Regions of Wales

Wales is a beautiful country made up of four very different regions, each with its own amazing landscapes, charming towns, and special places to explore. From mighty mountain peaks to sandy bays and blue waters, every part of Wales has something special to offer.

North Wales is known for its wild scenery and for being home to Eryri National Park (Snowdonia). This area has towering mountains, deep valleys, and some of the most dramatic views in the country. Coastal towns like Llandudno, Conwy, and the Isle of Anglesey (Ynys Môn) offer sandy shores, Victorian piers, and peaceful island walks. Inland, you’ll find rocky ridges, quiet moorland, and old slate villages tucked between the hills.

Mid Wales is one of the quietest parts of the country. It’s full of rolling farms, winding rivers, and peaceful market towns like Machynlleth, Llanidloes, and Rhayader. It’s also home to the Elan Valley, with huge dams, forests, and long open roads perfect for cycling or scenic drives. Parts of Mid Wales reach the edge of Bannau Brycheiniog National Park (Brecon Beacons), giving visitors access to wide, open landscapes and gentle hills.

South Wales has a lively mix of cities and countryside. The coast is lined with sweeping bays, cliffs, and great surf spots, while inland you’ll find long valleys, old mining towns, and pretty villages. Cardiff, Swansea, and Merthyr Tydfil offer museums, shopping, parks, and sports venues. This region also includes much of Bannau Brycheiniog National Park, where moorland, waterfalls, and high peaks sit just a short drive from the buzz of nearby towns and cities.

West Wales is known for its amazing beaches. This region includes part of the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park (Parc Cenedlaethol Arfordir Penfro). Colourful seaside towns like Tenby, New Quay, and St Davids (Tŷ Ddewi) offer boat trips, dolphin spotting, golden beaches, and quiet harbours. Inland, you’ll find green countryside dotted with farms, castles, and friendly villages.

Snowdonia National Park

Snowdonia National Park (Eryri) offers some of the most dramatic landscapes in Wales. Spread across 823 square miles, it’s a mix of mountain peaks, deep valleys, peaceful lakes, forests, and long winding rivers. At its centre stands Snowdon (Yr Wyddfa), the highest mountain in Wales at just over 3,000 feet. Walkers can choose from six main routes to the summit, including the Llanberis Path, Pyg Track, Miners’ Track, Watkin Path, Rhyd Ddu Path, and the Snowdon Ranger Path, with a range to suit different abilities. Many walkers also take on the Snowdon Horseshoe, a challenging ridge route over Crib Goch that is one of the UK’s most famous mountain scrambles. However, if you would prefer a more relaxing journey to the top, the Snowdon Mountain Railway carries visitors almost to the peak with a visitor centre for refreshments while you soak in the sights.

The landscapes around Snowdon are full of great trails too. Pen y Pass is a popular starting point for high-level walks, while the quieter Glyderau range, including Glyder Fawr and Glyder Fach, offers huge rocky peaks and views stretching across the whole park. The nearby Ogwen Valley is home to Llyn Ogwen, with rugged ridgelines and dramatic crags a favourite with climbers and photographers. The towering peaks of the Carneddau Range provide another spectacular option for experienced walkers. The pointed summit of Cnicht, often called the “Welsh Matterhorn,” is another favourite for climbers wanting a smaller ascent. The Mawddach Trail provides a gentle cycle or walk along an old railway line with estuary views, and woodland paths weave through Gwydir Forest Park. Over in Coed y Brenin Forest Park, purpose-built biking trails make it a top spot for mountain bikers.

Snowdonia is also known for its waterfalls. The huge drop of Aber Falls near Abergwyngregyn is one of the most spectacular in Wales, while Ceunant Mawr Waterfall near Llanberis sits within a deep gorge close to the village and railway line. Swallow Falls (Rhaeadr Ewynnol), located just outside Betws-y-Coed, is another must-see. Just a short distance away, the Ffos Anoddun (Fairy Glen) hides in a narrow gorge, where swirling waters and mossy rocks look like they are straight from a fairytale. Smaller waterfalls hide throughout the forests and valleys, adding a touch of mystery to quiet walks.

Along the coast, Cardigan Bay stretches out with sandy beaches and chances to spot seals and dolphins. The Snowdonia coastline is dotted with charming villages, rugged cliffs, and quiet coves, perfect for coastal walks or a peaceful picnic. From the historic harbour town of Conwy to the sweeping sands near Harlech, the coastal scenery offers a completely different side of Snowdonia.

The towns and villages around the park each have their own charm. Llanberis is one of the best bases for exploring Snowdon and is home to the National Slate Museum, Llanberis Lake Railway, and the lovely shores of Llyn Padarn. Betws-y-Coed offers cafés, shops, and riverside walks, while Beddgelert is known for its beautiful stone cottages and legends. Rail enthusiasts can enjoy the historic Ffestiniog and Welsh Highland Railways, which wind through scenic valleys and connect mountain villages.

