best tourist destinations in 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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10 unmissable places to visit in Wales

Sep 25, 2021 • 5 min read

From the hills of Brecon to the dramatic coastlines the Gower, Wales has tons of beautiful places to visit © Roy JAMES Shakespeare / Getty Images

With three epic national parks , reams of beach-studded coastline, an underrated capital and more chocolate-box villages than you can shake a love spoon at, small but mighty Wales has a wealth of locations worth adding to your itinerary.

Planning a Welsh adventure but not sure where to start? Be inspired by our selection of the best places to visit in Wales .

Move over Bassey, forget it Tyler – with effortless beauty, an undeniable flair for the dramatic and the X factor that attracts devoted fans in their millions, you could call Snowdonia National Park the ultimate Welsh diva. Beyond its famous peaks, you’ll find ancient forests, sparkling waterfalls, historic mining towns and fairy-tale castles. Are you a thrill seeker? If so, there’s plenty to get your adrenaline pumping, from white water rafting to ziplining over the world’s largest slate quarry and surfing on an inland lagoon.

Pembrokeshire

Popular Pembrokeshire – the most westerly county in Wales – is home to some of the country’s finest beaches, a plethora of pretty seaside towns and the UK’s smallest city, St Davids . The entire coast is a national park, best explored with a hike along the Pembrokeshire Coast Path or on a coasteering tour – the cliff-scrambling sport was born right here. Lovers of wildlife won't want to miss a trip to Skomer Island, where thousands of puffins gather to raise their young come summer, while Harry Potter fans will want to make a pilgrimage to Dobby’s final resting place, Freshwater West beach. If you’re an ancient history buff, don’t miss Pentre Ifan , a prehistoric tomb hewn from the same bluestone used at Stonehenge.

Brecon Beacons 

The undulating hills and quaint villages of Brecon Beacons National Park are an irresistible draw for nature lovers and walking enthusiasts, not least because of the park’s proximity to the major towns and cities of South Wales – Cardiff, Swansea and Chepstow are all less than an hour away. Top hikes include Pen-y-Fan (come mid-week during school term time to beat the crowds) and Sugarloaf Mountain. The region is also an International Dark Sky Reserve – a dream for budding astronomers – so bring your binoculars for a spot of stargazing.

Portmeirion 

Is this Wales or the Italian Riviera? The brainchild of eccentric architect Sir Clough Williams-Ellis, Portmeirion is unlike anything else you’ll see in the UK , thanks to its hodgepodge of pastel-colored Mediterranean-style buildings and manicured gardens complete with giant chess board and golden Buddha shrine. But despite its commercial theme park-esque leanings, this curated “village” will soon win you over, especially if you stay to watch the sunset over the Dwyryd Estuary. 

Cardiff has all the trappings you’d expect of a cosmopolitan city – great nightlife, vibrant culture and a burgeoning indie food scene – but it all comes in an unusually green and compact package. Wander along the River Taff in Bute Park , picking up a coffee and decadent orange brownie at the Secret Garden Cafe ; catch a musical at the Wales Millennium Centre (nicknamed “the armadillo” thanks to its copper-colored curves); browse for bargains in the capital’s Victorian shopping arcades; or tour the ornate rooms and grounds of Cardiff Castle . Whatever you do, you’ll be met with a warm Welsh welcome.

Hay-on-Wye 

For a wholesome weekend away, look no further than Hay-on-Wye. This charming market town sits snugly between the River Wye and the English border, just north of the Brecon Beacons. It’s known for its annual Hay Festival , a literary extravaganza headlined by big-name authors featuring readings, writers’ workshops and book signings. But there’s still plenty to do year-round if you can’t make the festival. Peruse the abundant antique markets and secondhand book stores, hike to Hay Bluff via Offa’s Dyke Path or opt for a spot of wild swimming at The Warren, a pebble beach on the river bank. 

Slow travel comes with a historic twist in Llangollen, a compact, culture-packed town in North East Wales. A heritage steam train trundles between Llangollen and Corwen daily from February to October, and the town is a popular launchpad for hiking the ancient national trail, Offa’s Dyke Path. Don’t miss a trip to Pontcysyllte Aqueduct : towering 125ft (38m) above the River Dee, this spectacular World Heritage Site is the highest canal aqueduct ever built and can be traversed by foot, canal or even kayak. For a livelier time, visit in July, along with 120,000 other people, to attend the International Musical Eisteddfod and Fringe Festival.

Gower Peninsula 

The UK’s first designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), this 70-sq-mile (180 sq km) peninsula is renowned for its dramatic coastline and fabulous beaches. Following the south coast west from Swansea and the Mumbles , you’ll find a smattering of family-friendly bays (try Caswell and Langland for starters) backed by heather- and gorse-clad cliffs. Three-mile-long Rhossili Bay Beach dominates the peninsula’s west coast, spoiling visitors with broad golden sands, rolling surf and coastal walking trails peppered with ancient ruins. It’s worth saving time for a walk to Worms Head – the rocky promontory at the southern end of the beach – but keep an eye on the tides to avoid ending up stranded.

The Isle of Anglesey has two obvious claims to fame: it’s where the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge lived in the early years of their marriage, and it’s here you’ll find the village with the longest place name in Europe: Llanfair­pwllgwyngyll­gogery­chwyrn­drobwll­llan­tysilio­gogo­goch (a selfie next to the train station’s expansive sign is a tourist rite of passage). But the real magic is found along Anglesey’s coast (another AONB), whether you’re hiking the Wales Coast Path to bird-spotting heaven, South Stack Cliffs RSPB Reserve ; stand up paddleboarding on the Menai Strait; or lounging on Llanddwyn beach, a curve of pale sand backed by Corsican pines with views of Snowdonia. Beaumaris – with its Unesco-listed castle – makes a fine base from which to explore.

Machynlleth

This unassuming market town on the southern border of Snowdonia National Park is something of a cultural powerhouse. Once the capital of Wales (freedom fighter Owain Glyndŵr was crowned Prince of Wales here in 1404), today travelers come for the Museum of Modern Art and the increasingly popular Machynlleth Comedy Festival , which takes place each May. Save time for a day at the mostly open-air Centre for Alternative Technology , where you can learn about sustainable ways of living.

You might also like: The 10 most beautiful hikes in Wales The UK's longest mountain bike trail for beginners is now open How to spend a weekend in Anglesey, the eco-friendly island loved by William and Kate   

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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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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.

More on Wales

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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Destinations in Wales

North Wales

South Wales

From cultural landmarks to bustling cities, there’s a huge range of places to go for holidays in Wales. Whether you’re looking to escape into nature, experience the capital of  Cardiff , or take a boat trip to one of the country’s breath-taking islands, you’ll never have to settle for just one type of holiday when you pay a visit to Wales.

Some of the most beautiful holiday destinations in Wales can be found in its three National Parks – Snowdonia , the Brecon Beacons , and the Pembrokeshire coast . These regions boast historic market towns such as Hay-on-Wye (famous for its literary festival and abundance of independent bookshops), and pretty villages which are the perfect base for anyone looking to  explore Wales  on foot.

In South Wales, Swansea Bay is home to the country’s second largest city as well as its oldest Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Stop in at the seaside community of Mumbles for a world-class ice cream or spot of retail therapy, before wandering along the coastline of the stunning Gower Peninsula.

If you’re looking for something a little less rugged, Wales boasts some of the grandest National Trust properties in Britain – from Powis Castle and Garden with its Italian-inspired orangeries, to the formal walled garden at the Erddig estate. Alternatively, view Wales on a smaller scale and head to the UK’s smallest city, St David’s, on the edge of the West coast.

Whether you’re  looking for a city break  or rural retreat, Wales offers the best of all worlds. Discover more by browsing our expert guides at Wales.org today.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

Which part of wales is the best, wales’ snowdonia national park.

Wales’ Snowdonia National Park is one of the most stunning locations in North Wales. It features 823 square miles of impressive mountains. Snowdonia National Park is one of the most iconic locations in the area and a must-see if you’re searching for scenic walks or hiking experiences. If you want to see the boldest and most breath-taking national park in Wales, then this is the place to go.

Conwy Castle

There are many castles across Wales, but one of the most popular is Conwy Castle . This UNESCO World Heritage Site was built in the 13th century, but is extremely well-preserved. Experience centuries of history at one of the locations that shaped the history of Wales.

Brecon Beacons National Park

Perhaps second only to Snowdonia National Park, Brecon Beacons National Park is another example of an area of natural beauty in South Wales. It’s the perfect place to go if you’re looking for dramatic mountain ranges, breath-taking scenery and a rich history of locations – both man-made and natural landmarks. Brecon Beacons National Park is known for its great hikes and countless adventures.

Cardiff Castle

Cardiff Castle is another example of an impressively preserved slice of Welsh history – one of many imposing castles that you can visit across the country. It’s a great place to visit in Wales with family as there is a lot to see and do including a medieval keep, a Victorian gothic revival mansion, an ancient Roman wall, an Arab room and stunning battlement walks.

If you like books then Hay-on-Wye is the perfect place to visit on the river Wye. It’s sometimes cooled a ‘book’ town because of its countless book shops. The best time of the year to visit Hay-on-Wye is at the end of May, where they hold an annual literary festival.

Where is the prettiest village in Wales?

From seaside towns to beautiful rustic villages, Wales is known for its picturesque retreats. If you are looking for places to go in Wales that have lovely views and stunning panoramas then you might want to check out these villages in Wales:

Portmeirion Village, North Wales

Portmeirion village is one of the most gorgeous locations in North Wales. It features unique architecture, all designed by Sir Clough Williams Ellis. Walk its lush gardens, browse its charming shops and breathe in the serenity of the Welsh countryside.

Merthyr Mawr

Merthyr Mawr is a quaint village in Bridgend County, South Wales. Aside from being a beautiful village to visit, it also features the Merthyr Mawr Warren National Nature Reserve. Here you can explore dunes and picturesque stretches of woodland. In short, it’s a great place to visit to experience natural beauty and is perfect for hikers.

The Pembrokeshire Coast National Park is home to some stunning locations. One of these is Solva, a gorgeous coastal village that is perfect for a weekend retreat. You’ll find some great pubs, stunning coastal walks and a village full of friendly locals.

Llangrannog

Llangrannog is one of the best seaside towns in the country. If you visit this area on the west coast, you’ll have several beaches at hand including Llangrannog beach, Penbryn Beach and many other stretches of beautiful coastal walks. You can also visit Cardigan Castle beach for a taste of Welsh history.

