King Henry VII.

In addition to the castle, Pembroke features three medieval churches and the remains of the medieval town walls. The street’s layout follows a layout which is nearly 1,000 years old and a track of some sort was probably laid out 1,000 years before that. Beneath the castle, is a vast cavern called The Wogan which has been used for the past 12,000 years, if not continuously.

During the Wars of the Roses, town & castle wavered in support of warring Lancastrian & Yorkist factions.  In 1447 Jasper Tudor (half-brother to Henry IV) was appointed Earl of Pembroke and into his care was sent the young Margaret Beaufort, wife of his brother Edmund. She gave birth to a son in Pembroke Castle, a son destined to become Henry VII and the founder of the Tudor dynasty. Edmund died two months before the birth of their son Henry.

One of three medieval churches in Pembroke, St Mary’s dates to the late 12th century. By the entrance is a Tudor bench commemorating the birth of Henry VII (Henry Tudor) at the nearby castle in 1457. The second of Pembroke’s medieval churches, St Michael’s was built in the Norman period, rebuilt in 1835, and rebuilt again in 1887. Unfortunately, the church was forced to close in 2013.

The best place to see the medieval town walls of Pembroke is on Common Road. Here you can also see the ruins of lime kilns, used to process lime for fertilizer and mortar. Built into the town walls is the Gun Tower (also known as the Defending Tower). This was one of six flanking towers that gave defenders a good view along the line of the wall.

Ruthin is a Welsh hidden gem in North Wales where you can find the oldest timber townhouse in the country Nantclwyd y Dre . The house was started in 1435 and has been added to, updated and upgraded throughout the centuries.

Nantclwyd y Dre seven rooms have been restored and here you can see the various periods of the history of the building. There is also a fully restored garden known as the Lord’s Garden.

Ruthin’s other architectural gems include the multi-dormered tiled roof of the former Myddelton Arms (known as the Eyes of Ruthin) which dates from the mid-16th century and is of Flemish design.  

When walking the town centre keep your eyes peeled for the Maen Huail , a limestone block in Ruthin’s town centre. Elis Gruffydd (1490-1552) recorded it as the very stone on which King Arthur beheaded the young warrior Huail, who made the fatal error of raiding his lands, stealing his mistress, and mocking him for a slight limp which Huail himself had inflicted.

Ruthin Castle is built on a red sandstone ridge 100 feet above the Vale of Clwyd, overlooking a strategic river crossing. Judging by the curving moat to the west of the upper bailey, the earliest castle here may have been a motte and bailey. However, the first documented castle was given to Prince Dafydd ap Gruffydd by King Edward in 1277.  

Near Ruthin Castle, you will find a sign for Lady Grey’s grave – the wife of the second in command at the castle when it was a fortress inhabited by the armies of Edward I.

Lady Grey was said to have been executed after killing her husband’s lover with an axe in a jealous rage. The local priests wouldn’t allow her to be buried on consecrated grounds so she had to be buried outside the castle walls. There are reports of the apparition of a crazed woman walking through the banquet hall and the battlements wielding an axe as she moves through the grounds and outside the castle walls.

In the early 1960s, Ruthin Castle was purchased at an auction & converted into a hotel. One of its most notable guests since was HM King Charles III who stayed on his way to his investiture as Prince of Wales in 1969.

Caldey Island has a history from the 6th century when St Pyro established a monastery here. The monastery was reestablished in the 12th century, and again in the early 20th century. A small island off the Pembrokeshire coast is not the place you would expect to find three historic churches, a ruined medieval priory, a Tudor dovecote, a Catholic monastery, and, perhaps most unusual of all, a chocolate factory. But Caldey Island is no ordinary place.

The island site proved easy prey for Viking raiders, and the monks left but returned in the 12th century when the Normans conquered Southern Wales. The Norman lord of Wales was Robert Fitzmartin, who gave Caldey to his mother Geva. Around the year 1131 Geva founded a new monastery of monks following the Tironian rule, as a daughter house of St Dogmael’s Abbey near Cardigan. The new Caldey Priory was a poor place, able to support only a few monks. Indeed, when Henry VIII’s commissioners came to dissolve the Priory they found only one monk in residence.

St Illtud’s Church , built in the 13th century is near the Priory ruins and its sanctuary floor is made of pebbles gathered from the beach, polished smooth by the passage of feet over centuries. Outside the sanctuary is a 6th-century Ogham stone, bearing inscriptions in both Latin and the ancient Ogham script.

The Caldey Ogham stone was discovered buried in the Priory grounds in the 19th century and was used for a time as a garden seat before being placed for safekeeping inside the church. The Ogham inscription commemorates a servant of Dubricius, which may refer to St Pyro, who was himself a follower of St Dubricius. The Latin text is later, carved in the 8th century and commemorates a man named Catuocunus.

The Watchtower is a cylindrical building beneath a conical roof. It was probably used as a coastal lookout station, as was a similar tower at Penally, on the mainland. It dates to at least the 15th century, with one historian suggesting a Norman date of construction based on the very thick walls. It was probably used as a lookout tower.

Cosmeston Medieval Village is one of the Vale of Glamorgan’s leading tourist attractions. The Village is set in the year 1350, a turbulent period in the history of the Welsh and English. The remains of the community were discovered and excavated during the 1980s by a team of archaeologists, and the local authority decided that this was a unique opportunity to bring to life part of the history of Wales.

A programme of reconstruction allows visitors to see excavated buildings and gardens recreated, while livestock of the middle ages is cared for by “villagers” in authentic costume. There is an opportunity to experience medieval life by taking a tour of the village with a costumed guide or you can take a self-guided tour using the portable audio system.

UNESCO has described this world heritage site as “a masterpiece of creative genius”. Built and planned in the 1700s the Aqueduct is incredibly impressive and spans 18 km. It may not be medieval but it is of great historical importance.

It was built by Thomas Telford and William Jessop and completed in 1805. Cast Iron was used for the trough, while the pillars are made of brick. The aqueduct carries the Llangollen Canal over the valley of the River Dee in northeast Wales.

The whole length of the site has also been designated a Scheduled Ancient Monument of National Importance, and an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

You simply can’t leave Wales without experiencing the national Sport Rugby. Rugby is Wales’ national sport and it helped to create Welsh nationhood. Rugby union is the national sport of Wales and is a great influence on Welsh culture. Try and get tickets to the Principality Stadium in Cardiff to experience Rugby international weekends and enjoy some real Welsh partying.

All these historic towns in Wales are fascinating places to visit and there are just so many captivating historical sites to see and discover. I love to know which ones you have been to and enjoyed the most.

You might also like to read.

27 Awe-inspiring things to do in Wales

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North Wales Coastal Path the famous Pilgrim’s Way Route

7 of the most beautiful beaches on the Pembrokeshire Coast Wales

Faith was born in Ireland raised in Canada and has lived in over 10 countries in Europe including England, Ireland, Scotland, France, Spain, Northern Ireland, Wales, along with Mexico, Antigua, the US and has slow travelled to over 40 countries around the world. Graduating with a degree in Anthropology and Women's Studies Faith is a student of history, culture, community and food and has written about these topics for over 40 years.

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• My Bucket List

Things to do in Wales: The PERFECT One Week Itinerary

Visit wales, a country known for its gorgeous coastline, mountainous national parks, and unique celtic culture. this one-week itinerary from a local will give you a perfect rundown of the things to do wales, a country that sits in the southwest of great britain..

Growing up in South Wales, I never thought much about tourism or sightseeing within my own country. It was only when I left that I realized that there are many things to do in Wales.

As part of the United Kingdom, Wales shares a lot with its neighbors (England, Scotland and Northern Ireland) such as currency, humor, and customs. As well, the Welsh people have their own set of identities. This includes our own language (Welsh), and over 4000 years of history and traditions.

Most people who visit the UK head straight to London. However, if you’re looking for an off the beaten path destination, I think Wales is a great place to explore. A visit to Wales usually requires no less than two weeks to cover the whole country. For this 1 week Wales itinerary, I’m going to detail the Southern and Western parts of the country. If you’ve additional time, I’ve also some suggestions to extend the one week trip!

Day 1: Explore Cardiff City Center

Cardiff is the capital city of Wales and home to over 300,000 people. This metropolis was once one of the biggest coal-exporting docks in the world. It quickly became the hub for seamen, which resulted in Cardiff to be the multi-cultural city it is today.

One of the best things to do in Wales is wander through downtown Cardiff. From plaza shopping to medieval castles, Cardiff is ideal for tourists interested in a variety of experiences. For this 1 week in Wales experience, spend two days in Cardiff to explore the major hotspots as well as a few hidden gems.

Start day one in the heart of the action. For cheap pub-grub, you could go to a Wetherspoons for lunch and a pint to experience something ingrained in British Culture .

Afterward, head to Cardiff Castle to learn the history of the 3rd-century Roman Fort, a fort that was later invaded by 11th century Normans. Following the castle, a short walk will take you to the National Museum Cardiff , which is free to enter.

Once you’ve better understood the history of Cardiff, take a short rest before heading out for the night. You have to experience Cardiff nightlife! Have a cheap pint in the Prince of Wales , a fancy cocktail on Mill Lane or late-night clubbing on Greyfriars Road . A night out in Cardiff wouldn’t be complete without ending your night with a bag of chips on Caroline Street . Caroline Street is locally (and fondly) known to us as chippy lane and is the inevitable last stop before going home.

The best thing about Cardiff is that everything is accessible by foot and all the major landmarks to visit on day one are close to one another. The Riverbed is only US 40 a night during shoulder season. For something fancier, the Marriott is a great choice.

Day 2: St Fagan’s & Cardiff Bay

After your first day around the center of Cardiff, day two will take to St Fagan’s and Cardiff Bay.