For adventure lovers, Zip World is a major attraction, with giant zip lines and thrilling underground activities inside old slate caverns. Water sports fans can visit Canolfan Tryweryn – The National White Water Centre for rafting on fast-flowing rapids. Peaceful days can be spent at Llyn Tegid (Lake Bala), where you can sail, canoe, paddleboard, or ride the Bala Lake Railway along its shore.

Brecon Beacons

The Brecon Beacons (Bannau Brycheiniog) are one of Wales’ most stunning national parks, stretching across rolling hills, dramatic peaks, deep valleys, and peaceful rivers. At its heart stands Pen-y-Fan, the highest peak in South Wales at 886 metres. Nearby, Corn Du (873m) and Cribyn (795m) create a popular ridge walk for hikers, while the quieter Fan y Big offers peaceful, less crowded paths, often hiked as part of the Horseshoe Walk. The northern part of the park, known as Fforest Fawr (Great Forest), is filled with ancient woodlands, wildlife, and hidden trails, perfect for exploring on foot or by mountain bike.

The Black Mountains and Black Mountain (Mynydd Du) to the east provide dramatic landscapes with long ridges and wide views, with lush valleys below. Llyn y Fan Fach and Llyn y Fan Fawr are beautiful glacial lakes amongst the peaks. In the valleys, the park is dotted with charming villages like Crickhowell, Talybont-on-Usk, and Brecon, each offering riverside walks, cafés, and historic architecture, including Brecon Cathedral. The Brecon Canal winds through the countryside, ideal for a gentle stroll or cycling along the towpath. The Taff Trail, stretching from Brecon to Cardiff, is also perfect for long-distance cycling and walking, weaving through reservoirs, hills, and forests.

Waterfall enthusiasts will love the Four Waterfalls Walk near Pontneddfechan and Ystradfellte, where trails lead to spectacular falls, including Sgwd Yr Eira, where you can walk behind the falls. Don’t miss Henrhyd Falls, the highest waterfall in the park, a stunning spot for photography and short walks. Adventure seekers can try canyoning through these ravines or visit BikePark Wales for mountain biking thrills. The National Show Caves of Wales and Big Pit National Coal Museum provide fascinating underground explorations, showing how mining shaped the area.

Lakes and reservoirs are another highlight, from Llangorse Lake, perfect for boating, to Talybont Reservoir and Pontsticill Reservoir, offering peaceful fishing and walking spots. Wildlife lovers can visit the Red Kite Feeding Station, where you can spot these amazing birds soaring overhead. Castles are also dotted throughout the landscapes, from the dramatic cliff-top ruins of Carreg Cennen Castle to the National Trust’s Sugarloaf and Usk Valley estate.

For unique experiences, take the Brecon Mountain Railway through wooded valleys, explore Goytre Wharf, or visit Hay-on-Wye, famous for its bookshops and literary festivals. Music lovers can enjoy the Green Man Festival, a celebrated annual event combining music, arts, and outdoor adventure in Crickhowell. Stargazers will find dark skies ideal for spotting constellations across the park.

Pembrokeshire Coast

The Pembrokeshire Coast National Park (Arfordir Penfro) is known for its rugged cliffs, bright blue waters, and long stretches of golden Blue Flag beaches. The coastline runs for 186 miles, and the Pembrokeshire Coast Path lets you explore hidden coves, rolling headlands, wildlife islands, and pretty seaside towns at your own pace.

Tenby is the most famous town on the coast, with colourful harbour houses, soft sandy beaches, and winding old streets full of shops and cafés. Kids love Tenby’s North Beach and Castle Beach, and boat trips run from the harbour to Caldey Island, where you can spot seals and visit a working monastery. The town’s viewpoint at Castle Hill gives amazing views, especially at sunset. Nearby Saundersfoot is smaller but has a family-friendly beach and a lovely harbour, plus an easy coastal path linking it to Wiseman’s Bridge.

Further west, the St Davids Peninsula is wild and full of amazing coastal walking routes and circular trails. St David’s, Britain’s smallest city, has a huge cathedral, narrow streets, and local craft shops. Nearby, Whitesands Bay is one of Wales’ best surfing beaches, and the climb up Carn Llidi gives views over the sea and islands. Local boat trips take visitors out to spot dolphins, seals, and seabirds.

Some of Pembrokeshire’s beaches are also tucked away, hidden gems. Barafundle Bay, reached only by a short cliff-top walk, is often voted one of the best beaches in the UK. Broad Haven South Beach stretches out in a huge golden curve, and close by, the peaceful Bosherston Lily Ponds lead you through woods to the coast. Not far away, the tall Elegug Stacks rise out of the sea, and Saint Govan’s Chapel, built into the cliff, is one of the most unusual historic sites in Wales.