St Fagans is home to one of the most renowned museums in all of Wales – the St Fagans National Museum of History . It is one of the largest open-air museums in Europe and features many fascinating exhibits. This, combined with a charming town in South Wales, offering you quaint cafes, restaurants and shops to browse through.

Where are the most popular places to visit in Wales?

The most visited place in Wales (and one of the most popular destinations in the U.K) is Snowdonia National Park. See below for some of the other most popular tourist attractions and destinations in Wales.

Glamorgan Heritage Coast

Glamorgan Heritage Coast is a stretch of 14 miles of coastline. This heritage coast is renowned for its striking views and unique limestone cliffs. Glamorgan Heritage coast is home to a number of incredible beaches, one of which is Three Cliffs Bay Beach with sandy shores that is perfect any time of the year. You’ll also find a series of historical sites such as lighthouses and maritime defences.

Pembrokeshire Coast National Park

Pembrokeshire Coast National Park is a popular area because of its wealth of scenic views and coastal walks. If Snowdonia National Park, or the Brecon Beacons National Park are places you’ve enjoyed in the past – then this is the final national park for you to visit! Take in a landscape of sand beaches and rough cliffs – this is one of the most wonderful sections of Wales for you to explore.

Caernarfon Castle

Caernarfon Castle is widely known as one of the best-preserved castles in Europe. Because of this, it’s one of the most popular castles in Wales. Designed in the 11th century, it has some of the most impressive medieval architecture in North Wales. Expect a lot of history and a truly unforgettable experience.

National Museum Cardiff

The National Museum in Cardiff is a treasure-trove of historical artefacts and priceless artwork. Experience natural history, or delve into the paintings of famous impressionists and Dutch masters. Nestled in the heart of Cardiff, just a short walk from Cardiff Castle, the National Museum Cardiff is a fun day out for all the family. If you’re in South Wales, a trip to Cardiff to see the museum is well worth it!

National Slate Museum & The Big Pit

The National Slate Museum is the remnants of the now out of use Dinorwic quarry. Hidden away in North Wales, it features 19th century workshops that educate visitors about the history of the Slate industry in Wales. The Slate Museum offers many exhibitions and even live demonstrations of stone work.

Bodnant Garden

Perhaps you’re searching for a serene retreat in the heart of Conwy valley. It’s not far from Conwy Castle and offers you the chance to experience lavish gardens with a plethora of plants and fauna.

If you need more ideas, take a look at these family days out in Wales , city breaks ideas and the best destinations for romantic breaks .

28 of the Best Places to Visit in Wales in 2024

Written By: The Planet D

Updated On: February 8, 2024

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

Table of Contents

Places to Visit in Wales

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

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

1. Snowdonia National Park

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

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

2. Snowdon Mountain Railway

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

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

3. Llanberis

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

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

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

Places to Stay in Llanberis

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

4. Bounce Below

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

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

5. ZipWorld

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

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

6. Portmeirion Tourist Village

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

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

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

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

7. Llandudno

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

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

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

8. Conwy Castle

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

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

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

9. Harlech Castle

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

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

10. Great Orme

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

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

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

11. Pontcysyllte Aqueduct

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

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

12. Pembrokeshire Coast National Park

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

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

13. Pembrokeshire Coast Path

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

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

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

14. St. David’s Cathedral

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

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

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

15. Porthgain

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

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

16. Gower Peninsula

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

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

17. Cardiff

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

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

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

18. Cardiff Castle

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

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

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

19. National Museum Cardiff

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

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

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

20. Carreg Cennen Castle

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

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

21. Brecon Beacons National Park

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

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

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

22. Llandeilo

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

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

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

23. Aberaeron

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

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

24. Devil’s Bridge Falls

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

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

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

25. Aberystwyth

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

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

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

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

26. Caernarfon Castle

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

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

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

27. Hay on Wye

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

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

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

28. Center of Alternative Technology

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

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

Getting Around Wales

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

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

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

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

Read More About Travel in Great Britain

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

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

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About The Planet D

Dave Bouskill and Debra Corbeil are the owners and founders of The Planet D. After traveling to 115 countries, on all 7 continents over the past 13 years they have become one of the foremost experts in travel. Being recognized as top travel bloggers and influencers by the likes of Forbes Magazine , the Society of American Travel Writers and USA Today has allowed them to become leaders in their field.

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

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

Wow… its very beauty, amazing…

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

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

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

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: September 2, 2023

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

CONWY CASTLE

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

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

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

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

Click to purchase tickets for Conwy Castle

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

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

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

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

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

Read more | 15 Things to do in Cardiff

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

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

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

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

Read more – Best castle stays in Wales

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read more | Ffestiniog and Welsh Highlands Railway

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

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

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

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

Read more | Portmeirion

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

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

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

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

Read more | Visiting Anglesey

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

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

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

Read more | North Wales Travel Guide

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

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

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

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

Read more | Pembrokeshire

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

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

WHAT TO DO : Click here for recommended tours of Wales

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

WHAT TO EAT – Welsh cakes, laverbread, Bara Brith

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

PRINCIPLE TRAIN STATIONS – Cardiff Central and Swansea.

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

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

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

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

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

Learn more in my Wales Travel Planning Guide!

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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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10 Best Places to Visit in Wales

By Fiona Fiorentino · Last updated on November 3, 2023

Wales shares a great deal of history with the rest of Great Britain, but the rugged beauty of its landscapes and the open nature of its inhabitants make it a distinctly unique travel destination. For first-time visitors, the most obvious difference between Wales and the other lands in the United Kingdom is the tongue-twisting Welsh language.

While everyone speaks English, part of the fun of visiting Wales is learning a few phrases of one of the oldest languages in Europe. Besides its Celtic culture, the country is also famous for the large number of imposing castles. Wales’s scenic mountains, valleys and coastlines are just as enchanting, and no visit to Wales is complete without a long tramp through one of its stunning national parks. An overview of the best places to visit in Wales :

10. Aberystwyth [SEE MAP]

Known by the locals as “Aber,” Aberystwyth is an historic university town situated on the west coast of Wales. With 7,000 students attending school in Aberystwyth each year, it’s no surprise that the town is also a popular holiday destination for young people as evidenced by the city’s more than 50 pubs.

The seafront features charming Victorian architecture with a wide promenade where visitors can sit and soak up the sun. Perched atop one of the surrounding hills are the remnants of a massive Iron Age fortress. The remains of the first Norman castle built in Wales can be found in Aberystwyth too.

9. Caernarfon [SEE MAP]

Located in northern Wales, the city of Caernarfon is best known for its 13th-century castle, which is considered one of the best preserved fortresses in all of Wales. Although the castle was built as a royal palace as well as a military stronghold for Edward I, the inner buildings and apartments have all but disappeared.

The defensive murder holes, gates, portcullises, towers and walls survive, however, offering visitors a clear understanding of what lengths the English had to take to hold off the Welsh. King Edward’s son was born in Caernarfon and named the Prince of Wales, and the northeast tower now showcases the Prince of Wales Exhibition.

8. Hay-on-Wye [SEE MAP]

Hay-on-Wye is a small town on the River Wye, very close to the English border and within the borders of Brecon Beacons National Park. The National Book Town, with at least two dozen bookshops, Hay-on-Wye is probably best known as the location of a prestigious annual Hay Festival, sponsored by the Guardian newspaper. The festival stated in 1988 and today draws 80,000 people annually to discuss to discuss the arts with well-known writers, philosophers and other artists.

7. St. David's Cathedral [SEE MAP]

Located in the City of St. David’s in Pembrokeshire county, St. David’s Cathedral is a beautiful example of religious architecture in the Middle Ages. The patron saint of Wales, St. David was a Welsh bishop of the Catholic Church during the 6th century and was buried in the site’s original structure.

Construction for the existing cathedral was begun in the 1180s using purple-colored sandstone. Now part of the Church of Wales, the Norman cathedral houses numerous treasures, including 800-year-old bishop staffs gilded with gold, 13th-century silver chalices and a 1620 edition of the Welsh Bible.

6. Brecon Beacons National Park [SEE MAP]

Named after the pair of nearly 900-meter (3,000-foot) hills situated in the heart of the park, Brecon Beacons features a landscape of rolling hills, rocky river valleys, grasslands and water meadows. The park is dotted with archeological remnants of Wales’ long history too, including Neolithic cairns, Bronze Age standing stones, Iron Age forts and crumbling Norman castles.

The park also contains numerous underground caves and beautiful waterfalls, including the Sgwd yr Eira Waterfall where visitors can walk behind a curtain of water. The National Park Centre located near the city of Brecon is a good place to begin explorations of the park.

5. Cardiff [SEE MAP]

Located in the southeast corner of Wales, Cardiff became the country’s capital in 1955 and launched a number of projects to improve the ancient port city shortly thereafter. The 74,200-seat Millennium sports stadium and the futuristic Wales Millennium Centre for the performing arts have now joined Cardiff Castle as the city’s star attractions.

The 11th-century castle gives visitors a great introduction to Welsh history, and a climb to the top of the keep offers stunning views of the city and surrounding countryside. With its exhibits of Roman pottery and gold jewelry dating back to the Bronze Age, the National Museum Cardiff is also a must-see attraction.

4. Conwy [SEE MAP]

An ancient town with a rich history, Conwy is located in North Wales on the Conwy Estuary near the forests of Snowdonia. The dark-stoned fortress of Conwy Castle dominates the cityscape. Built in the 1280s by Edward I, the castle’s mammoth curtain walls and eight round towers remain intact and imposing.

Views from the battlements offer visitors a bird’s eye view of the castle’s Great Hall and of the walls and towers that surround the medieval town. With its Byzantine processional cross and 15th-century screens, the church of St. Mary’s is worth a visit as well.

3. Pembrokeshire Coast [SEE MAP]

Home to the only coastal national park in Wales, Pembrokeshire county encompasses the country’s southwestern peninsula and offshore islands. Visited by more than four million people each year, the national park is best known for the Pembrokeshire Coast Path, which winds for 300 km (186 miles) along cliff tops overlooking the craggy shoreline.

The area is famed for its wildlife too. Seals bask on the rocks below and hundreds of species of birds soar overhead. For adrenaline junkies, opportunities for wind, kite and conventional surfing abound along the region’s numerous beaches, and there are quaint fishing villages and ancient castles to explore as well.

2. Llandudno [SEE MAP]

Nestled between the limestone headlands of Great Orme and Little Orme in North Wales, Llandudno is the country’s largest seaside resort and arguably its most charming. Built during the 1950s by the wealthy Mostyn family, Llandudno has all the attributes that wealthy Victorians looked for in a summer resort, including a promenade stretched along the town’s northern beach with a 700-meter (2,300-foot) pier jutting into the bay at the end.

