where to visit wales

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The 14 best places to visit in Wales

Cymru, the capital of castles, the Land of Song. Whatever name you know it by, here's where to go to see Wales at its most magnificent.

There can be no such thing as too much appreciation when it comes to Wales. This small but mighty country has spectacular landscapes, a fascinating history and an all-round warm and welcoming spirit that makes it hard not to love. 

And you can encounter its wonderful Celtic magic in so many places. The beach options are endless, the foodie scene is thriving, the castles house centuries of stories  and the peaks are breathtaking. From Cardiff in the south and Snowdonia in the north to the coastal towns of the west, here are the very best places you have to visit in Wales. 

RECOMMENDED:  🍴 The best restaurants in Cardiff 👀 The best things to do in Cardiff 🌤️ The very 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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Where to go in Wales

1.  Pembrokeshire

Of course, Pembrokeshire is a collection of places, but this spread of gorgeous coastal villages and unbeatable walks deserves all the attention it gets. The beaches of this western county win awards regularly, while its fishing villages may just be enough for the first-time visitor to consider the merits of such a life. Explore the UK's smallest city, St Davids, visit the serene little settlement of  Dale  or take an invigorating trek along the coastline. Pembrokeshire is one of the best destinations in the UK, let alone Wales.

2.  Brecon Beacons

Pen Y Fan (South Wales’s highest mountain) is the centrepiece of the Brecon Beacons, a gorgeous expanse of nature that serves as another great example of this nation’s natural beauty. Some of the walks in and around the Beacons are incredible, while the lakes, cirques and waterfalls showcase the variety that makes this part of the world so very special. Keep your eyes open for dinosaurs – this was the filming location for Jurassic World 2 and there's an award-winning dino park at Dan-yr-Ogof Showcaves. 

3.  Gower Peninsula

Way back in 1956, the Gower Peninsula became the first region of the UK to be designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. That alone makes it a must-visit corner of this gorgeous country, but the Gower has plenty of brains to back up its award-winning beauty. Swansea is a centre for culture and literary innovation, while the adventurous should seek out Paviland cave (between Port Eynon and Rhossili, for the record) to discover the final resting place of the Red Lady of Paviland. Still, it all comes back to nature, and it doesn’t get much better than this.

4.  Cardiff

Cardiff has only been the capital of Wales since 1955, but the largest city in the country was hugely influential long before official recognition came its way. One of the greatest sporting cities in the UK, it is also a hotbed of culinary innovation and cultural excitement, with a raucous nightlife and gorgeous parks to boot. The Cardiff Bay area is one of Europe’s finest water developments, while the range of architectural styles across the city is almost tailor-made for celebrating across social media.

5.  Snowdonia National Park

Climbing to the top of a country is a real bucket-list achievement.  Snowdonia National Park  is one of the most popular areas in Wales, and rightly so, with the mighty Snowdon peak (1,085m into the air) standing tall above rivers, lakes and mountains as far as the eye can see. Scaling the peak and heading back down takes between five and seven hours, although the scenic Snowdon Mountain Railway will get you to the top in just over an hour.

6.  Conwy

It is difficult to argue against Conwy, perhaps the country’s prettiest town. The double-whammy of the toll bridge and the town’s famous castle cause jaws to drop right out of the gate, while the abundance of cafés, restaurants, pubs and shops in the idyllic centre are among the region’s best. Conwy is also home to the smallest house in the UK, a bright red cutie that manages to be tiny and impossible to miss all at once.

7.  Aberystwyth

Famous for its heady student population and annual murmurations (of starlings that is, not the students), Aberystwyth is arguably the most popular spot on the west coast. Known as the cultural capital of Wales, the town manages to be instantly recognisable as ‘Aber’ from north to south, which is impressive when you consider the abundance of towns with that classic Welsh suffix. Aberystwyth Castle is another to add to the list, while the students ensure this is one of the best nights out in Wales.

8.  Abergavenny

  Abergavenny  might well be Wales's foodie capital. The borders town hosts a tremendous food festival every autumn while serving delicious dishes all year round, accentuating a stunningly quaint town centre full of cafés, bars, pubs and restaurants. The town’s castle and museum are unique among the best on the nation’s roster, with a story of treason and violence that contradicts its current peaceful atmosphere. Not far away you've got the small town of Crickhowell, which welcomes thousands of music fans to the beloved Green Man Festival each summer. 

9.  Anglesey

Head up here for the longest train station name in the world, more adventure than you can shake your fist at and a conveyer belt of natural beauty that is as good as anything found in the south. Anglesey is a little bit different and that’s how it should be, something that is as apparent in Menai Bridge as it is in Cemaes Bay. Beaumaris Castle may well be the highlight, although night paddleboarding, rib-riding and the rest of the adrenaline-centric activities come close.

10.  Porthmadog

Fan of aesthetically pleasing ports that are major hubs for narrow gauge railways? Sure, that’s a niche collection of interests, but Porthmadog is one of those places built for adoration. Porthmadog’s maritime history is its major pull, but the town also serves as a tremendous base for exploring the region, whether that means Snowdonia National Park or fairytale-like  Portmeirion .

11.  Llŷn Peninsula

Wales is at its best when the air is still, and it doesn’t come more tranquil than the Llŷn Peninsula. The most isolated paradise in Wales still marches to the beat of its own serene drum, an area of outstanding natural beauty that has the paperwork to back that up. This is just about as unspoilt as Wales gets, with cliff-top walks and island views to die for. The Llŷn Peninsula is all forts, extinct volcanoes and the rest. Want Wales all to yourself? Head here.

12.  Cardigan

One of Time Out’s best places to visit in 2023, this market town was the birthplace of the Eisteddfod – a cultural stalwart of the Welsh calendar. Beyond that, Cardigan has a bustling creative community and so, so many delicious food spots. For a hearty brunch check out Crwst Bakery’s venue on Priory Street and for dinner overlooking the River Teifi, head to Pizzatipi. The gorgeous beach at Poppit Sands is a short drive away and a few miles further north you'll find Mwnt Bay. Keep your eyes peeled for dolphins! 

13.  Hay-on-Wye

Thought Timbuktu wasn’t a real place? Well, it is. And Hay-on-Wye is its UK twin. This small Wye Valley town proudly proclaims to be the world’s first ever book town and is famed for its annual book festival that has attracted the likes of Hillary Clinton, Dua Lipa and Stormzy. With over 30 bookstores, this is a bibliophobes mecca. If you had to go to just one, make it Richard Booth's – an emporium of new and used books spread over three glorious floors.  

14.  Machynlleth

This Powys settlement tends to fly under the radar when it comes to roundups of Wales’s best bits. But mark our words, there’s a wealth of cultural innovation happening in Machynlleth. It hosts an annual festival dubbed the comedy world’s best kept secret, where well-known comedians try out their rawest material. And if you’ve got some money to throw around, feast on the 30-course menu at Ynyshir, Wales’s first ever two-Michelin star venue. Don’t miss the modern art museum and the wildlife thriving in the surrounding Dyfir Biosphere.

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Wales’ outstanding natural landscapes are alive with world-leading adventure and a distinctive, contemporary culture. Colourful communities offer unique places to stay, and a feast of local food and drink.

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Epic surroundings.

Discover award winning pubs, spectacular roads and plenty of space for adventure.

• Attractions

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A taste for adventure

With such a variety of landscapes to choose from, find your adventure in the great Welsh outdoors.

Putting on a show

There’s nothing we like better in Wales than a live performance. Discover more about Welsh festivals and events.

Richard Parks: preparing for adventure

Adventurer Richard Parks on the challenges he faces and his drive to succeed.

• Personalities

Steelhouse: a steward's welcome

Go backstage at Steelhouse Festival as volunteer Sarah Price welcomes visitors from around the world to the event in her home town of Ebbw Vale.

Exploring the country on two wheels

Blessed with a challenging natural landscape, Wales boasts top-class trails and bike parks galore.

Dyfi's wild Welsh botanicals

Discover The Great British Food Awards top rated craft gin, tucked away in beautiful Dyfi Valley.

• Welsh Produce

Take me there

You can get to Wales by train, plane, car or even by boat.

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• Transport & Travel

Why rugby unites our nation

Journalist Carolyn Hitt explores how Welsh rugby is linked to Welsh identity and values.

• The Big Story

Castle country

Wales has castles, castles, everywhere!

Cities in Wales

Find out more about what cities Wales have to offer: Cardiff, Newport, Swansea, Bangor, St Davids, St Asaph and Wrexham.

• Towns & Cities

Celebrated dates in the Welsh calendar

There's a lot going on in Wales, no matter the time of year. Here are a few very Welsh dates for your calendar.

Cardigan's bay of plenty

Mandy Walters of Cardigan Bay Fish has the perfect family recipe. Seafood doesn’t get any fresher, or better, than this.

Sporting success brings us together

Learn about Wales' sporting success and discover what makes Welsh sport so special to endurance athlete and broadcaster Lowri Morgan.

Protected produce

From Gower Salt Marsh Lamb to Conwy Mussels, there are some flavours that are intrinsically Welsh.

How Wales made me the most successful female sailor in Olympic history

Olympic gold medallist Hannah Mills talks about her early sailing experiences in Wales.

The vision behind the sound

Learn about how a golden age in Welsh music moulded BBC Radio 1's Huw Stephens and why he aspires to keep that culture alive.

Two Michelin stars are just for starters

Discover one of the UK's top rated and Michelin star restaurants, where Gareth Ward champions all the best locally grown produce.

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The phrase 'good things come in small packages' may be a cliché, but in the case of Wales it's undeniably true.

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Attractions

Must-see attractions.

St David's Cathedral

St Davids (Tyddewi)

Hidden in a hollow and behind high walls, St David's Cathedral is intentionally unassuming. The valley site was chosen in the vain hope that the church…

Caerphilly Castle

Southeast Wales

You could be forgiven for thinking that Caerphilly Castle – with its profusion of towers and crenellations reflected in a duck-filled lake – was a film…

Caernarfon Castle

Anglesey & the North Coast

Majestic Caernarfon Castle was built by Edward I between 1283 and 1330 as a military stronghold, seat of government and royal palace. Designed and mainly…

Pontcysyllte Aqueduct & Canal World Heritage Site

Snowdonia & the Llŷn

The preeminent Georgian engineer Thomas Telford (1757–1834) built the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct in 1805 to carry the canal over the River Dee. At 307m long, 3…

Portmeirion Village

Llŷn Peninsula

Set on its own tranquil peninsula reaching into the estuary, this fantastical collection of colourful buildings with a heavy Italian influence was…

Centre for Alternative Technology

A small but dedicated band of enthusiasts have spent 40 years practising sustainability at the thought-provoking CAT, set in the Dyfi Unesco Biosphere…

Conwy Castle

Caernarfon is more complete, Harlech more dramatically positioned and Beaumaris more technically perfect, yet out of the four castles that compose the…

Beaumaris Castle

Isle of Anglesey (Ynys Môn)

Beaumaris is the last and most technically perfect of the ring of great castles built by Edward I of England to consolidate his Welsh conquests. Started…

Top picks from our travel experts

Top 13 things to add to your wales trip itinerary.

Broad Haven South

South Pembrokeshire

A mile southeast of Bosherston village, this beautiful golden-sand beach is framed by grey limestone cliffs and pointed sea stacks. The beach was formed…

Poppit Sands

North Pembrokeshire

Right at the end of the road that follows the river north from St Dogmaels, this big, broad, sandy beach offers terrific views over the estuary to…

Principality Stadium

Also known as Millennium Stadium ('Principality' is the current naming-rights sponsor), this spectacular venue squats like a stranded spaceship on the…

Barafundle Bay

Regularly voted one of Britain's most beautiful beaches, Barafundle Bay is a scenic 10-minute walk south along the coast path from Stackpole Quay (turn…

Penderyn Distillery

Parc Cenedlaethol Bannau Brycheiniog

Though Wales has a long history of spirit distillation, this boutique distillery released its first malt whisky only in 2004, marking the resurgence of…

Ffestiniog Railway

The world's oldest surviving narrow-gauge railway, the Ffestiniog wends its way from the slate-mining town of Blaenau Ffestiniog to Porthmadog. Long past…

Whitesands Bay

This mile-long sandy beach is a popular surfing, swimming and strolling spot. At extremely low tide you can see the wreck of a paddle tugboat that ran…

Big Pit National Coal Museum

Fascinating Big Pit provides an opportunity to explore a real coal mine and get a taste of what life was like for the miners who worked here from 1880 to…

Ascending Pen-y-Fan (886m), the tallest peak in the Brecon Beacons, is one of the most popular hikes in the park (around 350,000 people make the climb…

South Stack Cliffs RSPB Reserve

Two miles west of Holyhead, the sea vents its fury against the vertiginous South Stack Cliffs, an important Royal Society for the Protection of Birds …

Castell Coch

Cardiff Castle's fanciful little brother sits perched atop a thickly wooded crag on the northern fringes of Cardiff. It was the summer retreat of the…

Powis Castle

Surrounded by magnificent gardens, the redbrick Powis Castle was originally constructed in the 13th century by Gruffydd ap Gwenwynwyn, prince of Powys,…

Harlech Castle

Snowdonia National Park (Parc Cenedlaethol Eryri)

Edward I finished this intimidating yet aesthetically pleasing castle in 1289, the southernmost of his 'iron ring' of fortresses designed to keep the…

Caws Cenarth

Swansea, The Gower & Carmarthenshire

One of Wales' most acclaimed organic cheesemakers, Caws Cenarth produces all the well-known Welsh cheeses (Caerphilly, Perl Wen, Perl Las) as well as the…

Planning Tools

Expert guidance to help you plan your trip.