The West Coast is famous for its wild surfing beaches. Freshwater West is best known for its powerful waves and as the filming location for Dobby’s grave in Harry Potter. Church Door Cove, with its huge stone arch, is a great spot for photos, while Strumble Head is one of the top places for spotting dolphins from the cliffs. Newgale Beach is almost two miles long, perfect for surfing, kite flying, and long beach walks.

This coast is also amazing for wildlife spotting. On Skomer Island, thousands of puffins arrive each spring, nesting in the cliffs and burrows. Around Marloes Sands, you can often spot seals resting on the beach below. The nearby towns of Solva, Fishguard, and Milford Haven offer colourful harbours, local seafood, and views over sheltered bays.

For adventure lovers, the Blue Lagoon at Abereiddi is a bright turquoise pool in an old quarry, famous for coasteering and cliff jumping. With so many beaches, hidden bays, and wild cliffs to explore, the Pembrokeshire Coast is the perfect place for seaside adventures.

Trails, mountain hikes and outdoor adventures

Wales is known as one of the UK’s best places for enjoying the outdoors. With high mountains, long-distance trails, wild coastlines and some of the best adventure activities in Europe, it’s perfect for walkers, climbers, cyclists and watersport lovers. From the peaks of Eryri (Snowdonia) to the cliffs of Pembrokeshire and the rolling hills of Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons), every part of the country has something exciting to try.

The country is packed with famous peaks and rugged ranges. Snowdon (Yr Wyddfa) is the best known, but its neighbours offer just as much drama. The Snowdon Horseshoe, crossing Crib Goch, Garnedd Ugain (Crib-y-Ddysgl) and Snowdon’s summit, is one of the UK’s most thrilling ridge routes. Around it rise the mighty Glyderau, including Tryfan, Glyder Fawr, Glyder Fach, and Y Garn, all known for rocky climbs and epic views. To the west, Cnicht and the Moelwyns make great, quieter climbs, while in the south of the park the towering slopes of Cadair Idris offer legendary routes like the Minffordd Path.

The vast Carneddau Range stretches across northern Eryri, where hikes like Pen yr Ole Wen, Carnedd Llywelyn, and long days linking peaks on the Welsh 3000s route attract serious mountain walkers. Even small corners hide gems, like the Aber Falls Circular Walk in the foothills near Abergwyngregyn. Beyond the national park, the remote uplands of the Cambrian Mountains offer wild walking, from the quiet ridges above the Teifi Pools to the peaceful reservoir shores of Lake Vyrnwy.

In the south, the Brecon Beacons (Bannau Brycheiniog) offer rolling tops and steep climbs. Pen y Fan is the highest point, with nearby Corn Du, Cribyn, and Fan y Big making great ridge circuits such as the Circuit of the Central Brecon Beacons. The dramatic Carmarthenshire Fans (Bannau Sir Gâr) and remote lakes Llyn-y-Fan Fach and Llyn-y-Fan Fawr offer wild and peaceful routes. To the east, the peak of Skirrid Fawr near Abergavenny provides a shorter climb with sweeping views across the borderlands. Further north, the quiet woodlands of Hafren Forest mark the source of the River Severn, with riverside paths and family friendly trails. The nearby Pistyll Rhaeadr, one of the tallest waterfalls in Wales, plunges dramatically into a rocky gorge.

Wales is full of trails for every level. The Wales Coast Path, running all the way around the country, passes sandy beaches, cliff tops and harbours. Sections on the Gower Peninsula are some of the best, following headlands, coves and wide surf beaches. The quiet St David’s Peninsula in Pembrokeshire has beautiful cliff trails, sea stacks and views of Ramsey Island. Inland, the peaceful hills of Radnor Forest (Fforest Glud) offer some of the country’s best off-the-beaten-path walking.

For long-distance adventures, walkers can tackle the mountain-to-sea Cambrian Way, historic Offa’s Dyke Path, peaceful Glyndŵr’s Way, spiritual North Wales Pilgrim’s Way, and the wild Snowdonia Slate Trail, which explores old mining valleys. River trails like the Wye Valley Walk twist through woods and gorges, while the Beacons Way crosses the full length of the Brecon Beacons.

Canal paths offer quieter days out, including the scenic Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal, perfect for easy walking and cycling. Some of the best short walks in Wales follow rivers and waterfalls. In the Brecon Beacons, the Four Waterfalls Walk near Ystradfellte and Pontneddfechan leads to powerful falls, including Sgwd yr Eira, where you can walk behind the curtain of water.

Adrenaline junkies will also be spoilt for choice. Zip World has giant zip lines, underground trampolines and adventure courses inside old slate caverns. On land, rock climbers enjoy crags in the Snowdonia valleys, the Gower cliffs and inland quarries. Families can try high ropes, forest activities and eco-adventures at GreenWood Family Park.

Water sports are everywhere. Surfing hotspots include the Gower, Pembrokeshire and the Llŷn Peninsula. Coasteering, which started in Wales, is popular at Abereiddi and St Davids. Lakes and rivers offer kayaking, paddleboarding, windsurfing, and white-water lovers should head to the rapids of Canolfan Tryweryn (The National White Water Centre), or join rafting and sea kayaking trips around the coast.