Starting in St Fagan’s Natural Museum of History , you get to experience what life was once like in Wales as well as Welsh traditions such as crafts, skills, workshops, and farming. The museum entry is free but they also hold regular classes and workshops. St Fagan’s is a place every Welsh school visits for school trips to learn about our ancestors and way of life.

After your museum visit, head to my favorite spot- Cardiff Bay . Cardiff Bay is accessible by foot but you can also hop onto the train from Cardiff Queen Street Station for an easier journey.

Cardiff Bay, locally known as the docks, is where the major coal-exporting originated. It also doubles as my birthplace, so I’m definitely well acquainted with the area!

There are lots of restaurants for lunch around the Bay. I’d recommend finding one where you can have a nice view of the water. The Red Dragon Centre is a hub for activities, including cinema, bowling, the famous Dr. Who experience and home of the local radio station. During the afternoon, I’d suggest finding out what’s on at the Wales Millennium Centre and catch a matinée performance at this grand theatre. Later, get ice cream and finish the day with more food options around the area.

Day 3: Caerphilly: Caerphilly Castle & Castell Coch

Using Cardiff as your base, day three can be spent traveling about 40 minutes by car (or bus) to the nearby city of Caerphilly. Here you can explore two gorgeous castles: Caerphilly Castle and Castell Coch . Castell Coch peers out from the mountains and looks like something out of Harry Potter!

Caerphilly is also home to Cefn Mably Farm Park, where you can visit and feed farm animals. You can’t leave here without buying the famous and tasty Welsh cheese!

Whether you decide to take a group tour of Caerphilly Castle and Brecon Beacons mountain range or go solo, don’t miss the scenic views of Pen-Y-Fan ! It is a must for adventure-lovers. You can snap a picture at the top of the hill as a souvenir.

Day 4: Barry Island & Jackson’s Bay

A 20-minute train ride from Cardiff Central will take you from Cardiff to Barry Island. Barry Island is a seaside town with a fairground full of rides and arcades. There are also various places candy floss and warm doughnuts!

The majority of tourists flock to the main Barry Island beach but a hidden gem is just around the corner. Jackson’s Bay is the perfect place away from the tourists. Have a picnic along the beautiful waters!

Barry Island is famous in the UK thanks to the hit TV sitcom Gavin & Stacey. You can check out the filming locations of the show and grab a coffee next to murals of the cast！

Day 5: Tenby & Caldey Island

After the hustle and bustle of the big city, take a scenic drive to West Wales and the cute town of Tenby. Welsh people love a staycation at this gorgeous seaside village and the drive on the way takes you past green hills and farm animals. You can also opt for a train from Cardiff Central straight to Tenby.

In Tenby, you can rent a caravan or stay in small guesthouses right in the center of town. Stroll along the gorgeous north and south beaches. They both have views of Caldey Island on the other side. Caldey Island is a nice way to spend the afternoon and you can get a boat to explore the ocean.

If you’re on Tenby Harbour you can see the colorful houses lined up which makes for a picture-perfect shot. Be sure to grab a huge ice cream at one of the famous stores within the town’s old fortress and walk down the cobbled streets!

Day 6: Shops & Seafood in Saundersfoot

Explore Saundersfoot, a beautiful village about 10 minutes away from Tenby. It is another popular holiday destination and offers a beautiful view of the ocean.

Saundersfoot has great local shops with lots of unique hand-made products. One of the best things to do in Wales is to check out the many local stores and get yourself a great souvenir!

Remember to sample seafood at one of the gorgeous restaurants on the beach and ask for that day’s catch!

Day 7: Laugharne & Swansea

In between Tenby and Cardiff, there’s a town called Laugharne (pronounced ‘Larne’). For such a small place, it holds history and inspiration unlike any other.

One of the top things to do in Wales is to visit the Dylan Thomas Boathouse . Dylan Thomas was a famous Welsh poet and this boathouse was what he used as his writing shed. The inspiration taken from the surrounding area is something to behold. Nowadays, the Boathouse is a museum, cafe, and shop that you can visit and enjoy.

The last city to visit Wales would be Swansea , home to the gorgeous Gower Peninsula and with a culture different to that in Cardiff. Note: Cardiff and Swansea football teams are rivals so visit both and let me know which you prefer!

Other Tips & Advice

Visit Wales and experience the beautiful scenery this country has to offer! There are many things to do in Wales. Below are a few additional tips and advice to make your trip planning easier!

How to get to South Wales

South Wales has its own airport (Cardiff International Airport) which is accessible from destinations around the world. From the airport, it takes about 30 minutes to get to the center of the city. You can reach the heart of Cardiff via train, bus or taxi which are all found outside of the airport.

Alternatively, if you are traveling to Wales from London, there are direct train lines but train travel in the UK is overpriced. If you’re on a budget, I recommend using Megabus, which runs very cheap fares from London to Cardiff and takes about 4 hours. I’ve once traveled from Cardiff to London for just £5!

Wales and England are connected at the borders and the easiest way to reach Cardiff is using the Severn Bridge if you’re traveling by car.

Best Time to Visit Wales

If you want to experience the prettiest of Wales, then the best time to visit Wales would be in the summer months of June, July, and August with the most likely chance of some sun. I can’t stress enough that the sun is not guaranteed because, in classic British weather, it’s highly likely to rain even during the summer.

December is also a great time to visit Wales, as beautiful Christmas markets and over-the-top Christmas decorations are everywhere. Plus, there’s a chance you could experience snow!

Rugby is a very popular sport in Wales and during February and March, the Six Nations tournament occurs. Six Nations is a Rugby tournament between Wales, England, Scotland, Ireland, Italy and France. On game days you will be surrounded by red clothes, daffodils, Welsh songs, and light banter against the English. This time would be great to visit Wales and if you can get a ticket to the Principality Stadium to watch a match, you’ll be in for a treat!

Estimated Cost for a Trip in Wales

Europe can be an expensive place to visit. But compared to 3 days in London , a week in Portugal , or traveling around Paris , Wales is relatively cheap to visit. Whether you have a weekend in Wales or a whole week, you will surely be captivated by all the beauties of this country.

Lunch at an average restaurant will set you back about EUR 20 but there are lots of places to find cheap eats such as fish and chips for EUR 5 or pub-lunch for EUR 10.

The average alcoholic drink costs EUR 4 compared to London drinks which are about £6.

Accommodation is manageable with a standard one-night stay in Cardiff costing about EUR 40.

Activities and tourist trips vary in price. There are free things to do in Wales such as museums and tourist landmarks. Cardiff Castle with a tour costs about EUR 14.

Souvenirs come in abundance and you can get a cheap EUR 1 magnet to take home as a reminder of your Wales travel trip.

Other Tips for One Week in Wales

• Every sign, leaflet, advert you see in Wales will have the Welsh translation first and English underneath so don’t panic as soon as you see the really confusing and long letters because English is spoken and used more widely in Wales than Welsh is.
• Don’t visit Wales without taking an umbrella, even in the summer months it rains here!
• Rugby is taken seriously and there’s an undeniable rivalry against England that you’ll definitely hear being thrown around. It’s all light-hearted though!

Shireen is the founder of The Happy Days Travels. She is a travel writer focusing on learning through travel and making travel meaningful. Her favourite things to do while travelling are tasting local cuisines, meeting locals and travellers alike and sitting with a coffee watching people and the world go by. She travels slowly in order to learn about the culture of a region/country. She grew up in South Wales near the sea so whenever she is near the ocean when travelling, she truly feel at home. Follow her on Twitter , Instagram & Facebook .

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The 25 Best Things to do in Wales

Located on the western shores of Great Britain, Wales might be small, but this is a nation with proud Celtic roots that’s evolving into one of Europe’s best destinations. Wales, with its soaring highlands, long sandy beaches, and rugged coastline, is a land that’s steeped in natural beauty.

The Welsh language and accent are soft on the ears, but the fiery passion of the locals is unmistakable when you’re in the midst of a rugby or football game – especially if Wales is playing England. 

You can see this ancient cross-border rivalry in the castles and forts that are strewn across Wales, the majority of which were built by the English in fruitless attempts to conquer the Welsh people in the medieval era. You can hike endless coastal trails in Pembrokeshire, delve into national museums in Cardiff, and brave the depths of industrial coalmines and slate quarries in the north. 

With so many things to see and do, you might not know where to begin. That’s why we’ve compiled our list of the best things to do in Wales for you. Stick to these fun and unique Wales bucket list items, and there’s no doubt you’ll have a fabulous time exploring this beautiful corner of the United Kingdom. 

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).

25 Fun and Unique Things to do in Wales

1. start your trip with a visit to cardiff castle.

Did you know that Wales has the highest concentration of castles to be found anywhere in Europe? Thanks to centuries of warfare with their neighbors, and with each other, Wales is literally littered with castles, with an estimated 600 or so to be found across the country.

This number includes Iron Age hillforts and Roman ruins, but of course, the best-preserved dates back to the medieval era. In Cardiff, the Welsh capital, you can start your visit with a trip to Cardiff Castle , where you can delve into 2,000 years of local history. 

Cardiff Castle is by no means the largest castle in Wales (try Caernarfon Castle if you want to see the biggest), but it does offer a fascinating insight into different eras in Welsh history. Being located in the capital, it’s also one of the easiest castles to visit.

Step through the gate, and inside the museum, you’ll learn how Cardiff Castle can trace its origins back to the Roman era, when the invading legions built a fort in the same spot. The Normans, many centuries later, constructed a motte-and-bailey castle during their Welsh invasions before adding the stone keep and walls you see today in later centuries. 

Much of the castle and its grounds were then turned into a Victorian mansion in the 19th century, losing much of the medieval remains in the process. Today, the mansion stands next to the remains of the old keep, alongside a modern museum, and by reconstructions of the Roman defenses, offering a unique view of 2,000 years of Welsh history in one panorama. 