Best Things to Do

From glamping and stargazing to puffin spotting and riding heritage steam trains, these are the top things to do in Wales.

Transportation

Whether you prefer to travel by rail, bike, bus, or car we can help you plan your trip to Wales with these top tips for getting around.

Best Road Trips

Treating drivers to views of sky-skimming mountains, deep green valleys and swaths of pristine coastline, these are the best road trips in Wales.

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Cornwall hogs Britain’s coastal limelight, but Pembrokeshire is just as heart racingly beautiful

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Wales and beyond

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 an Adventure Tour Guide & Mountain Leader from South Wales. Through working as a tour guide and snowboard instructor, 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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Why we love Wales

When we say that Wales has more castles per square mile than anywhere else in the world, you already start to picture the beauty of the Welsh landscape. Add its rugged coastline, stunning beaches, lush valleys and mountainous National Parks and the image of this intensely beautiful Celtic country is almost complete.

But scratch further beneath the surface, and you’ll uncover a nation filled to the brim with thrilling adventure. Get stuck into world-class sport at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff and zoom through the air on an exhilarating ride of your life on the world’s fastest zip wire in Snowdonia. Or discover the nation’s depths on a subterranean caving tour, take an ambling ramble across picturesque hiking trails, and hit up the waves of the adrenaline-filled coastline.

Meet friendly Welsh locals in vibrant market towns, and historic villages - test out your Welsh language skills, and dive into eclectic indie shops along the high streets. Or grab a bike to tackle a cycle route that covers the length of the country.

No matter where your Welsh adventure goes, you can certainly say that Wales in a small but mighty country.

Capital city

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The Wales Coast Path

Walk or cycle the Wales Coast Path from start to finish and you’ll have covered nearly 870 miles! For day-trippers and more leisurely explorers there’s friendly towns to visit, rare wildlife to spot and scenic views aplenty.

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Welsh Castles

With a history of over 600 recorded castles, there’s now 400 to choose from and visit . Four have UNESCO World Heritage status and the tower at Caerphilly out leans the Leaning Tower of Pisa. Cardiff Castle is in the heart of the capital while Castell Coch rises up from the ancient beech woods of Fforest Fawr like a vision from a fairytale.

VisitBritain/Nadir Khan

Wales’ National Parks

Wales’ three national parks celebrate three different landscapes. The rocky mountains of Snowdonia (Eryri) contrast with the lush waterfalls and greener scenery of the Brecon Beacons (Bannau Brycheiniog), as well as the more rugged Pembrokeshire Coast. Wales also has five Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Welsh destinations

Step into a land of castles, world-renowned rugby and a whole host of myths and legends.

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Snowdonia (Eryri)

Full of adventure, from its sky-scraping peaks to plunging glacial valleys, Snowdonia's scenery is guaranteed to blow your mind.

VisitBritain/Daniel Struthers

Brecon Beacons (Bannau Brycheiniog)

Looming peaks over thick forests, sheep-grazed valleys and open moors - adventure awaits in Wales.

Pembrokeshire

For a real adventure, head to Wales’s westernmost tip. A paradise for hikers, swimmers, thrill-seekers and birdwatchers.

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Pembrokeshire, Wales

North Wales

From valleys, shorelines to towns, find North Wales packed with adventure.

Wales Coast Path

A route to adventure, culture and wildlife hugging the shorelines of Wales.

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St David's Day 2024: Random Acts of Welshness

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Featured things to do in Wales

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The National Botanic Garden of Wales

The National Botanic Garden of Wales is a garden for all seasons. But at its heart sits Lord Foster’s Great Glasshouse, home to one of the finest collections of mediterranean climate-zone plants in the world. In April and May, this glass dome is bursting with colour as flowers from the Mediterranean, Australia, and Chile are in full bloom.

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Coasteering

Where better to try coasteering than in the country it was invented for. Get in a wet suit, and experience cliff jumping, adventure swimming, sea-level traversing, exploring caves and more - all professionally supervised.

VisitBritain/Andrew Pickett

Portmeirion

An unexpected snippet of Italy in the heart of Wales, Portmeirion brings the Italian Riviera to the rolling hills of this nation. Get a taste for authentic gelato, wander round ornamental gardens and enjoy the architectural splendour of this quirky tourist village.

VisitBritain/Simon Winnall

National Museums

Discover Welsh history and culture at seven, free-to-enter National Museums, including the National Museum Cardiff, the National Waterfront Museum in Swansea, the National Roman Legion Museum at Caerleon, plus National museums dedicated to slate, wool, coal mining and Welsh life through the ages.

Our favourite experiences in Wales

Zip world velocity 2.

An airborne view at record speeds, soar over Welsh quarry lakes on the world’s fastest zip-line.

National Museum Cardiff

You’ll find everything from dinosaur bones to contemporary art at this fantastic free museum.

Abergavenny Food Festival

Learn how to cook over a firepit with live chef demos and two day extravaganza of all things food.

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Pembroke Castle

The only castle in Britain to be built over a natural cavern.

Peter Morgan

Wales Millennium Centre

In Cardiff Bay, the Wales Millennium Centre hosts top-class live music and theatre shows from all over the world.

Llŷn Peninsula, North Wales

For beautiful beaches and charming seaside villages, look to the Llŷn Peninsula on the North Wales coast.

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Rhossili Bay

Discover clifftop walks and diverse landscapes at Rhossili Bay.

Cardiff Arcades

Explore Seven Victorian and Edwardian arcades tucked among the biggest brand names of Cardiff’s high street.

Henry Robertson Dining Room, Llandderfel

Get a taste for an eight-course organically produced tasting menu.

Pale Hall Hotel

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Whether you’re a keen twitcher, avid adrenaline seeker or looking for an accessible experience, the Swansea Bay Coastline  has you covered. Climb up the crevices of Three Cliffs Bay, ride that perfect wave at Rhossili Bay, or find your sense of adventure following an accessible path from Swansea Bay to Mumbles Pier.

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Your Trip to Wales: The Complete Guide

Wales Guide: Planning Your Trip

With more than 600 castles, unique cultural and culinary traditions, and untamed, dramatic coastline, it's shocking that only a small percentage of visitors to the United Kingdom set foot in Wales. There's something for everyone here, whether you're into trekking mountain peaks in Snowdonia National Park, exploring "Dr. Who" filming locations in Cardiff, or strolling among Easter egg-hued beachfront cottages in quaint Tenby. Plus, it's remarkably easy to get to. Here's what to know for planning your trip to Cymru. (P.S. That's the country's name in Welsh, which you might be surprised to hear throughout the country!)

Planning Your Trip

Best Time to Visit : Wales is at its best during the late spring through early summer. You can expect a fair bit of rain, but also beautiful flowers throughout the country. Wales's temperate, humid climate means that there's only a small variation among temperatures throughout the year, with summer temperatures usually hovering in the mid-60s F.

Language: English and Welsh, the latter of which has seen a resurgence in recent years. According to a survey conducted by the Welsh government in early 2020, nearly 30 percent of the population can speak Welsh   , and the government aims to have 1 million Welsh speakers by 2050.

Currency: The pound sterling.

Getting Around : Wales is a tiny country—you can drive from Cardiff, along the Southern coast, to Angelsey, an island in the north, in about four-and-a-half hours, and many of the roads are scenic. Wales is also supported by an excellent network of cycling and rail connections.

Travel Tip: Don't let the tiny size of Wales fool you—this small area can easily sustain a trip of a week or more.

Things to Do

Depending on where in Wales you're visiting, activities can include everything from coasteering off the coastline , visiting the many famous television and film sites (Dr. Who, Harry Potter, James Bond, and Tomb Raider, among others), or simply lying on one of Wales's sprawling, sandy beaches . You won't be bored no matter what you choose.

• Even if you're planning on heading farther afield, spend at least a day or two in Cardiff , Wales's largest city. This bustling university town has excellent nightlife and restaurants and is also home to the National Museum of Wales, which houses one of Europe's best collections of Impressionist art.
• Wales is a surfing hotspot , with surfers taking to the sea in Whitesands and Freshwater West in Pembrokeshire, Oxwich Bay, and Llangennith in Gower, among others. Want to get your feet wet (literally) in a more tame environment? Adventure Parc Snowdonia has an artificial wave lagoon, perfect for beginners.
• With so many castles (and ruins) across Wales , it's hard to choose which to visit. But if you only visit one, make it Conwy Castle . The castle still has a complete set of medieval royal residential rooms, and visitors can walk a full circuit of the eight-towered battlements and town walls. 

Looking for more things to do in Wales? Check out the top 15 destinations to visit in Wales , the best Welsh castles to visit , Wales's best beaches , and adventurous things to do in Wales .

What to Eat and Drink

Wales is home to many unique culinary traditions that can be hard to find elsewhere in the U.K. While some commonly-used ingredients in Welsh cooking—leeks, lamb, and excellent cheese, among others—might not be surprising, they can come together in unique ways. Don't miss trying Glamorgan sausage, an ironically meat-free snack made from cheese, leeks, and breadcrumbs, or laverbread, a seaweed harvested in South Wales. You'll also want to tuck away a sleeve of moreish Welsh cakes (firm, thick pancakes studded with fruit) as a souvenir.

Learn more about the best foods to try in Wales .

Where to Stay

Whether you're interested in roughing it or being treated like a queen, Wales has it all. Cardiff, being Wales's largest city, has an abundance of hotel choices, while smaller towns' accommodation options might be limited to quaint pubs or guesthouses.

In the countryside, you'll find castle hotels like Ruthin or Roch Castle , farm stays, and even yurts, and along the coast, there are many seaside resorts. (One of the nicest is Pembrokeshire's St. Brides Spa Hotel , famously where the cast of "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2" stayed during filming.)

Getting There

If you're spending any measurable amount of time in London, there's no excuse for not visiting Wales—it's just that easy. Getting from London to Cardiff is very easy and affordable via train, which takes only 1 hour, 45 minutes, and costs around $36. If you don't mind a more extended trip, bus tickets can be had for as little as $6.

The Cardiff Airport isn't huge, but it does receive international flights from Paris, Geneva, Amsterdam, Munich, and others. There are also plenty of regional flights from other destinations within the U.K. If your trip is starting in northern Wales, you might find it easier to fly into the U.K.'s third-largest airport   , Manchester Airport, less than an hours' drive from the Welsh border.

Driving in Wales is uncomplicated, but many roads are small, so you shouldn't be surprised if your trip is briefly derailed by a flock of sheep on the road!

Culture and Customs

While Wales is part of the U.K., don't call a Welsh person British! The Welsh are fiercely protective of their country's history and traditions, and the country has its own set of customs, holidays, and even political practices that distinguish it from England. If you're visiting Wales in August, don't miss the annual National Eisteddfod , a massive celebration of Welsh music, poetry, and art.

Money-Saving Tips

• In Cardiff, the excellent National Museum is free. On the outskirts of the city, visit  St. Fagans National Museum of History . This free, open-air museum offers a unique glimpse into Welsh history through relocated historic buildings, reenactments, and more.
• Rugby is huge in Wales, and going to a match is an experience unlike any other. If you're looking to save money on tickets, try to get tickets for the fall international matches (held in November and December), as opposed to the Six Nations matches in early spring.
• For a quick and inexpensive meal on the go in Cardiff, pop into the Victorian-era Cardiff Market. The market has been operating since the 18th century   and is home to butchers, produce vendors, fishmongers, and plenty of Welsh cakes.