Sandy beaches and seaside spots

Wales has one of the most varied and beautiful coastlines in Europe. With over 870 miles of shore and the full Wales Coast Path running along it, you can explore sandy beaches, epic cliffs, fishing villages, wildlife islands and rugged headlands. From the quiet stretches of the north to the surf beaches of the south, every part of the coast feels different.

The north coast begins near the English border, where the River Dee meets the sea. Talacre Beach, with its lighthouse standing on the sand, is perfect for long, easy walks and spotting wildlife in the SSSI dunes. Further west, busy family beaches like Rhyl Beach, Colwyn Bay, and Rhos-on-Sea offer paddling, cafés, and long seafront promenades. Close by, Prestatyn has a long sandy beach and is the end point of the Offa’s Dyke Path.

At Llandudno, the Victorian pier and wide bay sit beneath the Great Orme headland. You can ride the cable car from Happy Valley to the Summit Cable Car Station for amazing views of the coast. West of here, the port town of Holyhead marks the gateway to Anglesey (Ynys Môn), one of the best islands for beaches. Benllech, Rhosneigr, and the beautiful sands of Ynys Llanddwyn all offer calm blue water, dunes, and great wildlife spotting. Trearddur Bay is also a lovely spot for coastal dog walks and enjoying some tasty fish and chips.

Heading onto the Llŷn Peninsula brings peaceful coves, long headlands, and quiet beaches. Abersoch is popular for sailing and shallow waters. Nearby, Porthdinllaen has a curved sandy bay and the famous Ty Coch Inn, reached by a beach walk. Criccieth, with its castle perched on a rocky headland, has two lovely beaches and great sea views. Black Rock Sands near Porthmadog is a huge, open beach where you can even drive onto the sand. Further south, Harlech Beach stretches below its mighty castle, backed by big dunes and views of the Eryri mountains.

The coast curves into Cardigan Bay, home to dolphins, seals and seabirds. Barmouth has a golden beach and a famous bridge across the Mawddach estuary. Aberdyfi is known for its colourful village and great crabbing spots. In Aberystwyth, you’ll find a long promenade, castle ruins and the Aberystwyth Cliff Railway. Nature lovers will enjoy the dunes at Ynyslas National Nature Reserve near the Dyfi Estuary. The colourful harbour town of Aberaeron and the dolphin-spotting hotspot New Quay are perfect for relaxed seaside days. Small gems like Aberporth, Tresaith Waterfall, and quiet coves near Cardigan make great stops for families.

Wildlife continues at Fishguard and Goodwick, close to the dramatic cliffs of Strumble Head. Further north on the coast, Poppit Sands sits at the mouth of the Teifi Estuary with scenic sand dunes.

The Pembrokeshire Coast (Arfordir Penfro) is famous for some of the best beaches and coastal scenery in the UK. Newgale is a long surfing beach, while Solva and Porthclais feel peaceful and sheltered. At Abereiddi, the Blue Lagoon glows deep blue in an old quarry. The St Davids Peninsula has wild headlands and sandy beaches like Whitesands Bay, plus boat trips from St Justinians to Skomer Island, home to puffins in spring and early summer. Hidden in the cliffs, tiny Saint Govan’s Chapel sits tucked into the rock.

Nearby, Freshwater West is known for its powerful surf and Harry Potter filming locations. Manorbier Beach, Freshwater East, and the sheltered shores of Tenby offer golden sand, calm seas and colourful seaside charm. Tenby also has boat trips to Caldey Island. Close by, Saundersfoot and Coppet Hall Beach are favourite family spots. For something different, Shell Island near Llanbedr is famous for camping and its tidal causeway.

The coast is full of dramatic features like the Green Bridge of Wales, sea caves and cliff-top paths. Marloes Sands, Church Door Cove, St Annes Head, and Milford Haven add even more variety, from rock pools to sweeping bays.

The Gower National Landscape (Gŵyr) is home to some of the best beaches in the world. Rhossili and the famous Worm’s Head are perfect for long walks and surfing, while Three Cliffs Bay mixes a river, dunes and cliffs all in one stunning place. Near Swansea, the Mumbles offers a classic seaside feel with beaches, ice-creams and a long promenade. Further east, the dunes of Kenfig National Nature Reserve and the calm sands of Porthcawl give peaceful spots for walking and paddling.

Closer to the capital, Cardiff Bay has cafés, boats and a long waterfront path. Nearby Barry, made famous by Gavin & Stacey, has sandy beaches, a pier and a lively seaside feel. The coast finishes at RSPB Newport Wetlands, full of reedbeds, birds and quiet trails overlooking the Severn Estuary.

Cardiff, cultural cities, and major towns

Wales has a mix of lively cities, historic market towns and relaxed seaside resorts. Each place has its own character, shaped by castles, coastline, rivers and centuries of Welsh culture. From the energy of the capital to the calm of the smallest city in Britain, Wales offers plenty to explore.

