Tourist Attractions & Monuments Wales

This train, built in 1896, climbs a 957-metre drop over 7 km to the top of Mount Snowdon. It is certainly the most impressive in the country. The smell of coal, the power of the locomotive, the typical noise of steam trains... It's really an experience! Some athletes snub him. At the top they say you can find the most beautiful view in the country, weather permitting! It's also the wettest corner!

If you have the legs, try to ascend on foot. The path starting from Llanberis is the easiest, provided you climb up..

It's one of the most popular attractions in the country!

Motorboats. The Thomas Telford sails for two hours along the Llangollen Canal. Not to be missed: the passage over the impressive and monumental Pontcysyllte canal bridge, a masterpiece of the famous engineer Thomas Telford.

Boats hauled by horses. 45-minute tour on one of the most beautiful canals in the country

Two-hour trips are also available to Horseshoe Falls, a semi-circular dam on the Dee River nestled in a peaceful natural setting.

Railway inaugurated in 1902. Three superposed bridges overlook a narrow and deep gorge, where a waterfall flows. Legend has it that the villagers, unable to build the bridge, made a pact with the devil: he agreed to solve the problem in exchange for the first soul to cross the bridge. The villagers managed to get away with this haggling: they threw bread on the deck to sacrifice the innocent soul of a dog... The journey takes place on board vintage wagons pulled by a steam locomotive.

This huge shopping and leisure area of Mermaid Quay (14,000 ^m2) is one of the spearheads of the new image of Cardiff Harbour. A symbol of the refurbishment of the dock area, opened in 1999, it now offers a wide range of shops, restaurants, cafes and services. Many of the centre's restaurants, such as Las Iguanas and Bill's, are also located here. And if you are ever in search of a good hairdresser or barber, Ken Picton's salon is very well known!

With a wealth of permanent collections dedicated to fine arts, contemporary art and decorative arts, the Cardiff National Museum also offers the opportunity to explore the country through its natural history. The visit is a real delight for young and old alike. And free admission is a good argument for wasting a few hours, especially if the weather is rainy.

National Museum of Natural History. On the ground floor is a spectacular botanical, zoological and geological department. Reconstituted natural landscapes, stuffed animals, herbaria and interactive maps show the genesis of the Welsh landscape. The huge skeleton of a humpback whale and the world's largest leatherback turtle will impress the whole family.

National Museum of Art. On the ^first floor, the National Museum of Cardiff also stands out for its very rich collection of works of art from all over the world. The Italian school is well represented, with Botticelli or Tiepolo. Then came Richard Wilson, Thomas Jones and Sir William Goscombe John for the local stamp. Finally, an interesting impressionist collection: Landscape in Auvers under the rain of Van Gogh, painted a few weeks before his death, Cézanne, Les Parisiennes de Renoir, Pissaro, Sisley or even Boudin, Braque, Derain, Vlaminck, Max Ernst and Magritte testify to the eclecticism of the Conservatives' good taste.

The sculpture section is not to be outdone since a copy of Rodin's Baiser and some of the sculptor's originals are on display.

The first view of the cathedral is impressive. It is surrounded by a large park covered with funerary stelae and one can immediately see its cruciform structure at the intersection of which rises the large square tower, with its clock and pinnacles.

For more than a century, this site was a central place of pilgrimage and the majestic ensemble still exerts its aura... However, it all begins with the mystical solitude of Saint David, who led a life here withdrawn from the world, totally devoted to the Spirit... The holy man, who ate bread and herbs and dipped his body in ice-cold water to numb his ardour, influenced the Irish Church through his asceticism! It was during the reign of Henry I that the place took a more administrative and official turn, when it was decided that St David would be at the centre of the diocese. It is possible that the location was also chosen for reasons of political strategy, given its proximity to Ireland. Construction of the cathedral began in 1131, and it was also from this time that it became an important religious centre in Europe. In the 14th century, during the reign of Bishop Henry of Gower, the architecture took on the appearance it has today. Until his death in 1347, he oversaw major works in the cathedral, which he envisioned as his future tomb, and also built the wall separating it from the houses of the village. The present official entrance to the site is the only original of the four gates of the enclosure.

Built between 1283 and 1289 by Edward ^I, Conwy is one of the castles commissioned by the King. It took 6 years and 1,500 workers to build the fortress: a feat of ^13th-century military architecture. In peacetime, 30 soldiers could protect the castle, which was built in such a way as to prevent the enemy from entering. The nobles lived in the towers, while the soldiers slept in the great hall below. The inner courtyard was accessible by water. The panoramic view from the turrets is magnificent.