2. Visit the National Museum Cardiff

A visit to the National Museum Cardiff is one of the best things to do in Wales – and it’s free! This excellent museum is a great way to explore more of Wales’ history while also offering an opportunity to admire one of the finest collections of art in the country.

The National Museum Cardiff has a fantastic location within the Welsh capital’s Civic Centre, a short stroll from other great local attractions like Cardiff Castle and the Museum of Cardiff. It’s the perfect place to start any Welsh adventure, as you can begin by stepping back millions of years into the past at the “Evolution of Wales” gallery. 

This excellent gallery takes you back to the prehistoric era, and you’ll learn how dinosaurs once roamed the land we now call Wales, how the Welsh valleys were formed when the glaciers retreated after the Ice Age, and much more. 

At the museum’s Clore Discovery Centre, you can get hands-on and pick up a unique range of historic objects, including bronze-age swords and millennia-old fossils. There are exhibitions on botany and geology, a new augmented reality tour, and, best of all, an extensive collection of fine art, which includes historic paintings from old masters and more recent works by renowned artists like Turner and Van Gogh.

3. Go to St. Fagans National Museum of History

If you’re a history buff, then the St. Fagans National Museum of History is one of the must-do things in Wales. 

First established in 1948 on the grounds of an old country house just outside Cardiff, this open-air museum ambitiously attempts to tell the story, myths, and history of the Welsh people through its extensive recreations of traditional dwellings and historic buildings.

There are at least 40 unique buildings to explore in St. Fagans National Museum of History, each of which offers a different snapshot into different eras. There’s an Iron Age Roundhouse, a Medieval peasant’s farmhouse, and a post office built in 1936. 

Many of the buildings have been moved from their original sites in order to protect them, while the water mill and blacksmith forge are still working, offering demonstrations of these traditional crafts.

The museum is home to a 16th-century castle and gardens, alongside modern galleries which feature everything from Neolithic ax heads to First World War uniforms. 

4. Fall in Love with the Romanticism of Tintern Abbey

In the late 18th century, the Wye Valley Tour through the Welsh borderlands became one of Britain’s first tourist trails, as the gentry and aristocracy of the day sought out the wild beauty of Wales.

The Wye Valley is where Welsh tourism really began, and in the 19th century, the scenery and mysticism of the land were further embellished by a generation of poets known as the Romantics, which included famous writers like William Wordsworth and Samuel Taylor Coleridge. 

Wordsworth was drawn to the River Wye’s historic relics, many of which he viewed as being in a state of romantic decay. He popularized one place in particular when he wrote his poem, “Lines Written a Few Miles Above Tintern Abbey.”

Tintern Abbey, with its stone balustrades and echoing cobblestones, is still one of the best things to see in Wales. The abbey dates back to 1131 AD, but it was abandoned after Henry VIII dissolved the monasteries during his reign in the 16th century. 

Located just north of Chepstow, where the Wye Valley begins in earnest, visit Tintern Abbey on a misty, early morning, and it’s not hard to imagine why the sight enthralled the romantic poets so much. 

5. Pick Up Second-Hand Books at the Hay Festival 

The Welsh border town of Hay-on-Wye is one of the top places to visit in Wales. This gorgeous village overlooks the banks of the River Wye, and it’s known the world over for its literary love affair.

Hay-on-Wye is home to the largest concentration of secondhand bookshops in the world, and thanks to the efforts of secondhand bookseller Richard Booth, it also became the world’s first “Town of Books.” Booth started buying up old books in the 1970s, founding a secondhand bookshop empire that brought international attention to sleepy Hay-on-Wye. 

Booth was something of an eccentric, and he helped to put his town (and bookshops) on the map on April 1, 1977, when he declared himself to be king of the newly independent Kingdom of Hay. He crowned himself in the town square, and soon, the town was inundated with tourists. 

The bookshops did a roaring trade, and in 1988, the town took advantage of its success by founding the Hay Festival. The festival is a celebration of literature, and for two weeks in May, tens of thousands of book lovers attend readings, debates, workshops, talks, and concerts in Hay-on-Wye. If you’re a bibliophile and you’re looking for unique things to do in Wales, the Hay Festival is a must!

6. Go Underground at the Big Pit National Coal Museum 

Wales has a long, long history of mining, and the best place to learn more is at the Big Pit National Coal Museum in Blaenavon. People have mined raw materials from Wales since the Iron Age, but it wasn’t until the Industrial Revolution that deep seams of coal below ground were tapped into by hardy miners. 

In Blaenavon, a large ironworks factory required incredible quantities of coal every day, so they burrowed deep into the mountainsides in search of more raw materials. Nearby, the “Big Pit” evolved from the 1880s onwards, as miners sunk deeper and deeper shafts in search of more and more coal.

Mine shifts went down some 90 meters, and the Big Pit remained in operation until 1980. After this, it was preserved as a museum in order to protect an integral part of Welsh industrial history. 

Visit today, and you can go underground yourself to experience the cramped conditions the miners worked in. Tour guides here are trained miners, and you’ll need to kit up with a helmet and lamp before taking the elevator down into the dark depths below. 

After the underground tour, you can visit the above-ground exhibitions at your leisure. You can learn about the history of mining in Blaenavon, about miners’ strikes, the disasters that occurred underground, and much more. The Big Pit National Coal Museum is part of the wider Blaenavon Industrial Landscape, which was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000.

7. Visit St. David’s, the Smallest City in the UK 

Travel to southwest Wales, and in Pembrokeshire, you’ll find the ancient city of St. David’s. Surrounded by countryside, close to the rugged shores overlooking St. George’s Channel, this city is unusual because it only has a resident population of around 1,800 people.

That makes St. David’s the smallest city in the United Kingdom, and one of the most fun things to do in Wales is to find out why. Despite its tiny population, St. David’s is home to a cathedral, which is one of the traditional requirements needed to be met in order to gain “city status” in the UK. 

Visit St. David’s Cathedral, and you’ll discover that this is the final resting place of St. David, the city’s namesake and the patron saint of Wales. St. David is said to have been born and lived in what’s now Pembrokeshire in the 6th century AD, where he performed numerous miracles and cemented the Christian faith in Wales.

After his death, St. David’s became an important pilgrimage site, and in the 12th century, this was recognized when the small settlement was granted city status. Today, you can visit the cathedral, explore life in the UK’s smallest city, and then make your way to the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park nearby. 

8. Take the Boat from Tenby to Caldey Island

Overlooking the (generally) calm waters of Carmarthen Bay, the seaside town of Tenby is one of the best places to visit in Wales for a beach break.

With over 3 miles of golden sands to enjoy, Temby’s beaches are consistently ranked by British newspapers as some of the best in the country. The small town, with its colorful seafront homes and hotels, has been a popular tourist destination since the Victorian era, and there’s much to do along this glorious stretch of the Welsh coastline.

This is Pembrokeshire at its best, and you’ll have easy access to the rugged cliffs and beautiful beaches of the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park. You can explore the ruins of a 13th-century Norman castle and the preserved remains of Tudor houses, or you can walk the Pembrokeshire Coast Path.

Best of all, though, is the short boat ride across Carmarthen Bay to Caldey Island. This small island has long been considered one of the holiest places in Wales, and there’s been a monastic presence here for around 1,500 years. Today, the island is home to a small community of Cistercian monks who make chocolate and bake cakes for the day-trippers from Tenby. 

9. Climb Mount Snowdon (or Take the Train!)

At 1,085 meters in height, for hikers, tackling the summit of Mount Snowdon (or Yr Wyddfa in the Welsh language) is one of the best Wales activities you could add to your itinerary. If you haven’t got the legs for the hike, don’t worry because outside of the winter season (between March and October), there’s a scenic railway that takes you right to the top.

Whether you’re hiking or taking the train, you’ll start your ascent of Mount Snowdon from Llanberis in northern Wales. Here you can jump on the Snowdon Mountain Railway , a 19th-century railway that whisks you up the steep incline for 4.5 miles. This is the ultimate way to climb mountains in comfort, and when you arrive at the summit, you’ll even find there’s a cafe serving tea, coffee, and refreshments.

If you’re hiking, you’re in for a more challenging ascent. There are six waymarked trails leading upwards each with a different difficulty level, but roughly the same length (around 4 miles long). The classic route up is the Llanberis Path, which is said to be the easiest as it roughly follows the same path as the railway. 

At the summit, you’ll have sweeping views across Wales and out to the Irish Sea on a clear day. Given the altitude, you’ll want to pack in preparation for the worst weather, even in summer. 

10. Visit Portmeirion, a Piece of the Mediterranean

If you’re looking to travel to a piece of the Mediterranean, then strangely, you might just be in the right place. Wales might be best known for its foggy coast and rainy mountains, but in Gwynedd, in North Wales, the village of Portmeirion offers a decidedly different experience.

We can’t guarantee the weather, of course, but a visit to Portmeirion is certainly one of the most unique things to do in Wales. The village is home to an unusual array of Mediterranean-inspired buildings that wouldn’t look out of place on the Amalfi Coast, although Portmeirion overlooks the River Dwyryd rather than the sea.

The village was designed by Sir Clough Williams-Ellis, who transformed a crumbling country estate into a colorful tourist village. New buildings were added from 1925 onwards, and today, the village functions almost exclusively as a tourist resort and attraction. We recommend staying at the Hotel Portmeirion, which is one of the most famous hotels in all of Wales. 

11. Cross the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct

One of the most impressive manmade Wales attractions is the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct , a stunning work of engineering that crosses the River Dee at a height of 38 meters.

Designed by Thomas Telford, the aqueduct was first opened in 1805, at the height of the Industrial Revolution. The aqueduct has 18 tall stone archways that rise high above the river below. Surrounded by the lush countryside of the Welsh borders, the aqueduct is the most well-known section of the larger Llangollen Canal.