Built in 1902, the Great Orme Tramway climbs to the 200 meter (680-foot) summit of the headlands where visitors can put on their hard hats for a self-guided tour of an old copper mine.

1. Snowdonia [SEE MAP]

The mountains of the Snowdonia National Park in North Wales are one of the most popular places to visit in Wales. Few of Snowdonia’s peaks top 900 meters (3,000 feet), but their steeply wooded slopes lend them a heightened sense of drama. They also provide a stunning backdrop to the park’s estuaries, lakes, rivers, slate mines and villages.

Hiking is a popular activity in Snowdonia, and there are Neolithic burial cairns and Roman ruins to explore in the park too. A cog railway takes visitors to the top of Snowdon, the park’s namesake and highest peak.

Map of Wales

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February 22, 2018 at 9:02 am

I’ve been once to snowdonia and twice to Pembrokeshire both are breathtaking and leave you in awe I found it hard to vote Wales is just so beautiful

October 3, 2016 at 10:25 pm

Yes we planning a trip to Snowdonia! Would love to view the beautiful mountains and rivers! Going straight to your No. 1!

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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!

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15 of the best things to do in Wales

Hike mood-lifting coastal paths, visit puffin islands, walk a sheep, zip-line in a mine — here’s the scoop on the essential experiences, from cardiff to north wales.

T he minute you cross the Severn Bridge, you feel it in the air: Wales is wild. Here the mountains ripple higher, the rivers run deeper, the forests are denser, the beaches emptier and the sea stormier. With its own rich culture, history, language and legends, this nation deserves more appreciation than it gets.

While you’ll undoubtedly feel the tug of Snowdonia, the Brecon Beacons and Pembrokeshire, go off-piste on single-track roads where unruly sheep roam and you’ll be amazed by just how much this country has to offer — from crag-top castles to brilliant night skies, romantic road trips to Michelin-starred restaurants. The country might look titchy, but don’t be fooled — there’s enough to keep you coming back for a lifetime. And it’s beautiful no matter what the Welsh weather throws at you. Here are the best things to do in Wales.

Main photo: Conwy Castle (Getty Images)

1. Hike the Pembrokeshire Coast Path

Wales is the only country in the world with a waymarked coast path wrapping up its entire coastline: the 870-mile Wales Coast Path. The loveliest stretch of the lot is the Pembrokeshire Coast Path from Amroth in the south to St Dogmaels in the north, an upliftingly beautiful 186-mile trek along rugged, wave-hammered shores. Skipping over gorse-clad cliffs to coves, prehistoric rocks, dune-backed beaches and dinky fishing villages straight out of an Enid Blyton book, the trail has moments to make your heart sing. Only time for one walk? Make it the three-mile one to Dinas Head.

• Best beaches in Wales

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2. Climb peaks beyond Snowdon

With top-of-the-beanstalk views of North Wales, 1,085m (3,560ft) Snowdon is the peak that gets all the fuss, as well as the biggest crowds. It’s a beauty, no doubt, and climb it you should, avoiding summer weekends and choosing a quieter trail — the peaceful Rhyd Ddu Path or tough scramble up Crib Goch, for instance. Eryri National Park is more than a one-mountain wonder, however. Chuck on boots to stomp from the remote, rugged, waterfall-splashed Ogwen Valley up to Glyder Fawr via the Devil’s Kitchen, or clamber up boulder-speckled Cadair Idris where, legend has it, a giant carved out a chair from which to observe the night skies.

3. Go on a world heritage castle crawl

Romantic ruins, ring-walled Norman forts, medieval castles plonked on misty hillsides that look freshly minted for a fantasy epic — Wales has some 600 castles, more per capita than anywhere else on earth. Even Cardiff has an impressive one, which was 2,000 years in the making. But for a proper hit of history, go on a castle crawl in the north. There, top billing goes to Edward I’s Iron Ring of Castles. Now a Unesco world heritage site, it’s a quartet of medieval stunners that includes Conwy, Caernarfon, Beaumaris and Harlech.

4. Stargaze on Ynys Enlli

Wales has a lot of space. Three international dark sky reserves — Eryri (Snowdonia), Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) and the Elan Valley — and a generous sprinkling of dark sky discovery sites have put the country on the celestial map. On crystal-clear nights, these inky skies are embroidered with millions of stars, and you can observe major constellations and the Milky Way with the naked eye alone. For extra twinkle, head to Ynys Enlli, Europe’s first international dark sky sanctuary, as of 2023. Rising out of the Irish Sea like a sleeping dragon, this pilgrimage island is special by day, too. It’s swirling in Celtic history, and legend has it that 20,000 saints lie buried here.

bardsey.org/darkskysanctuary

5. Walk a sheep in Bannau Brycheiniog National Park

As you might know from hoofing it across muddy farmers’ fields, sheep generally like to keep a sensible distance, so how unique to be able to take one for a walk. On a 220-acre organic farm near Crai, in the heart of Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) national park, you can strike up a bond with blacknose, Jacob and Breton Ouessant sheep and go for a ramble. If the weather behaves, there are cracking views of the great fins of the Brecon Beacons, including 886m (2,906ft) Pen-y-Fan. Bring waterproofs and wellies.

sheeptrekking.co.uk

6. Hang out with puffins on Skomer

In the Atlantic off the coast of Pembrokeshire, Skomer Island is home to 42,000 puffins. And you’ll never get closer to these adorable birds than here. Walk the four-mile circular trail over wildflower-carpeted cliffs to The Wick to see puffins run around your feet, bring sand-eels in for newly hatched pufflings and grumble in their burrows. Book in advance to stay overnight at the Old Farm, then venture out at night to hear the ghostly sound of Manx shearwaters dive-bombing burrows. The island harbours the world’s largest colony (350,000 breeding pairs) of these long-haul flyers, who winter in South America. Boats depart Martins Haven for Skomer from April to September. Go in autumn if you want to see Atlantic grey seal furball pups, too.

pembrokeshire-islands.co.uk/boat-trips/land-on-skomer

7. Play in Cardiff Bay

Once the beating heart of Wales’ coal-shipping industry, Cardiff Bay became the face of the Welsh nation in the blink of a millennium-changing eye. Go for a walk, jog or cycle along the revamped waterfront and you’ll note architectural showstoppers like the bronze wave of the Wales Millennium Centre, home to the Welsh National Opera, and Lord Richard Rogers’ floaty-roofed Senedd (Welsh Parliament). Take a spin on the big wheel, stroll to the white-wood Norwegian church where Roald Dahl was baptised and continue along the seafront to the rewilded barrage and Enormous Crocodile bench. In summer, Cardiff International White Water gets you out on the water rafting, kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding. For a stylish sleep, there’s coolly contemporary voco St David’s, with its bay-facing spa and restaurant, Tir a Mor.

cardiffbay.co.uk

• Best hotels in Cardiff • Best things to do in Cardiff

8. Plug into prehistory in the Preseli Hills

Stonehenge steals the prehistoric limelight, but archaeologists suggest it probably pinched its famous bluestones from the Preseli Hills, the lonely stretch of boggy, windswept moors and cairn-dotted tors rolling across North Pembrokeshire. Packed with standing stones, dolmens, Iron Age hillforts and King Arthur legends, this micro-region is a treat if you’re fascinated by past civilisations. Running along the spine of the Preseli Hills, the seven-mile Golden Road trail gets you properly out on those wild moors — you can barely walk half a mile without stumbling across a standing stone. Stay overnight at Preseli Hills Cottages to be close to the prehistoric action, with a wood-fired hot tub for post-hike chilling.

visitpembrokeshire.com/articles/walking-on-the-golden-road

9. Jump off a cliff coasteering

You can hop from beach to gorgeous, cliff-flanked beach in Pembrokeshire, but for a backstage pass to its ragged coast, go coasteering. This whoop-out-loud activity was born here in the 1980s, pioneered by the likes of TYF Adventure in St Davids and Preseli Venture. No experience is required, just pop on a wetsuit and helmet and you’re good to go: cave swimming in the booming Atlantic, jumping off cliffs and scrambling over boulders. But it’s more than just a buzz. Be still for a second and you might spot wildlife, from seabirds like razorbills and guillemots in spring to seals and their pups in autumn.

visitpembrokeshire.com/activities-adventure/coasteering

10. Beach out on the Isle of Anglesey

Competition is fierce, but Anglesey’s beaches are knockouts. Dangling off Wales’ northwestern tip, this AONB island bears the brunt of the Irish Sea’s stormiest tempers and peeks across to Snowdonia’s moody peaks. From the sweeping butterscotch sands and rockpools of Traeth Lligwy to great dunes of Traeth Mawr in Aberffraw and pine-backed, three-mile long Traeth Llanddwyn, Anglesey has truly dreamy shores. Stringing them together is the 130-mile Anglesey Coast Path, which kicks off at mediaeval St Cybi’s Church in Holyhead.

visitanglesey.co.uk

11. Embrace post-industrial cool

At the peak of the Industrial Revolution, Wales was hollowed out with the world’s biggest and deepest mines, putting slate on roofs and coal in fires across the globe. The mines are long gone, but the country still treasures its industrial heritage. For a moving insight into a life cutting coal, join ex-miners to descend a mineshaft at Big Pit, the centrepiece of Blaenavon World Heritage Centre. Or for more of a thrill, check out Zip World sites across Wales, where mines and quarries have been reborn as pulse-racing zip lines, giant underground trampolines and rollercoasters.

museum.wales/bigpit

12. Embark on a Welsh food odyssey

Wales glitters brighter with stars each year, with chefs riffing creatively on locally farmed, fished and foraged ingredients — and some pairing menus with increasingly impressive Welsh wines. In the southeast, Abergavenny (of September food festival fame) is but a cork-pop away from cracking country inns like the Hardwick, the Felin Fach Griffin and the Michelin-starred Walnut Tree. Hiding away in the Wye Valley, the Michelin-starred Whitebrook wows with unheard-of foraged flavours. Continue your gourmet odyssey on the south coast: at the Michelin-starred Beach House on Gower and intimate Home by James Sommerin in Penarth. Moving on north, you’ll find unmissables like SY23 in Aberystwyth, Sosban and The Old Butchers and mind-blowing, two-starred Ynyshir — booking early is essential.