This popular walking area can be reached in less than 10 minutes by bus. Here again, one marvels at the extraordinary views of the sea, despite the frequent sea breeze. Don't hesitate to cover yourself well! Beacons indicate the routes of two circular walks that take you along spectacular cliffs. One is 11.5 km for about 3.5 hours. You can also opt for its short version, 5 km long, by cutting through the land. A copy of the detailed itinerary can be requested from the tourist office.

Fascinating reconstruction of an Iron Age fort. In each of the round, thatched houses, the interiors are reconstructed, based on the speculations of archaeologists. Very little information remains about the life of Iron Age man. In the houses, guides bake bread or spin wool, passionately recounting what we think we know about the period. Many discoveries about Iron Age techniques and knowledge were made during the construction of the site. Breathtaking!

At the bottom of Monnow Street is the old fortified bridge of the city and the door that marked the entrance to the th century.

Dominating an impressive 12-hectare site, this castle is the most imposing in the country and the second largest in Britain, after Windsor. It is the perfect example of a medieval castle: crenellated towers, drawbridge, keeps... Built on the remains of a Roman fort and the ruins of a Norman fort, the castle was erected in the ^13th century by the Anglo-Norman lord Gilbert de Clare for defensive purposes: to protect himself from Llywelyn the Great. However, Llywelyn the Great succeeded in destroying a large part of the castle, and the English quickly rebuilt it.

It is undoubtedly the most popular market in the region and one of the best places to enjoy the atmosphere of the area. Tuesday is the most important day, the day when people come from all over the Brecon Beacons to buy vegetables, fish and meat. In addition to food, there is a little bit of everything: clothes and jewellery, craftsmen working with wood, leather or wool. A hundred stands animate the huge covered hall every day: you will probably not be disappointed by the atmosphere!

Saundersfoot's beaches are among the most extraordinary in South Pembrokeshire, renowned for their exceptional beauty. To discover them, you can reach the village of Amroth from Tenby, by bus no. 350, then follow the coastal path to the beaches of Saundersfoot. To the west of the village, there is also Glen Beach, an ideal beach for family swimming, with restaurants nearby. Often events are organized throughout the year, the program is available on site.

Built in the 13th century, the castle is located in a very strategic place: it dominates the village and the sea from the top of the rock, and is part of the famous chain of castles built by Edward I to ensure his new conquests. Owain Glyndwr, an important figure in the country's history, conquered the castle in 1404 and lived there for five years, making Harlech the capital of Wales. If the weather is clear, the views are particularly magnificent, one can see Tremadog Bay and the mountains in the distance.

Swallow Falls (Rhaeadr Ewynnolin Welsh) is the highest continuous waterfall in Wales and one of the most visited sites in the region. Magnificent viewpoint, where the river Llugwy rushes into an impressive chasm.It is accessible year-round, but be aware that during the summer months, when there is less rainfall, the waterfall may be less spectacular. It is particularly recommended that you visit in the spring or fall, when the water level is at its highest.

In those days, it was said that two trips to St David's were worth one pilgrimage to Rome. Thousands of people came here, making St David's a major pilgrimage center in the country. The Bishop of Gower's architectural ambitions were high, making the complex a model of medieval refinement. Between 1328 and 1347, he transformed this former building for servants and animals into an immense palace. Built behind the cathedral between the ^13th and ^14th centuries, this imposing palace was once reserved for the nobility and clergy. It bears witness to the importance of this stopover on the road to Compostela. Now in ruins, it remains no less impressive. The palace is built around a central garden. The east wing was devoted to the bishop's private quarters, with his bedroom, small reception room and kitchens at the far end, linking the apartments with the south wing, which was more devoted to public reception areas. The room adjoining the hall was probably used to accommodate important visitors to St. David's. The west wing was probably used as a dormitory for less important visitors. Numerous architectural details come to light during the visit, testifying to the building's former splendor: finely ornamented windows and arches, corbels sculpted in the shape of faces or animals, arcade decoration... Today in ruins, it remains an impressive monument.

In the northeast of the city, there is an old Roman amphitheatre discovered in the 1960s. Far from being as grandiose as the ruins of Caerleon, the "Cavea" (semi-circular terraces distributed by radiant stairs) is still 46 metres long.