The aqueduct is UNESCO World Heritage listed, and the best way to experience its industrial beauty is on a narrow boat cruise. You can rent narrow boats (also known as canal boats) along the Llangollen Canal, and after a crash course in using the locks, you’ll be set free along the canal. 

Canal boats are typically equipped with beds, kitchens, and lounges, so you can spend a few days exploring the Llangollen Canal at your leisure, with the highlight, of course, being a crossing of the Llangollen Aqueduct. If you’re pressed for time, we recommend visiting the village of Pontcysyllte and then hiking to the aqueduct. The best views aren’t just from the top but from the valley directly below the aqueduct!

12. Escape to the Beauty of the Gower Peninsula

Jutting out from the urban limits of Swansea – the second-largest city in Wales – into the tidal waters of the Bristol Channel, the Gower Peninsula is the perfect place for an outdoor escape. 

The Gower Peninsula’s rugged beauty has long been known by the Welsh, and this was the first place in the United Kingdom to be protected as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) when it was designated in 1956. 

You’ll understand why when you start exploring the Gower Peninsula’s long coastline, which is home to sandy and pebbly beaches, tall sea cliffs and deep caves, and postcard-perfect villages. Highlights of the Gower Peninsula include the long beach at Rhossili Bay, where you’ll also find the “Worm’s Head” promontory. 

Three Cliffs Bay offers wonderful views of the surrounding coastline and excellent walking, while the Gower Way is a 35-mile-long hiking trail that explores the interior of the peninsula rather than the coast. 

13. Tackle Pen y Fan in the Brecon Beacons

The Brecon Beacons (which recently reverted to its Welsh name, Bannau Brycheiniog) is one of the most spectacular national parks in Wales.

Located in Powys, the Brecon Beacons National Park is home to the highest mountain peaks in the British Isles south of Snowdonia. This stunning region forms the natural borderland between Wales and England, and the steep hills and peaks are often dotted with the ruins of hillforts, watchtowers, and castles, the oldest of which date back to the Neolithic era.

The highest peak in the Brecon Beacons is Pen y Fan (actually a twin peak!), which sits at 886 meters above sea level. It was often thought that this tall peak was King Arthur’s Seat, and when you see the mountain swathed in mist, you’ll understand why. There are several walking routes to the top, the shortest of which is around 5 miles there and back. 

14. Dive into Medieval History at Caernarfon Castle

Strategically located on the banks of the River Seiont, overlooking the Menai Straits leading to Anglesey, Caernarfon Castle is one of the most important medieval sights to see in Wales. This staggering work of solid stones and timbers is exactly how you would imagine a castle to look, and with a history dating back to the 11th century AD, there’s much to explore.

Caernarfon Castle was originally built as a small motte and bailey fortification in the style favored by the Normans during their conquests. After subduing the English, the Normans turned their attention to the Welsh, who didn’t give in quite so easily. After several centuries of war, Edward I finally claimed to have conquered Wales in the 13th century, and he began construction of a stone castle on the same site as the older motte and bailey.

Caernarfon Castle cost a staggering sum of money and took 47 years to build. Edward I employed the best stonemasons and architects of the day, and the castle was designed with layer upon layer of tall walls, bastions, and towers. 

It was designed as a symbol of Edward I’s might and power in Wales, and even today, many Welsh see it as a symbol of enduring oppression by their English neighbors. Visit the castle today, and after walking through King’s Gate, you’ll be awed by the views from the walls that still dominate the town below. 

15. Ride the Welsh Highland Railway

One of the best things to do in Wales is journeying along the Welsh Highland Railway , a spectacular heritage railway line that can take you from Caernarfon to Porthmadog. At 25 miles in length, this is the longest heritage railway in the United Kingdom, and you’ll love being transported across Gwynedd in vintage carriages dating back to the Victorian era.

The railway line dates back, in places, to the 1860s, although the narrow gauge railway was variously closed, reopened, and restored over the next 150 years. The Welsh Highland Railway operates two authentic steam locomotives (named Russel and Gertrude), as well as diesel locomotives when the steam engines are having a rest. 

You might find yourself in the same carriage that Prime Minister William Gladstone rode in the 19th century, or you can upgrade to a first-class Pullman-style carriage with a gourmet dining service. 

Sit back and enjoy the views as you depart from the station in front of Caernarfon Castle before cruising into the foothills of Snowdonia, crossing the spectacular Aberglaslyn Pass, and ending in Porthmadog, where you can then switch to the 13.5-mile-long Ffestiniog Railway to extend your journey on another heritage railway to the slate quarrying town of Blaenau Ffestiniog.  

16. Ride The Great Orme Tramway 

Not far from the popular seaside town of Llandudno in northern Wales, you’ll find the musty realms of The Great Orme, one of the top Wales attractions. This great limestone headland juts out precariously into the ocean waves, and it’s a place that’s long been revered for its natural beauty. 

Legends abound on the headland, which is just 2 miles long and 1 mile at its widest extent. The Vikings thought it was a sea monster (the name “Orme” is derived from a Norse word meaning Sea Serpent), while many a hermit spent their days on its misty, barren cliffs.

These days, you can hike here from Llandudno, ride The Great Orme Tramway , or take the Llandudno Tramway. All routes lead to the 200-meter-high peak in the center of the headland, where on a good day, you’ll have views of England, Anglesey, and even the Isle of Man.

17. Watch a Rugby or Football Match in Wales

Sport is deeply rooted in Welsh culture. It might be a small country, but Welsh fans are some of the most passionate in the world, and you’ll love the atmosphere, whether it’s at a local, professional, or national level.

The national sport of Wales is always considered to be rugby, a sport which the Welsh excel at. The national team regularly competes with the best in the world, and you can watch the best games at the Millennium Stadium in Cardiff. Things get particularly exciting when Wales are playing their closest neighbors at rugby, especially if it’s their ancient rivals, the English. 

But while rugby is seen as a quintessentially Welsh sport, there’s also no denying the fact that football has more players and supporters across Wales. The best Welsh football teams play in the English Football League, with Swansea City being one of the top performers. 

The Welsh national team played in the last World Cup in 2022, but it’s Wrexham, the team that was taken over by Hollywood superstars Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, that has stolen the show after finding fame through their Disney show.

18. Visit the National Roman Legion Museum  

If you’re fascinated by ancient history, then a visit to the National Roman Legion Museum near Newport is one of the best things to do in Wales.

This brilliant museum is itself one of the oldest in Wales, dating back to the 1850s when Victorian antiquarians began putting their finds on display for the public. The museum is located within the excavated remains of a Roman fort called Isca Augusta, which is thought to have been constructed around 74 BC by the invading Roman legions. 

The fort was one of the most westerly in the Roman province of Britannia, and it soon expanded to include an amphitheater, baths, a forum, and all the trappings of Roman civilization you’d expect, even on this distant frontier of the Empire. 

Explore the ruins (including the only remains of a Roman barracks in Europe) before heading inside the museum, where you’ll find an extensive collection of artifacts collected from the surrounding sites, including weapons and armor used by the legions. 

19. Dig into Wales’ Industrial Heritage at the National Slate Museum

Visit Llanberis, in northwest Wales, and you can dig deep into the country’s industrial heritage at the National Slate Museum . 

The museum tells the surprising story of Welsh Slate, an industry that has existed since at least the Roman era when the first slate quarries were dug. Wales’ rocky terrain ensured that it became one of the world’s leading suppliers of slate from the Industrial Revolution onwards, and even today, Welsh Slate is revered as a high-quality building material and is found all over the UK.

Like much of Wales’ industry, though, the slate industry fell into decline in the 20th century. The museum is located within the vast excavations of the Dinorwig Quarry, which closed in 1969. Many of the old buildings within the quarry have not only been preserved, but they are still working sheds, where volunteers show tourists the tools of the slate trade.

The National Slate Museum is a prized piece of Welsh heritage, so much so that it formed the nucleus of the country’s latest UNESCO World Heritage listing, the Slate Landscape of Northwest Wales, which was inscribed in 2021. 

20. ZipLine at Penrhyn Quarry Adventure Park

In the 19th century, Penrhyn Quarry was the largest working slate quarry in the world. Located near Bethesda, in the heart of Wales’ slate country, today, the quarry is largely devoted to pursuits of an adrenaline-inducing nature, thanks to the Zip World Penrhyn Quarry .

Part of the quarry is still in use, but larger parts have now been turned over to adventure activities like ziplining and downhill mountain biking. The steep sides of the quarry, and its sheer scale and size, ensure that the zipline is the fastest in the world!

If you dare, then strap in as you experience one of the most fun things to do in Wales. You’ll soar 500 meters over the vast quarry below, as you rapidly descend into its depths. After the zipline tour, you can recuperate with a well-earned cup of tea or pint of beer in the Blondin Restaurant and Cafe. 

21. Get Cultured at the National Eisteddfod of Wales

If you’d love to learn more about traditional Welsh culture, there’s no better place to be than the National Eisteddfod of Wales .

Held annually (generally in the summer, but dates and locations vary each year), the National Eisteddfod of Wales is a celebration of the country’s Celtic past and traditions. This 8-day-long event is the largest festival in Wales, and it’s largely devoted to Welsh poetry and music.

The main event at the National Eisteddfod of Wales is the poetry competitions, which see people from all over the world competing for elusive prizes. The tradition traces its origins back almost 10 centuries to the Welsh bardic competitions that were once held across the country, so of course, the focus is always on Welsh language performances. 

The festival is a colorful way for Wales to showcase its Celtic heritage, and you can learn more about the bards of old, join Welsh language classes, listen to Welsh choirs, and much more at the National Eisteddfod of Wales. 

