Wales is rich in history (over 400 castles), culture, myth and legend. Welsh language is spoken by 20% of the population (English is spoken too!). There’s fantastic scenery, with 3 National Parks and 5 Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty so there are plenty of ways to enjoy the green countryside by foot, bike or car!
Walk long distance paths like Offa's Dyke, the centuries-old border with England; climb Cader Idris (home of a mythical giant); cycle along country lanes, golf, fish or enjoy watersports along some of the best beaches in Europe. Alternatively get away from it all on Pembrokeshire’s beaches and finish off with a traditional afternoon tea of Welsh cakes at picture postcard Tenby.
The history and myths of one of the world's oldest civilisations have created an unforgettable range of sights to explore: Roman forts and over 400 castles, including World Heritage Sites at Conwy and Caernarfon. Follow legendary King Arthur and Merlin the magician to Carmarthen and relish Wales' rich culture in museums and galleries everywhere.
There’s market towns and small villages in the countryside, while cities like Swansea and the capital, Cardiff, are vibrantly cosmopolitan. Wherever you choose to go there will be a warm welcome from the people you meet - Croeso i Gymru, Welcome to Wales.
Must see and do
- Snowdon Mountain Railway
, Caernarfon
- St David’s Day, throughout Wales (March)
- Harlech Castle
, Harlech
- Centre for Alternative Technology
, Machynlleth
- St David’s Cathedral
, St David’s, Pembrokeshire
- Aberglasney
, Carmarthen
- Techniquest
, Cardiff
- The Big Pit National Mining Museum of Wales
, Blaenafon
- The Llangollen International Music Festival
, Llangollen (July)
- The Museum of Welsh Life
, Cardiff
Aberystwyth
A Victorian seaside resort and University town located on Cardigan Bay, with the backdrop of the Cambrian mountain range. Aberystwyth is an established holiday resort, which is home to many of Wales’ cultural institutions, situated on spectacular coastline and an ideal base for exploring the striking and unspoilt countryside at its doorstep.
Must see and do
- Vale of Rheidol Railway
, Aberystwyth
- Aberystwyth Arts Centre
, Aberystwyth
- Strata Florida Abbey
, near Aberystwyth
- Ceredigion Museum
, Aberystwyth
Cardiff
Cardiff, vibrant capital city of Wales offers visitors fantastic shopping, lively nightlife, a thriving arts and culture scene and history dating back to Roman times.
Must see and do
- Cardiff Castle
, Cardiff
- National Museum and Gallery of Wales
, Cardiff
- Millennium Stadium
, Cardiff
- Techniquest
, Cardiff Bay
- Castell Coch
, Cardiff
- Museum of Welsh Life
, St Fagans, Cardiff
- Cardiff Bay Visitor Centre
, Cardiff Bay
Carmarthen
Carmarthen is a lively country town, a commercial centre for the large rural county. Situated by the River Tywi, it is west Wales’s first large town.
Must see and do
- Carmarthen Heritage Centre
, Carmarthen
- Gwili Railway
, Bronwydd
- National Botanic Garden of Wales
, Carmarthen
- Aberglasney
, Llangathen
Caernarfon
A market town dominated by Edward I’s impressive medieval fortress, its strong royal connections range from the ancient Celtic Chieftains to the royal family of today.
Must see and do
- Caernarfon Castle
, Caernarfon
- Welsh Highland Railway
, Caernarfon
- Inigo Jones Slateworks
, Y Groeslon
- Segontium Roman Museum
, Caernarfon
Llangollen
The Holy Grail is said to be buried here on the mountain amongst the castle ruins of Castell Dinas Brân above the town. We also suggest a leisurely canal boat ride along the Llangollen Canal – there are good views over Llangollen.
Must see and do
- International Model Railway World
- Plas Newydd
- Valle Crucis Abbey
Pembrokeshire
Pembrokeshire has it all! Stunning landscape, rugged coastline, picture perfect beaches and crystal blue water. Be as active or as relaxed as you like!
Must see and do
- St Davids Cathedral
, St Davids
- Pembroke Castle
, Pembroke
- Oakwood Leisure Ltd
, Narbeth
- Skomer Island Nature Reserve
, Near Haverfordwest
- Melin Tregwynt Mill
, Near Fishguard
Swansea Bay
A breathtaking mix of city, coast and countryside which will make you want to come back again and again! Further along the bay is the beautiful Victorian seaside resort of Mumbles, where you can browse for local pottery and hand-carved lovespoons.
Must see and do
- National Waterfront Museum
, Swansea
- Singleton Park and Botanical Gardens
, Swansea
- Glynn Vivian Art Gallery
, Swansea
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