The Romans established their presence in Carmarthen in 75 AD. This amphitheatre, the westernmost in the Roman Empire, is also one of the seven still visible in Britain! Objects from various excavations in the area can be found at the Carmarthenshire County Museum in Abergwili.

This beautiful ensemble consists of the monastic remains attached to St Mary's Priory Church. Built in 1070 by Benedictine monks, it is now used to organize private events. However, we can linger in front of its facade, and in particular the beautiful window, known as Geoffrey's window. Traditionally, the site has been linked to Bishop Geoffrey of Monmouth, author of The History of the Kings of Britain, which relates the arrival of Christianity with the Celts, the departure of the Romans and the legend of King Arthur. The three sculpted heads below are those of the Knight, the Angel and the Miller. This trinity represents that of the government of the city, the Church and the business world. The panel on the left represents the coronation of King Arthur and his queen, Guinevere, in Caerleon. The central panel depicts Geoffrey writing his book and wearing the Benedictine black habit. On the right panel is King Vortigern listening to Merlin tell him the legend of the red and white dragons, the origin of the Welsh flag.

In the small village of Tongwynlais stands the neo-Gothic style Coch Castle with its pointed roofs. In the middle of the woods, Castell Coch is the result of a whim of the architect William Burges who transformed the ruins of a 13th century building into a magical castle worthy of Walt Disney's most beautiful films.

Castell Coch was the summer residence of the wealthy Bute family, who also owned Cardiff Castle. The massive towers with their conical roofs house exuberant apartments, decorated with decor inspired by nature, legends and mythology.

The best preserved Roman amphitheatre in the country, built around 90 AD and now covered by grass. The arena was oval in shape, with eight entrances. Up to 6,000 spectators gathered on the stands more than 2,000 years ago to watch gladiatorial battles. The remains of the baths built for the soldiers who arrived around 74 AD consisted of rooms for hot and cold baths, exercise rooms, an open-air swimming pool...

For train enthusiasts and novices alike, a highly accessible and interactive museum that's sure to delight everyone. Inside, you'll find an exhibition room with photos and models of historic trains, while outside you'll find vintage locomotives that you can visit, and a miniature train on which you can take a ten-minute ride through the surrounding countryside. Finally, there's a comprehensive specialist store to round off your trip.

It is a two and a half hour circuit at 20 km/h in old cars pulled by a steam locomotive. It is one of the oldest narrow-gauge railway tracks in the world: no more than 70 cm wide! Its line runs eleven kilometres from Tywyn to Nant Gwernol, near the village of Abergynolwyn. Now a tourist attraction, this line, opened in 1866, transported slate from the Bryn Eglwys quarries to Tywyn. In 1951, it became the first tourist railway in the world to be maintained by volunteers!

In a former 17th century mill, in the heart of beautiful nature, National Coracle Museum is a museum is dedicated to the coracle. A coracle is a somewhat primitive boat from the era still used in some parts of the world. It is a kind of round boat like a half coconut that was used by the Celts for river fishing. It is still used today by some fishermen around Cenarth and - above all - excursions are organised for the curious. It takes about 45 minutes to visit the site, including the tour.

One hour walk on 6 km on board a steam train along the lake.

An underground complex formed by three impressive cellars, including Dan-yr-Ogof, the largest cave open to the public in Great Britain. This complex of caves has been carved into the permeable limestone layers that make up the southern Beacon subsoil. And for the youngest or most enthusiastic, there is even a dinosaur park with about 220 animals. It's very well suited for children: interactive and a little informative; they love it!

In this centre, among other things, one is informed about the evolution of the country's marine fauna. You can even take a boat ride with them and participate in the animal counts. We thus learn to recognize the different dolphins according to their dorsal fin! It's really exciting. And if you want to support the centre for the preservation of these animals, you can adopt a dolphin for £30. An original gift idea that children in particular love!

Bikes & Hikes is a sporty, dynamic team. There's no better way to discover the beauty of the region. Schedule an activity with a guide or rent a bike and explore the surrounding villages around Brecon. There's no better way to discover the beauty of the region. And for those who don't like cycling, there are plenty of adventure days on offer. Choose from hikes, orienteering circuits, canoeing, river courses... Don't hesitate to contact them if you're in a group, they can adapt to your needs.