22. Hike Offa’s Dyke Path 

If you’re looking for a long-distance adventure, then hiking Offa’s Dyke Path is one of the best things to do in Wales. This beloved National Trail traverses the English-Welsh borderlands, following the rough route of Offa’s Dyke from its southern start point in Chepstow to the Irish Sea in the north. 

Offa’s Dyke was a monumental work of engineering that first divided the English from the Welsh in the 8th century AD. Constructed on the orders of King Offa of Mercia, the huge ramparts, mounds, and forts still shape the landscapes to this day. 

Offa’s Dyke Path attempts to follow the route of this ancient border, which itself largely follows the route of the modern border between England and Wales. The path is 177 miles in length, and around 50 of those miles see you walking along Offa’s original dyke.

If you don’t have time to tackle the whole route (you need at least two weeks to enjoy it in full), then you can have a taste of the path at Chepstow, where it extends into the Wye Valley. Alternatively, head to Knighton, where you can find Offa’s Dyke Centre and some of the best walks in the remote Welsh borderlands. 

23. Try Local Dishes Like Welsh Cakes and Rarebit

Welsh cuisine is hardly world-renowned, but that doesn’t mean that the local cuisine isn’t world-class. When you’re in Wales, there are a few local dishes you have to try. Welsh cakes, a type of buttery, sugary cake, are one of the best, and they’re best served hot, straight from the griddle.

Welsh rarebit is a fancier version of cheese on toast, consisting of toasted bread smothered in melted cheese and then topped with Worcestershire sauce. Conwy mussels are sublime when steamed, laverbread is an acquired taste, given it’s prepared from seaweed, and locally sourced Glamorgan sausages and Caerphilly cheese are some of the best items to take home with you! 

24. Try to Walk the Entirety of the Wales Coast Path

The ultimate hiking challenge is the Wales Coast Path, a mammoth 870-mile-long walking path that traverses the entire country’s coastline.

This long-distance walking path starts (or ends) at Queensferry in the north, where you’ll walk along the Dee Estuary to meet the Irish Sea. Follow the coast west, and you’ll pass Prestatyn and Llandudno, then onto Caernarfon and Anglesey. 

The path leads south once you’ve tackled the Llyn Peninsula, along the coast of Ceredigion, then onto the shores of the Pembrokeshire Coast National Path. Soon enough, you’ll be following the southern shores overlooking the Bristol Channel, stopping at Tenby, navigating the Gower Peninsula, and then finally, ending in Chepstow, where the Rivers Severn and Wye meet on the border with England.

25. Take a Welsh Language Class

Over 500,000 people in Wales speak Welsh, so why not learn a little of the local language when you’re visiting? Welsh is one of the oldest languages found in the United Kingdom. With Celtic origins, old Welsh (or Brythonic) was spoken by early Britons long before the English language ever evolved.

Being a Celtic rather than an Anglo-Saxon language, Welsh is very different from English. With the help of a tutor, though, you can get to grips with the double vowels and the pronunciation, even if it’s just to say a few words of greeting or thanks when you’re in Welsh-speaking areas of the country! 

There you have it! The 25 best things to do in Wales. What’s your favorite thing to do in Wales?

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About the Author:

Richard is an award-winning travel writer based in Southwest England who’s addicted to traveling off the beaten track. He’s traveled to 75 countries and counting in search of intriguing stories, unusual destinations, and cultural curiosities. Richard loves traveling the long way round over land and sea, and you’ll find him visiting quirky micronations and breakaway territories as often as he’s found lounging on a beach (which is a lot). When he’s not writing for BBC Travel, National Geographic, or Lonely Planet, you can find Richard writing for the Wandering Wheatleys or updating his off-beat travel blog, Travel Tramp.

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12 Things To Do In Wales That Don’t Require Hiking Boots

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Solar eclipse: Best time and place to see the 'magical' cosmic event in the UK

• solar eclipse
• Monday 8 April 2024 at 12:29pm

Parts of the US will be in darkness due to a total solar eclipse, Sangeeta Kandola explains

People in parts of the UK may be able to see a partial solar eclipse on Monday, as the final moments of the total eclipse in North America will be visible.

The cosmic event will plunge much of North America into darkness, turning the day skies into night.

Millions of spectators along a narrow stretch from Mexico to the US to Canada are eagerly waiting to spot the moment, when flares of the Sun’s corona will appear like a diamond ring in the sky.

As the Earth is plunged into darkness, planets and comets may even be visible to the naked eye.

What is a total solar eclipse?

A total solar eclipse happens when the moon completely covers the sun, and observers are within the darkest part of its shadow.

Areas covered by partial shade will witness a partial eclipse, and this is what some sky-gazers might see in the UK tonight.

Total solar eclipses occur every 18 months but the visibility path of seeing the full total eclipse is only around 80 miles, so if you are not located within that track it will not be visible.

The next total eclipse of the sun visible from the UK is in 2090.There is another in 2026 that is visible in northern Spain, tracking up to Iceland.

Where and when is the best place to see the eclipse in the UK?

The total solar eclipse will not be visible from the UK and Ireland, however, a partial solar eclipse – where a small segment of the sun is blocked out by the moon – may be visible close to sunset.

The eclipse will start at 7.53pm and end at 8.23pm (BST).

The path of the total eclipse will end west of Ireland, but after sunset around 20 per cent to 30 per cent of the sun will be obscured by the moon.

Professor Don Pollacco, from the University of Warwick’s Department of Physics, said from Glasgow about 12 per cent of the sun will be obscured at around 8pm (BST).

Under clear conditions, people in Edinburgh could see a 6 per cent obscuration.

Liverpool will only see a maximum of 3.1per cent coverage at 7.57pm when the sun is basically right on the horizon – the window is very small as the start and end times are 7.55pm and 8pm.

Belfast will be treated to more of an eclipse with a maximum of 28.1% coverage at 8.10pm

Stornoway in Scotland will see 33.7% maximum coverage at 8.13pm.

Dr Edward Bloomer, senior astronomer at the Royal Observatory Greenwich, said the UK is only going to get “a small grazing” of the eclipse in the west and north of the country.

He said: “I’m afraid the south and the east are out of luck this time around."

What's the forecast?

There are fears cloud cover will spoil the view of the eclipse in the US.

Clouds are forecast for much of the eclipse route through the US with some possible patches of clear skies in some spots, according to the latest forecast from the National Weather Service.

Tonight the UK will mostly be covered in cloud, which could impact the visibility of the eclipse.

The sun sets at around 7.45pm meaning the window will be very short to see the solar event.

What will it look like?

The path of totality – meaning where the total solar eclipse will be fully visible – will start shortly after 11am local time in Mazatlan, Mexico.

From Mexico the total eclipse will last four and a half minutes, and while this does not seem long, the maximum eclipse length possible is about seven to eight minutes.

Prof Pollacco, who is travelling to the US to view the total solar eclipse, said: “Total eclipses of the sun are amazing and feel quite magical.

“From the right vantage point, you can see the moon shadow rushing towards you at 1,000 miles an hour as totality approaches.

“When almost obscured, as the sun’s light shines through valleys on the moon’s limb, you see the famous Baily’s Beads (beads of sunlight emerging from the eclipse shadow).

"When the final valley is lit up, you can see the Diamond Ring (which appears as a faint corona around the sun, as a glittering ring).

“At this time, turning off the sunlight has effects high up in the Earth’s atmosphere, which may impact communications, and produce the strange shadow bands on the ground – making the ground swirl around as you look at it.”

”The phenomenon itself will last two hours, with the eclipse starting in North America shortly after 2pm EDT (7pm BST)."

Is it safe to look at the total eclipse?

The usual rules about not looking directly at the sun apply, as looking directly at the star could cause blindness.

Experts say the eclipse can be viewed safely through real solar eclipse glasses – not 3D glasses or anything similar.

The safest, cheapest option is to view the event is by pinhole projection – make a hole in a piece of card, hold it under the sun, and hold a piece of paper behind the card.

Using this method, people should be able to see the shape of the sun projected on to the paper, taking away the need to look directly at the sun.

Prof Pollacco warned: “With no protection you will at best damage your eyes, or you could blind yourself.

“Going west the obscuration is greater, east less. Either way you will need some eye protection."

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BEST Wales Itinerary! How To Spend 1 Week in Wales!

Categories Itinerary , U.K , Wales

Whether you’re visiting Wales from overseas or deciding to spend your holiday on a staycation in Wales this year, you can easily see a lot with 1 week in Wales!

From beaches, mountains, villages, castles and adventure, adrenaline activities Wales really has it all and there are so many places to visit in Wales!

In this Wales travel blog, I’m going to give you the perfect 1 week Wales itinerary which will take you to North and South Wales to see the most beautiful parts of Wales!

You can adapt this Wales travel itinerary to fit yourself and your trip, for example, I have detailed starting in South Wales but you can reverse it and start in North Wales first. (If you want to stick to South Wales only, check out my 1 week South Wales itinerary here!)

I grew up between England in Wales and now I live in Cardiff so let me share with you why I love Wales and how much you can see on a 1 week holiday in Wales!

1 Week Wales Itinerary

Find What You're Looking For Easily Here!

Wales Itinerary Map

I have pinned all of the places I recommend visiting in this Wales 1 week itinerary in the map below to help you plan your own trip to Wales and get an idea of where to visit in Wales in 1 week!

Best time to visit Wales

Wales is good to visit all year round… as long as you are prepared for the weather that comes with it!

However, for the very best time to visit Wales, I recommend the Spring, Summer and Autumn months so you will have more pleasant weather and there are more activities on and open!

Although note that school holidays do get considerably busier in Wales so if you can avoid them then I would!

Here’s my full post on the best time to visit Wales !

Looking to take the train to Wales??

