Exploring Wales Through Its Castles, Coastline And Culture

Wales is a pocket-sized nation in the United Kingdom, known for its picturesque towns, medieval castles, charming villages and windswept coastline. The west coast is covered in green, south has a less-rugged topography, east has rolling hills and valleys and north is the most touristy of them all because of the castles, natural beauty, and breathtaking national parks. No matter which part of Wales you go to, this country has something to offer for all. 

Fascinating Places To Visit In Wales

Though small in size, Wales in UK is a complete package, it is blessed with natural beauty, culture and history in abundance. Listed below are some of the top attractions that just cannot be missed.

Cardiff Castle

Cardiff Castle has existed in Britain since the Roman era and has undergone constant change over the ages to create an intriguing historical architectural tapestry. Perched on a tiny hill, the Norman keep is encircled by strong defensive walls that served as shelters from air raids during World War II. In one section is a museum dedicated to Welsh army units, while in another is a Georgian palace. Located just north of the city center, Cardiff Castle is a highly convenient and fascinating destination to see. Though tours are only offered in the summer, the Clock Tower is particularly worth seeing. You should also take a picture of the Animal Wall on Castle Street.

Also Read: 18 Of The Most Stunning Castles In Wales

Llandudno

Llandudno is arguably the biggest and most well-liked resort location on the North Wales coast. Situated beneath The Great Orme, the town is referred to as the ‘Queen of the Welsh Resorts’. A tramway leads to the summit, which is a point of interest in and of itself. From there, you may enjoy breathtaking views over the town and its dock. Additionally, there is an artificial ski slope and cable car close by. There are plenty of hotels, cafes, and restaurants in the town itself. Don’t miss the Victorian Extravaganza, a delightful carnival in Llandudno with a Victorian theme, if you’re in Wales during the May bank holiday weekend.

Snowdonia National Park

A region of exceptional natural beauty, Snowdonia National Park is home to a number of picturesque communities. One of the most charming settlements is Beddgelert, which is a great spot to relax and a must in your itinerary of places to visit in Wales. Discovering everything that Snowdonia National Park has to offer might take days. However do not miss Mount Snowdon, the highest peak in Wales. Each of the six ascent routes has a different degree of difficulty. The Cwm Idwal is a circular hike that circles some of the park’s most breathtaking views if you’re not quite ready to climb an entire mountain.

Portmeirion

On the west coast of Wales in the UK, Portmeirion village offers a tiny taste of Italy. The stunning gardens, vibrant houses, fountains, and church, which were constructed throughout the majority of the 20th century, resemble a community on the Mediterranean coast. In addition to exploring the 70 acres (28 hectares) of forest gardens, which are home to unique imported species including Chilean maiten trees, Californian coast redwoods, and a New Zealand dancing tree, you can eat pizza, gelato, and coffee on the terrace. If you think it sounds a bit like a theme park, you’re not entirely incorrect. The town has limited opening hours and charges a fee.

Anglesey

The largest Welsh island, the Isle of Anglesey, is located just off the northwest coast and is one of the most fascinating sites to visit in Wales. The Menai Strait divides it from the mainland, and it is 276 square miles in size. The Menai Suspension Bridge is among Anglesey’s most breathtaking views. For history buffs in particular, exploring the island itself is a delight and is one of the best things to do in Wales. Anglesey is home to more than 120 historic monuments and archaeological sites, including the medieval Beaumaris Castle. Birdwatchers, take note, the island is home to a variety of habitats, including marshes, coastal cliffs, estuaries, and rock-covered coastlines. 

Hay-on-Wye

Located on the Welsh-English border, the small riverside village of Hay-on-Wye is undoubtedly quite lovely and beautiful. It’s also a haven for book lovers. Numerous used book stores may be found there, as well as the yearly Hay Festival, which has quickly expanded from a small hamlet celebration to one of the year’s most important literary gatherings. Thousands of readers and well-known authors attend the 10-day festival, which takes place at the end of May. With a modest ancient castle and a few local pubs, the village itself has a lovely rustic, rural appearance and is the ideal representation of a traditional Welsh community.

Principality Stadium

Principality Stadium, formerly the Millennium Stadium, is one of the greatest and most contemporary stadiums in the United Kingdom. Being Wales’ national stadium, rugby matches are its main attraction rather than football games. In addition, it has played host to boxing matches, motorsport events, concerts, conventions, and even a few movie sets. As you might guess, there is an incredible energy among the well over 70,000 spectators in the stands during a game. The stadium is easily accessible because it is located just next to Cardiff Central railway station.

Llanfairpwllgwyngyll

Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch, or Llanfairpwllgwyngyll for ‘short’, holds the undisputed title of the longest name in the UK and one of the longest in the world. Being merely a group of homes, a few bars, a post office, and a rail station, the hamlet itself is incredibly interesting. Many come here to take a selfie with the absurdly lengthy road signs. The interesting name of the village comes from an antique church. “St. Mary’s Church in the hollow of the white hazel near to the rapid whirlpool of Llantysilio of the red cave” is how the Welsh phrase is translated. You can try saying the 58-letter name yourself because the train station sign helpfully displays it in phonetic form.

Swansea Indoor Market

Swansea Market is one of the largest and greatest indoor markets in the nation. The fresh Welsh cockles and seafood will be the most prominent smell as you explore the enormous indoor market. The utilization of the best and freshest ingredients, which are plentiful at Swansea Market, is largely responsible for the delight of Welsh cuisine. Keep an eye out for the bakeries offering Welsh sweets and the fresh meats, particularly the Welsh lamb. When you’ve had enough, there are also a few shops selling jewelry, clothes, and electronics at the market. Definitely one of the best places to visit in Wales.

Suggested Reads: Delicious Welsh Food You Have To Try In Wales

FAQs