Discover the Bristol Channel and the west coasts of Wales and England on a cruise aboard the Waverley, the world's last paddle steamer. This unique maritime heritage, beautifully restored, stands proudly with its imposing chimneys and varnished wooden deck. The Waverley has been restored to her original 1940s style. On their website, numerous itineraries are proposed, as well as themed cruises. This experience will delight young and old alike.

You won't be bored, because mountain biking, kayaking, paddle boarding, photography, etc. are on the agenda! There are also activities such as the River Tubes, which consists of walking on a river with a few (small) rapids in a buoy. And to be original, this somewhat "offbeat" agency is at the initiative of several crazy sports, including bathtubbing (sail with a paddle in a bathtub at sea!). Yes, you are in Llanwrtyd Wells, no doubt you will have a lot of fun here!

Very pleasant, professional and friendly information centre. Very interesting if you want to gather information about dams and reservoirs, or to get ideas for itineraries for walks or bike rides. A short documentary film shows the history of dams and reservoirs. It also presents the richness of the valley's fauna. The permanent exhibition provides additional information on both topics. Bicycle rental service (£20 per day or £5 per hour) available.

In this store and visitor center, you can obtain information about the Gower Peninsula and even buy a few souvenirs. The National Trust rents out the Old Rectory, the peninsula's former priest's house, by the week, overlooking the beach, which is in great demand. If you need any advice, don't hesitate to ask the staff, who will be happy to help you. Please note: closed from Christmas to the second week in January.

It is a church whose foundations date from the 13th century, and rebuilt in the 1860s, forming a fine example of Victorian Gothic architecture. The dedication to St George is reminiscent of the Anglo-Norman influence in this part of Gower. He has been the patron saint of Christian chivalry in Britain since the year 800. Beautiful stained glass windows, including one in the west designed by Nathaniel Westlake in 1905. Next to the choir is a cross probably dating from the 9th century - considered to be one of the oldest Christian objects on the peninsula.

From the quay, you can choose from several options: a sea trip to Llandudno or Snowdonia (thirty minutes), a commented walk on the marine fauna (one hour) or a photographic cruise (1 hour 30). Depending on the weather and weather conditions, they also organize bird watching trips. In any case, it's the opportunity to discover Conwy and its surroundings from another point of view and if the weather is clear, it's really superb. Remember to cover up well in winter and autumn, it gets cold on the water quickly.

A bus takes you around the monuments and places of interest in the towns of Llandudno and Conwy, but also around the surrounding area, to discover the beaches and mountains. Allow one hour for the entire route.

Clarification. Hourly departures from the Pier of Llandudno. You can get off at the stop of your choice to spend more time on a beach or in a museum, then get back on the next bus.
Reservations can be made online and are best made in the summer

Cilgerran is one of the country's many wildlife preservation centres. Discover a fabulous diversity of wildlife in the Teifi Marshes nature reserve, or in the building with a 360 degree panoramic view, to see a fauna (birds, dragonflies...) and an abundance of flora. Four theme trails are proposed. It is a paradise for birdwatchers, with a beautiful variety of birds being visible. The plus: possibility to rent a cottage to spend the night in the middle of this peaceful place!

One of the oldest monasteries in Great Britain. Its secluded location at the foot of the Black Mountains in the picturesque Ewyas Valley makes it particularly romantic. The Augustinian priory was founded in the 12th century by Father Ignatius, a knight converted into a hermit. We discover the moving ruins in the open air, with the eight elegant arches of the nave, in both Norman and Gothic style. Parts of the transept and the massive cross-shaped tower are remarkably well preserved. A real pleasure for the eyes, far from the hustle and bustle of the world..

The only whisky distilled in Wales, the independent distillery is one of the smallest in the world. A visit to Penderyn takes you on a journey through the history of the country's only single malt whisky, as well as its distillation. The whisky is a subtle blend of tradition and modernity. An innovative distillery, Penderyn is renowned for the exceptional ageing of its malts in old Madeira wine casks. The tour, led by a team of enthusiasts, is... fascinating! Store online. Don't hesitate to have a look at the online agenda.

Historically, wool has been Wales' most important industry. This fascinating museum celebrates this textile material, once exported all over the world. You can even try your hand at it! The National Wool Museum is also a workshop where machines and craftsmen work on a daily basis. Admission is free, which may be an alternative on rainy days, for example. Many activities are organized for children (and not only). The agenda is available on their website.