For your upcoming trip to Wales, Transport for Wales has a fantastic advance sale starting from 15th January so you can book cheaper trains to and around Wales by clicking here !

Why not start planning your Wales trip for this year now!

And for more help on where to visit in Wales by train? Read my 10 best places to visit in Wales by train post!

Get 12 train tickets for the price of 6!

TfW is having a Multiflex sale between 9th January and 31st January. Customers will be able to get 12 journeys for the price of 6 ! Multiflex can be used in any direction between a chosen origin and destination station at any time of day and are available to buy on the TfW app . 

Click here to find out more and purchase your half-price tickets available to use between stations in Mid-Glamorgan, South Glamorgan, RCT & Vale of Glamorgan.

How to get around Wales

Driving is the best way to get Wales. Although there are public buses and train lines, it can take a lot of time to get to each place using public transport.

If you have a car then great! If you don’t, I recommend hiring a car ! Cardiff has a few car hire places and Bristol Airport is a popular place to hire cars from. You could get the train to Cardiff or Bristol Airport and hire a car from there, or you can hire a car from where you start.

For example, it would be quicker to hire a car in London and drive to South Wale s rather than get the train.

I recommend Rental Cars for car hire in Wales as they search all the top car rental companies! Search for car rental in Wales here!

The roads in Wales are very good but they can seem scary to some as they are very small but that’s how you get to the best spots in Wales! Here are my driving in Wales tips to help you out too!

1 Week in Wales

Day 1 – cardiff.

Start your first day in Wales getting to Cardiff. If you are travelling from London to Wales or South England to Wales you can stop off at a few places like Bath, the Cotswolds and the Wye Valley on the way into Wales, even though they are all in England they will start off your Wales trip well.

Spend late afternoon and early evening seeing Cardiff City , you can park in the city centre and head to Cardiff Castle which will take you through the main shopping area of the city.

Click here for my full 1 day in Cardiff itinerary!

Afterwards, drive down to Mermaid Quay and have dinner at one of the restaurants overlooking the water on Cardiff Bay which shows off a cosmopolitan side of the city and check out the Cardiff Bay Wetlands Reserve if it’s a nice evening. This will be a great first look at Wales on your 1 week in Wales.

Stay overnight in – Cardiff

Day 2 – Brecon Beacons

Check out of your hotel in Cardiff, tonight I recommend staying in Pembrokeshire so you can wake up by the coast in one of the best areas in Wales in my opinion, however, I recommend taking the scenic route from Cardiff to Pembrokeshire via the Brecon Beacons National Park!

Both the Brecon Beacons National Park in South Wales and Eryri National Park (Snowdonia National Park) in North Wales are must-visit places on this one week Wales itinerary.

If you like hiking then you have to hike up Pen Y Fan ! It’s the highest peak in South Wales and it will take you a few hours to hike!

If you like adventure then you can check out some of the waterfalls in the Brecon Beacons . You can do a full waterfall walk seeing up to 4 waterfalls or you can see some smaller ones individually which will be easier if you have children or don’t enjoy walking.

Lastly, if you love driving and appreciate scenic roads then make sure you drive along Black Mountain Road which is known as the Top Gear road in the Brecon Beacons , it takes you right through the middle of the National Park and is an incredible drive!

Stay overnight in – Pembrokeshire

Day 3 – Pembrokeshire

Pembrokeshire is an amazing county in South Wales, it offers endless beaches, walking paths, activities for children and more! And the best thing about Pembrokeshire is that it is quite easy to see a lot of Pembrokeshire in 1 day !

I recommend spending one full day in Pembrokeshire beach hopping on your Wales 1 week itinerary, if the weather permits!

Popular beaches and seaside towns you can visit are: Tenby Beach, Saundersfoot Beach, Barafundle Bay, St Davids.

For lesser-known places that are really special, you can visit: Bosherston Lilly Ponds, St Govan’s Chapel, the Blue Lagoon, Ramsey Island.

If you are travelling to Wales with children, there are lots of places to visit fo children and children activities in Pembrokeshire like: Oakwood Theme Park, Folly Farm, Manor Wildlife Park, West Wales Karting .

Day 4 – Pembrokeshire

There is so much to see in Pembrokeshire that I really recommend you plan 2 full days here to see the best of it and have a rest so you’re not travelling somewhere new every day on your Wales 1 week trip.

There are so many places to visit in Wales and too many to mention in just this 1 week Wales itinerary, to see even more places to visit read my post with Stunning Places to Visit on Your Wales Road Trip Itinerary!

Day 5 – Drive From South Wales to North Wales

Driving from South Wales to North Wales takes more time than expected because there is no motorway, only an A road. But, the road takes you all the way along the West Coast of Wales and it’s a beautiful drive.

I suggest getting up early this day to start the drive along the coast, there are a few coastal towns and villages you can stop in on the way like: Aberaeron and Aberystwyth .

I recommend staying overnight in Eryri National Park (Snowdonia National Park) where there are lots of accommodation options so you’ll be ready to have a full day in Snowdonia tomorrow.

To end the drive and start seeing North Wales today you can head to Portmeirion which is a really unique tourist attraction in North Wales as it is an Italian village, it closes at 17:30 so get there before then!

If you want an afternoon beach trip you can go over to the Lynn Peninsula and visit one of the family-friendly beaches like Abersoch .

Stay overnight in – Eryri National Park (Snowdonia National Park)

Day 6 – Eryri National Park (Snowdonia National Park)

Climbing Yr Wyddfa (Mount Snowdon) which is the highest mountain in Wales, is the obvious activity and top thing to do in Eryri National Park (Snowdonia National Park), if you are up for the challenge I recommend hiking Snowdon from Pen-Y-Pass !

If you don’t fancy the hike or you are doing this Wales itinerary with children, you can get a train to the top of Snowdon !

And if you are up for an even bigger challenge to finish your 1 week wales itinerary off then look into climbing Tryfan mountain !

However, there are so many other things to do in Snowdonia if hiking is not your thing!

Zip World in Snowdon offers a huge range of adrenaline activities for adults, children and families. So does Adventure Parc Snowdonia , you can even go surfing here in a man-made pool!

You can go horse riding with Snowdonia Riding Stables , you can visit the Slate Museum in the popular town of Llanberis which is great for kids too.

In addition to this there are so many waterfalls in Snowdon to find, lakes to walk around and pretty villages to visit among the mountains.

Day 7 – Llandudno & Conwy

As you leave Eryri National Park (Snowdonia National Park) and leave Wales on the last day of your week in Wales, I recommend making use of the places to visit in North Wales on the road that takes you along the North Coast and out into England to Chester and Manchester.

Conwy and Llandudno are great places to visit. Conwy is an old market town home to Conwy Castle which is one of the best castles in Wales and it’s home to the smallest house in Britain!

Llandudno is a typical British seaside resort home to a pier, a huge promenade, nice beaches, big victorian houses and the Great Orme which is a limestone rock you can drive around and get a great view from the top from! I really love it here so it’s a good place to stop in!

Aber Falls Waterfall and Gwrych Castle and Gardens are more great places to visit and stop at on your route home or back to England!

Looking for more places to visit in Wales?? Here are 36 places in Wales to visit on a Wales road trip throughout the country!!

Wales Travel FAQ

Is wales worth visiting.

Yes of course! There are so many places to visit in Wales all year round that are suitable for families, couples, families and friends. You’ll visit places in Wales that you can’t imagine belong in the UK!

What is the best month to visit Wales?

Shoulder months like June and September are the best time to visit Wales for warmer and drier weather and also because they are out of school holidays and therefore less busy.

What is the most beautiful part of Wales?

Eryri National Park (Snowdonia National Park) in North Wales is the most beautiful part of Wales in my opinion. It has huge majestic mountains with so many lakes and waterfalls.

How many days do you need to see Wales?

A lot of driving is needed to see the many of the best places in Wales so a couple of days in Wales up to 1 week in Wales and even 2 weeks in Wales is best in order to see what the country offers.

How long should you spend in Wales?

1 week in Wales is a perfect amount of time to see Wales, you can concentrate on a small area of Wales, relax and see that area well, or you can travel somewhere new everyday and see a lot of Wales in just 1 week like this!

Is Wales safe?

Yes, Wales is a very safe country and the people in Wales are very friendly. Wales is great for solo travellers.

I hope this Wales itinerary has helped you plan your 1 week in Wales!

• For more of my Wales posts see:
• 3 Day Wales Itinerary!
• 16 Beautiful Staycations in Wales To Feel Like You’re Abroad
• 10 Lush Glamping in Wales With A Hot Tub Pods, Cabins & Tents
• 16 Day Trips From Cardiff Visiting South Wales & England
• 15 UK Staycation Ideas For This Year! Visit The Best Of The UK

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Most Beautiful Places To Visit In The UK

From charming villages in the cotswolds to the fairytale hamlet of portmeirion in wales, these are among the most beautiful places in the uk..

By: Lakshmi Sharath Published: Apr 06, 2024 10:39 AM IST

Poets have long extolled the diverse mystical and romantic landscapes of the United Kingdom (UK), from verdant rolling hills and lake-studded meadows to rugged cliffs and sun-dappled woodlands. Comprising England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, the most beautiful places in the UK unravel a rich tapestry of history, traditions, and culture. Castles and fortresses dot the “sceptred isle”, while the countryside is adorned with lakes, rivers, treacherous mudflats, sea-sculpted cliffs, enchanting moors, meandering valleys, dramatic rock formations, and coastal marshlands.

Meet William Wordsworth in Grasmere and Jane Austen in Bath, explore the world of Downton Abbey in Yorkshire, experience regal splendour at Windsor Castle, and marvel at the legendary Giant’s Causeway. Wander through picturesque Cotswold villages or gaze upon the iconic White Cliffs of Dover. Be captivated by the rugged beauty of the Isle of Skye and other stunning landscapes in Scotland and the Italian-inspired Portmeirion in Wales. Each scene is straight out of a storybook, inviting you on a remarkable journey through the most beautiful places in the UK, where natural wonders abound. As the poet John Keats aptly said, “A thing of beauty is a joy forever.”

