Did you already know that Wales has extra castles per sq. km than anyplace else in Europe? That’s only one of the many causes to go to Wales. We’re rounding up all the prime locations to go to in Wales that may entice you to add it to the prime of your UK bucket checklist. Wales, one of the 4 nations that make up the United Kingdom, has typically been neglected in favor of its extra distinguished neighbors: England, Scotland, and Northern Ireland however when you go to Wales you’ll marvel why you by no means thought of it earlier.
Places to Visit in Wales
This tiny nation is stuffed with imposing castles, putting landscapes, and wonderful adventures. The Welsh are a unusual bunch who like to soar off issues, dangle excessive in the sky, and converse a wholly totally different language. With a wealthy historical past and a land stuffed with imposing castles, Wales can be a incredible vacation spot for tradition as a lot as it’s for journey.
So prepare to study a phrase or two of the Welsh language, get your adrenaline on, and step again in time as a result of we’re going to share all the greatest locations to go to in Wales that may make you need to pack your baggage proper now.
1. Snowdonia National Park
Snowdonia National Park in North Wales is one of three nationwide parks in the nation and it tops our checklist for its pure magnificence. Located in northwestern Wales, the park covers over 800 sq. miles of rolling hills, lakes, and an unlimited rugged panorama.
Adventure lovers will love exploring the Snowdon mountains they usually can hike the many trails to discover the unimaginable mountain views. The star attraction goes to the summit of Mount Snowdon, the highest peak in all of Wales standing proud at 1085 meters (3645 ft). Want to hike up the Snowdon Mountain Summit? Book this guided hike with an knowledgeable information.
2. Snowdon Mountain Railway
If you’ve gotten restricted time, you possibly can take the Snowdon Mountain Railway up to Britain’s highest customer heart. The century-old narrow-gauge railway opened in 1896 and its historic steam practice travels up 5 miles to the peak of Mount Snowdon.
When you arrive you get out to do some climbing and take in the extraordinary views from the 1085-meter (3645-foot) peak. You can take the practice again down or hike down the mountain. Watch our video of our journey up to Mountain Snowdon
3. Llanberis
Llanberis is a good place to make a base when exploring Snowdonia National Park. Plus there may be loads to see together with the National Slate Museum, and one other historic railway, the Llanberis Steam Railway.
Besides Snowdon Mountain, Snowdonia National Park homes 14 mountains over 3000 ft making it one of the best-hiking locations in the United Kingdom. Climbing, mountain biking, and horseback using are additionally widespread in Snowdonia.
This dawn hike takes you from the village of Llanberis for an early morning hike to watch the dawn from the prime of Snowdon/Yr Wyddfa with a professional mountain information.
Places to Stay in Llanberis
4. Bounce Below
Bounce Below is a huge underground trampoline that provides adults playtime in the final jungle gymnasium. The collection of trampolines, nets, ladders, and slides make for a heart-pounding expertise that provides as many thrills because it does laughs.
Located at Llechwedd Slate Caverns in Blaenau Ffestiniog, the cave is twice the measurement of St. Paul’s Cathedral and is the outcome of an previous mining quarry. Let me let you know it’s big so give your self no less than a half day to get pleasure from this! Read extra: Bounce Below – The Ultimate Underground Trampoline for the Kid in You!
5. ZipWorld
The Llechwedd Slate Caverns is unquestionably the place to go to for distinctive adventures. After leaping round at Bounce Below, ensure that to do the Via Ferrata and Zip Line. This hair-raising course takes three hours to full and takes you thru a dozen zip traces whilst you traverse alongside excessive cliffs plunging to the caverns beneath.
There are caves, ropes, and bridges to cross and it’s a superb journey for these looking for one thing distinctive to do in Wales. If you need one thing actually quick, head outdoors to the Titan Zipline, it’s the quickest in Europe!
6. Portmeirion Tourist Village
One of the most unusual locations in Wales is the Italian-style city of Portmeirion. Portmeirion is a unusual vacationer village in Gwynedd, Wales. Nobody lives in this city, however it’s an exquisite cease in your go to to Wales that provides a quiet retreat in a really totally different vacation spot.
It was designed by Sir Clough Williams-Ellis who modeled Portmeirion after the Italian Riviera village of Portofino positioned very shut to the Cinque Terre.
Spend a day consuming ice cream and have some sizzling espresso with contemporary scones and cream as you discover the fairytale village. Or higher but, keep in a single day at the Portmeirion Hotel the place you’re feeling as you probably have stepped again in time.
We cherished our keep at Hotel Portmeirion – The benefit of staying right here is you’ve gotten most of the village to your self in the morning and night earlier than 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 located on a slender strip of sand that connects the Welsh mainland and the Great Orme. The splendid Welsh resorts of Llandudno and Conwy lie between two attractive sandy seashores. The Hop on Hop Off bus provides two totally different routes to get pleasure from views all the prime sights.