ynyshir.co.uk

13. Mix culture with coast in Swansea and Gower

For a brush with Welsh culture, follow in the footsteps of bad-boy poet Dylan Thomas through his gritty hometown, Swansea, visiting his Edwardian-era birthplace and museum, his old boozer, the 17th-century No Sign Wine Bar, and the revamped docks where his statue stands. Also there is the National Waterfront Museum, which dives deep into Welsh industrial heritage. The great curve of Swansea Bay boomerangs you west to Mumbles and beyond to Gower, Britain’s first AONB. Pick a beach — castaway, cliff-wrapped Brandy Cove, where pirates once hid their booty; the swirling, tide-ripped sands of Three Cliffs Bay; the fizzing surf and dunes of Oxwich Bay and Rhossili; or see them all on the 39-mile coast path from Mumbles to Crofty.

visitswanseabay.com

14. Buckle up for a road trip in the Wye Valley

When mist hangs in the woody Wye Valley, the river falls into shadow and sunset pinkens the sky, you can see why this vale sent Wordsworth, Coleridge and Turner into romantic raptures. The stretch from castle-topped Chepstow to over-the-border Ross-on-Wye is ideal for a weekend road trip. Break en route to climb 365 steps up to the Eagle’s Nest in Wyndcliff for soul-stirring views, or trudge up to the Devil’s Pulpit above Tintern and its ruined gothic abbey, where the devil is said to have preached to monks to coax them into deserting their order. Monmouth’s handsome Georgian streets, the rock of Symonds Yat, where peregrine falcons take flight, and medieval Goodrich Castle await further north.

wyevalleyaonb.org.uk

15. Take a walk on the wild side in the Cambrian Mountains

You never hear a peep about the Cambrian Mountains, that vast swathe of rust-gold moors, forests, high ridges and glacier-carved llyns (lakes) rolling across the midriff of Wales. Nicknamed the “Desert of Wales”, this remote, sparsely populated region is wild — from the ancient oak forests of Dinas Nature Reserve, hazed with bluebells in spring, to fjord-like Llyn Brianne, Britain’s tallest dam, and the dense Tywi Forest. Single-track roads lead you over the hairpin-riddled Devil’s Staircase to silent Abergwesyn Common for wild swims in the River Irfon and north to the Elan Valley’s glimmering reservoirs and 752m (2,467ft) Pumlumon Fawr, where a stiff summit hike rewards with far-reaching views of Snowdonia, the Brecon Beacons and Cardigan Bay. By day, you’ll be alone with the unruly sheep and whistling red kites, and by night stars blink in some of Britain’s darkest skies, best discovered on the 50-mile, self-guided Cambrian Mountains Astro Trail.

thecambrianmountains.co.uk/discover-dark-skies

• Best hotels in Wales

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The top 20 attractions in Wales according to Tripadvisor

There are many amazing attractions in Wales to discover

• 11:35, 12 SEP 2021
• Updated 17:06, 28 FEB 2022

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Wales is full of man-made and natural attractions that make it a fantastic place to live and visit.

So, if you aren't sure what awesome attraction to explore next, why not let someone else decide for you and take the stress out of travel planning?

Using traveller ratings and information about each attraction here is what the popular travel website Tripadvisor has decided are the best attractions in Wales.

And there are some absolute corkers to discover!

1. St Fagans National Museum of History

This open-aired museum near Cardiff has been crowned the best attraction in Wales by Tripadvisor, rated four and a half stars with over 7,000 reviews.

The museum tells the story of the people of Wales, looking at all periods of history from the Victorians to medieval times.

Entry to the museum is free and is open daily, other than Christmas Day, Christmas Eve, Boxing Day, and New Year's Day, from 10 am-5 pm.

A glowing review of the museum on Tripadvisor said: "We returned here after more than 50 years and found the facility much improved - but still containing some of the original exhibits. It was a nostalgic trip and evoked many memories. The improved facilities were excellent - and it was free!."

2. Gower Peninsula

It comes as no surprise that this beautiful coastal area of Wales is high ranking with a rating of five out of five stars.

From sandy beaches that you can relax on to stunning coastal walks that show off the wonderful views, there is so much that this slice of south Wales paradise holds.

Beaches such as Oxwich Bay and Caswell Bay are perfect for families with Llangennith beach popular with surfers. And if you want to get away from it all then Three Cliffs Bay and Rhosilli are unspoilt gems.

The Gower Peninsula has more than 2,000 reviews and one said: "If the weather is right then you could be anywhere in the Mediterranean...massive clean beaches that are not overcrowded, with lovely walks everywhere.

3. Great Orme

Another colourful Welsh headland has claimed third place and you can find Great Orme in Conwy, which is rated four and a half stars.

Taking its name from the Old Norse word for sea serpent, there there are plenty of sea views in this area which you can enjoy by cable car or tramway.

The area is also a country park as well as a Site of Special Scientific Interest with lots of nature to enjoy.

One Tripadvisor user said: "Amazing views, you can walk as much as you like around it cafe on the top - three ways to get up there, walk, cable car or we did the 103 years tram, saw the Welsh goats who are wild and rutting at the time on the Orme, heather was in flower and stunning."

Read more: The beautiful lake that’s the best-kept secret in Wales

4. Llangollen Canal

This canal that crosses the Welsh/English border is north Wales and is home to the Pontycysyllte Aqueduct, which is a Grade 1 listed structure.

The canal has a rating of four and a half stars on Tripadvisor and you can explore it by hiring a canal boat or on foot., allowing you to walk across the famous Pontycysyllte Aqueduct which offers great views from its eye-watering heights.

With over 350 reviews on Tripadvisor many are loving this scenic waterway, one person said: "We walked 10 miles down the canal taking in two amazing aqueducts. Fantastic scenery and amazing industrial heritage."

5. Tenby Castle Beach

Easily one of the most popular places to visit in Wales is Tenby in Pembrokeshire and with pretty pastel houses and gorgeous beaches, it is no wonder people love this quaint area.

Tenby offers three beaches but is Tenby Castle Beach, which has grabbed fifth place on the list also winning a Blue Flag Beach award recently.

The beach is accessible for wheelchair users, which you can pre-book online beforehand, and there are lifeguards on the beach from June to September.

Rated four and a half stars it is easy to see why this traveller left this glowing review: "In the summer season, Tenby beach is just like a beach in Spain. Perfect place to visit if you do not want to travel abroad. Everyone should visit Tenby just once in a lifetime."

6. Mount Snowdon

If you are up for adventure Snowdon [Welsh - Yr Wyddfa] is the natural mountain 'attraction' for you, rating five out of five stars on Tripadvisor.

Snowdon is the highest mountain in Wales towering at 1,085 metres [3,560 ft] above sea level and over Llanberis.

There are six main paths to the summit of Snowdon, they include Llanberis Path, Pyg Track, Miners’ Track, Watkin Path, Rhyd-Ddu Path and the Snowdon Ranger Path.

If hiking isn't for you, then there's also the option of the Snowdon Mountain Railway, which will take you all the way to the summit and has been on the mountain since 1896.

Although the climb can be challenging many reviewers on the platform thought it was more than worth it, one person left this review: "This was a first climb for us, it was tough but totally doable with breaks and the views are just stunning and so worth it. Once you get going it’s not so bad. Take plenty of provisions but be careful not to weigh yourself down like we did! Once you get to the summit the sense of achievement is absolutely awesome."

7. Conwy Castle

Wales is famous for its castles, so there is no surprise that one of them has made the top ten - scoring four and a half stars in the process.

You'll find the hugely impressive Conwy Castle in north Wales and the castle dates back to 1283. You can walk all around the castle walls providing you with some amazing views of the bay and beyond.

The castle is open at different times throughout the year with adult tickets priced at £9.25, child tickets at £6.60, and a family ticket for £31.

This traveller loved immersing themselves in the history: "We visited several castles in north Wales and this one takes some beating. It’s a stunning castle that dominates the skyline of this lovely town. We received a warm welcome from the staff. This town has such history and is mostly enclosed within the old castle walls."

Read more: The two Welsh castles named among the UK's best world heritage sites

8. Snowdonia National Park

The climb all the way up to the summit of Snowdon might not be for you but with the Snowdonia National Park coming in eighth and rated five out of five stars there are still plenty of views you can enjoy.

Snowdonia [Welsh - Eryri], is the largest national park in Wales and is not too far from the north Wales coast. The beautiful rugged landscape offers a multitude of walks all varying in difficulty meaning there is sure to be something perfect for you.

There are also lakes, quaint villages, and amazing castles to explore in this area making it a fab attraction. One traveller said: "Stunning national park with great mountain, lake, and valley views.

If you aren't sure where to go in Snowdonia, hire an expert guide to take you around the park. There are so many hidden places and quiet walks that you might not find without some insider knowledge.

9. Cemaes Bay Traeth Bach Beach

Despite being the lesser-known of north Wales' Cemaes beaches, Traeth Bach Beach has been awarded ninth place and four and a half stars.

Traeth bach, which means small beach in Welsh, is both child and dog friendly. With both sand and rocks, children can enjoy splashing around in the sea or looking for creatures in the rock pools.

A slipway to the beach makes it accessible for disabled visitors. However, i's worth noting that there are no lifeguards on the beach.

Raving about the beach, one person said: "This really is a fantastic spot to visit whilst on Anglesey. So peaceful with lovely views and totally unspoiled."

10. Three Cliffs Bay

Back to the Gower now and another beach has claimed 10th place.

With an impressive five out of five stars, it is easy to see why travellers love this more wild beach flanked by sand dunes and its trio of limestone cliffs.

Many believe this beach to be one of the most photogenic spots on the Gower and there are lifeguards on the beach from early July to early September.

This traveller loved the beach so much that they will be coming back, they said: "What an amazing place to go with children mine are 9 and 11 they loved it. We went hiking and swimming. Water is so clear. I would say try to stay few nights. Coming back next year as it’s very adventurous."

11. Zip World Fforest

The adventurous Zip World sites have become very popular across Wales but it is the Fforest site in North Wales that has been crowned the best.

With a ranking of four and a half stars and more than 1,300 reviews, there are six adventures to be had at this site including Tree Hoppers and Fforest Coaster.

It is a great day out for all the family as each ride or zipline is aimed at different ages and the staff are well praised on Tripadvisor: "The whole experience was great. A fabulous setup, all the staff were lovely and couldn't be nicer and more helpful. We really enjoyed the coaster and could do it all again and we will."

12. Tredegar House

With 90 acres of beautiful gardens and parkland, Tredegar House is one of the most significant late 17th-century houses in the whole of Britain.

This National Trust site in Newport has been rated four and a half stars with more than 1,200 reviews and was a former home to the influential Welsh family the Morgans.

You can explore the 90 acres of amazing grounds and parkland as well as the house and opening times vary throughout the year.