With 3.5 hectares of vineyards, Llanerch is one of the largest wine estates in Wales, which also includes walking trails, a lake and a multitude of plants and animals. You can round off your visit with a wine tasting, including the award-winning "Cariad" ("love" in Welsh). The estate also offers accommodation, a restaurant, a bistro and cooking classes. Throughout the year, the winery offers guided tours followed by wine tasting; check the schedule on their website.

Escape into the mysteries of Arthurian legends and let yourself be guided on a true adventure, which younger visitors will particularly enjoy. Between vast caverns and winding tunnels, this attraction takes you back to the Middle Ages, to the time of King Arthur. Discover ancient stories and other Welsh legends, with the help of a mysterious hooded guide. Please note that the attraction may be closed in the event of heavy rain, so be sure to call ahead. Numerous stores and cafés in the center.

Past Swallow Falls, facing the Llugwy River, we come face to face with "The Ugly House", which looks more like a pile of stones than a house; even if we find it wildly charming! The reason would be that, at one time, any construction built in one day was tax-exempt! It was once a stopover for Irish farmers who drove their cattle to market.

Today, a small tea room has been set up, as well as an upstairs exhibition on the bee protection program undertaken here.

The Llechwedd slate quarries have 250 chambers linked by 40 km of galleries. We tell you all about the living conditions of the miners at a depth of several meters. Working by candlelight, in vast caves, on the banks of underground lakes. It's a journey to the heart of the country's culture and history. It's a must to fully appreciate the hard work of the miners.

There'salso a gigantic zip line for thrill-seekers (www.zipworld.co.uk) and an underground playground with nets and trampolines.

About a mile east of Beddgelert. Take the A498 and follow the sign on your right. Buses ^Nos. 97A, 95 and 97 will also take you there. These copper mines were first exploited by the Romans. The voice of a virtual miner accompanies you as you descend the multiple floors. This guided tour (45 minutes) takes you into the shallows of copper mines in yellow tones, which have become golden under the torches! It's very interesting and it's pretty good for the kids, they don't get bored. We recommend it, especially if it rains.

Follow the river and cross the field. Under the trees is a dog's grave. Legend has it that when Llywelyn returned from her trip, her dog, Gelert, greeted her with a bloody face. Not seeing his newborn baby in the crib, he deduced that his dog had devoured the infant and pierced it with his sword. At the same time, a cry rose from the bushes where the child lay unharmed, next to the corpse of a wolf killed by... Gelert! Remorseful, Prince Llywelyn erected a grave for his dog. Not much to see, but it's a nice walk.

It is a former hospital in a charming location that now serves as an information centre for the park. Perched on a wooded valley, it can be reached by stairs on the hillside. The hospital was once used to treat miners who were often injured by dangerous working conditions. Old medical instruments are now on display in part of the hospital. Another wing has been converted into a tea room, from which there are beautiful views of the landscape. Admission is free, we recommend you take a look if you can!

Artificial lagoon dug in a natural site. Possibility of diving. Its beauty enough to enjoy passive contemplation, a platform has also been designed for spectators.

Padarn Country Park covers an area of over 300 hectares and includes a rare and ancient sessile oak forest (Coed Dinorwig). This wooded mountain overlooking the beautiful lake of Llyn Padarn is probably one of the most beautiful (and accessible) landscapes in Snowdonia. It's like a utopia, so amazingly beautiful. Here, you take your time and enjoy it. You can plan a picnic if the weather allows it, the place is really suitable for a few moments of relaxation.

The park was once a slate mining centre. The museum is located in a former Victorian workshop. Dinorwig's quarry was huge, 3,000 men worked here, whose activity and movements shaped the landscape. The display of miners' and engineers' tools is intended to be as realistic as possible. It gives the impression that the workers have just left the mine to go home! Recently, 4 workers' houses on the site were reconstructed to give a glimpse of what their domestic life could have been like.

An artificial lake designed to supply a gigantic hydroelectric power station has been dug out of the Eliden mountain. It's like something out of science fiction! Today, the project is considered a global engineering prodigy. This energy laboratory, created in the bowels of the mountain, is the subject of impressive tours. The site is currently under restoration, but the view over the lake is well worth the detour.

The visit to the museum is fairly long. It begins with a film recounting Lloyd George's life. Then panels tell the story of his political work, his family life... Display cases show objects that belonged to him, such as the enormous pencil he used to write his memoirs! Next, a museum guide takes you into the cottage where he was raised by his mother and uncle. On the first floor, his uncle's shoemaking workshop and the dining room where Lloyd George did his homework. Upstairs, the bedroom.