Welsh Government. " Welsh language data from the Annual Population Survey: April 2019 to March 2020 ." June 25, 2020

UK Civil Aviation Authority. " CAA Airport Data 2019. "

Cardiff. " Cardiff Central Market ."

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20 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Wales

Written by Anietra Hamper Updated Mar 14, 2023

Author Anietra Hamper traveled extensively throughout Wales in the fall of 2022 with photographer Ian Henderson exploring the best experiences, from the cities to the coast and countryside.

For such a small country, Wales has broad diversity when it comes to attractions, the outdoors, and history, with some of the most breathtaking coastal views in the United Kingdom. Some of the best places to visit are actually locations that encompass multiple experiences all in one place, like castles, beaches , villages, and notable landmarks including Thomas Telford-designed bridges.

As you plan your itinerary, it makes sense to start in one region, like North Wales near Snowdonia National Park and Anglesey, then work your way to other destinations along the Pembrokeshire Coast , south to Cardiff and the Glamorgan Heritage Coast .

From railways and mining excursions to living a part of preserved history by walking the castle walls surrounding Conwy, or taking in a national rugby game, you will have no problem filling a full itinerary.

Use our list of the top tourist attractions in Wales to narrow down your options.

1. Snowdonia National Park

2. brecon beacons national park, 3. cardiff castle & national museum cardiff, 4. gower peninsula beaches, 5. devil's bridge and the hafod estate, 6. wales by rail, 7. caernarfon castle, 8. principality stadium, 9. conwy & conwy castle, 10. pembrokeshire coast national park, 11. bookstores in hay-on-wye, 12. portmeirion, 13. beddgelert & betws-y-coed, 14. national slate museum & the big pit, 15. pontcysyllte aqueduct and llangollen canal, 16. cardiff arcades, 17. anglesey, 18. tintern abbey, 19. llandudno, 20. bodnant garden, more must-see destinations in and near wales.

Think of Wales, and you'll likely think of Snowdonia (Eryri), the beautiful range of mountains and hills located in the county of Gwynedd.

Consisting of 14 majestic peaks over 3,000 feet high—the most famous being the 3,546-foot Snowdon, the summit of which is accessible by train—Snowdonia can be seen as far away as Porthmadog on the west coast. The region remains one of the most popular vacation destinations in the UK, attracting some four million visitors a year.

When you're here, it's easy to see why the area has featured so heavily in local legends, including those based around King Arthur , who locals will insist was Welsh.

Snowdonia National Park (Parc Cenedlaethol Eryri) is also one of the most popular hiking destinations in Britain, boasting more than 1,479 miles of marked trails. Climbing is also popular here, as are mountain biking and horse riding.

However you get here, the views from the summit are incredible and extend from the coast all the way to Bala Lake .

Brecon Beacons National Park (Parc Cenedlaethol Bannau Brycheiniog) encompasses one of the most beautiful parts of Wales. This hiker's paradise is bordered by two quite different sets of Black Mountains . The first, to the west, is the source of the River Usk , while to the east is the range that's famous for its wild ponies.

Most of the mountains in this 520-square-mile park are higher than 1,000 feet — with many in excess of 2,000 feet—and are named after the red sandstone that causes them to resemble the beacons of light once used to warn of invaders.

Be sure to explore the park's many caves and waterfalls, especially Henrhyd Falls at Coelbren , which is one of the best waterfalls in Wales . Just outside the park, near Abergavenny, you can tour a coal mine at Big Pit National Coal Museum . Other popular activities and things to do in the Brecon Beacons include mountain biking, horse riding, canoeing, sailing, fishing, climbing, and camping.

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in South Wales, UK

Perhaps the most photographic of Wales' many castles, Cardiff Castle is a must-visit and one of the top attractions in Cardiff . Boasting still-intact sections constructed more than 1,000 years ago this splendidly preserved castle can take a few hours to explore. Be sure to allow plenty of time to do so in your Cardiff sightseeing itinerary.

Highlights include the State Apartments, notable for its informative displays relating to life in the castle over the ages, as well as the attractive old chapel. Other notable features include the well-preserved Banqueting Hall with its medieval murals and elaborate fireplace. A variety of guided tour options are available, along with an informative audio guide that can be picked up from the visitor center.

If there's still time after your castle adventure, try to squeeze in a visit to the National Museum Cardiff . Undoubtedly topping the list of the best things to do for free in Cardiff, this major attraction houses impressive collections focusing on archeology, zoology, and botany, as well as the arts.

The National Museum of Art is housed in the same building. This excellent art gallery features a number of works by some of the world's most important artists, including Old Masters and Welsh painters.

Address: Castle Street, Cardiff

Read More: Top-Rated Day Trips from Cardiff

You cannot visit Wales without carving out some time to hit the coastal beaches. The Gower Peninsula has some of the best beaches in South Wales and many of the most popular in the country.

Topping your list of places to visit should be Rhossili Bay, which has an expansive coastline for swimming and kitesurfing, with a good mixture of activities and opportunities for scenic walks, especially at sunset. You can find water sports rentals, a car park, restrooms, and a restaurant close to the beach.

Another great beach to visit is Oxwich Bay , which has the added scenery of the Oxwich National Nature Reserve surrounding it. This is a nice family and dog-friendly beach because of the calm water.

Some other Gower Peninsula beaches to consider are Llangennith Beach , popular with surfers; Broughton Bay Beach , an ideal place for beachcombers; and Three Cliffs Bay , which might win the prize for the best scenic views on the south coast.

Located 12 miles from the seaside town of Aberystwyth , Devil's Bridge is actually three bridges spectacularly stacked atop each other. The oldest (and the lowest) dates from the 11th century, and the newest was built in 1901. They span the Rheidol Gorge , where the River Mynach plunges 300 feet into the valley far below.

Be sure to follow the Falls Nature Trail to the bottom. It's a bit of a climb back up—especially those steep, slippery steps of Jacob's Ladder , the segment leading to the oldest bridge—but the views are incredible.

Afterward, visit Hafod Estate , 200 acres of lovingly restored woodlands and 18th-century gardens once considered the finest in Britain. While the manor house is long gone, visitors can enjoy pleasant hikes along well-marked trails past waterfalls, ancient trees, and the estate's old, walled formal gardens. And if you're looking for an idyllic cottage vacation, the wonderful old Hawthorn Cottage allows guests an unforgettable accommodation experience.

Address: Hafod Estate Pont-rhyd-y-groes, Cwmystwyth, Ystrad Meurig

Wales was once famous for its mining operations, in particular, the mining of slate used for the roofing, which is still so common here. While the majority of these mines and quarries have closed, many of the narrow-gauge railways used to shift goods (and later, Victorian-era tourists) around the country have been restored and now provide scenic excursions.

Today, there are several heritage railway lines that reach some of the country's most popular landmarks, including mountains, seaside towns, and castles. Many of the bigger lines, such as the 14-mile-long Ffestiniog Railway running through Snowdonia National Park , offer unique train driving courses and volunteer opportunities to add to the experience.

Built by King Edward I in the 13th century as a seat for the first Prince of Wales, Caernarfon Castle (Castell Caernarfon) is one of the largest such fortifications in the country. With its 13 towers and two gates, this massive castle is recognized as one of the most impressive—and the best-preserved—medieval fortresses in Europe.

Occupying the site of an even older Norman castle, Caernarfon Castle dominates the waters of the River Seiont and the Menai Strait on one side, and is protected by a moat on the other. The castle's royal heritage continues to this day, and in 1969 it was the scene of Prince Charles's investiture as Prince of Wales.

Also of interest is the Royal Welsh Fusiliers Museum (admission included), notable for the 14 Victoria Crosses on display.

Address: Castle Ditch, Caernarfon

The pride of Wales rests in the people's enthusiasm for the game of rugby, so if you have a chance to take in a national game at Principality Stadium in Cardiff, it will be the highlight of your trip. Feel the Welsh patriotism as you attend a game with 74,000 rugby fans harmonizing the national anthem while donning their team jerseys and revving for fierce competition.

Joining the fun at Principality Stadium gives you a sense of Welsh culture in a way that other attractions cannot. The game of rugby means more to the Welsh than just a sporting event. It was created in the 19th century as a way for the Welsh to come together as a country and improve life by lifting their status as a nation.

Games are usually played from the fall through the spring, but if you visit outside of the season, you can still book one of several tours of the stadium.

Located on the north coast of Wales, just a short distance from Manchester, the small Welsh town of Conwy offers something for everyone: a stunning castle, medieval architecture, and plenty of great shopping.

The best views of Conwy Castle (Castell Conwy) and River Conwy , with its suspension bridge designed by Thomas Telford, are from the 13th-century town walls built by King Edward I to keep the Welsh at bay. Besides touring the castle, one of the most unique experiences to enjoy here is walking the castle walls that surround the entire city. It is free to do, and you can get on and off in different sections. This vantage point offers the best views of the city and harbor.

The National Trust's Aberconwy House is Conwy's only surviving 14th-century merchant's house and one of the first buildings constructed inside the town walls. Other interesting homes are the Elizabethan Plas Mawr and the Smallest House in Great Britain .

Address: Rose Hill Street, Conwy

Surrounded by water on three sides, Wales has more than its fair share of dramatic coastline. Some of the most imposing is found along the coast of the Pembrokeshire Peninsula, which juts out into the Irish Sea, much of it falling within the boundaries of Pembrokeshire Coast National Park (Parc Cenedlaethol Arfordir Penfro).

You can best explore this magnificent scenery on foot along the dramatic Pembrokeshire Coast National Trail, finding villages like the picturesque little resort of Tenby, still partially enclosed by its medieval walls.

Other Pembrokeshire coast highlights are Pembroke Castle , St. David's Cathedral (in the town of the same name), and idyllic fishing harbors such as Laugharne, where Welsh poet Dylan Thomas lived for much of his life. His boathouse home above the bay is now a museum.

As elsewhere in Wales, adventurous travelers can find unique places to stay, including classic old farm cottages, gypsy caravans, or vintage railcars.

Whether you consider yourself a bookworm or not, a visit to the bookstores in Hay-on-Wye will be a memorable experience. Hay-on-Wye is renowned for its literary scene and the annual Hay Festival, which brings in well-known authors from around the world.

This small town, with a castle on the hill and charming winding streets, has more than two dozen bookstores. The area has historical and global literary significance, which you will find evidence of as you walk the quaint streets and see references to its moniker as the Town of Books.

This walkable town is worth a day, or at least an afternoon, of your time. After you find a good read to take home, stroll into the small boutiques or find an outdoor café to enjoy the town's ambience and live music that is often playing on the street corners.

Portmeirion is a beautiful hotel resort and visitor attraction on the coast of Snowdonia National Park in Gwynedd , North Wales . Built by Sir Clough Williams-Ellis between 1925 and 1975, Portmeirion was designed to resemble a quaint Italian fishing village. Visitors staying overnight get the whole place to themselves once the gates are closed, when they can explore its beautiful gardens, fountains, church, and the coastal paths of the lower village.

This stunning attraction has been the location for numerous films and TV programs, including the 1960s cult show, The Prisoner , and should definitely be included on your Wales sightseeing itinerary.

The resort's restaurants come highly recommended. A variety of shops are also located here, some selling the famous Portmeirion pottery.

Address: Minffordd, Penrhyndeudraeth, Gwynedd

Read More: Top-Rated Weekend Breaks in the UK for Couples

The Welsh are certainly a friendly lot. And nowhere is this truer than in the many picturesque small villages that dot the Welsh countryside. Two of the very prettiest—and friendliest—are located within easy striking distance of Snowdonia National Park: Beddgelert & Betws-y-Coed.

Just a 30-minute drive apart, these two postcard-perfect riverside villages make for a great day trip. They each offer a slice of that traditional Welsh hospitality in their quaint B&Bs, guesthouses, inns, tearooms, and restaurants, and are often heralded as among the most picturesque villages not just in Wales, but all of the UK.

Located at the junction of the Colwan and Glaslyn rivers, Beddgelert is especially favored by hikers using the village as a base from which to tackle Snowdon itself. A number of gentler trails and paths are also easy to access here and are great for those wanting a stroll that takes in spectacular mountain vistas. Failing that, an easy stroll through the village itself is rewarding, or you can jump aboard the heritage Welsh Highland Railway for a scenic train ride to Porthmadog or Caernarfon.

Betws-y-Coed also makes for a great base for a Snowdonia adventure. Set in the Gwydyr Forest, it's particularly pretty in spring and fall when the changing seasons turn the vegetation here into a riot of color (it's also quieter during these less touristy times). In addition to the many fine examples of historic buildings located within the village, be sure to take a stroll to its nearby waterfalls, including Conwy Falls.