Cardiff is the cultural and sporting heart of Wales. In the city centre, Cardiff Castle, Bute Park, the National Museum Cardiff, and the Victorian Cardiff Market show the city’s mix of history and modern life. The River Taff runs through the centre, with trails and green spaces along its banks.

The nightlife is some of the best in the UK, especially around St Mary Street and the Brewery Quarter. Major events take place at the Principality Stadium, home of Welsh rugby, and at the Wales Millennium Centre in Cardiff Bay. Around the bay, you can visit The Senedd, cross the Barrage, enjoy waterside restaurants, or try white-water activities at Cardiff International White Water. For a look at Welsh history, St Fagans National Museum of History and the peaceful Roath Park are must-sees. Queens Arcade adds shopping to the mix, making Cardiff a great all-round city break.

Swansea offers the combination of a modern waterfront and easy access to the outdoors. Swansea Bay curves around a wide sandy beach, perfect for cycling or strolling. The city’s museums include the National Waterfront Museum, the historic Swansea Museum, and the Dylan Thomas Centre, celebrating the famous poet’s life.

Down by the water, Swansea Marina has cafés, boats and views of the docks and the River Tawe. Swansea Market is famous for local food like laverbread and cockles, while Oystermouth Castle, set above the Mumbles, gives great views over the bay. Families can enjoy Plantasia, a huge indoor rainforest, and the peaceful paths of Clyne Gardens. The Gower Peninsula (Gŵyr) is right on the doorstep too, an area known for cliffs, beaches and some of the best coastal scenery in Wales.

Newport sits on the River Usk, with a mix of old and new attractions. The rare Newport Transporter Bridge is one of only a few left in the world. Roman history lives on at the Caerleon Roman Fortress Baths, once part of a huge legionary base. The modern Riverfront arts centre brings theatre and music to the riverside, while Belle Vue Park offers Victorian gardens and wide views over the city. Nearby, the National Trust’s Tredegar House is one of Wales’s finest stately homes. Just outside the city, the RSPB Newport Wetlands Reserve is a peaceful place for spotting birds and walking among reedbeds.

St Davids (Tyddewi) is the smallest city in the UK, set near the Pembrokeshire coast. It's huge St Davids Cathedral and the ruins of the Bishop’s Palace make it a special place for local history. Visitors can also explore the Oriel y Parc Gallery and Visitor Centre to learn more about the national park, with easy access to Whitesands Bay for days at the beach.

Bangor, one of the oldest cities in Wales, sits between the Menai Strait and Eryri (Snowdonia). It has a cathedral, a long pier and is only a short drive to the mountains. St Asaph (Llanelwy) is a small cathedral city on the mainland in Denbighshire, known for its peaceful streets and beautiful cathedral.

In the north, Wrexham is a growing city region with football fans flocking to the Racecourse Ground, home to the third oldest professional football team in the world, after Hollywood investors brought it to the spotlight. Llandudno remains a classic Victorian seaside town with a long pier and the Great Orme headland. Nearby Conwy is famous for The Smallest House in Great Britain, and intact medieval walls, charming harbour, and Conwy Castle.

Hay-on-Wye (Y Gelli Gandryll) on the Welsh-English border is the “Town of Books,” packed with bookshops and home to the world-famous Hay Festival. In the south, towns such as Bridgend, Cwmbran, Llanelli, Neath, and Merthyr Tydfil each offer a mix of shopping, parks, local heritage and easy access to beaches, countryside or valley walks.

Castles and historic ruins

Wales is often called the “Land of Castles”, with over 600 recorded sites scattered across mountains, coasts, valleys, and riversides. Many were built during the medieval era when Welsh princes and the Norman and English kings. Today, these castles and ruins are some of the most exciting places to explore, mixing huge stone walls with epic stories from the past.

In the south, Chepstow Castle (Castell Cas-gwent) is one of the oldest stone castles in Britain, begun in 1067 for William the Conqueror’s lords. Not far away, Caerphilly Castle (Castell Caerffili) is the biggest fortress in Wales, famous for its giant walls, huge lakes, and its “leaning tower.” Castell Coch, the bright red fairy-tale castle designed in the 1800s for the Marquis of Bute, sits just outside of Cardiff. Nearby, Cardiff Castle (Castell Caerdydd) mixes a Roman fort, medieval keep, and Gothic rooms that visitors can tour today.

Heading west, Pembroke Castle (Castell Penfro), birthplace of King Henry VII, sits above the water on a rocky ridge. Carew Castle and Tidal Mill, also in Pembrokeshire, sits on the Carew River with audio tours available. To the north, Kidwelly Castle (Castell Cydweli) and Raglan Castle, both linked to long battles, offer mighty towers and impressive gatehouses. High above the countryside, Carreg Cennen Castle stands dramatically on a cliff, with a secret passage leading into a dark cave beneath it.