The house is ticketed but the parkland, lake and woodland are free to explore.

One traveller said: "Lovely historical house and pretty and interesting gardens. A variety of different walks to enjoy and a lovely cafe (pasties were very tasty) and a second-hand book store. Great way to spend an afternoon, child, dog, and disabled-friendly too."

13. National Slate Museum

This Llanberis museum which is free to enter has been rated four and a half stars with just over 2,000 reviews.

Located in a closed quarry the National Slate Museum tells the story of the Welsh slate industry and you will learn about quarrymen and engineers throughout the ages.

The museum opened in 1972 and is now open every day from 10am to 5pm.

Travellers have loved hearing more about Wales's history: "Excellent time spent here, exploring the different houses and workshops. Easy to get around and learn how things were back in its heyday. A small café on site was clean and friendly staff were willing to help. Well worth a visit, and dog friendly too!"

14. Rhyl Miniature Railway

This attraction is over 100 years old yet still continues to delight travellers as it is rated four and a half stars.

It is now the UK's oldest miniature line and as well as getting to ride the train there is a museum and play area and railway can be found in Rhyl, north Wales.

The railway is open at different times during the year and the ticket fares are £3 for adults, £2 for children and the museum is free.

One person said: "Very quaint little railway going round the lake. Tickets are cheap and trains run every 15 to 20 minutes. Good scenery and little museum to look at before/afterward."

15. Pontcysyllte Aqueduct

Linked to the Llangollen Canal, the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct has been crowned as its own attraction, coming in at 15th place and rated four and a half stars.

The Aqueduct is a must-visit civil engineering destination and is one of the more astonishing achievements of the industrial revolution.

At 38 metres over the Dee Valley, it’s also the highest navigable aqueduct in the world and the oldest in Britain. Designed and built by Thomas Telford and Williams Jessop, it’s still in use over 200 years after construction began.

Visitors will surely be struck by a seemingly impossible canal spectacle. 18 arched stone pillars support deep cast-iron troughs filled with water, forming a River in the Sky that can be accessed by foot or by boat.

Many travellers have enjoyed walking across and to the bridge, marvelling at the views that the 38-metre high bridge offers.

One said: "There are numerous photos that have been taken from this impressive aqueduct, but not one of them captures the magnificent views that can only be fully appreciated by the naked eye. When you incorporate the crossing with a pleasant stroll along the canal, it makes for a very enjoyable experience."

16. Pen-y-Fan

For some of the best views of the Brecon Beacons, hike up the highest peak in the Brecon Beacons National Park, Pen-y-Fan.

Rated an impressive five out of five stars this scenic trek was previously crowned the most Instagrammable walk in the UK.

The climb summits at 886 meters above sea level and the area and paths are owned by the National Trust, with the mountain also used for training by the armed forces.

The vast majority of walkers hike the well-trodden route to the summit from Storey Arms Activity centre and this is the most family-friendly route. There's also a less crowded ascent via the path up from Taf Fechan Forest past Neuadd Reservoir for the more experienced hiking family.

Watching the sunrise at the top of Pen-y-Fan has become extremely popular of late and several families have even made the trek up to watch the dawn break over the peaks.

One traveller describes the idyllic scene and views: "We really enjoyed the hike and the mist just gave it a special look. We felt like we were in the clouds. We took the easiest route and enjoyed it all the way up. Amazing views and really worth the effort. Felt very peaceful and the sheep all around were very friendly."

17. Pembrokeshire Coast National Park

This gorgeous national park is split into four and made up of gorgeous beaches, rolling hills, and enchanting woodlands meaning you will struggle to get bored.

Rated five out of five stars despite being a smaller national park this west coast beauty is still very popular.

There are plenty of walking routes but you can also enjoy the waves on kayaks or surfboards.

One traveller said it was better than Devon or Cornwall. He wrote: "Oh why do people go to Cornwall and Devon when Wales has amazing beaches, great food, and friendly people? We have to come to the Pembroke side and found some amazing beaches and great food come and try it is worth it, you will not be disappointed."

18. Vale of Rheidol Railway

You can step back in time to the Edwardian ages by taking a trip on the Vale of Rheidol Railway in Aberystwyth.

These steam-powered trains have been open since 1902 and the route takes you past some great scenery such as Devil's bridge and pretty waterfalls.

The railway is open at different times during the year and tickets cost £60.50 for a compartment for up to two adults, £30.25 for extra adults, and £2.75 for extra children.

One traveller said: "Whether it's rain or shine, this is a lovely way to spend a few hours soaking up the heritage railway with superb views of the Rheidol valley."

19. Bardsey Island

Off the coast of mid-Wales is Bardsey Island, which in Welsh means the Island in the Currents and has been rated five out of five stars.

The island is well known for its captivating scenery and wildlife ranging from rare plants to dolphins. Bardsey Island is also shrouded in myth and legend as it is believed to be the burial site of Merlin.

You can visit the island for a day via boat or stay on the island itself in a self-catering cottage and many are loving this spiritual attraction: "Just spent a few days in the island which was a memorable experience. The calm majesty of the sea and landscape tug the stresses of urban life away. The birdsong is magical. If you want to reconnect to the earth this is the perfect place.

20. Caernarfon Castle

Another historic gem that has grabbed a spot on the list is Caernarfon Castle with a rating of four and a half stars.

The castle is recognised around the world as one of the greatest buildings of the Middle Ages and is a huge fortress on the banks of the River Seiont that dates back 700 years.

It took 47 years to build and it was here in 1969 that Prince Charles was invested as the Prince of Wales.

The castle opening times vary throughout the year and adult tickets are priced at £9.25, child tickets at £6.60, and a family ticket for £31.00.

The castle is great for families, one person said: "Fab castle. Lot's to see. Exciting little passages that lead on to other rooms. Children enjoyed exploring. Interesting museum. Would recommend."

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

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

First thing first: yes, Wales is a country.

And yes, it is ridiculously amazing.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

10 BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN WALES

Snowdonia national park.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Isle of Anglesey

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

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

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

A few great things to do in Anglesey include:

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

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

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

Head to Conwy!

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

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

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

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

Pembrokeshire Coast

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

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

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

A few great things to do in Pembrokeshire include:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Brecon Beacons National Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

Portmeirion

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

Portmeirion is just that!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Pontcysyllte Aqueduct

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Map of the Best Places to Visit in Wales

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

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

Top Tips for Visiting Wales

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

As mentioned above, this post contains affiliate links. Which means if you make a purchase through the links, this site receives a small commission at no extra cost to you. Read our full disclosure here .

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Article comments.

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

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

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

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

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10 best places to visit in Wales: Welsh travel destinations

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

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

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

1. Eryri National Park 

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

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

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

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

2. Caernarfon Castle

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

      View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by I Loves The ‘Diff (@ilovesthediff)

4. Bannau Brycheiniog National Park

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

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

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

5. Hay-on-Wye 

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

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

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

6. Aberystwyth

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

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

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

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

7. Aberaeron 

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

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

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

8. Tenby 

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

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

9. St. David’s Cathedral 

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

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

      View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by @annarhystory

10. Conwy Castle 

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

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

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

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14 Very Best Things To Do In Wales

Okay, totally biased but I love Wales! Being Welsh, you couldn’t expect anything else really. Though, pushing my bias aside, there are so many beautiful and best things to do in Wales that really make it a stunning country to explore. 

For a relatively small country, we pack a hefty punch in gorgeous places to see, food to eat and one stunning coastline to explore.  Since leaving my home country I have come to appreciate the culture, landscape, food and people so much more than I ever did when I lived there. Which in hindsight is a lesson I have learned about travelling generally; to always appreciate a place and moment.

With that in mind, I wanted to share some of the very best things to do in Wales on your next trip. Some are based in cities , others in national parks, whatever the case, I’m hoping to introduce you to some lovely areas of Wales to visit.

Best things to do in Wales

Take a look, below, at the best things to do in Wales. Have the best time exploring. 

1.) Explore Snowdonia National Park

Snowdonia National Park is one of the oldest parks within Wales and a stunning place to explore.  With almost 1000 square miles of unspoilt beauty, Snowdonia National Park also has the tallest mountain in all of England and Wales.

Don’t worry, there’s a mountain railway if you don’t fancy the hike to the top. Getting to the top of Mount Snowdon is definitely something you’ll want to do as the views are incredible.

In my opinion, It really is one of the best things to do in Wales when you’re exploring the north of the country. Plus, Snowdonia National Park is also home to many bird-of-prey, “red-kites” there are even breeding centres in the Dovey valley where you can see the kites in their natural habitat.

If you’ve got time, head over to Cader Idris, go Ziplining at one of the world’s fastest lines or chill out and explore Llyn Padarn. It’s beautiful at sunset. 

2.) See Conwy Castle 

Being almost  1,000 years old, seeing Conwy Castle is easily up there as one of the best things to do in Wales on your next trip. Being A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Conwy Castle has a heap of things to see and do, especially if you love a gorgeous Welsh Castles .

Make sure to see the Bakehouse Tower and the outward that is just stunning. 

Read more: Best Castles To Visit In Wales

3.) Visit Portmeirion

Nestled on the north-west coast of Wales, Portmeirion is a truly beautiful Italian/Welsh village that’s too stunning to miss. 

Now, the town of Portmeirion doesn’t look too much like other Welsh towns, but for a very good reason. It was built to replicate the beauty of Italy within the tranquil landscape of Wales and exploring its little streets is easily one of the best things to do in Wales.

It’s a great place to spend a day, or even stay overnight in the gorgeous Portmeirion Hotel . This village is also world-renowned for its pottery and designs, which are truly stunning.

4.) Find Beaumaris Castle 

Wales has an abundance of incredible castles , with Beaumaris Castle being one of my very favourites. Perched on the island of Anglesey, it’s a great place to wander and easily one of the best things to do in Wales if you’re headed to Anglesey itself. 

Being another of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Wales, Beaumaris has a long history that dates back hundreds of years. Once here, make sure to ramble around the moat, see the towers and north gatehouse that are just stunning. 

Read more: Best castles in Wales

5.) Explore Pembrokeshire National Park

Pembrokeshire National Par k is one of the best coastal national parks in Wales and a gorgeous place to explore. It really is one of the best things to do in Wales if you love the countryside and rugged coast. 

On a sun-filled day, you can take a kayak into the bay and keep your eyes peeled for the local seals, dolphins and puffins that frequent Skomer Island. Alternatively, head over to Freshwater West Beach for a gorgeous beach day.

Just a word of caution, only ever go out with organised tours or guides. The tidal changes can be quite extreme and conditions can change quickly. Always be cautious and listen to local, expert, advice. 