Read More: Best Small Towns in Wales

Wales is a nation built in mining and, as such, has done a remarkable job of preserving its mining past. Of the many things to do related to this rich history, none can quite match the experience of visiting one of these mines in person.

Located in Caernarfon, the fascinating National Slate Museum offers an in-depth look at the workings of a 19th-century slate quarry, along with accompanying machinery and workshops, including a huge still-working waterwheel. A great deal of attention is also placed on the conditions for workers and their families, along with live demonstrations of the mining process.

Situated within Breacon Beacons, the Big Pit National Coal Museum offers a glimpse into the nation's other most-mined material and the lives of those who worked here. Highlights of a visit include exploring the well-preserved old buildings and homes on the site.

Blaenavon is also home to an old ironworks that's worth exploring, home to the "Big Pit" blast furnaces and foundries. Also worth a visit, Rhondda Heritage Park actually allows visitors to descend to "pit bottom" in an old miners' elevator. These Black Gold Experience Underground Tours are even led by former coalminers, adding to the authenticity of the experience. There's also a replica village to explore, portraying everyday life for mining families.

It took 10 years to design and build the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct that carries the Llangollen Canal across the wide valley of the River Dee in northeast Wales. Even today, it's considered a significant feat of civil engineering and is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site .

The 18-arch bridge is built of stone and cast iron, its arches soaring 100 feet above the river, and is more than 1,000 feet in length. In 1801, when the aqueduct was built, canals were an important means of transport for manufactured goods and raw materials, and aqueducts were a more efficient means of carrying them across deep valleys than staircases of canal locks.

This one is the longest navigable aqueduct in Great Britain and the highest in the world. A narrow walkway with a railing allows pedestrians to cross the bridge, but it's far more fun to cross it on a canal boat .

It's not for those with a fear of heights, however, as your boat sits high on the shallow canal, and it's a long way down to the river.

For a less vertigo-inducing ride, horse-drawn canal boats take tourists on a tree-shaded stretch of the canal from nearby Llangollen Wharf. A fun alternative is to take a guided kayak tour across the aqueduct.

Location: Llangollen Wharf

Few experiences in Wales match the day of shopping that awaits at the Victorian Arcades in Cardiff. These elegant glass-covered arcades have been an iconic part of the capital city since the 1800s. They were built in the Victorian era to protect shoppers from bad weather conditions.

There are several dozen arcades around Cardiff, each with its own unique flare, with the oldest being the Royal Arcade. Inside, you will find small boutiques, shops with jewelry and housewares, cafés, and mom-and-pop stands selling homemade Welsh cakes from generations-old recipes. A nibble on some of these tasty sugar-dusted treats, while you shop, is highly recommended.

Separated from mainland Wales by the mile-wide Menai Strait—spanned by the Menai Suspension Bridge (1818)—the Isle of Anglesey is home to a number of quaint, small fishing villages sprinkled along its more than 100 miles of attractive coastline. Along with its sandy beaches and landmarks such as South Stack Lighthouse , the island's mild climate makes it popular for day trippers and campers alike.

The smaller Holy Island , linked to Anglesey by bridge, is a popular holiday resort with two promenades (one of them 1.5 miles long). Tiny Salt Island offers great views and a chance for some bird-watching. Finally, one of the world's most famous photo ops is on the railway platforms of the town with the world's longest place name : Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllandysiliogogogoch.

Read More: Best Beaches in Anglesey

One of the most spectacular attractions in Wales is walking among the ruins at Tintern Abbey near Chepstow. This historical and architectural treasure was built in 1131 by Cistercian monks, and while much of it has been destroyed, in part by order of King Henry VIII in the 1500s, there is enough preserved to marvel at its massive structure.

After your time walking the grounds at Tintern Abbey, make your way to nearby Chepstow Castle. The castle sits on the cliffside of the estuary banks of the River Wye and is the oldest fortification in Britain . Walk through the matrix of corridors and passageways that were constructed in 1067 and be sure to see the oldest castle doors in Europe, which are perfectly preserved here for visitors to see up close.

Dubbed the "Queen of the Welsh Resorts," Llandudno is the largest seaside resort town in Wales . Located on the north coast with views across the Irish Sea, this picture-perfect tourist destination lies between the Welsh mainland and the Great Orme, a peninsula inhabited since the Stone Age.

The town's unique promenade is free of the usual seaside shops and cafés, which were wisely placed behind the seafront to ensure Victorian visitors a more peaceful experience. Take a stroll on the bustling Llandudno Pier, which is the longest in Wales, jutting out into the sea at nearly 2,300 feet.

The best views of the town and its surroundings are from the Great Orme , easily accessible by a heritage tramway. Well connected by rail and road, Llandudno is a good base for touring Wales' spectacular North Coast .

Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do in Llandudno

A National Trust property, Bodnant Garden is one of the most beautiful gardens in Britain, created over many years by generations of the McLaren family and brought to its present heights by the 2nd Lord Aberconway.

Highlights of the spectacular gardens are the grand formal terraces , spectacular views across the River Conwy to Snowdonia, and the famous Laburnum Arch . This curved walk of about 50 yards is covered with laburnum, whose abundant, long blossoms cover it in cascades of yellow in late May and early June.

Spring is also when the Dell, a deep valley where trees tower above streams, is abloom with rhododendrons. But the wide variety of flowering plants assures that the gardens are filled with color throughout the whole season. Among the trees are 42 UK Champion Trees , judged the best examples of their kind in Britain.

The elegant Georgian Pin Mill was moved here from Gloucestershire. A tearoom is located on-site and comes highly recommended.

Address: Bodnant Road, Tal-y-cafn, Colwyn Bay

The lively Welsh capital city of Cardiff is a good place to begin your trip and a good base for exploring South Wales . Cardiff is not far from the interesting port city of Bristol , just across the border in England. When you're exploring the beautiful mountains and countryside of North Wales , consider popping across the border again to visit the attractions in Chester , a charming walled city on a canal.

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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.

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48 Places To Visit in Wales To See Beautiful Places in Wales!

Categories U.K , Wales

Looking for the best places in Wales to visit?? Here are my suggestions based on my lifetime living in and near many of these beautiful places in Wales!

Wales is such a great destination to visit and often so underrated ! I love writing about Wales on my travel blog because whether you want mountains, beaches, cities, family activities or historic sites , Wales really has it all!

I’ve also spent much of my life living in Wales or near Wales so I always have plenty to talk about and so many recommendations for places to visit in Wales!

Here is my ultimate round up of the BEST 48 Places to Visit in Wales in North Wales, South Wales and Mid Wales to help you plan your trip which include scenic places in Wales as well as the top activities in Wales and most beautiful beaches in Wales !

At the end of this post, I’ve given more details on how to get around Wales, how long to spend in Wales and what to do in Wales!

BEST Places to visit in Wales

Map of most beautiful places to visit in Wales

Here is a map of Wales which details all of the best places to go in Wales I have noted below. This will help you work out where all these Wales tourist attractions and natural beauty spots are so you can plan your trip to Wales.

Places To Visit in South Wales

1. cardiff city (cardiff), – best cities to visit in wales.

Cardiff is the capital city of Wales and one of the best places to visit in Wales . It is a great city to visit and perfect for a city break with some added extras.

Cardiff is well known for its nightlife and things to do in Cardiff during the day include Cardiff Castle and walking around Cardiff Bay.

Cardiff is a good base to see more of South Wales from, you can do day trips from Cardiff to visit many places on this list of places to go in South Wales like the Brecon Beacons and Swansea Gower.

Related Posts: 1 Day Cardiff Itinerary & TOP 20 Things To Do In Cardiff, Cardiff Bay & Near Cardiff!

2. Castle Coch (Cardiff)

– best castles in wales.

Another great stop on your way into or out of Cardiff is Castle Coch , one of the best castles in Europe , not only Wales!

Castle Coch is a really impressive castle and as you drive towards it, it looks like a fairytale castle sticking out of the woods! It’s a 19th-century Gothic Revival castle built to protect Cardiff.

You can go inside the castle by purchasing a ticket however it is impressive to see from the outside and you can also go for a walk around the woods of Fforest Fawr where it’s located.

It’s one of the great things to do on a Wales trip with kids !

3. Tenby (Pembrokeshire)

– best seaside destination in wales.

Now we are onto Pembrokeshire and South West Wales on this list of best places to visit in Wales !

Pembrokeshire is the top holiday destination in Wales , and Tenby is the most popular beach and seaside town in Pembrokeshire.

This extremely colourful town has everything you need for a Welsh seaside holiday includes Tenby holiday cottages , 3 sand beaches, coastal walks, shops, restaurants and boat tours.

I really recommend visiting Tenby on your Wales holiday because it is such a popular place and so many people love it as one of the best places to visit in Wales .

Another reason Tenby and the places near Tenby are so good is because you can base yourself here to see more of Pembrokeshire from in an easy way.

Related Posts: 15 BEST Beaches in Pembrokeshire To Visit & A Map & 10 Best & Beautiful Campsites Near Tenby And Close to the Beach!

4. Saundersfoot (Pembrokeshire)

– best beaches in pembrokeshire.

Saundersfoot has a beautiful, big, sandy beach with a pretty seaside village and it’s really close to Tenby. In fact, one of my favourite South Wales walks is walking from Saundersfoot to Tenby !

Saundersfoot is home to some amazing food and restaurants you should visit here when in Wales if you want a less touristic beach but still one with good holiday facilities around you.

Related Post: Things To Do in Saundersfoot & Things To Do Near Saundersfoot.

CAR HIRE IN WALES

If you’re reading this post with future dreams of doing a Wales road trip but don’t have a car, visit Rentalcars to get a quote. They search all of the top rental companies like Budget and Hertz to get you the best price!

Search car rental prices for Wales here!

5. Manorbier (Pembrokeshire)

– best beaches to visit in wales.

Manorbier Beach is one of the beaches near Tenby and the one of the best beaches in Wales . It’s popular with locals and holidaymakers from nearby accommodation and holiday parks!

It’s a great beach for beginner surfing , and surfing for children because of its small waves. It has a rock and sand beach and is surrounded by a beautiful coastal path.

Whilst stopping in Manorbier on your Wales trip, you can also visit Manorbier Castle and get some cake at Beach Break Tearooms!

6. Barafundle Bay (Pembrokeshire)

– best beaches in wales.

Voted one of the beaches in the world, Barafundle Bay is a must-visit for beautiful places in Wales .

The reason why this beach and bay is so nice is because you need to walk 10-15 minutes over a field and cliff top to get there and once you are there there are no beach facilities.

Related Post: How to Get to Barafundle Bay.

7. Bosherston Lilly Ponds (Pembrokeshire)

This is a lovely and surprising walking loop from the very small village of Bosherston. From the car park, you are a minute from a beautiful pond and footpath that takes between 1-2 hours to walk around.

Not many people know about the Bosherston Lilly Ponds because they are hidden, so they are definitely a hidden gem in Wales that you need to keep in mind when planning where to go in Wales !

Related Post: How To Visit the Bosherston Lilly Ponds in Pembrokeshire!

8. St Govan’s Chapel (Pembrokeshire)

– best hidden gems in wales.

If you want to visit more hidden gems in Wales , St Govan’s Chapel is another place to visit!

This is a chapel hidden down a set of steps that leads out onto a hidden bay!

It’s really close to Bosherston Lilly Ponds so you should plan to visit both at one time on your Wales itinerary.

Related Post: How to Visit St Govan’s Chapel in Pembrokeshire! A Hidden Place!

9. Freshwater West Beach (Pembrokeshire)

If you’re a Harry Potter fan you may know of this beach because it is where Dobby the house-elf is laid to rest after his battle!

There is a little memorial for Dobby with rocks and stones behind the dunes that you can visit which is a must-visit for Harry Potter fans in South Wales!

You should still visit this beach in Pembrokeshire even if you are not a Harry Potter fan because it is another one of Pembrokeshire’s best beaches . I visited at sunset and it was such an amazing sunset spot so try to include this on your itinerary for Wales too!

10. Pembroke Castle (Pembrokeshire)

Pembroke town is not somewhere you need too spend much time but whilst travelling through Pembrokeshire in Wales, you may find yourself passing through Pembroke and Pembroke Castle is a nice place to stop.

There are so many castles in Wales and Pembroke Castle is one of the big castles that you can fully walk around so it’s one of the great things to do in Pembrokeshire with kids .

When in Pembroke town you can also take a walk along the river and get lunch or a drink in one of the many pubs close to the castle .