In the north, the famous “Iron Ring of Castles” built for King Edward I dominates the landscape. Caernarfon Castle (Castell Caernarfon), begun in 1283, has polygon towers and royal rooms where Prince Charles was invested as Prince of Wales in 1969. Conwy Castle (Castell Conwy) and its town walls show off great medieval engineering, while Harlech Castle (Castell Harlech) towers over the dunes with amazing views of Snowdonia. Beaumaris Castle (Castell Biwmares) on Anglesey, though never finished, is known for its almost perfectly symmetrical design.

Penrhyn Castle (Castell Penrhyn), is a neo-Norman castle cared for by the National Trust, offering grand rooms, gardens, and a unique doll and Victorian kitchen to explore. Powis Castle (Castell Powys), also National Trust, stands above world-famous terraced gardens filled with bright flowers and statues.

For a peaceful day out, the ruins of Tintern Abbey, founded in 1131, sit in the Wye Valley with tall arches open to the sky. Valle Crucis Abbey and the hilltop remains of Castell Dinas Brân near Llangollen offer quiet walks, sheep-grazed fields, and views of the Dee Valley.

Cymraeg language and Welsh heritage

Wales has a rich identity shaped by its language, symbols, stories, and history. The Welsh language, Cymraeg, is a Celtic and Brythonic language that has been spoken for more than 1,500 years. Today, over a quarter of people in Cymru can speak or use Welsh, making it one of the strongest minority languages in Europe. You’ll hear it in schools, in shops, and on road signs. Simple phrases are easy to pick up, like “Bore da” (good morning), “Prynhawn da” (good afternoon), “Nos da” (good night), “Diolch” (thanks), “Iechyd da!” (cheers), and “Croeso i Gymru” (welcome to Wales). 

The symbols of Wales also link to its past. The daffodil is worn on St David’s Day because it blooms in early spring, close to the celebration of St David, the patron saint of Wales. The leek, another national emblem, goes back to old Welsh soldiers who wore leeks in their helmets to tell friend from foe in battle. 

The bold red dragon on the Welsh flag is one of the oldest symbols of any nation. It is tied to ancient Celtic myths, where dragons stood for strength and protection. This links to the legends of Merlin and King Arthur, whose stories are set in the mountains, lakes, and castles of Wales.

The country was shaped by coal mining, especially in the south, where huge mining communities grew during the 1800s. Farming is also central to Welsh life, with sheep grazing across hills and valleys, and there are famously more sheep than people in many areas. This farming tradition has helped shape Welsh food, landscape, and rural culture.

Music, poetry, and storytelling remain important. The National Eisteddfod of Wales is a huge festival celebrating Welsh arts, with competitions in singing, poetry, and performance. Famous writers like Dylan Thomas helped share Welsh voices with the world.

Wales only became legally part of the English kingdom in 1536, when Henry VIII’s Act of Union was passed. But the Welsh identity remained strong, kept alive through language, landscape, and tradition. Even today, titles like the Prince of Wales and the passion for rugby, the national sport, show how pride and heritage continue to shape modern Welsh life.

The hearty dishes of Wales

Welsh food is hearty, homely, and shaped by its farms, coastlines, and old family recipes. Many dishes come from simple ingredients like fresh dairy, local meat, seaweed from the shore, and fruit from the valleys. Classics like Welsh rarebit, lamb cawl, and Glamorgan sausages show off the country’s love for comforting flavours. Welsh lamb and beef are known for their quality, from mountain slopes to green valley farms, with saltmarsh lamb from the Gower and Carmarthenshire especially prized. Dairy lovers can enjoy famous cheeses such as Caerphilly, Black Bomber, and the creamy blue Perl Las, all found in village markets and farm shops.

Baking is a big part of Welsh life. Welsh cakes cooked on a bakestone, bara brith, and soft teisen lap have been shared in homes for generations. You’ll also find crempogau (thick Welsh pancakes), teisen careno (a traditional apple cake), and savoury snacks like the traditional oggie, a large Welsh pasty once eaten by workers. Everyday dishes such as bacon and cabbage, faggots and peas, and tatws pum munud (a stew, made with bacon, stock, potatoes and other vegetables) reflect simple farm traditions. A classic Welsh lamb roast is also a Sunday must.

The coast brings its own flavours. Laverbread (made from laver seaweed) and cockles are long-standing staples, often served with bacon in South Wales, and fresh seafood from places like Swansea, the Gower, and Pembrokeshire are still widely enjoyed. Raw Welsh honey, gathered from wildflower meadows and heather hillsides, remains a treasured ingredient in both cooking and baking.

Wales is also home to amazing warm, welcoming pubs. Brains Brewery in Cardiff is one of the oldest and most famous, while modern craft makers like Tiny Rebel, Gower Brewery, and Purple Moose are popular favourites. For something stronger, the Penderyn Distillery produces world-famous Welsh whisky, known for its smooth, slightly sweet flavour. Many rural areas also craft their own local ciders, especially in Monmouthshire and the Valleys.