Read more: Best things to do in Pembrokeshire

6.) Spend a day in Tenby 

Tenby is a totally quaint and historic fishing village that’s too beautiful to miss. In fact, I’d go as far as saying it’s one of my favourite seaside towns and certainly one of the best things to do in Wales if you want to visit a charming little piece of the country.

Once you’re in Tenby, take in the colourful houses and picturesque charm of the town and wander the little streets around the beaches. Oh, and keep an eye out for the colourful little cottages, too.

Apparently, It was a way that wives would remind fishermen which house their family lived in. Those Welsh fisherman must have had a terrible memory! 

Read more: Best things to do in Tenby

 7.) Cardigan Coastline

One thing that I love doing most in Wales is to go exploring the beautiful countryside. There is always an opportunity to head off the main roads and into the smaller villages and just go wander. For me, this is one of the best things to do in Wales. 

One little spot is the tiny village of Tresaith. Legend has it that 7 Irish sisters sailed across the Irish Sea to the coastline of Wales and set up home for their family to get away from their evil father. Who knows if this is true! 

Plus, this particular church is so old that it dates back to Pagan times, with the grounds being circular to avoid any evil spirits from ever entering. It was so incredible to see.

That being said, if you want to visit somewhere a little more nature-based, head to Ynyslas Beach (Near Borth). At certain times, especially after a storm, the sea bed exposes the prehistoric forest that once stood under the sea. It’s such an unusual site to see. 

8.) Visit Aberystwyth

Aberystwyth is one of the largest towns on the West Wales coastline and a great place to visit on your journey from north to south Wales. 

Once here, make sure to take a stroll across the Promenade, head up Consitution Hill on the Cliff Railway and visit the National Library of Wales. It’s a stunning building that sits on top of the hills overlooking the town. 

Afterwards, head over to the castle and explore the older side of Aberystwyth itself. It’s a great little town that’s totally charming.

9.) Visit Devil’s Bridge

Firstly, trust me, It’s not quite as scary as it sounds!

Devils Bridge is a very small village in the hills of West Wales , with not a single devil insight. Now, the most famous residents of this village are most definitely the waterfalls.

Head here by steam train directly from Aberystwyth to witness the natural beauty of this area. Just remember to take some comfy walking shoes – it can pretty uneven. 

10,) Gorge on Welsh Cakes

Now, there are a good few examples of food to gorge on in Wales, but there are some firm favourites you have to try. Personally, any trip should always involve lots of local food and this is easily one of the best things to do in Wales if you want to try some local treats. 

Welsh cakes are like flat, sweet scones and totally delicious to have with a cuppa. That being said, there’s also Bara Brith (like a fruit loaf) and things like Cawl (lamb stew) and Welsh Rarebit (like Cheese on toast) that is too good to miss. 

11.) Experience Urdd National Eisteddfod

The Eisteddfod is an annual Welsh-language festival that celebrates the very best of Welsh literature, music and performances that make Wales great.

Imagine it as a cross between Glastonbury and The Olympics… just much more Welsh! Now, most of the activities will be in Welsh so it can be pretty hard to understand lots of what is going on if you don’t speak the language. If this is the case, maybe give this one a miss and explore some of the other best things to do in Wales. 

12.) Visit the Gower coastline

Not too far from the city of Swansea is the stunning coastline and area around the Gower Peninsular, Once here, make sure to spend lots of time exploring the beautiful and totally vast sandy beaches. Honestly, they are stunning and easily up there as one of the best things to do in Wales if you love the seaside. 

Once here, also make sure to see Three Cliffs Bay and Worms Head, they are totally gorgeous areas. 

13.) Visit the Hay Festival

Now, Bill Clinton (the former US president) described the Hay Festival as “The Woodstock of the mind” – and it’s so true!

This festival has become one of the world most renowned literary festivals, situated in Hay-On-Wye that’s near the border with England. N estle in for the long-haul and take a few books to sit back and relax with and just enjoy the whole festival. It happens every year and is one alternative festival to visit, especially on a summer day.

14.) Visit Cardiff

So, as the capital of Wales, there are obviously lots of amazing things to do in the city – that’s a given.

Though, if you’re short on time, it can sometimes be a little tricky to pick just a few.

Once here, make sure to visit the iconic Cardiff Castle, see Millennium Centre in Cardiff Bay, Castell Coch and Explore St. Fagans which is a historic museum on the outskirts of the city. 

Read more: Best things to do in Cardiff

10 Best Things To Do In Tenby, Wales

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Best 3 Days in Wales Itinerary to Plan the Perfect Trip (2024)!

By: Author Sophie Pearce

Posted on Last updated: May 12, 2024

Categories WALES

This post may contain affiliate links. Please see my disclosure policy for details.

Are you looking for the best way to spend 3 days in Wales? Keep reading as I have the best itinerary for you to plan the perfect South Wales road trip.

Wales is a small but stunning country in the United Kingdom and it has so many gorgeous locations to choose from.

From rolling hills and mountain peaks, ruined castles, book towns and a stunning coastline. It can be hard to plan where to go.

I recently went on Rabbie’s 3 Day Mountains & Coasts of South Wales tour and I was so surprised at how much we managed to fit in! 

It was a great way to get a flavour of the beauty, food and culture that this beautiful country has to offer. So, here is the best 3 days in Wales itinerary to plan the perfect trip.

Third Eye Traveler was kindly invited by Rabbie’s . Although I was a guest all photos, videos and opinions are my own. 

Is 3 days in Wales enough?

Wales may be a small country but it is littered with incredible attractions, castles, beaches and quaint towns.

I may be biased being Welsh but I think that Wales is one of the best countries in the world and you could honestly spend a month here and it wouldn’t be enough time to see everything. 

That being said, if it’s your first time here, I think 3 days in Wales is the perfect amount of time to give you a taste. But, I would stick to either the North or South of Wales for your itinerary.

Our Rabbie’s tour covered the mountains & coasts of South Wales and I couldn’t believe how much we managed to cover in such a short amount of time!

How to travel around Wales

Wales has a great public transport network with regular trains and buses throughout the country. But, many of the best parts of Wales are easiest to visit by car.

If you only have 3 days in Wales, driving will save you lots of time! 

If you’re not used to narrow and winding country lanes, driving here can be a little intimidating at first as we drive on the ‘wrong’ side of the road for many. 

If you’re not comfortable, I highly recommend booking a guided Wales tour such as the one I took with Rabbie’s. 

Why explore South Wales with Rabbie’s?

What I loved about my Rabbie’s tours is that all the stress of driving and planning is taken out of the equation. 

The itinerary and your accommodation are all planned for you so all you have to do is sit back and enjoy your holiday.

Also, you don’t have to work out where to park or pay for parking. You’re always dropped off and picked up at the attractions.

I don’t think I would have covered as many places in South Wales if I planned this trip myself.

Large coach tours can usually only visit locations on the main roads and have huge groups that feel like you’re being herded around.  

But our Rabbie’s bus was a small 16-seater coach and was narrow (and comfortable) enough to wind down the smaller lanes and take us to a few hidden gems along the way! 

Best 3 days in Wales itinerary 

Our 3 days in Wales tour with Rabbie’s started and ended in Bristol which is a famous industrial city in the South West of England. You can easily get there from London by direct train or coach. 

If you have the time, I would recommend spending a day in Bristol before your tour begins as there is a lot to see and do around here.

From S.S. Great Britain, Clifton Suspension Bridge, Christmas Steps , a colourful waterfront , Banksy and Blackbeard. There are so many attractions to enjoy. 

If you’re looking for inspiration check out my weekend in Bristol guide or the most Instagrammable places in Bristol here!

Day 1 – Cathedrals, Coast & Colourful Houses

After our pick-up in Bristol, we hit the M4 motorway to start our exciting 3 days in South Wales tour. 

I have to admit, there was a lot of driving on day 1 to make it over to the Pembrokeshire coast. 

But, there was music playing and lots of stunning stops planned along the way that made the journey fly by! 

St Fagans National Museum of History  

Our first stop was the fabulous village of St Fagans which is famous for St Fagans Castle. Today, it’s home to the St Fagans National Museum of History.

You can uncover over 2,500 years of Welsh culture in their informative museum and take a wander around their historic village. 

The village is filled with old buildings that were going to be demolished and were lovingly rebuilt here to immortalise them. It was like travelling back in time!

You can take a walk through ancient farmhouses, Tudor cottages, terraced houses, historic pharmacies, bakeries and even cockfighting pits! 

After you can take a quick wander around the pretty St Fagans castle & gardens, a stunning 16th-century manor house that was donated to the people of Wales by the Earl of Plymouth.

All of this history is completely FREE to explore and you can visit their friendly café for a coffee and cake.

Narbeth 

We then made it to the county of Pembrokeshire and stopped in the pretty market town of Narbeth as a lunch stop. 

There was a food hub filled with international cuisine and I loved popping in the traditional butchers of Andrew Rees & Sons. I grabbed a delicious hot pork roll with apple sauce! 

After my lunch, there was a little bit of time to wander the colourful high street filled with independent shops and boutiques. 

St David’s, Britain’s smallest city 

Our first main stop in Pembrokeshire was St David’s which is Britain’s smallest city near the most westerly point of Wales! 

It’s home to the staggering St David’s Cathedral that dominates the area. It was founded in the 6th century when St David chose this location to build his monastery. 

This incredible temple has been a place of worship for over 1500 years. It has survived Viking raids, the Norman invasion and the English Civil War – so it has an incredible story to tell. 

I would recommend heading inside as entry is free (donations are always appreciated). You can visit the chapels, treasury, library and bell tower.

Just nearby, you can explore the medieval Bishop’s Palace. This was built by Henry de Gower in the 13th century as his elaborate residence where he would hold feasts and host pilgrims.

Today, it is a romantic ruin owned by Cadw and it only costs £5.90 to enter. It has some of the best views of St David’s, the cathedral and beyond from their tall towers. 

Admire the Pembrokeshire Coast

After St David’s, it was time to explore the beauty of the rugged and wild Pembrokeshire Coast. 

We stopped at St Non’s Cliffs to admire the coastline from above. I couldn’t believe the colour of the water here and the seal-spotting opportunities. 

We then zipped over to the quaint and colourful harbour village of Solva. Here you can have a pint of Brains (the Welsh beer) or take a walk along the water to see boats bobbing in the bay!

Explore the colourful town of Tenby 

Our last stop on day one was the colourful seaside town of Tenby which is one of the most beautiful places in all of Wales.

It’s a medieval settlement that has ancient city walls and you can see the famous Five Arch Gate before you head inside. 