Best time to visit scenic and beautiful places in the UK

The best time to explore the scenic and beautiful places in the UK is during spring, from March to June, and in autumn, from September to November. These periods are considered the shoulder seasons, offering pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Summer, although popular, can become crowded, particularly in July and August, and may experience occasional thunderstorms. However, the weather across the various countries of the UK can be highly unpredictable, so it’s advisable to be prepared for rain at any time.

Explore our selection of the most beautiful castles in England .

Most beautiful places to visit in the UK

Cotswold, england.

The Cotswold emerges straight from the pages of fairy tale books, with picturesque hamlets dotted with verdant gardens, murmuring rivers, quaint cottages, honey-hued manor houses, ancient churches, charming pubs, taverns, and teahouses. The quintessential English countryside , Cotswold is one of the most beautiful places in the UK and rightfully holds the title of the “Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty”.

Spanning across six counties, including Gloucestershire and Oxfordshire, lose yourself in the fascinating villages and historic towns like Moreton-in-Marsh, the picturesque Arlington Row in Bibury, Asthall, Bourton-on-the-Water along the River Windrush, Upper Slaughter and Lower Slaughter, Broadway, Chipping Campden, Stanton, among others. If Castle Combe reminds you of Downton Abbey, then the mystical door of St. Edward’s Church in the magical Stow-on-the-Wold will transport you into a world reminiscent of Tolkien’s creations. Don’t miss the opportunity to have a drink at one of England’s oldest inns – The Porch House, founded in the 10th century. Stroll around Abbey House Gardens, explore Blenheim Palace, and soak in the historic ambience of the Roman Baths.

These beautiful small towns in England will inspire the artist in you.

Best time to explore: June to August

Best places to stay: Thyme in Southrop, Estelle Manor in Oxfordshire, Foxhill Manor in Broadway.

How to reach: Take the train from London Paddington, and in approximately 100 minutes, you’ll arrive at Moreton-in-Marsh, often referred to as the Gateway to the Cotswolds

Lake District, Cumbria, England

The poets discovered it first and then came the tourists. One of the most beautiful places in the UK, Lake District is also the birthplace of the literary giant William Wordsworth. Located in Cumbria, it boasts stunning landscapes of craggy mountains, lush meadows, and azure lakes dotted with pretty wildflowers glistening in the golden light. While Windermere is the crown jewel among the lakes, do not miss Ullswater, Coniston Water, Lake Buttermere, and Wast Water. Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a national park, this hauntingly beautiful terrain with its dramatic cliffs and ridges is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts.

Go for long walks through the wooded islands of Derwentwater and potter around the idyllic villages like Grasmere, Ambleside, Hawshead, Keswick, and Bowness-on-Windermere, among others. Cruise away on a boat in Windermere and if you are feeling a tad adventurous, scale the peak of Scafell Pike, standing tall at 3200 feet. There are several walking trails around lakes and fells, water sports such as kayaking and fishing, and extreme outdoor activities like gorge walking. For those with a literary bent, don’t miss Rydall Mount, Dove Cottage, and the Wordsworth Museum, along with Hilltop, the 17th-century cottage of Beatrix Potter.

Best Time to Explore : April to October

Best Place to Stay:  Gilpin Hotel and Lake House, The Forest Side, Rothay Manor.

How to Reach: The closest airport is in Manchester , approximately 90 miles (144 km) away. You can rent a car or take a train to the Lake District, which takes about two hours.

Book your stay at Gilpin Hotel & Lake House via Booking.com

Book your stay at Gilpin Hotel And Lake House via Agoda.com

Book your stay at Forest Side Hotel via Booking.com

Book your stay at Forest Side Hotel via Agoda.com

Book your stay at Rothay Manor Hotel via Booking.com

Isle of Skye, Scotland

The Isle of Skye in Scotland is a landscape of towering jagged cliffs, enchanting moors, incredible rock formations, azure lochs, and ancient castles, all contributing to its hauntingly beautiful and dramatic allure. Among its crown jewels are the iconic pinnacle known as the Old Man of Storr and the rugged basalt cliffs of Quiraing. Hike through the mist-wrapped Cuillin Hills, often referred to as the “cloud island”, which inspired the island’s name.

Mystical and magical, the views are Instagram-worthy, including the Neist Point Lighthouse, Fairy Glen, and Portree Harbour. Soak in the beauty of the Fairy Pools on the northern slopes of Black Cuillin, go to Mealt Falls, admire the views of Kilt Rock, explore Elgol and Spar Cave, and get a dose of history at the Armadale and Dunvegan Castles while cruising along the coast. And while you are here, get high on the local whisky at renowned distilleries like Talisker and Torabhaig.

Explore our selection of the best things to do in Scotland .

Best time to explore: April to September

Best places to stay: Marmalade Hotel, Lampay Chalets

How to reach: Inverness Airport is 85 miles (136 km) away, while Isle of Benbecula Airport is approximately 44 miles away. You can rent a car from both destinations or take a bus.

Book your stay at Marmalade via Booking.com

Book your stay at Marmalade via Agoda.com

Book your stay at Lampay Chalets via Booking.com

Book your stay at Lampay Chalets via Agoda.com

Loch Lomond, Scotland

While there may not be any mythical monsters lurking in the placid sapphire waters of Loch Lomond like the famous Loch Ness, this Queen of the Scottish Lakes, along with the forested depths of Trossachs National Park, is one of the most beautiful places in the UK. Kayak across the lake, embark on a cruise, hike through the forests, take a scenic drive, or visit atmospheric villages like Balloch and Luss around the lochs.

Here’s what makes Scotland the dog-friendliest luxury destination.

Trekkers can tackle the 96-mile (154 km) West Highland Way that passes through the Loch and National Park. Alternatively, opt for a shorter hike up Conic Hill via the Balmaha Circular Trail. Castle enthusiasts can explore medieval Balloch Castle, Stirling Castle, Linlithgow Palace, or Doune Castle, known for its appearance in Outlander. Easily accessible from Glasgow and Edinburgh, this largest freshwater loch in the UK should be on your itinerary.

Find out why you should visit Troon, a seaside town in Scotland, for a restorative vacation.

Best time to explore: March to May

Best places to stay: Loch Lomond Waterfront, Balmaha Lodges

How to reach: Rent a car from Glasgow Airport, just 26 miles (41 km) away, or from Edinburgh, which is 57 miles (91 km) away.

Book your stay Loch Lomond Waterfront Luxury Lodges via Booking.com

Book your stay at Loch Lomond Waterfront Luxury Lodges via Agoda.com

Book your stay at Balmaha Lodges via Booking.com

Book your stay at Balmaha Lodges via Agoda.com

Giant’s Causeway, Northern Ireland

Legend has it that an Irish giant, Finn McCool, built the dramatic causeway over the sea, filled with 40,000 massive interlocked hexagonal-shaped basalt columns, to challenge his Scottish counterpart, Benandonner, who tripped over it. In reality, this UNESCO World Heritage Site in County Antrim, Northern Ireland, was likely formed by volcanic fissure eruptions. Marvel at fascinating formations like The Organ, resembling organ pipes, Chimney Stacks, and even a Giant’s Boot.

Don’t miss the exhibition at the Giant’s Causeway Visitor Experience, which provides insights into this natural wonder . Walk across the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, barely a metre wide, connecting the tiny island of Carrick-a-Rede with rugged cliffs, dangling 30 metres above the ocean. Explore the ruins of medieval Dunluce Castle against the coastal backdrop. Giant’s Causeway is also near Bushmills Distillery, where you can enjoy a tour and a drink.

Explore our selection of the best places to visit in Ireland.

Best time to explore: April to October, though it gets very crowded in July and August

Best places to stay: Bushmills Inn, The Causeway Hotel, The Carrick.

How to reach: Rent a car from Londonderry Airport, which is 29 miles (46 km) away, or from Belfast Airport, which is 50 miles (80 km) away.

Book your stay at Bushmills Inn Hotel & Restaurant via Booking.com

Book your stay at Causeway Hotel via Booking.com

Book your stay at The Carrick via Booking.com

Portmerion, Gwynedd, Wales

Nestled in a quiet peninsula in Northern Wales, Portmeirion magically transforms into the Italian Riviera with its captivating colourful cottages and mansions, nestled amidst piazzas and pavilions, enveloped by woodlands and gardens offering breathtaking views of the estuary of River Dwyryd. This idyllic village exudes a Mediterranean vibe and was the visionary creation of Welsh architect Sir Clough Williams-Ellis, taking over 50 years to complete.

Explore the village and marvel at the architectural wonders of the Gothic Pavilion, Belvedere, Hercules Hall, Bristol Pavilion, and Battery Square during guided walking tours, or opt for forest and garden tours. Pamper yourself at the spa, peruse pottery shops, and visit filming locations of The Prisoner . While the village boasts cafes, restaurants, hotels, and boutique accommodations, you can also go on a vintage steam train journey from the nearby Minffordd Station to Eryri and explore Snowdonia National Park. Alternatively, venture to Porthmadog, a vibrant harbour town.

Find out why Wales is also known as the unexpected filming capital of the UK .

Best time to explore: March to August but spring is the best time

Best places to stay: The Hotel Portmeirion, Castell Deudraeth

How to reach: The nearest international airports are Liverpool, 60 miles (96 km) away, and Manchester, 82 miles (131 km) away, both approximately a little over two hours away by road.