11. Oakwood Theme Park (Pembrokeshire)

– best family activities in wales.

This is Wales biggest theme park and therefore the biggest of the Wales tourist attractions . From my many experiences there as a teenager, a really good theme park too!

If you want to do something a bit different or it is not beach weather, you can have fun at Oakwood theme park !

12. Ramsey Island (Pembrokeshire)

– best islands to visit in wales.

Ramsey Island is one of the beauty spots in Wales . You can see and visit Ramsey Island on a boat trip. I booked this whilst in St David’s which is the small city nearby.

In the right season you can spot whales and dolphins from the boat and I believe all year round you’ll get to see seals which is what I saw. It’s a great day out in South Wales and Pembrokeshire for children and adults!

Related Post: 10 Things To Do In Broad Haven close to St David’s .

13. Blue Lagoon (Pembrokeshire)

– best places to swim in wales.

If you want somewhere cool to swim in Wales , especially in the summer, you have to add the Blue Lagoon to your list of top places to visit in South Wales!

It’s a former slate quarry and now features a big, and deep, lagoon that is popular for coasteering, kayaking and swimming!

To find it, you need to search and head to: National Trust – Abereiddi to Abermaw . You won’t find ‘Blue Lagoon Wales’ as a point on Google Maps.

The Blue Lagoon is now one of the South Wales Instagram spots you see a lot of online!

14. Pen Y Fan (Brecon Beacons National Park)

– best hikes in brecon beacons.

The Brecon Beacons National Park is definitely one of the top places to visit in Wales because of its stunning countryside, its activities and hikes!

The Brecon Beacons is the best place for hiking in South Wales , it has the second-highest peak in Wales called Pen Y Fan (the highest peak is Snowdon in North Wales).

Hiking Pen Y Fan makes for a brilliant day out in Wales and I really recommend taking on the challenge to tick this well known peak off and see South Wales from above!

Related Post: How To Do Pen Y Fan Walk in The Brecon Beacons!

15. Hay on Wye (Brecon Beacons National Park)

– prettiest towns in wales.

You’ll find the pretty market town of Hay on Wye in the Brecon Beacons National Park to the North on the edge of England and Wales.

Hay on Wye is a really unique place making it one of the places of interest in Wales because it is famous for its literature and books !

The town is full of book shops old and new along with other independent shops and lots of nice cafes . It’s a real gem in South Wales!

16. Brecon Beacons Waterfalls (Brecon Beacons National Park)

– best waterfalls in wales.

When looking for famous Welsh places to visit , how can you leave Brecon Beaons National Park. It is full of waterfalls and if you’re looking for where to visit in Wales , I recommend going to see some waterfalls in the National Park.

There is a 4 waterfall walk which is a popular walk and relatively easy walk to do taking just a few hours.

There are places to go wild swimming in the Brecon Beacons on the walk as well as walking behind a waterfall and seeing more of the beautiful landscape of the National Park in Wales.

Related Post: How To Do The Brecon Beacons Waterfalls Walk to 4 Waterfalls!

17. Barry Island (Glamorgan)

– best beaches to visit in wales for families.

If you know of Gavin and Stacey , you’ll know Barry Island, and for some seaside fun and for one of the popular days out in Wales you can head to Barry Island for the day!

Barry Island is full of candy floss, fish & chips, arcade games, and rides, some people think it’s a bit tacky but if you go for the fun of it, you’ll have a good time!

Plus, there are a few different beaches in Barry Island and some are much quieter and relaxed than others so it’s still worth checking out, even if you are dubious!

Related Post: Barry Island Beaches Guide! 4 BEST Beaches in Barry To Visit!

18. Nash Point (Glamorgan)

– best walks in wales.

A hugely underrated part of Wales is the Glamorgan Heritage Coast ! This part of the Wales Coastal Path between Cardiff and Swansea is full of amazing beaches and Wales beauty spots .

Nash Point is my favourite area on the Glamorgan Heritage Coast in South Wales.

It has a towering cliff edge and the rocks down at the beach are one of the best places in ways for fossil hunting in Wales! If you have children who are into dinosaurs, this is a great stop in Wales !

19. Merthyr Mawr Sand Dunes (Glamorgan)

– best hidden places in wales.

For a super unique walk in Wales, check out the Merthyr Mawr Nature Reserve featuring huge sand dunes.. yes sand dunes!

My sister goes walking here with her dogs all the time and I only recently found out about it because it is a spot only locals know !

Head to Merthyr Mawr Nature Reserve on Google Maps here . As you reach this point, you’ll get to the car park and from there you’ll see the big sand dunes you need to climb!

You can choose the steep dunes or some easier sand dunes and once at the top you’ll be rewarded with an incredible coastline view over Merthyr Mawr Beach and you can keep walking around the nature reserve from here which is easier to walk since you’ve already passed the sand dunes!

20. Cowbridge (Glamorgan)

– most beautiful towns in wales.

Cowbridge is a lovely market town between Cardiff and Bridgend so if you’re driving from Cardiff to the Glamorgan Heritage Coast I suggest you take the scenic route rather than the M4 and drive through Cowbridge.

It’s full of independent shops in colourful buildings. There’s a pretty garden called the Physic Garden you can stretch your legs in and I recommend getting ice cream from Fablas Ice Cream Parlour .

It’s a hidden gem in Wales for sure!

21. Rhossili Bay (Swansea Gower)

The Swansea Gower feels like an Island off of the coast of Swansea and South Wales but it is actually joined to the mainland making it easy to visit from the M4.

Rhossili Bay is the most famous place to visit on the Gower because this beach has been voted as one of the best beaches in Wales (and maybe the world?). It’s not hard to see why so it should be on your list of places to visit in Wales !

The beach is huge and you get an amazing view of it whilst taking a coastal walk down Worms Head.

22. Three Cliffs Bay (Swansea Gower)

– best beach walks in wales.

Another one of the best beaches in Swansea Gower is the Three Cliffs Bay which offers you a wild beach experience with sand dunes, a salt marsh and limestone cliffs , plus an amazing sand beach.

You can base yourself here for a few days on your Wales trip, the Three Cliffs Bay Holiday Park is a well known and popular place to stay in Wales or you can stop by whilst visiting the other places to go in South Wales on this list.

Related Post: How To Visit Three Cliffs Bay & Three Cliffs Bay Walks!

23. National Botanic Gardens of Wales (Carmarthenshire)

– best gardens to visit in wales.

When planning your Wales trip, the National Botanic Gardens of Wales outside Carmarthen is a good place to stop all year round and definitely one of the good things to do in Wales when it rains because much of it is inside!

At this Wales tourist attraction you can visit the Great Glasshouse and Tropical House indoors and get a ticket for the   British Bird of Prey Centre !

If the weather is good you can stretch your legs in the 400 acre Waun Las National Nature Reserve which is an enchanting mosaic of flower-rich meadows, evocative woodlands, waterfalls and cascades.

When stopping in Carmarthen, there are many nice villages near by like Llansteffan near by so be sure to plan in a few hours to see the near-by area!

24. Pembrey Country Park and Beach (Carmarthenshire)

If you’re doing this Wales trip with kids and want to wear them out, or you want a really good walk yourself, Pembrey Country Park is where you need to visit.

With an 8 mile long beach and a huge woodland area there is plenty of space to walk! You can also do activities here like horse riding, Wales longest toboggan run, dry ski slopes, crazy golf and more!

If you are looking for caravan sites and camping in Wales sites, I really recommend Pembrey Campsite because of how many facilities are within the County Park.

25. Wye Valley (England Wales Border)

– best places to visit in wales near england.

On the very edge of Wales is the Wye Valley so if you’re driving from Southern England to Wales, you should pass through the Wye Valley on the way.

One of the main places to visit in the Wye Valley is Tintern Abbey . The historic Abbey ruins of Tintern Abbey and the village of Tintern are a good place to stretch your legs at the start or end of your Wales road trip as these are the famous landmark in Wales .

If you want a bit of a hike you can hike up to Devils Pulpit which is nearby and a great introduction to Wales hikes!

26. Cardigan

For places to visit in Wales, Cardigan has to be on the list! Despite Cardigan’s small size, this ancient market town is a great place to base yourself in South West Wales because there are plenty of things to do in Cardigan and Cardigan Bay.

The Cardigan Bay coastline is by far the top attraction, it’s actually where the Pembrokeshire Coastal Path starts so if you enjoy hiking, this is a great place to go.

Cardigan is surrounded by amazing beaches which are much less touristy than many of those further South in Pembrokeshire and you’re bound to see more of Welsh local life in this part of Wales.

Best Places to Visit in Mid-Wales

27. the elan valley (powys).

The Powys region is technically in Mid-Wales but when looking at a map of Wales, it is closer to the South and easier to reach from South Wales, that’s why this impressive place area is ending my list of places to visit in Wales!

Elan Valley and the Elan Valley Dams and Reservoirs are one of the top places to visit in Powys. They were built a hundred years ago to supply desperately needed clean water to Birmingham. Today, they are perfect for walking around and they are impressive to see with gushing water travelling from one dam to another!

If you are coming from the Midlands into South Wales, going via the Elan Valley is a good way to enter or exit Wales and see this stunning beauty spot in Wales!

Places to Visit in North Wales

28. yr wyddfa (mount snowdon) (snowdonia national park), – best hikes in wales.

If the weather is on your side, climbing Yr Wyddfa (Mount Snowdon) should be on top of the list on your Wales itinerary! Yr Wyddfa (Mount Snowdon) is the highest peak in Wales and although climbing it is hard work, it is do-able for many people and such a great achievement!

There are a few routes to the top, I have done it from Pen Y Pass a few times which I recommend, and if you don’t fancy the walk you can use the Snowdon Mountain Railway train to help you which is especially good if you’re in North Wales with children.

Related Post: Climbing Yr Wyddfa (Mount Snowdon) From The Pen Y Pass Snowdon Route!

29. Llanberis Eryri National Park (Snowdonia National Park)

– best places for families to visit in wales.

Llanberis is the town most people will pass through on the way to Yr Wyddfa (Mount Snowdon) and many people park in Llanberis and start the hike up Yr Wyddfa (Mount Snowdon) from here too.

Therefore if you are looking for things to do near Yr Wyddfa (Mount Snowdon), Llanberis is a good place to visit.

Llanberis has a huge lake which is popular for watersports and many families come to relax on the grassy bank along the lake which has play areas too.

Tourist attractions in Llanberis include the Llanberis Lake Railway , National Slate Museum and Dolbadarn Castle . Overall it’s a perfect place for families to visit in Wales.

30. Dinorwig Quarry (Snowdonia National Park)

Also in Llanberis is Dinorwig Quarry but I’m adding this as it’s own place to visit in Wales because it’s a full day out on it’s own.

We had a great afternoon hiking here last year. We parked up in Llanberis main car park and headed straight into the forest between the two lakes here. If you search for Dinorwig Quarry on Google maps, you’ll find it easily.

We were so surprised by what we saw here. There are lots of old mining buildings within the forest, also known as the Anglesey Barracks as workers from Angelesey used to stay here. Dali’s Hole is a lake right at the top of the mountain and forest which you can walk to and then you can head over into the footpaths through the old Quarry.

On google it’s hard to see where to go, but trust me when you are there there are many places for walking here, with amazing views of the Yr Wyddfa (Mount Snowdon) in front.

31. Watkins Path Waterfalls (Snowdonia National Park)

– best waterfalls in wales.

Now wild swimming is all the range, one of the super unique and cool places for wild swimming in Wales and in Snowdonia is the Watkin Path Waterfalls!

The Watkins Path is another route to the top of Mount Snowdon but close-ish to the start of the walk you’ll find lots of pools one after each other than run down the mountain. They’re basically natural infinity pools in North Wales and the best places for swimming in Snowdonia .

32. Cwmorthin Lake, (Eryri National Park – Snowdonia National Park)

– best lakes in wales.

Eryri National Park (Snowdonia National Park) is made up of so many lakes and it will be hard to drive past them on your North Wales trip without wanting to stop! One of the good lakes to stop at is Cwmorthin Lake because of its history.

This used to be a slate mine so when you visit the lake you can see the former Cwmorthin Slate Mine, there is also Cwmorthin Waterfall down the river from the lake so it makes a great place to stop for a walk in nature.

If you fancy some wild swimming in North Wales , this place is for you too!

33. Zip-Line (Eryri National Park – Snowdonia National Park)

– best activities in wales.

One of the top places to visit in Wales for a lot of fun is Zip World in North Wales.