After you check into your accommodation for the evening, you can take a wander around the colourful streets and take in the sea views.

If you have time, I would take a sunset walk around the town to places like North & South Beach, the Tudor Merchant’s House and Castle Hill to get a great view of the scenic St Catherine’s Island. 

Rabbie’s cover most things on your tour but you do have to plan your meals. Luckily, there are lots of amazing places to eat in Tenby.

I would recommend Harbwr Restaurant which is part of the Harbwr Brewery Group . They have a beer garden and I enjoyed my scampi and chips in their vine-clad secret garden terrace.

The restaurant can be accessed off the colourful Sergeant’s Lane with its flags, flowers, fairy lights and colourful tables. 

It’s well worth taking a stroll through the back streets to find hidden gems such as these!

Spend the night in Tenby 

I was so happy that we got to spend a bit longer in Tenby and this was our stop for the evening.

Rabbie’s can book accommodation for you on your tour so it takes the stress out of finding a place to stay. 

My accommodation was the very cute Sleepy Puffin Guest House which was owned by the nicest couple.

My room was lovely, clean and comfy and was only a few minutes walk into the town. I slept so well in their cosy beds. 

In the morning, I was treated to a tasty full breakfast with toast, coffee, orange juice and fruit as well! 

Click here to spend the night at Sleepy Puffin Guest House

Day 2 – Castles & Mountains 

On day two, we had a long morning in Tenby. So, I took full advantage of this and had a wander around the town to soak in the sea air and views.

I recommend stopping in the tasty Môr Bakery for a coffee or pastry and then taking a stroll around the city walls, colourful streets and promenades. 

I really liked the fact we were dropped off and picked up from our accommodation and we didn’t have to drag our luggage to a meeting point in the town. 

Again, this took all the stress out of the trip and meant I could just board the bus to our next exciting location in South Wales.

I was so excited about the second day as I knew we would be visiting some magical mountains, towns and castles!

Visit Laugharne, Home of Welsh Poet Dylan Thomas

Our first stop on day two was the gorgeous coastal town of Laugharne in Pembrokeshire. 

My family are originally from Laugharne but I’ve never been so I was excited to see my Welsh roots and what this place had to offer.

As soon as we pulled up, you could see the fairytale Castell Talacharn (Laugharne Castle) that was established in 1116 as a Norman stronghold! 

It then became a Tudor mansion and the ‘brown as owls’ castle that was so dearly loved by the famous Welsh poet Dylan Thomas. 

Dylan Thomas’ most famous poem is ‘Under Milk Wood’ and you’ll get to hear a snippet of this on the bus.

The castle is mostly a ruin today but you get some fabulous photo opportunities from the bridge over the River Coran!

Poetry lovers will appreciate Laugharne as this is Dylan Thomas’ home town. You can check out his boathouse and writing shed a little further along the coast path. 

Note – Laugharne’s attractions may be closed on your visit. Always check ahead! 

Carreg Cennen Castle

After Laugharne, we then raced out of Pembrokeshire and entered the hilly countryside of Bannau Brycheiniog or the Brecon Beacons National Park. 

We made a stop at the dramatic stronghold of Carreg Cennen Castle, the most romantic ruin in all of Wales. 

It was founded in the 13th century and built on a limestone crag by King Edward I’s baron John Giffard.

As it’s almost 300 feet (90 metres) above sea level, you’ll receive spectacular unobstructed views of the countryside for miles! 

You do have to pay to enter (£7) and it takes around 10-15 minutes to walk up there as it’s on a steep hill.

 But, it is well worth doing and this ended up being one of my favourite stops on our 3 days in Wales tour.

After, you must enjoy some Welsh lamb cawl (broth) or a toastie from their cosy tearoom set in a historic timber-framed farmhouse.

On our visit, there was also a newborn foal with a proud mama in the stables. He was so sweet trying to find his legs!

Take in the views of Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons)

After your visit to Castell Carreg Cennen, we then made our way through the stunning wild countryside of Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons).

On our drive through this untouched barren landscape, we got to see so many rolling peaks and babbling rivers. As the skies were clear we had such great visibility!

We also got to spot some wildlife like Red Kites, these birds were nearly extinct until a couple of years ago when they were brought back through a conservation programme. 

There were lots and lots of sheep grazing in the fields and you may be surprised that they are allowed to roam free here – even on the roads so they create some rather hilarious sheep traffic jams. 

There are so many sheep that it’s not uncommon to see sheep road signs! We got to stop near one for some beautiful photo opportunities. 

We then pulled into the town of Brecon to check out Y Gaer or Brecon Museum and wander around the High Street with Brecon Cathedral.

I would recommend heading to the Brecon Canal Basin to see the Monmouthshire & Brecon Canal which has been voted as one of Britain’s prettiest towpaths!

Have a pint in the Skirrid Mountain Inn – Wales’ Oldest Pub!

On our way to our final stop for the evening, we stopped for a refreshing pint at the Skirrid Mountain Inn . It was the perfect tonic after a long day of exploring castles. 

This is Wales’ oldest pub that’s been standing here for over 900 years. It’s also meant to be haunted so enter if you dare! 

It used to be a courthouse where trials used to take place and this was where the last person in Wales was hanged. They still have an honorary noose on the staircase.

There are lots of signs to read and newspaper clippings all over this pub if you are interested in its long history. It’s stunning inside and out with its ‘olde worlde charm’.

They have lots of local ciders and beers here on tap to enjoy. I loved the HPA from Wye Valley Brewery . 

As the weather was so lovely, we sat out in the beer garden and soaked in the spooky atmosphere. 

Wander around Abergavenny 

We finished day two in the quaint market town of Abergavenny in the county of Monmouthshire! This is often called ‘The Gateway to Wales’ as it’s near the border with England.

It has history and heritage in droves and it was nice to take a wander around the main high street with all the quaint restaurants and shops. 

I had a lovely Italian dinner at Casa Bianca and then took a stroll up to the Abergavenny Castle Museum to see the ruins from the outside. 

Spend the night in Abergavenny 

Abergavenny is where we stayed for the night on the second day and I checked into the lovely Abergavenny Hotel organised by Rabbie’s.

It was such a lovely and cosy hotel just on the outskirts of the town but it only took a few minutes to walk to the centre.

My room was cosy and comfortable and I loved all the boho rustic elements to the bar and restaurant downstairs. 

Our continental breakfast in the morning included avocado, eggs and smoked salmon and it was a tasty filling breakfast for our final day in Wales.  

Click here to book your stay at the Abergavenny Hotel

Day 3 – Books & Ruins 

Once again on day three, I was picked up from my accommodation early for another day of exploring South Wales. 

I was so excited as on our final day we were going to visit my favourite types of attractions – bookshops, castles and gothic ruins!

Visit Hay-on-Wye, the Book Town of Wales

Book lovers will adore day the itinerary on day three as you’ll get to visit the world-renowned Book Town of Wales that is Hay-on-Wye.

Established by the notorious ‘King of Hay’ or Richard Booth, there are over twenty bookshops to visit!

As an avid reader, I was in my element here as you could honestly spend all day hunting down new and second-hand reads. 

We had just over an hour to explore here, so I’ll give you some of my favourite bookshop recommendations to save time. 

You must visit the book labyrinth of Richard Booth’s Bookshop which is the original flagship store. It has thousands of books in any genre you can think of.

There are so many bookshops in Hay that they even have entire shops dedicated to certain genres like Murder & Mayhem – it’s filled with crime, horror and thriller books. I loved the Dracula quotes!

Addyman Books is another bookish paradise you could lose yourself in and they have a sea of orange Puffin classics.

My personal favourite is the Hay Castle Honesty Bookshop which is open 24 hours a day. Have a look at their outdoor book collection and then pop some coins in the money box as a donation. 

Read more – the best bookshops in Hay-on-Wye

Explore the magical Tintern Abbey ruins in Wye Valley  

We had a quick lunch stop at Ross-on-Wye before heading down to the stunning Wye Valley. 

You’re probably wondering why all of the names here have ‘wye’ in them and that’s due to the mighty River Wye that snakes through the county and gorge. 

We made a stop at the magical Tintern Abbey (Abaty Tyndyrn) on the river that was founded in 1131 by Cistercian monks. 

It then became a Gothic building in the 13th century and fell during the Dissolution of the Monasteries of Henry VIII’s reign.

Today, it’s a majestic roofless ruin and it is a delight to explore. You do have to pay to go inside but it’s well worth the admission fee as its a huge complex.

Note: that they are making renovations to the abbey for conservation so some parts are not accessible at this time.  

Marvel at Chepstow Castle 

Unfortunately, our trip had to be unexpectedly cut short and we couldn’t visit the last stop of the day which was Chepstow Castle.

I’ve been before a long time ago so I wasn’t too disappointed but it would have been so lovely to visit again.

It’s an incredible fortress on the England/Welsh border and has over 900 years of history! It was founded in 1067 by Earl William fitz Osbern under King William I. 

Again, this castle is a romantic a ruin but there is SO much to see here. You can explore the castle bridges, visit all the old staterooms and climb the towers for panoramic views.

I love a ruin as it gives you a chance to imagine what life would have been like in centuries ago!

If you have time, I would recommend walking over to the Old Wye Bridge that is bang on the borderline of Wales and England. You can stand between the two countries for a photo!

You also have great views of the castle built on the cliffs and it’s a great photo opportunity as it’s beautifully reflected in the River Wye. 

It was then just a short trip back to Bristol to finish our 3 days in Wales tour and we were dropped off where we began!

What I loved about my Rabbie’s South Wales tour

• I loved how all the driving and drop-offs were covered by Rabbie’s. It meant you could sit back and relax on your tour rather than worry about the winding roads and enjoy a pint if you wanted one. 
• You’re also dropped off in locations so you don’t have to think about or pay for parking when you’re there.
• I liked how we were dropped off and picked up from our different accommodations. It meant that you didn’t have to worry about finding your hotel or dragging your luggage anywhere.
• We covered so many things in our 3 days in South Wales tour and there were SO many incredible photo opportunities. 

What I didn’t like about the tour

• Sometimes we were really rushed in certain locations. For example, I would have liked more time in pretty St David’s and Laugharne rather than Brecon. 
• Attractions in Laugharne were closed on Tuesdays/Wednesdays during my visit. It seems strange that a tour would visit a place when attractions are closed.
• I did need to keep reconfirming the times that I had to be back on the bus. I like knowing where we are going next and how long we have in each place to make the most of it!
• Some parts were guided which I wasn’t aware of. I thought we’d be able to do our own thing in locations rather than be shown around. This is something to keep in mind or you can request to part from the group.