Llandudno has two fantastic seashores, making the good place to go to in the summer season. Its stunning seaside promenade makes for a beautiful stroll out to the pier that juts 700-meters (2,300-foot) into the bay. Be certain to hop on the Great Orme Tramway, the solely cable-hauled tramway on a public highway in Great Britain.
We stayed at Llandudno Bay Hotel and cherished it. This boutique lodge is positioned on the Llandudno Promenade with sea views.
8. Conwy Castle
Wales is the fort capital of Europe and one of our favourite castles to go to in Wales is Conway Castle in North Wales. Commissioned by Edward I, Conwy Castle has stood the take a look at of time because it was constructed between 1283 and 1289. It is taken into account one of the best fortresses in Europe and is a chosen UNESCO World Heritage Site.
This magnificent fort has imposing partitions taht have stood the take a look at of time that also encompass the grounds and small city of Conway as we speak. When you go inside Conwy Castle, you’ll witness the nice corridor, chambers, and kitchen, and a extra secluded internal ward with personal chambers and a royal chapel.
When visiting Conway, ensure to cease and see Britain’s most interesting 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 Thirteenth-century ‘iron ring’. and is a chosen UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is positioned in the city of Harlech in west Wales, in the county of Gwynedd. Looking over Tremadog Bay from the prime of a sea cliff is a shocking view.
Harlech Castles is one of the prime locations in Wales to see. Make certain to go inside to discover the fort tower. If you’d like to go to the fort, it opens at 10:00 am and prices £6.90 pp
10. Great Orme
Witness the towering cliffs of the Great Orme in North Wales to see incredible wildlife, from seals to seabirds as you’re taking a Sea Fishing journey in North Wales. We hopped aboard a fishing boat to study all about lobster fishing.
This distinctive journey takes individuals out on this distinctive journey the place you board his fishing boat to verify his lobster traps in the bays.
Not solely do you find out how to catch a lobster, however to additionally perceive the conservation of this widespread seafood entrée generally known as the Black Gold of the Sea. For extra info on fishing journeys and lobster safaris to the Great Orme go to: 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 throughout 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) ft into the air spanning 1000 ft. Pedestrians can stroll beside the water or you possibly can take a canal boat. But if you’re searching for one thing adventurous, strive taking a guided canoe tour
12. Pembrokeshire Coast National Park
One of the wildest and most rugged locations to see in Wales is the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park positioned on the West coast of Wales. The greatest manner to discover the Pembrokeshire Coast is by going Coasteering. Coasteering was invented in Wales and we determined that if we have been ever going to give the adrenaline journey of Coasteering a strive anyplace, it will be right here. Check it out right here.
Coasteering is a novel journey sport or coastal exploration the place you traverse alongside the coast of Wales by mountain climbing, cliff leaping, and swimming into sea caves. It provides outstanding views and as a lot journey as you need. You can soar from 10 meters or you possibly can merely slip simply into the sea. We went Coasteering with Preseliventure, e-book your journey right here.
13. Pembrokeshire Coast Path
If you don’t need to soar in the water, you possibly can hike the Pembrokeshire Coast Path. It covers a distance of 186 miles (299 km) alongside the west coast of Wales and provides some of the most breathtaking coastal surroundings in the world. The Pembrokeshire Coast Path takes you thru rugged sea cliffs, sandy seashores, and churning waters of the Irish Sea.
The Pembrokeshire Coast Path is split into 14 sections, every providing a novel and unforgettable expertise. Some of the highlights embrace the dramatic cliffs at St. David’s Head, the secluded seashores at Barafundle Bay and Marloes Sands, and the picturesque harbor at Solva.
Hiking the whole path often takes round two weeks, however there are loads of shorter sections that may be accomplished in a day or two.
14. St. David’s Cathedral
While in Pembrokeshire ensure that to go to St. David’s Cathedral positioned in the coronary heart of the metropolis of St. David’s. Within the cathedral is the Shrine of St. David, which is believed to comprise the stays of the Patron Saint of Wales. The shrine is adorned with intricate carvings and is a spot of pilgrimage for a lot of guests to the cathedral.
The cathedral has an extended wealthy historical past, courting again to the sixth century when The Patron St. David based a monastery on the website. The unique constructing was made of wooden and was later changed with a stone church in the twelfth century. Over the centuries, the cathedral was expanded and rebuilt a number of occasions, ensuing in the construction that stands as we speak.
Visitors can take a guided tour of the cathedral to study extra about Welsh historical past and structure, or just discover the many nooks and crannies of the constructing on their very own. St. David’s Cathedral is taken into account one of the holiest websites in the nation
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 right here whereas we visited. There is a superb pub that you have to cease in for a pint, the Slooth, and additionally it is a picturesque coastal stroll that’s so good, that the Red Bull Cliff Diving Event passed off right here in 2013.