Whether you’re trying fresh Welsh lamb from a valley farm, warm Welsh cakes in a seaside café, or a glass of Penderyn whisky at a cosy pub, the food of Wales is all about comfort, history, and local pride.

Top things to see and do in Wales

• Climb Snowdon (Yr Wyddfa) - Hike to the highest peak in Wales with views over Eryri National Park
• Ride the zip line at Zip World - Fly over a historic slate quarry on the fastest zip line in the world
• Go dolphin spotting in New Quay - Join a boat tour to see bottlenose dolphins along Cardigan Bay
• Visit Big Pit National Coal Museum - Head underground with former miners to explore Wales’ industrial past
• See the colourful harbour of Tenby - Wander past pastel houses, sandy beaches and historic walls
• Family day out at Folly Farm - Meet animals at the zoo, enjoy outdoor play and ride vintage fairground attractions
• Play at GreenWood Family Park - Enjoy eco-rides, mazes and treetop adventures, perfect for younger families
• Explore Aberystwyth seafront and cliff railway - Ride the historic funicular for amazing coastal views
• Walk the Wales Coast Path - Explore rugged cliffs, hidden coves and long sandy beaches
• Hike Pen y Fan - Climb the highest peak in the Brecon Beacons for panoramic views
• Ride the Ffestiniog steam railway - Take a nostalgic mountain journey through Eryri
• Surf at Rhossili Bay - Catch waves on one of the UK's most beautiful beaches
• Kayak around Stackpole and Barafundle Bay - Paddle through clear waters and limestone arches
• Explore the castles of Conwy and Caernarfon - Step inside two of Europe’s most impressive medieval fortresses
• Wander the Elan Valley - Walk or cycle past Victorian dams, reservoirs and wild landscapes
• Venture into the National Showcaves Centre for Wales (Dan yr Ogof) - Explore vast caverns, underground lakes and rock formations
• Discover Portmeirion village - Explore a colourful Italian-inspired village on the coast
• Paddleboard on Llyn Padarn - Try watersports on a glacial lake beneath Snowdon
• Ride mountain biking trails at Coed y Brenin - Tackle world-class forest tracks
• Walk the Pembrokeshire Coast Path - Follow dramatic clifftop trails with puffins and sea stacks
• Bounce Below (Zip World Llechwedd) - Jump, slide and climb through huge underground trampolines in a magical slate cavern
• Stargaze in the Brecon Beacons Dark Sky Reserve - Enjoy some of the clearest night skies in the UK
• Visit St Fagans National Museum of History - Explore centuries of Welsh life in an open-air museum in Cardiff
• See Waterfall Country at Pontneddfechan - Walk behind waterfalls, including the iconic Sgwd yr Eira
• Tour the Pontcysyllte aqueduct - Walk or boat across the UNESCO site on the Llangollen Canal
• Ride the Great Orme tramway (Llandudno) - Take a trip on Britain’s only funicular tramway
• Discover Devil’s Bridge Falls - Follow steep paths past dramatic waterfalls and ancient bridges
• Visit Heatherton World of Activities - Try archery, go-karts, high ropes and family games near Tenby
• Explore Beddgelert village - Wander a storybook valley surrounded by mountains and rivers
• Visit the National Botanic Garden of Wales - Explore themed gardens and the huge glasshouse
• See puffins on Skomer Island - Spot puffins, seals and wildflowers on a boat trip
• Walk along Offa’s Dyke Path - Explore ancient borderlands with sweeping views
• Go white-water rafting at the National White Water Centre - Tackle fast-flowing rapids in the Tryweryn Valley
• Explore the Preseli Hills - Walk through the scenic landscape linked to Stonehenge’s bluestones
• Try coasteering in Pembrokeshire - Jump, climb and swim along the rugged Atlantic coastline
• Walk to South Stack lighthouse (Anglesey) - Enjoy seabirds, cliffs and beautiful coastal scenery
• Visit the National Slate Museum - Discover the craft and culture of slate quarrying
• Take a sea safari around Ramsey Island - Spot seals, porpoises and wild rock formations
• Ride the Vale of Rheidol railway (Aberystwyth) - Steam through scenic valleys to Devil’s Bridge
• Explore Anglesey Sea Zoo - Get close to fascinating Welsh marine wildlife
• Visit Techniquest in Cardiff Bay - Enjoy hands-on science fun, perfect for families
• Explore the Welsh Mountain Zoo - Meet red pandas, snow leopards and exotic animals above Colwyn Bay
• Wander Margam Country Park - Enjoy historic grounds, deer herds and adventure play areas
• Explore Bodnant Garden (National Trust) - Stroll through one of the most beautiful gardens in the UK
• Take little ones to the Dinosaur Park, Tenby - Follow dino trails and enjoy family attractions
• Discover Penrhyn Castle and Garden - Experience a dramatic neo-Norman castle with acres of grounds
• Enjoy a day at Nymans (National Trust) - Explore romantic ruins, gardens and woodland trails
• Take a day trip to Barry Island - Enjoy sandy beaches, arcades and classic seaside fun
• Explore Caerphilly Castle - Climb towers, see the grand moats and explore one of Britain’s largest medieval fortresses
• Spend a day at Pembrey Country Park - Try dry-slope skiing, tobogganing, cycling routes and strolls through pine forests next to the sands of Cefn Sidan Beach