• The commentary from my tour guide was quite light on the history side which was disappointing. I would have liked to know a bit more about the places we were visiting! I don’t think that’s usual for Rabbie’s, as the drivers are usually experts and passionate about the places they visit. 
• Attraction costs aren’t included and some castles are quite a far walk away i.e. Cerreg Cennen. You also didn’t have very long to explore those ruins if you paid.
• My trip was cut short – it couldn’t be helped but I was really disappointed I didn’t get to see everything that was meant to be included.

Is South Wales worth visiting?

Yes, South Wales is well worth visiting as it’s such a beautiful part of the country. 

It’s a great place to spend 3 days in Wales as you have the rugged coast, ruined castles, book towns and mountains to explore. 

If you’re not planning on driving around South Wales, I highly recommend booking a Rabbie’s tour to save you time, money and stress.

We managed to pack in so many amazing activities whilst we visited the mountains and coasts.

I do think it’s the perfect trip if it’s your first time in Wales as it covers lots of the highlights and some lesser-known areas too. 

I’m not usually a group tour person as I prefer to drive. But, I loved this style of travel as I could take my hands off the wheel and not think about the itinerary, accommodation or parking for once. 

If you have 3 days in Wales, don’t hesitate to book a guided tour with Rabbie’s. It’s the best way to experience this magical and ancient part of the world!

Click here to book your South Wales tour with Rabbie’s

Read more of my South Wales travel guides

How to visit the Blue Lagoon in Wales

A complete guide for St Govan’s Chapel

Visiting the Green Bridge of Wales

How to find Dobby’s Grave in Pembrokeshire

How to find Barafundle Bay 

Stackpole Quay guide

Visiting Castell Coch near Cardiff

How to visit Caerphilly Castle

Visiting Dunraven Bay – Doctor Who Location

Things to do in Monmouth 

Exploring the magical Llanthony Priory

Save this 3 days in Wales itinerary for later! 

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Where you could see the Northern Lights in UK tonight as new alert issued for Brits

If you missed the northern lights last weekend, tonight could be your chance.

Jess Battison

It’s nearly been a week since Instagram was absolutely flooded with snaps of colourful skies.

Last Friday (10 May), in what felt like a very rare treat, the Northern Lights were visible across the UK. As the amazing aurora borealis lit up the skies from Whitley Bay to Margate, Brits got to witness the spectacle usually reserved for special holidays up in the likes of Iceland.

Although, plenty of us did miss the spectacle caused by the ‘severe’ solar storm and had to hope for second and third chances over the weekend.

But, while some mourn the incredible sight and others are still trying to get over their FOMO, it seems like the Northern Lights could be visible in the UK again tonight as a new alert has been issued.

Earlier this afternoon, at 3:45pm, Aurora Watch UK issued an amber alert of ‘possible aurora’.

Where might you be able to see the Northern Lights tonight?

According to the site, which takes geomagnetic activity measurements from the SAMNET and AuroraWatchNet magnetometers, aurora is likely to be visible by eye from Scotland, northern England and Northern Ireland.

It is also ‘possibly visible from elsewhere in the UK’. The alert adds: “Photographs of aurora are likely from anywhere in the UK.”

When is the best time to see them?

The site points out that ‘local conditions will still need to be right’ for Brits to be able to see aurora.

And, as one of the vital things to be able to see the Northern Lights , the level of cloud is very important. Aurora isn’t bright enough to be seen during the day, even if it is occurring and the most common time to see them in the UK is very late at night or in the early hours of the morning.

Aurora Watch UK has issued advice to check if you’ll be able to see the incredible spectacle as it says aurora is ‘generally not visible’ through cloud cover.

“So, if it’s very cloudy, foggy or misty, you’ll probably not be able to see an aurora. Our simple check for this is: can you see the stars?” it advises.

“If so, you’re seeing the night sky and clouds are not obstructing your view. If you can’t, then those pesky clouds are getting in the way and you won’t be seeing an aurora.”

If you’re up in Scotland or northern areas of England and Northern Ireland tonight, then check for cloud cover and also avoid places with sources of light pollution. And if you do manage to see them, don’t forget to take a photo so you can rub it in the faces of all the Brits who missed it.

Topics:  UK News , Science , Weather , Travel

Jess is an Entertainment Journalist with a love of all things pop culture. Her main interests include keeping up with the Twitter girlies, waiting for a new series of The Traitors and losing her voice at a Beyoncé concert. She graduated with a first in Journalism from City, University of London in 2021 and has previously worked at MyLondon.

@ jessbattison_

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Travel & Tourism

The northern village, caves, and medieval street named among the most beautiful places in the UK

The most beautiful places in the UK have been named, with several spots up north elbowing their way onto the list.

From mystical caves in the Lake District to the Mediterranean-style architecture in… Wales… there are so many stunning places to explore on our doorstep.

Time Out’s list of the 15 most beautiful places in the UK , compiled by travel writers, has picked out ‘pinch-me’ destinations across the nation.

Several of the places chosen are within a couple of hours’ drive of Manchester, too, so you really don’t have far to go to seek out the very best of the British isles.

One spot that was well-deserving of a mention is Portmeirion, a popular village in North Wales that’s famous for its colourful architecture.

The village is the brainchild of Sir Clough Williams-Ellis and was inspired by the Mediterranean, which is plain to see in the colourful buildings and palm trees jutting out from an otherwise very British scene,

The tourist hotspot completed in 1975 and Time Out says it’s ‘like something out of a dream’.

The guide said: “This unique tourist village has established itself as the most romantic spot in north Wales. 

“Of course, it certainly helps if it comes with Italianate architecture, colourful facades and an unforgettable sense of romance. How could you not fall for Portmeirion?”

Another spot in the north of England that has been named one of the most beautiful places in the UK is Rydal Caves, tucked in the heart of the Lake District.

Now us Mancs know that nowhere in the country can compare to the majestic scenes right across the national park, but there is something really special about the dramatic cave system.

Located right between Grasmere and Ambleside, they’re accessible in just a 15 minute walk from the nearest car park.

You can leap across stepping stones all the way to the back of the cave, then look back out at the surrounding woodland through the cave’s huge entrance.

This spot was chosen by Netflix for scenes of the second season of The Witcher – told you it was magical.

Over in Yorkshire (and it’s a surprise to no one to see this on the list), is The Shambles in York.

The well-preserved medieval street features ramshackle buildings, cobbled street, and quaint little shops, and again looks like something straight out of a storybook.

Skipping over its gory past, Time Out said: “There are few easier, more atmospheric ways to transport yourself back hundreds of years (without the iffy smells and sights) than a stroll down Shambles.”

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Featured image: Unsplash

There are a lot of incredible waterfalls in the UK – but did you know that the highest unbroken waterfall in England is right here in the north?

Gaping Gill is a record-breaking spot in the Yorkshire Dales, about an hour and a half from Greater Manchester.

Despite the Fell Beck waterfall being a massive 110-metres tall, it’s actually pretty difficult to see.

Unusually, the waterfall is underground in a huge cave system – and even more unusually, it’s only accessible to the public twice a year.

Those lucky enough to visit are lowered down into the massive chamber on a winch by a local pothole club.

It’s not for the faint-hearted, or much fun for people who are scared of heights, but once your feet are on the solid ground at the bottom of the cave you’ll be in one of the most awe-inspiring settings in the country.

The Gaping Gill cave chamber is 129m long, 31m high, and 25m wide – so large you can fit an entire cathedral inside it.

Its cave system is connected to the famous Ingleborough Cave.

The first person to make it all the way inside was Frenchman Edouard Martel in 1895, who used a rope ladder to climb down and kept in touch with those on the surface using a telephone.

The Craven Pothole Club helps people to visit every August and the Bradford Pothole Club every May.

The rest of the time, all you can see from above ground is the cave’s opening on the slopes of Ingleborough.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Robert Gurney (@robert_gurney)

Local photographer Tatiana Hepplewhite said after her visit: “Twice a year, England’s highest unbroken waterfall is open to the public.

“The catch? The waterfall, named aptly Gaping Gill, actually falls into the ground.

“Very helpful Bradford and Craven pothole clubs put a winch and take lucky members of the public, such as myself, all 100 meters down. How was it? In one word – awesome!”

The next trip down into the chasm will between the 25 May and 31 May for £20 per person .

Read more: The jaw-dropping country walk that passes a tower taller than The Shard

View this post on Instagram A post shared by ᴠɪᴄᴛᴏʀɪᴀ (@tora_treks_uk)

Featured image: Instagram, @alfie_moses

You could soon be able to stay overnight in a safari lodge, and wake up to see giraffes and other animals roaming freely.

That’s right… it’s finally happening.

It’s been a very long time coming, but this week – after several years of waiting following plans first being hinted at in 2019, and revised plans then being unveiled back in June 2022 – Chester Zoo  has now been given the highly-anticipated green light to build dozens of savannah-style lodges on a plot of its land that’s currently not being actively-used.

A total of 51 lodges have been approved by Cheshire West and Chester Council’s planning department as part of the ‘Grasslands’ development – with some of them set to overlook a lake, while others overlook an enclosure with free-roaming giraffes.

As mentioned, similar proposals to those that’ve been green-lit this week had been approved in 2019, but they had to be put on hold due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Revised plans were then submitted in 2022 for 63 lodges, but this was later reduced to 51.

On top of the reduction to 51 lodges last year, a number of changes also had to be made to the design of the development’s welcome building to make it “simpler” in response to rising costs, according to reports by CheshireLive and BBC News .

The approved plans include four types of lodges, all with a design based on traditional timber African safari lodges.

Alongside the 51 lodges, the Council’s planners have also approved a two-storey reception building with a bar and restaurant, an orientation lodge, and the groundworks for the all-important creation of a lake the development’s set to overlook.

Given that the development is proposed for Green Belt land, this means it can only be built on if special circumstances are demonstrated, and other considerations also had to be taken into account by the Council’s planning committee too, such as the contribution the zoo makes to the local economy, and the benefits it provides to education and global conservation initiatives.

But the planners’ report stated that all those requirements had been met in the latest proposals submitted by the zoo.

“Taken together, it is considered that these considerations outweigh the harm to the Green Belt and amount to very special circumstances,” the report stated.

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It then concluded that: “On balance, subject to the conditions set out below and taking into account the provisions of the development plan and all other material planning considerations, it is recommended that planning permission be granted”.

A timeline for works, and predicted project completion dates are set to be announced in due course, so keep your eyes peeled.

Featured Image – Chester Zoo

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