Zip World have 4 locations in North Wales 3 of which are in Eryri National Park (Snowdonia National Park).

The activities in each of them change from a roller coaster through the forest, sky rides, velocity ziplines and so much more, so pick which ones sound most appealing to you and book in because this will give your Wales road trip a huge adrenaline hit!

Zip World have revamped their North Wales activities quite a lot recently and now, in their Slate Cavern location in Eryri National Park (Snowdonia National Park) you can play underground golf and go on trampolines inside the cavern!

It’s best to book all Zip-World activities in Wales online in advance so you don’t miss out, especially for weekends and school holidays!

34. Adventure Parc Snowdonia (Snowdonia National Park)

– best attractions in wales.

Adventure Parc Snowdonia has something for everyone in the family and you don’t have to have children to enjoy it! It’s an adults adventure playground too!

For high class, adrenaline activities in Wales like surfing on a man-made surfing pool , rock climbing walls, high ropes, indoor caves, soft play, paddle boarding , zip lines, biking and coasteering, check Adventure Parc Snowdonia out for all of the best water activities in North Wales !

35. Mount Tryfan (Snowdonia National Park)

– best hike in snowdon national park.

If you are up for an intense hike, be sure to add Mount Tryfan to your list of places to go in Wales and places for hiking in North Wales .

In fact, it’s not a hike, it’s a scramble to the top! It took me 5 hours and although it was hard and scary at times, it was so rewarding!

My Related Post: A Guide to Climbing Tryfan & Hiking Tryfan for Non-Climbers in North Wales!

36. Conway City (Conwy)

– best cities in wales to visit.

Conway is a walled market town and worth visiting a few reasons. The main reason being Conwy Castle . There are many Castles in North Wales but this one is hugely impressive and if you only visit one castle in Wales it should be this one!

Conway is also home to the smallest house in Great Britain and still has it’s town walls intact so it’s a great place to visit for history in Wales if you don’t fancy a beach day or the weather is not on your side for exploring the wild outdoors.

37. LLandudno (Conwy)

– best seaside resorts in wales.

Llandudno is an old British seaside resort but it is still thriving today and is clean and tidy to visit.

I love the old victorian buildings that line the huge promenade and beach. Llandudno pier is easily the top of the list of Llandudno tourist attractions is a good place for some typical seaside fun!

It is a resort town so there are lots of activities near Llandudno like a ski slope and one of the popular things to do in Llandudno is to drive up to and around the Great Orme rock that stands out beside the town. Be sure to look for seals in the ocean below too!

For one of the great places to visit near Llandudno you can go to Conwy city or one of the many nearby beaches like Colwyn Bay Beach.

We have some paddle boards and recently took them out onto the sea from Llandudno beach. We found it easy to park right by the beach and get to the water carrying the boards. The water was a bit choppy for us but if it was a nice still day, this is a great paddle boarding spot in North Wales .

38. Gwrych Castle (Conwy)

– best castles in wales to visit.

Another one of the top Castles to visit in Wales is Gwrych Castle. This is one of the beautiful places in Wales to visit anyway, however it has now become even more popular due to it being where “I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here!” was filmed for two consecutive years.

You need to purchase tickets to enter Gwrych Castle and if you want to know what it’s like to stay overnight in a castle, you can book to stay in one of their lodges !

39. Portmeirion Tourist Village (Gwynedd)

Aside from Snowdon, I’d say this is the top of the list in tourist attractions in Wales .

For a slice of Italy in Wales, you can visit Portmeirion . It is a pretty iconic place so you may have seen photos of it before online and it’s definitely one of the most iconic places to visit in North Wales .

It is a tourist village and it does get very busy so don’t go expecting a quaint village, it also costs £12.00 per adult to enter but for a unique experience to see some nice buildings and gardens it’s worth going.

Porthmadog is the closest town to Portmeirion which is quite a popular tourist town, so this place works as one of the great places to visit near Porthmadog .

40. Harlech Beach (Gwynedd)

– best beaches in wales to visit.

For one of the best beaches in Wales with a beautiful stretch of white sand and clear blue water head to Harlech Beach ! It’s one of the most beautiful beaches in Wales I have seen and I love that it has the sand dunes behind it.

Whilst you’re in Harlech you can check out the local town and definitely take a visit to Harlech Castle which stands prominently on the hill and another great North Wales attractions .

Harlech is a good place to visit before or after Portmeirion as they are quite close together.

41. Black Rock Sands Beach (Gwynedd)

– biggest beaches in wales.

Black Rock Sands Beach is a really cool and different beach to visit because you can drive onto it !! It’s so amazing and fun, especially if you have always wanted to experience driving on a huge beach !

It costs £5.00 to enter the beach and after that, you have the whole beach to decide where to drive and park up. There is a chance you could get stuck in wet sand but there are people there to help pull you out!

This is another one of the good places to visit near Porthmadog as it isn’t far away at all.

42. Aber Falls (Gwynedd)

Wales is all about waterfalls and one of the most visited waterfalls in Wales is Aber Falls! It’s a great place to stop as you are leaving Snowdon to go into North England or Conwy or Llandudno because it’s just off the main North Wales Expressway.

Aber Falls is popular because it is fairly easily accessible so it’s good for kids to walk with an impressive waterfall at the end so get this on your list of things to see in Wales !

43. Abersoch Beach (Llyn Peninsula)

– best beaches for families in wales.

The beaches in North Wales are some of the top places to visit in North Wales all year round.

For a calm and sandy beach , Abersoch is the beach for you. You can head here in all seasons for a sunny day on the beach and a winters walk.

If you have children this is a good beach to add to your places to visit in Wales with kids as it is family friendly and safe.

44. Ty Coch Inn (Llyn Peninsula)

– best pubs in wales.

A Beach Bar might not be what you expect to see in Wales, but this is why this part of the UK is so great because it offers surprise after surprise.

Ty Coch Inn has been voted in the  top ten beach bars in the world because this typical Welsh pub is located on a beautiful stretch of beach.

It’s definitely one of the unique places to visit in Wales because there are not many other places you find a pub in such an incredible location.

45. Pen-Llyn Riding Centre (Llyn Peninsula)

If you want to add some horse riding in Wales to your list of things to do in Wales, I went out on a hack with Pen-Llyn Riding Centre last year and it was such a great way to see see this part of the Llyn Peninsula which is called Pwllheli.

46. Beaumaris (Anglesey Island)

– best islands in wales to visit.

Anglesey is an island off of the North-West coast of Wales connected by a bridge in Bangor, and if there is one place you should visit in Anglesey it’s Beaumaris.

Beaumaris is a charming seaside town with a mix of medieval, Georgian, Victorian and Edwardian architecture and lots of them are painted in bright colours!

For tourist attractions in Anglesey, you can visit Beaumaris Castle , take a Puffin Island boat trip , walk along the seafront and get some fish and chips from one of the many shops!

47. Newborough Beach (Anglesey Island)

– best sandy beaches in wales.

This is one of my favourite beaches in Wales! To get there you drive through Newborough National Nature Reserve, followed by a quick walk over sand dunes before getting to a long stretch of white sand !

The Eryri National Park (Snowdonia National Park) Mountains provide a stunning backdrop to this beach. It’s perfect for water sports like kayaking and paddle boarding and you can do a great walk to the end of the peninsula to see the lighthouses.

48. South Stack Lighthouse (Anglesey Island)

– best lighthouses in wales.

This is one of my husbands top places to visit in Wales. He just loves seeing South Stack Lighthouse perched right on the last edge of the West Coast of Wales so remotely and it’s amazing that it was built in 1809 .

We also love the drive to South Stack Lighthouse , it’s so scenic and totally worth the extra time it takes you get here as it’s a one of the best places to see in Anglesey .

Once here, you can visit inside the lighthouse with a ticket , there are walking paths along the coast and you can check out Elin’s Tower.

How to get to Wales?

The best way to get to Wales is by car and it depends whether you plan to visit South Wales, North Wales or Mid Wales.

For access into South Wales, go via the M4 into Cardiff which is an easy route for getting to Wales.

For access into North Wales, go via the North Wales Express which is an easy route for getting to Wales.

How to get around Wales?

Wales is best travelled by car because many of the best places to visit in Wales are remote and a car is needed to access them.

However, the train and bus system in Wales is good too. Here’s my post on visiting Wales by train and some ideas of where to go in Wales by train.

Best Time of Year to Visit Wales

I say that late spring, summer and early autumn is the best time to visit Wales for the best opportunity of good weather!

But, the weather in Wales is unpredictable, just like the rest of the UK, therefore as long as you have the right clothing for the weather, any time is the best time to visit Wales!

I have a more detailed post here on the best time of year to visit Wales which goes through the weather each month.

Where to Stay in Wales

There is a range of accommodation available in Wales for all budget types which can be booked on Booking.com , Airbnb , Hostelworld , Cool Stays etc.

Budget: For budget accommodation in Wales, look for hostels . YHA is a great hostel chain offering many locations throughout Wales!

Mid-Range: For hotels and guest houses, have a look on Airbnb and Booking.com . You’ll also find many glamping in Wales options in the mid-range price category.

Splurge: If you want some really unique accommodation in Wales like some luxury glamping in Wales, you’ll need to pay more but it will be worth it! You can find places like this on Cool Stays , Booking.com & Airbnb !

Wales FAQ’s

What is the most beautiful part of wales.

I’d say that the most beautiful part of Wales is Pembrokeshire in South Wales! Pembrokeshire has a huge coastline with so many amazing beaches to visit. There are many seaside towns here and many of the family attractions in Wales here so it is not only beautiful but easy to see and stay here.

Is South Wales or North Wales better?

Both South Wales and North Wales have their highlights. If you enjoy hiking, North Wales is best. Both sides have top beaches in Wales though and many of the top attractions in Wales.

If you are struggling to decide where to visit in Wales, it’s best to visit the closest part to you. If you live in South England or the Midlands, South Wales will be better for you. If you live in North England or Scotland, North Wales will be better for you!

Where should I go in Wales?

The top areas to go in Wales are Eryri National Park (Snowdonia National Park), Pembrokeshire, Brecon Beacons and Cardiff.

Is Wales worth it?

Yes! Wales is definitely worth it! So many people are so surprised by Wales and how beautiful it is. Whether you go on a day trip or spend a 1 week holiday in Wales there is so much to see and do!

I hope this list of the places to visit in Wales has helped you plan your Wales trip and Wales itinerary!

• More of my Wales posts to help you plan your trip:
• How To Spend 3 Days in Wales! Perfect 3 Day Wales Itinerary!
• How To Spend 1 Week in Wales!
• 20 Things To Do In Cardiff, Cardiff Bay & Near Cardiff!
• 16 Beaches Near Cardiff To Visit. All 1 Hour From Cardiff!
• How To Climb Snowdon From The Pen Y Pass Snowdon Route!
• 16 Beautiful Staycations in Wales To Feel Like You’re Abroad!

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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!

To revisit this article, visit My Profile, then View saved stories .

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Prince William Shares Kate Middleton Cancer Health Update

By Kase Wickman

Prince William shared a brief update about Kate Middleton and the couple's three children on Tuesday. Since the surprise announcement in late March that Kate had been diagnosed with an undisclosed form of cancer , the princess of Wales's plea for “time, space, and privacy” for herself and her family has been largely respected, in contrast to the flurry of speculation surrounding her whereabouts before the news was made public. Kensington Palace has not provided updates on Kate's health, but on Tuesday, William indicated that the family was well.

While on a visit to northeast England, where he made stops in support of environmental and mental wellness initiatives, William was greeted by two bystanders draped with the Union Jack, a moment captured in a video shared to social media .

“Do you mind if I ask how your wife and children are?” one well-wisher asks in the clip.

“We’re all doing well, thank you,” William said.

“And obviously Catherine?” the person pressed.

“We’re all doing well,” William reiterated.

Tuesday’s outing was William’s third day of official engagements since the Wales family shared Kate’s diagnosis publicly. Kate has stepped back from her public-facing duties as she undergoes treatment, but shared a sweet photo recently to Instagram in honor of her youngest child Prince Louis ’s sixth birthday. Earlier this week, Kate and William marked their 13th wedding anniversary , sharing a previously unreleased portrait from their 2011 wedding day.

“13 years ago today!” the caption on the photo read.

Kate, of course, isn't the only ailing member of the royal family. King Charles III , William's father, also announced earlier this year that he had been diagnosed with cancer. The monarch is also undergoing treatment, and recently returned to lightened public-facing duties . On Tuesday, he visited a cancer center and spoke with fellow patients, where he called his diagnosis “a bit of a shock.”