Wales' hidden gems

Wales is full of places that feel secret, far from the busy tourist spots. In Mid Wales, Bwlch Nant yr Arian Forest Visitor Centre is known for its beautiful trails and daily red kite feeding, while the Wye Valley and The Kymin (National Trust) offer quiet hilltop views over the River Wye and the old town of Monmouth. For garden lovers, Aberglasney Gardens in Carmarthenshire is one of the finest hidden gardens in Britain, with pools, subtropical gardens and rare plants.

Snowdonia (Eryri) is home to the Watkin Path Waterfall near Beddgelert, a perfect wild swimming spot, as is Ceunant Mawr Waterfall in Llanberis, where water crashes through a steep gorge. You can also swim in the clear waters of Llyn Dinas, explore the peaceful lakeside paths of Llyn Crafnant, or walk the lesser-known Glyndŵr’s Way, a long-distance trail named after Owain Glyndŵr, the last native Prince of Wales. Not far away, the town of Llanrwst is a hidden gem in its own right, known for its historic three-arched bridge and the ivy-covered Tu Hwnt i’r Bont tearoom on the banks of the River Conwy.

Along the west and north coasts, you’ll find tiny coves and dramatic features shaped by the sea. The Witches’ Cauldron near the village of Ceibwr is a collapsed sea cave filled with deep green water, while Porth Ysgo on the Llŷn Peninsula is a secluded cove with a waterfall and sandy shore. Nearby Porthdinllaen, reached by walking across the beach, feels like a secret fishing village, with views across the Irish Sea. You can also wander to Borth Wen beach, a sheltered spot on Holy Island.

Some gems are linked to local history and myths. St Dyfnog’s Holy Well, near Denbigh, was once a place of pilgrimage, and Paviland Cave on the Gower is one of the oldest archaeological sites in Britain. The curved Horseshoe Falls, created by Thomas Telford, mark the start of the Llangollen Canal, while Keeper’s Pond (Pen-ffordd-goch) sits high above the old Iron Mountain road and is also great for wild swimming. Close to here, Chirk offers another lesser-known treasure like Chirk Castle, a fortified medieval stronghold surrounded by woodland and parkland that often feels peaceful compared to Wales’ more famous castles. Even sites like Beaumaris Castle can feel like hidden treasures when visited outside peak times, with views across the Menai Strait.

Other hidden places you may want to include are Mwnt for its remote white chapel, Cenarth Falls for salmon leaping in autumn, Sgwd yr Eira, where you can walk behind a waterfall, and Cwm Idwal, a glacial bowl beneath the Glyderau peaks.

Things to know

• Unpredictable weather - Expect sudden showers and fast-changing conditions, so always pack a waterproof
• Local language surprises - Welsh is widely spoken, especially in the north. Learning “Shwmae” (hello) and “Iechyd da” (cheers) goes a long way
• Sheep everywhere - With more sheep than people, you’ll often meet them on hillsides and even wandering across rural roads
• Windy country lanes - Many roads are narrow, twisty, and lined with hedgerows, so take your time when driving
• Epic place names - Wales loves long names, including the famous Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch
• Challenging hiking routes - Trails like Snowdon and the Brecon Beacons can be steep, rocky, or exposed, so bring proper boots and check conditions
• Passionate rugby culture - Rugby is practically a religion, so match days bring an electric atmosphere to towns and pubs
• Remote towns and villages - Fuel stations, shops, and restaurants can be far apart, so stock up before heading into the countryside
• Rich, proud culture - Wales is deeply rooted in storytelling, music, myth, and community traditions that locals celebrate and love to share
• Hearty local dishes - Try classic Welsh favourites like Welsh rarebit, cawl, Glamorgan sausages, and Welsh cakes for a taste of true homely cooking
• Rich mining heritage - Former coal and slate mines shaped the landscape, with museums offering underground tours
• Castle capital of Europe - Wales has more castles per square mile than anywhere else on the continent 
• Home to the world’s fastest zipline - Velocity 2 at Zip World in Penrhyn Quarry, rockets you across a vast slate mine at incredible speeds
• Incredible coastal scenery - With 870 miles of coast path, Wales is full of beaches, cliffs, sea caves, and wildlife
• Wild weather on the peaks - Mountain conditions change fast, so always bring layers and check forecasts
• Outdoor adventure paradise - From coasteering and kayaking to surfing and canyoning, Wales is built for thrill-seekers