Book your stay at Portmeirion Village & Castell Deudraeth via Booking.com

Book your stay at Portmeirion Village & Castell Deudraeth via Agoda.com

Durdle Door-Dorset, England

As the poster child of the Jurassic Coast, Durdle Door is the most famous landmark in Dorset, a natural limestone arch shaped by the relentless force of waves. Follow the cliff path to reach the beautiful pebble and shingle Durdle Door Beach. Climb the 140 steps to discover the adjacent shingle Man O’War Beach.

Marvel at naturally formed sea caves at the base of the cliffs, though entry is not advisable due to safety concerns. This spectacular arch is part of the UNESCO World Heritage coastline, and you can continue your exploration towards Lulworth Cove and Stair Hole, soaking in sweeping views. Further along, discover fascinating geological formations at Worbarrow Bay and lose yourself in the abandoned village of Tyneham.

Best time to explore: May to September

Best places to stay: Lulworth Lodge, Durdle Door Holiday Park

How to reach: The nearest airport to Dorset is Bournemouth Airport, 22 miles (35 km) away. London Heathrow is 96 miles (154 km) away, while London Gatwick is approximately 99 miles (159 km) away.

Book your stay at Lulworth Lodge via Booking.com

Book your stay at Lulworth Lodge via Agoda.com

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Kynance cove, cornwall, england.

Straight out of a painting, Kynance Cove boasts turquoise waters, emerald green and red serpentinite rocks, and pristine white sandy beaches, making it one of the most beautiful places to visit in the UK. Patronised by the British royal family since the Victorian Era, this Cornwall gem is situated on the Lizard’s Peninsula on the eastern side of Mount’s Bay.

Discover caves, creeks, headlands, and islands during low tide, while towering rocks provide a stunning backdrop. Drive along the scenic coastline, meander along the tidal beach, explore hidden caves, or simply swim and sunbathe. The iconic South West Coast Path winds along the cliff above the cove, offering panoramic views and opportunities for wildlife spotting.

Best places to stay: Mullion Cove, Hotel Cornwall, Polurrian on the Lizard

How to reach: The nearest airport is Cornwall Airport Newquay, 48 miles (77 km) away.

North York Moors National Park, England

Experience the allure of wilderness as you traverse the evocative, untamed landscapes of the windswept North York Moors National Park in England. Soak in the views of ancient woodlands and rugged coasts adorned with dramatic cliffs and heather moorlands, where timeless villages with centuries-old stone houses reside. Located in Yorkshire, this stunning national park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering hiking trails through forests and along the coast, as well as guided walks through picturesque hamlets. However, it’s the magical moors that beckon you, dazzling in vibrant purple hues during summers and transforming into a golden tapestry in autumn.

Hike along Cleveland Way and Lyke Wake Walk, and explore the ruins of Rievaulx Abbey. Visit charming villages like Goathland, straight out of Harry Potter movies, while Thornton le Dale and Hutton le Hole are equally recommended. Listen to stories of old smugglers at Robin Hood’s Bay, or venture to the scenic shores of Runswick Bay for a beachside retreat.

Explore all the Harry Potter movie locations in the UK .

Best time to explore: June to October

Best places to stay: The Fox and Hounds Inn, Royal Oak Inn, York, Inn on the Moor Hotel

How to reach: The closest airport is in Durham, approximately 30 miles (48 km) away, while Manchester Airport is about 104 miles (167 km) away.

Book your stay at The Inn on the Moor Hotel via Booking.com

Book your stay at The Inn on the Moor Hotel via Agoda.com

Bath, Somerset, England

Step into a Roman-era time capsule and immerse yourself in a world of thermal baths, hot springs, and spas in the historic city of Bath in Somerset. As you wander through this city steeped in old-world charm, you’ll find yourself transported to the Victorian era, reminiscent of scenes from a Jane Austen novel, complete with aristocratic balls and romantic interludes. The city’s Georgian architecture, adorned with honey-hued monuments, is the main attraction here. Explore the iconic Royal Crescent, where you can experience life as a Georgian at the Royal Crescent Hotel and Spa, or marvel at the architectural marvel of the Circus. Gain insight into Bath’s literary legacy at the Jane Austen Centre.

Take a heritage walking tour or explore on your own as you wander around galleries, and museums, savour the culinary fares and pamper yourself in the spas. Visit Mary Shelley’s House of Frankenstein for a macabre experience, or venture to The Holburne Museum, once home to Lady Danbury in Bridgerton . Climb the Bath Abbey Tour for panoramic views, or go on the Bath Skyline Walk for a different perspective of the city. Venture into the countryside to explore the iconic Stonehenge or picturesque villages like Lacock and Castle Combe.

Explore our comprehensive guide to planning the perfect trip to Bath, England .

Best places to stay: The Ayrlington, The Gainsborough, The Royal Cresent Hotel and Spa

How to reach: Take a direct train from London Paddington Station, which takes approximately an hour and 20 minutes.

Book your stay at The Ayrlington Guesthouse via Booking.com

Book your stay at The Ayrlington House via Agoda.com

Book your stay at The Gainsborough Bath Spa via Booking.com

Book your stay at The Gainsborough Bath Spa Hotel via Agoda.com

Book your stay at The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa via Booking.com

Book your stay at The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa via Agoda.com

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(Feature Image Credit: TTstudio/Shutterstock)

Related: The Best Times To Visit London, According To Local Experts

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

-What are some of the most scenic natural attractions in the UK? Some of the most beautiful natural attractions in the UK include Lake District, Cotswold, North York Moors National Park, Jurassic Coast, Kynance Cove, Durdle Door in England, Loch Lomond, Loch Ness in Scotland, Snowdonia National Park in Wales, Giant Causeway in Northern Ireland.

-Are there any picturesque villages and coastal towns worth visiting? Villages like those in the Cotswolds and Lake District in England, and coastal towns such as Dover, Dorset, Cornwall, Newquay, Tenby, and Dartmouth, offer charming experiences and account for some of the most beautiful pl aces in the UK.

-What are the most scenic drives in the UK? St Ives to St Just in Cornwall, the Dorset Jurassic Coast Drive, Kendal to Keswick in the Lake District, Snake Pass in the Peak District, The Antrim Coast Drive, and the Giant’s Causeway Coastal Route in Northern Ireland are among the most scenic drives in the UK.

-What are some of the iconic landmarks in the UK? Iconic landmarks in the UK include Buckingham Palace, the Tower of London, Big Ben, Windsor Palace, the Roman Baths at Bath, Stonehenge, Edinburgh Castle, Cardiff Castle, Stirling Castle, Giant’s Causeway, and the White Cliffs of Dover.

-Are there any hidden gems or lesser-known beautiful places in the UK? Hidden gems that are also some of the most beautiful places in the UK include Castle Combe in the Cotswolds, Cadgwith Cove in Cornwall, Torquay in Devon, Bournemouth in Dorset, Dunnottar Castle in Scotland, Fingal’s Cave in Scotland, Carrick Castle in Argyll and Bute, and Snowdonia in Wales, among others.

• beautiful places

Lakshmi Sharath

Lakshmi is passionate about everything that is local — from cultural traditions to art and architecture and believes that people make places. A slow and mindful traveller from India, you will often find her listening to stories of people or just sitting in a cafe and watching life pass by. Travelling is a way of life for this former media professional .. Read More who quit her desk and decade long corporate career to become a storyteller. Read Less

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Solar eclipse: parts of UK crane for a ‘small grazing’

The total eclipse visible in North America may be seen as a partial one in some UK areas – weather permitting

• Millions across US, Mexico and Canada witness rare total solar eclipse
• Total solar eclipse over Mexico, US and Canada – in pictures

Millions of people in the US, Canada and Mexico are planning to gather to watch Monday’s solar eclipse, when the daylight skies will be momentarily engulfed in darkness as the moon passes between the sun and the Earth.

More than 31 million people live in what is known as the path of totality – the area that will see a full total eclipse.

But there are people in the UK who could be fortunate enough to see a partial eclipse if the weather is clear enough.

Dr Edward Bloomer, a senior astronomer at the Royal Observatory Greenwich, said the UK is only going to get “a small grazing” of the eclipse in western and northern areas.

The Outer Hebrides are the best place in the UK to see the eclipse, with Stornoway seeing a 34% eclipse at 8.14pm.

Belfast will get a 28% eclipse and Glasgow a 12% eclipse. It should even be visible in Liverpool, where 3% of the sun will be blocked out.

Bloomer said: “I’m afraid the south and the east are out of luck this time around. We won’t, ourselves, get to see anything from the observatory, which we’re a bit sad about.”

But even those who live in the path of the eclipse may still be unlucky, as western parts of the British Isles are unlikely to get clear enough skies to be guaranteed an unobscured view, with weather forecasts predicting cloud and rain.

Nevertheless, it was still worth trying to see the eclipse, scientists said.

“Total eclipses of the sun are amazing and feel quite magical,” said Prof Don Pollacco, from the University of Warwick’s department of physics.

“From the right vantage point, you can see the moon shadow rushing towards you at 1,000 miles an hour as totality approaches.

“When almost obscured, as the sun’s light shines through valleys on the moon’s limb [the edge of its visible surface], you see the famous Baily’s beads (beads of sunlight emerging from the eclipse shadow) and, when the final valley is lit up, the “diamond ring” (which appears as a faint corona around the sun, a glittering ring).

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“At this time, turning off the sunlight has effects high up in the Earth’s atmosphere, which may impact communications, and produce strange shadow bands on the ground – making the ground swirl around as you look at it.”

Eye protection is absolutely essential, Pollacco added.

He warned: “With no protection, you will at best damage your eyes, or you could blind yourself.”

It will be 2090 before the next total eclipse of the sun is visible from the UK.

While total solar eclipses are not rare and happen every 18 months, the path of a full total eclipse is only about 80 miles, so they are often not visible from inhabited areas of the planet.

• Solar eclipses

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