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All you need to know about FOCUS Wales 2024 ahead of Wrexham festival

More than 250 artists from across the world are set to descend on Wrexham this week for the FOCUS Wales 2024.

The three-day festival will run from Thursday (May 9) until Saturday (May 11) with organisers expecting more than 20,000 people to visit Wrexham after a record attendance last year. 

The festival, entering its 14th year, will once again feature live musical performances from local and international talent, film screenings and arts events.

FOCUS Wales 2024 line-up

FOCUS Wales is set to welcome more than 250 artists from across the world to the 2024 event.

Some of these artists include:

• Spiritualized
• Snapped Ankles
• The Bug Club
• Skinny Pelembe
• Angeline Morrison
• Anthony Szmierek
• Willy Mason
• Cerys Hafana
• Melin Melyn
• Slate 
• Vanity Fairy
• Waterpistol
• And much more

The 2024 festival will also welcome the likes of actor and director Celyn Jones who will be available for a Q&A after the screening of his new film  The Almond and the Seahorse  starring Rebel Wilson which was partly shot in Wrexham.

The full FOCUS Wales 2024 line-up can be found on their website .

RECOMMENDED READING:

From Disney Plus series to Hollywood movies, North Wales has become filming hotspot

FOCUS Wales 2024 tickets

Tickets for FOCUS Wales are still available (at the time of publication).

There is a range of options available including festival passes (access to all three days), day passes and single-show tickets.

They all range in price from £160 to £17 (plus booking fees).

For more information or to book your ticket visit the FOCUS Wales website .

Ticket collection

To reduce queuing at venues, those attending FOCUS Wales events will have to collect tickets/relevant wristbands from the festival box office located at Tŷ Pawb in the Wrexham city centre (see map below for exact location).

The box office will be open:

• Thursday (May 9): 9am to 10pm
• Friday (May 10): 9am to 10pm
• Saturday (May 11): 10am to 10pm

Wrexham venues hosting FOCUS Wales 2024 events

Performances and events part of the FOCUS Wales 2024 will be held in various venues across Wrexham. 

These Wrexham venues are:

• Llwyn Isaf - LL13 8TJ
• St Giles' Parish Church - College House/Temple Row, LL13 8LY
• The Rockin' Chair - 17 Hill Street, LL11 1SN
• Ty Pawb - Market Street, LL13 8BE
• Penny Black - Abbot Street, LL11 1TA
• Hope Street Church - 1 Hope Street, LL11 1BG
• Wynnstay Arms Hotel - Yorke Street, LL13 8LP
• HWB @ Queen's Square - Town Centre, LL13 1AT
• Glyndwrtv @ Centre for the Creative Industries - Wrexham Uni, Mold Road, LL11 2AW
• The Parish - 21 Town Hill, LL13 8NA
• The Royal Oak - High Street, LL13 8HY
• Old No.7 Bar - 7 Town Hill, LL13 8NA
• The Fat Boar - 11 Yorke Street, LL13 8NA
• Theatr Ial at Coleg Cambria - Grove Park Road, LL12 7AB
• Levant Kitchen and Bar Wrexham - 49-52 Chester Street, LL13 8BA
• Magic Dragon Brewery Tap - 13 Charles Street, LL13 8BT
• Wellbeing Hub with Yellow and Blue - Library field, LL13 8TJ
• Creu - 58 Hope Street (Wrexham Arcade), LL11 1BE
• Saith Seren - 18 Chester Street, LL13 8BG

Travelling to Wrexham for FOCUS Wales 2024

If you are looking to drive in for the FOCUS Wales festival there are several parking facilities available in the Wrexham town centre.

These car parks, according to the Wrexham County Borough Council , include:

• Crescent Road Car Park (LL13 8BG)
• Guildhall Car Park (LL11 1AR)
• Library Car Park (LL11 1WS)
• Market Street Car Park (LL13 8BB)
• Tŷ Pawb Car Park (LL13 8BB)
• St George's Crescent Car Park (LL13 8HF)
• St George's Crescent South (LL13 8HF)
• St Giles Car Park (LL13 8NA)
• Waterworld Car Park - LL13 8BG
• Eagles Meadow Car Park - LL13 8AX
• Island Green Car Park - LL13 7LW
• St Mark's Car Park - LL13 1RY
• All the Wrexham venues set to host FOCUS Wales 2024 events - see the full list
• FOCUS Wales 2024 tickets - prices, festival passes and more ahead of Wrexham event
• How FOCUS Wales is putting Welsh artists on the map ahead of massive event in Wrexham

If you are looking to travel to the festival by train there are two railway stations in Wrexham:

• Central Station - which is in the middle of town
• Wrexham General - a three-minute walk from the city centre

Both stations have a direct link to London and can also provide access to places like Cardiff, Chester and Shrewsbury with connections to Liverpool. 

You can also access Wrexham via bus with the main bus terminal located in the city centre - Wrexham Bus Station.

Princess Charlotte Turns 9! See the Adorable New Birthday Photo Taken by Kate Middleton

The Prince and Princess of Wales shared the sweet snap directly on their social media pages.

Princess Charlotte celebrates her 9th birthday today!

To mark the milestone, Prince William and Kate Middleton shared a new photograph of the young princess, smiling outside next to flowers in a red sweater and denim skirt. "Happy 9th Birthday, Princess Charlotte!" they posted. "Thank you for all of the kind messages today."

The Wales family has had a turbulent start to the year, following the Princess of Wales's abdominal surgery and subsequent cancer diagnosis . When Kate shared the news that she is undergoing preventative chemotherapy , she revealed in her video message . "It has taken us time to explain everything to George, Charlotte and Louis in a way that is appropriate for them, and to reassure them that I am going to be okay. As I have said to them; I am well and getting stronger every day by focusing on the things that will help me heal; in my mind, body and spirits."

Just this week, when asked by a well-wisher about Kate and their children, Prince William said "all doing well," a rare update on her health . It's unlikely we'll see Princess Charlotte and her siblings in public any time soon; they last appeared with the royal family on Christmas day (which was Kate's last public engagement ), and Prince George joined his dad at a soccer match in April .

Emily Burack (she/her) is the Senior News Editor for Town & Country, where she covers entertainment, culture, the royals, and a range of other subjects. Before joining T&C, she was the deputy managing editor at Hey Alma , a Jewish culture site. Follow her @emburack on Twitter and Instagram .

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King Charles returns to public work with a visit to a London cancer center

By Holly Williams , Tucker Reals

Updated on: April 30, 2024 / 12:05 PM EDT / CBS News

London  — Britain's King Charles III returned to his official public duties Tuesday for the first time since he started undergoing treatment for cancer in February. Charles and Queen Camilla visited a hospital and specialist cancer treatment center to lend their to support to the staff and patients there.

Buckingham Palace announced the king's imminent return to work in a statement on Friday, adding that the king's doctors were "very encouraged by the progress made so far" in his treatment for an unspecified cancer.

The king and queen visited the University College Hospital Macmillan Cancer Centre in London on Tuesday, where he met patients and doctors. The monarch appeared happy and healthy as he greeted well-wishers outside before going into the treatment center to meet patients and staff.

Buckingham Palace has not said where the monarch, who has become the new Patron of the Cancer Research U.K. charity, is undergoing his own treatment, or what that treatment entails.

Charles' daughter-in-law Catherine, the Princess of Wales, is also undergoing treatment for an unspecified cancer —  news she shared in a video message released in March amid rampant speculation.

Kate, as she's most often known, and her husband Prince William have requested privacy as she undergoes preventative chemotherapy following doctors' discovery that cancer had been present. They made that discovery through tests carried out following a major abdominal surgery that Kate had in January.

There have been no updates on the Princess of Wales' treatment from Kensington Palace, she and William's official residence.

While Tuesday marked an official return to public-facing duties for the king, Charles did greet well-wishers after attending an Easter church service at the end of March.

Buckingham Palace has said he may attend some upcoming annual events, too, including the "Trooping the Color" military parade and commemorations around the 80th anniversary of the World War II allied D-Day landings in France, both of which come in June.   Charles and Camilla will not, however, host Japan's Emperor Naruhito and his wife Empress Masako when the fellow royals visit London in late June.

• King Charles III
• British Royal Family
• Kate Middleton
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Holly Williams is a CBS News senior foreign correspondent based in the network's CBS London bureau. Williams joined CBS News in July 2012, and has more than 25 years of experience covering major news events and international conflicts across Asia, Europe and the Middle East.

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Labour concern grows over donations to Vaughan Gething’s campaign in Wales

Welsh first minister urged to pay back £200,000 to firm whose owner was convicted of environmental crimes

There is growing anger and concern within the Labour party that the new Welsh first minister, Vaughan Gething , took £200,000 from a company whose owner was convicted of environmental crimes, with insiders warning it was critically undermining his authority and could cost the party votes at the general election.

Gething, who made history when he became the first black leader of a European country in March, is facing growing calls to pay the money back and order an independent inquiry into the donations, which helped him secure a narrow victory in the race to replace Mark Drakeford.

This week Plaid Cymru and the Welsh Tories led debates in the Senedd on the issue, and in the House of Commons the UK prime minister, Rishi Sunak, backed the calls for a independent investigation. But the most worrying development for Gething may be the tension within Labour that the party is being drawn into a sleazy Westminster-style donations scandal.

Beth Winter, the Labour MP for Cynon Valley in south Wales, told the Guardian: “Restoring trust in politics is more important than ever. The ongoing furore around this donation casts a long shadow and there are upcoming elections to win. Clearing this up is in the interests not only of Vaughan Gething , but of Welsh Labour reconnecting with voters. An independent investigation is the only way this is going to get resolved.”

Speaking in the Senedd, the former Labour deputy minister Lee Waters described the donation as “unjustifiable and wrong”. He said: “We are meant to be better than that. The reputation of politics, and politicians, seems to be lower than ever. We look to our leaders to model the behaviour we want to see, to reflect our nation.”

A senior Labour figure, who asked not to be named, told the Guardian: “I think Welsh Labour is stunned by the whole thing … Everybody I know is aghast. Nothing like this had ever happened in Welsh politics .”

The figure said the issue had become “insidiously poisonous” within the Senedd’s Labour group, where a majority supported Gething’s rival in the first minister race, Jeremy Miles. “I know Keir Starmer’s office is very concerned about it. I don’t see it going away. This is going to fester on and I honestly don’t know whether he [Gething] can survive.”

Two £100,000 donations for Gething’s campaign came from a company called Dauson Environmental Group, whose director, David John Neal, was convicted of environmental crimes.

Gething has ordered an internal review led by another former first minster, Carwyn Jones, while repeatedly emphasising that he has not broken any rules. But another insider said: “That’s exactly what David Cameron said about his involvement with Greensill. From a legalistic point of view, he may not have broken any rules but when you’re leader, you also have to have a certain moral authority. It isn’t just about being politically successful politically, it’s also having secure ethical standards.”

Since he won the leadership race, Gething has taken part in three first minister’s questions sessions, and on each occasion was criticised for his donations.

This week, questions focused not only on Dauson but on the taxi company Veezu, which also donated money to Gething’s campaign, after reports one of its drivers had refused to pick up a man with a guide dog. Gething said he was appalled by the case and was pleased that the company has removed the driver from its platform, but believed the public was more interested in the cost of living crisis than who had funded his campaign.

A former Welsh minister said Labour members could not believe Gething’s lack of humility or acknowledgment that there was a problem: “In the short term Vaughan Gething may reckon he can tough it out, but the stench is not going away.”

Plaid Cymru has a cooperation agreement with Labour but its leader, Rhun ap Iorwerth, said the issue risked poisoning Welsh politics. He said: “This isn’t the kind of politics we want in Wales. This leaves a very bad taste that needs to be cleared up.”

Any money left over from Gething’s campaign is expected to be returned to the UK Labour party. Ap Iorwerth said: “The Labour party will have to come to a decision. Will they accept money that had come from a company whose boss had been found guilty of environmental crimes? Or if they pay it back because they judge that it’s the right thing to do, what does that tell us about the first minister’s judgment?”

Andrew RT Davies, the leader of the Tories in Wales , compared the internal inquiry to the Soviet politburo “slapping themselves on the back and saying, ‘we’ve done a great job’”.

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Davies said the saga was stopping Labour getting on with the task of governing. He said: “We need to get this distraction off the table so the government can get on with the big-ticket job of dealing with health, education and economy.”

The Welsh Lib Dem leader, Jane Dodds, said: “This episode has cast a dark shadow upon Welsh democracy. Politics has always been a dirty game where cash is often king, but this cannot carry on.”

