With fantastic natural scenery and a unique culture from the rest of the UK, Wales has plenty to tempt the curious British traveller. Let’s take a closer look at the most popular sights.
Wales is a country filled with valleys, mountains, and stunning coastlines. Moreover, it still hosts many sites with historical relevance. This makes it an ideal place for any explorer to visit, not least because there are so many unique adventures to experience and fall in love with.
In addition to those natural and cultural attractions, Wales is home to a wonderful group of people. Add these 10 attractions to your travel bucket list, and your next trip to the valleys and countryside will be filled with fun and excitement from start to end.
Snowdonia
With a summit of 1,038 metres, Mount Snowdon is the third highest peak in Britain. The iconic attraction, which is located in Gwynedd Snowdonia National Park, attracts nearly 600,000 people each year. All of them, even those that don’t reach the summit, are treated to a simply breathtaking experience.
The name Snowdon translates from the Old English for “snow hill”, and is a challenging climb that will fill you with joy. Alternatively, the railway can take you up the mountain. Either way, the views of the vast valleys and countryside will leave you smiling.
Devil’s Bridge
Nearby Aberystwyth is an ideal seaside resort for a few days of rest. However, Devil’s Bridge and the Hafod Estate is a must-see excursion. The latter is a 200-acre woodland supported by stunning gardens dating back to the 18th century.
However, Devil’s Bridge dates back as far as the 11th century. In fact, the iconic structure is actually three bridges atop each other, with the newest being constructed at the start of the 20th century. Travel the Falls Nature Trail to take in gorges, Jacob’s Ladder, and stunning sceneries in every direction.
Brecon Beacons National Park
Located in South Wales, Brecon Beacons is named after two 3,000-foot hills. However, the surrounding National Park has so much more to offer. There are rocky rivers, water meadows, and underground caves. Its natural beauty is simply incredible.
There are still various items linking back to the Bronze Age, making it a very historic location too. There’s something new to see on every step of the adventure while the trails aren’t overly challenging. It’s even possible to stand behind the Sgwd yr Eira Waterfall for a strange but stunning perspective.
Caroline St, Cardiff
The Welsh capital is home to world-class stadiums, historical monuments, and points of attraction. However, Cardiff is also known for boasting the best nightlife in Britain. Caroline St is at the heart of it all, and deserves a visit by couples and groups of friends.
The Brewery Quarter is home to many great pubs and bars. Moreover, Chippy Alley has a plethora of fast food joints and restaurants to delight your taste buds at any time of day. The area received a revamp in 2003 and is great for party animals and casual drinkers alike.
Holyhead War Memorial
The county of Anglesey boasts many wonderful points of attraction. However, Holyhead War Memorial is one of huge historical importance. While you’ll probably only spend a few minutes by the monument, it’s well worth a visit to pay your respects.
Besides, South Stack and the Maritime Museum aren’t far away. Likewise, the Holyhead mountain hut circles are within fairly close proximity. Meanwhile, exploring the wider Anglesey area is sure to be lots of fun. That time by the War Memorial will stand out as a main feature.
Conwy Castle
Conwy Castle was built in the 13th century during Edward I’s conquest of Wales. Over seven centuries later, it remains one of the most significant buildings in the northern region. It carries the picturesque concentric castle design and sits in the middle of a busy area.
Aside from the stunning exteriors and spectacular interiors, visitors can go right up to the turrets. This gives a 360-degree panoramic view for miles. Meanwhile, the educational aspects are presented in a particularly pleasing fashion.
Portmeirion
Portmeirion is probably the most beautiful hotel in Wales, and arguably the whole of Britain. It was designed to replicate the appearance of Italian fishing villages, and was built by Sir Clough Williams-Ellis over a 50-year period leading up to its 1975 opening.
The hotel resort is located at Snowdonia National Park so is an ideal solution for those taking on Snowdon during their trips. However, the resort attracts thousands annually, including those that are not staying overnight. Those that do stay, however, get it all to themselves!
Pistyll Rhaeadr Waterfall
At 80 metres in height, Pistyll Rhaeadr is one of the tallest waterfalls in Wales and even higher than Niagara Falls. It is located just a few miles from the English border, and visitors can walk to either the peak or foot depending on their preferences.
The common belief that it is a single drop isn’t factually correct, but that doesn’t detract from the mind-blowing experience. The nearby village of Llarhaeadr-ym-Mochnant is a wonderful place to stay too.
Barry Island
Not all tourist attractions need to boast historic relevance. Some are modern attractions, and Barry Island is one of them. The small seaside resort in Glamorgan was popularised by BBC sitcom Gavin & Stacey, subsequently ending on the bucket lists of fans across Britain.
The immortalised Pleasure Park isn’t the only attraction, though. The coast, along the Bristol Channel, is famous for boasting the world’s second highest tidal range behind the Bay of Fundy in Canada. The Butlins resort is no more, but Barry is still great.
St David’s Cathedral
Pembrokeshire county is home to many historical and natural. However, the Cathedral in St David’s is one attraction that needs to be seen. Its huge, beautiful, and pays homage to the country’s patron saint. In fact, the 6th-century bishop was buried in the original structure.
The existing building began construction in the 12th-century, carrying on into the 13th. While redevelopments have taken place, it is still an honest reflection of beautiful Medieval architecture. The history, grandeur, and backdrops make it a must for all visitors.
What about you? Have you been to Wales before, and if so, do you agree with our list?
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