You don’t have to soar off the large cliffs, however strolling alongside the coast provides extraordinary views of the coast of Wales. For climbing this is a superb place in Wales.
16. Gower Peninsula
If you’re searching for one other place in Wales for seashores, the Gower Peninsula in South Wales is understood for its lengthy sandy seashores and clear waters. Rhossili Bay is an iconic seashore with dramatic sea cliffs stretching 3 miles (5.8km) to Worm’s Head which bought its identify from the Viking phrase for a sea serpent.
Some seashores to try in the Gower Peninsula embrace Llangennith Beach, Three Cliffs Bay, Oxwich Bay, and Rhossili Bay. Caswell Bay is widespread with surfers.
17. Cardiff
Cardiff is the capital metropolis of Wales and no journey could be full with out visiting this bustling city heart. It’s a fantastic place to make a base whereas exploring South Wales and there are loads of issues to see and do.
Book this Cardiff guided Walking Tour with a neighborhood information to admire the Cardiff Castle, National Museum of Wales, Cathays Park, and the Cardiff Civic Centre which was constructed throughout the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries.
An excellent place to make a base is Hotel Indigo positioned in the coronary heart of Cardiff close to all the main sights together with the fort, St David’s Hall and principality stadium.
18. Cardiff Castle
One of the hottest issues to do in Wales is to go to Cardiff Castle. This medieval fort is positioned in the coronary heart of the metropolis and dates again greater than 2000 years. In the eleventh century, the fort was the seat of the Welsh king, Rhys ap Tewdwr, and later served as the residence of varied highly effective Welsh lords and princes.
In the late Thirteenth century, the fort was seized by English forces beneath the command of King Edward I, who rebuilt and expanded the fortress to assist safe his maintain over Wales.
Today, guests to Cardiff Castle can discover its ornate Gothic-style mansion, its spectacular clock tower, and the Welsh Military Museum.
19. National Museum Cardiff
If you’re a historical past buff, the National Museum Cardiff shouldn’t be to be missed. The constructing includes a beautiful atrium, a ravishing rooftop backyard, and a variety of galleries and exhibition areas starting from historic artifacts to up to date artwork.
There are everlasting and non permanent displays which can be enjoyable for the complete household. Kids will love the interactive displays the place they’ll discover a reproduction Victorian schoolroom, strive on medieval armor, and study Welsh historical past, myths and legends.
One of the greatest issues about the National Museum of Cardiff is that admission is free.
20. Carreg Cennen Castle
There are greater than 100 castles to discover in Wales which can be in wonderful situation and there are numerous extra ruins. We have been informed that if there may be one fort to go to, make it Carreg Cennen Castle simply north of Cardiff.
This dramatic fortress is an element of King Edward I’s Thirteenth-century ‘iron ring. They weren’t mendacity when somebody informed us that we will typically be the solely particular person there. We had all of it to ourselves. The fort’s partitions are nonetheless standing however what makes this fort so particular is the proven fact that it’s in ruins.
21. Brecon Beacons National Park
The third installment of the three nationwide parks to go to in Wales is Brecon Beacons National Park is an outside lovers paradise. From stargazing to mountain biking its rolling hills, there’s something for everybody. With 4 mountain ranges, there are loads of locations to discover inside its 520 sq. miles.
Brecon Beacons National Park homes the Fforest Fawr UNESCO Global Geopark and it’s a darkish sky protect. The Beacons Way is a 100 mile route by means of the nationwide park and the Taff Trail is a long-distance biking route that goes by means of the park from Brecon to Cardiff.
Book this adrenaline journey from Cardiff to Brecon Beacons. Start with a guided tour of world well-known Rhondda Valley in Southeast Wales earlier than starting your adrenaline-fuelled journey of canyoning, swimming, and leaping into crystal clear mountain streams
22. Llandeilo
Llandeilo is one other picturesque fishing village in the county of Carmarthenshire in Wales and is an efficient base to discover Dinefwr Castle and Park, the Brecon Beacons National Park, and the Carreg Cennen Castle. When in Llandeilo, additionally, you will be close to two notable Gardens – The National Botanic Garden of Wales and Aberglaseny Gardens.
Llandeilo has a historical past that dates again over 1,000 years, and there are a selection of historic landmarks to discover in the city. One of the most notable is the ruined Llandeilo Castle, which dates again to the Thirteenth century and provides beautiful views of the surrounding countryside.
Llandeilo is especially well-known for its meals scene, with a quantity of high-quality eating places and cafes serving up scrumptious Welsh delicacies and regionally sourced produce.