The donation row has particular resonance in some areas, including the Gwent Levels , a precious, protected landscape in south-east Wales, where Neal illegally dumped waste .

Catherine Linstrum, the co-chair of Friends of the Gwent Levels , said: “This is depressing. Gething should give the money back and acknowledge the fact that he’s done the wrong thing.”

Another of Dauson’s companies, Resources Management UK, faced action by Natural Resources Wales after complaints about the smell at a landfill site in Pembrokeshire. “It still stinks,” said a local resident, Sue Lewis. “I don’t think companies should be funding anybody. It looks like favours are being bought.”

Will Hayward, the Welsh affairs editor for WalesOnline, said the saga had badly damaged Gething. “My impression is, if it wasn’t a matter of months before a general election, there would be moves against him from within the Labour group. The knives are absolutely out.”

Laura McAllister, a professor of public policy at Cardiff University, said the £200,000 had made a critical difference in Gething’s campaign and he faced a difficult time – a split party at a time of squeezed finances, complicated by the impending end of the Plaid cooperation agreement. But she said the impending general election could help.

“We know that discipline and a desire to retain power at all costs is what keeps Welsh Labour together however much they disapprove of the new FM’s actions. I suspect Gething’s future depends on whether he is regarded by those who matter as an electoral liability or an electoral asset,” McAllister said.

• Vaughan Gething
• Welsh politics

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© Hawlfraint y Goron / Crown Copyright

Criccieth castle, Gwynedd, North Wales

Introduction to Wales

Wales is a country with distinctive traditions, heritage and culture. It is known as a land of song and a country steeped in myth and legend, which, when you see the awe-inspiring landscape, is no surprise.

With rolling hills, dramatic mountains, hundreds of castles, cascading waterfalls, rare flora and fauna and a coast path that runs along the entire coastline of the country, in Wales - beauty is everywhere. Our cities are compact and our towns bustling with community life.

Key facts and figures

Population : 3.1m Location : Part of Great Britain Size : 20,800 square km Time zone : GMT Currency : Pound Sterling National Day : St David’s Day, 1 March National symbols : Dragon, daffodil and leek Language : Welsh and English Cities : Seven – Cardiff (capital), Newport, Swansea, Bangor, St Davids, St Asaph and Wrexham

Wales is made up of 22 local authority areas. For the purposes of Visit Wales, we 'split' these areas into larger regions: North Wales, Mid Wales, West Wales, and South Wales.

The regions are made up of the following local authorities.

North Wales

• Conwy County
• Denbighshire County
• Flintshire County
• Wrexham County
• Ynys Môn / Isle of Anglesey

  Mid Wales

• Ceredigion County
• Powys County
• Carmarthenshire County
• Neath Port Talbot 
• Pembrokeshire County
• City and County of Swansea 

South Wales

• Blaenau Gwent County Borough
• Bridgend County Borough
• City of Cardiff
• Caerphilly County Borough
• Merthyr Tydfil County Borough
• Monmouthshire County
• Newport City
• Torfaen County Borough
• Rhondda Cynon Taf County Borough
• Vale of Glamorgan 

A brief history of Wales

While Wales’ land is thought to have been inhabited since circa 250,000 BC, it only became a recognised country in 1536 with Henry VIII's Act of Union. Between 1216 and then, it was a principality. Within the last few millennia, Wales has been home to European Celtic tribes, Roman and Saxon invaders and people from all over the world who have settled here. The south of Wales is more densely populated with people living in and around the surrounding areas of our capital city Cardiff, however as it’s only 170 miles (270 km) from South to North and 60 miles (97 km) East to West, our population is spread out with people living in towns and cities across the country, each with their own unique feel, but the same Welsh Welcome.

Wales has its own language and identity, both of which are held in high esteem by Welsh people. It has a devolved  parliament (the Welsh Parliament)  and a  government (the Welsh Government)  that makes laws, agrees taxes and represents Welsh people, though the UK Parliament and Government hold significant power and influence. 

Wales is often called the  castle capital of the world . With over 600 sites remaining, we have more castles per square mile than any other country in Europe. Most can still be visited (and you can even stay in some of them), and are managed by  Cadw  (the Welsh historic environment service), the  National Trust , or by private owners.

Carreg Cennen Castle, West Wales, Cardiff Castle in South Wales and Conwy Castle in North Wales

Rugby  is the national sport here; the Welsh are known globally for their skill in the game and compete in the  Six Nations  and the  Rugby World Cup . In recent years, the  Welsh national men's football team  have also done well internationally - they reached the semifinals in the UEFA Euro 2016 championship and qualified for the 2022 FIFA World Cup.

Cardiff on a rugby match day, South Wales

The Welsh national anthem picks out ' beirdd a chantorion'  – the poets and singers – for special mention. That tradition continues to this day at our eisteddfod, the annual celebration of the language and its culture that have been part Welsh life since 1176. Today, the  National Eisteddfod  festival is held every year in a different Welsh location, as a showcase for music, dance, visual arts, literature, and original performances. Over 6,000 people compete each year, and to be 'chaired' as the Bard is a prestigious honour.

Many famous actors, singers,  writers , poets, musicians and  artists  were born in or come from Wales, including Anthony Hopkins, Shirley Bassey, Tom Jones, John Cale, Roald Dahl, and Kyffin Williams. More contemporary Welsh stars include Luke Evans, Charlotte Church, Catherine Zeta Jones, Michael Sheen, Christian Bale, and Taron Egerton. Read more about our  cultural history and famous faces .

Today, the Welsh music and arts scenes are alive with the sounds of bilingual music, poetry, art, and everything in between. Find out more about  arts and culture in Wales .

Scenes from our National Eisteddfod

Wales’ weather is mild and variable - with average temperatures of around 20°C (68°F) in summer, and 6°C (43°F) at low altitude in the winter months.

Our weather is very similar to the rest of the UK and Ireland, which means it can be wet here from time to time and can be cloudy and sometimes windy. Spring and summer are usually pleasantly warm and dry, while autumn is windy and rainier and winter is cold, icy and sometimes snowy, especially in mountainous and hilly areas.

When is the best time to visit?

Fortunately, Wales has a great array of  things to do in each of its seasons , from daffodil walks in spring to dolphin spotting in the summer.

All the seasons offer something different, with a variety of things to see and events taking place.

Spring ( March , April , May ) is a lovely time to see flowers and enjoy wildlife.

Summer ( June , July , August ) is the most popular time to visit. It is usually the warmest and it is light from very early in the morning until around 10pm at night but it is the busiest season.

Autumn ( September , October , November ) is often a quieter time to visit. Enjoy lovely autumn colours and food and film festivals. In November many Christmas events take place.

In Winter  ( December , January , February ) it is much quieter. The landscape is picturesque with snow capped mountains. Take a romantic break and celebrate St Valentine's Day in February, or St Dwynwen's Day on 25 January.

Seas off the Isle of Anglesey, North Wales

How to get to Wales

As part of the UK, Wales is easy to get to by air, land and sea. Cardiff Airport is the biggest in Wales, with over 50 direct routes . There are also  at least 900 connecting destinations worldwide. It is ideally placed for travels around South, West and Mid Wales. Some of England's airports are well placed for Wales, too.

Bristol Airport is about 90 minutes to Cardiff by car, while Liverpool John Lennon Airport and Manchester Airport are just an hour by car to North Wales with Birmingham Airport accessible to Mid Wales. London (including its airports and Eurostar stations) are about two and a half hours by train.

For more detailed information on how to get to Wales, including information on arriving by cruise ship or ferry, read our guide on  getting to Wales from outside the UK . 

While you may need a passport to get into the UK, you don't need to show your passport at the Welsh border with England. Note that if you live outside of the UK, you may need a UK visa to visit Wales. To find out more about this, visit the  UK Government Visas and Immigration website .

Getting around Wales

There are train lines connecting all four of the main sections in Wales, with main lines connecting larger towns and cities and branch lines that reach places further out.  Transport for Wales  manage rail services across Wales and some parts of England.

Some of our railway lines are particularly scenic, such as the  Heart of Wales Line  that cuts across rolling hills, the Cambrian Coast Line that hugs the North West coast and the Conwy Valley Line running through Eryri (Snowdonia). There are plenty of heritage railways in operation too.

Wales' colourful landscapes make for lots of scenic driving routes around the country. Getting from north to south isn't fast as you have to drive through mountain ranges and National Parks, but it's so pretty that you'll want to stop to take in the views. 

Cars drive on the left-hand side in Wales. There are rules and regulations around driving, so check the  UK Government  website if you plan on driving here. You can find EV charging points using the Transport for Wales electric charging point map .

Other transport

There are good options if you want to travel by bus or ferry and almost too many walking routes to count, including the Wales Coast Path. Read our dedicated page to  find out more about getting around Wales.

Barmouth Bridge, Gwynedd, North Wales

How many passengers can a taxi take?

Most taxis on the street take four to six passengers. It's possible to hire bigger vehicles when booking in advance.

Useful information

Interestingly, all UK coins (and many coins from countries around the world) are made in Wales at the  Royal Mint , which you can visit. Like the rest of the UK, pound sterling is the currency used here. Most places in Wales accept major credit cards from Visa and MasterCard, but some places and transport providers only accept cash payments.

You can take out cash at automatic teller machines (ATM) machines, which you'll find on high streets, in banks and at service stations. Some ATM machines charge for withdrawal. To change money, head to a  Post Office  or major bank. For more information, read our guide to  currency in Wales .

The Royal Mint Experience, Llantrisant, South Wales

Wales is a polite, friendly and patriotic country. Its people are welcoming and they uphold most of the etiquette practices that the rest of the UK follows, such as queuing and saying 'please' or 'thank you'.

You are not obliged to tip in Wales, but if you think the service you've received has been very good you can leave a little extra (10% of the bill is considered more than enough). Some restaurants add an optional service charge to the bill, but if you do not want to pay it you can ask for it to be removed.

Posting letters and parcels

You can post letters and parcels at branches of the  Post Office . Some newsagents sell books of stamps for posting things within the UK, while Post Office branches sell individual stamps and international stamps. Find your nearest Post Office branch online. 

What are the common shopping hours?

Most shops  open 9 am to 5 pm Monday to Saturday, with many opening later. Some supermarkets open 24 hours a day from Monday morning until Saturday evening.

Many shops have Sunday opening from 10 am to 4 pm or 11 am to 5 pm. Smaller shops can open outside of these hours.

Shopping in Cardiff, South Wales

How much do carrier bags cost?

A minimum charge of 10p applies to carrier bags.

What health and safety advice is available for walkers and outside activities?

Exploring the outdoors is fantastic fun, but please read up on the risks and make sure you are prepared.

Find safety advice for exploring Wales' National Parks and safety tips for staying safe on the Welsh coast . Visit AdventureSmart.uk for information on how to stay safe whilst exploring Wales.

Walkers in Pembrokeshire and a nd Aberdaron Porth Oer Wales Coast Path, North Wales

What is the international dialling code for the UK?

Emergency information, what is the emergency number.

In an emergency call 999 and ask for the service you require: fire, police, ambulance or the coast guard.

I need non-emergency medical and healthcare advice. What number should I call?

111. You may also want to visit the  NHS 111 website .

Can I use my mobile phone?

Yes, your mobile phone should change to a UK network. Check charges with your supplier. Please be aware some remote areas of our countryside might not have a mobile signal.

It can be cheaper to buy a SIM card locally if your phone is unlocked. For more information see the Visit Britain page about  travelling with a mobile phone .

Glyndwr’s Way above Llyn Clwedog, Powys, Mid Wales

Will I be able to access the internet?

Free WiFi is widely available in hotels (check when booking) as well as in restaurants, cafés and visitor attractions. You should be able to access roaming data (check with your provider).

Can I still visit Wales now that the UK has left the EU?

Yes. Check information on the UK Government website .

What is the electricity supply like?

It is very reliable with problems usually fixed quickly.

What type of electrical adapter will I need?

Is it safe to drink the tap water.

Yes. In the UK drinking water must meet strict standards. See the Discover Water quality page for more information. 

Help Wales become the first Refill Nation by using nearby Refill Points to fill up your water bottle before you head off. Find out more, including how to download the free Refill app to find your nearest Refill Point on the  Refill Wales website .

What is the legal drinking age in Wales and how late are bars, pubs and nightclubs open?

You have to be over 18 buy alcohol . If you look under 25 you may be asked for ID. Most pubs close at 11pm Monday to Saturday and 10.30pm on Sundays, with some closing later. Most night clubs close at around 2 or 3 am.

Tiny Rebel, Cardiff

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