23. Aberaeron
One of the most colourful locations in Wales is the pretty seaside city of Aberaeron. Make certain to strive its honey ice cream in which has been regionally made by the Holgate household for 35 years.
We stayed at the Harbour Master Hotel, a beautiful lodge overlooking the sea with a fantastic restaurant. Aberaeron is also referred to as the Lobster Capital of Wales, so ensure to get pleasure from regionally caught lobster in the night.
24. Devil’s Bridge Falls
Devil’s Bridge is a village named after the bridge it’s well-known for. It has been a vacationer attraction since the 1700s. Devil’s Bridge is definitely a collection of three bridges constructed on prime of each other. The unique dates again to medieval occasions. Instead of demolishing the bridges after they grew to become unstable, they merely constructed one other atop them.
Legend has it that it bought its identify after an previous girl misplaced her cow and noticed it grazing on the different facet of the river. The Devil appeared and agreed to construct a bridge in return for the soul of the first residing factor to cross it.
So, when the bridge was accomplished the girl threw a crust of bread for her canine to retrieve. When the canine jumped over the bridge, it was the first residing factor to cross the bridge.
25. Aberystwyth
Aberystwyth is a seaside city in West Wales, in the county of Ceredigion. One of the principal sights in Aberystwyth is its seashore, which is an extended stretch of golden sand that’s good for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports activities.
The seashore is backed by a promenade that provides beautiful views of Cardigan Bay, and there are a number of cafes, eating places, and bars close by the place guests can get pleasure from a meal or a drink.
Aberystwyth can be dwelling to a quantity of historic landmarks and sights, together with Aberystwyth Castle, which dates again to the Thirteenth century and provides beautiful views of the city and the surrounding countryside.
Other notable landmarks embrace the National Library of Wales, which homes a group of Welsh books and manuscripts, and the Vale of Rheidol Railway, which takes guests on a scenic journey by means of the Welsh countryside.
26. Caernarfon Castle
Located in the city of Caernarfon, Gwynedd, in North Wales, Caernarfon Castle is a medieval fort that was constructed by King Edward I. A Unesco World Heritage Site, the fort was constructed between 1283 and 1330, with the intention of serving as a royal palace and a navy stronghold. King Edward, I wished to make a press release about his conquest of Wales and to reinforce the English Crown’s authority over the Welsh individuals.
The fort has a reference to the Prince of Wales started in 1911, the future King Edward VIII was invested right here as the Prince of Wales. Since then, the investiture of every new Prince of Wales has taken place at Caernarfon Castle.
The fort includes a collection of spectacular towers and ramparts. One of the most notable options of the fort is its polygonal towers that guests can climb to the prime for views of the surrounding Welsh countryside.
27. Hay on Wye
Hay on Wye is the nation’s nationwide e-book city positioned in Powys close to the border with England. The city is legendary for its giant quantity of second-hand and antiquarian bookshops, in addition to its annual literary pageant. The Hay Festival has been working since 1988.
The pageant is a celebration of literature, arts, and tradition, and brings collectively a variety of writers, poets, artists, and musicians from round 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 based in the early nineteenth century as a market city, however it grew to become well-known in the Sixties when Richard Booth, a neighborhood bookseller, started selling the city as a middle for books. Today, Hay on Wye has round 20 bookshops, many of that are positioned in historic buildings and supply a variety of uncommon and strange books.
28. Center of Alternative Technology
To step out of historical past for a bit, The Centre for Alternative Technology (CAT) is a good change of tempo. Thie academic and analysis heart positioned in Machynlleth, Wales was based in 1973 by a bunch of activists and environmentalists who wished to promote sustainable residing and display sensible options for a low-carbon future.
CAT is ready on a 7-acre website and is dwelling to a range of academic displays and interactive shows. Visitors can study renewable power, natural gardening, sustainable constructing methods, and plenty of different subjects associated to sustainability and environmentalism.
Getting Around Wales
The greatest manner to get round Wales is by rental automobile. We flew into Machester, England, and picked up our automobile at the airport earlier than heading out to discover Wales in a counter-clockwise path. It was a fantastic route to see all the prime Wales sights over the course of 8 days in Wales. Check rental automobile costs at RentalCars.com
The Welsh Language is usually a bit of a tongue tornado to get your head round however don’t fear everybody speaks English in Wales. The hardest half of the journey is simply attempting to learn some of the indicators. But then once more, isn’t studying one other language half of the enjoyable of touring?
So there you’ve gotten it! These are our suggestions for the greatest locations in Wales. From its imposing castles to rugged coast, there are such a lot of issues to do in Wales, I’m shocked it isn’t on extra individuals’s radar.
While writing this text, it made me need to return. There remains to be a lot extra to see and do. What’s your favourite place in Wales?
Read More About Travel in Great Britain
Our journey to Wales was in partnership with Visit Britain and Visit Wales