Wales Destination Guide

Overview of Wales

Llyn y Fan Fawr, Wales
Photo credit: Blisco

For such a small country, Wales has a lot to offer. With dramatic mountains, spectacular seashores, tumbling rivers, fresh green valleys, and Europe's largest concentration of medieval fortresses, Wales is a real gem that is often overlooked by tourists.

With a name that springs from the Anglo-Saxon term waleas, meaning 'foreigner', it is hardly surprising that the Welsh have a unique culture, language, and heritage that distinguishes them from the English, Scots, and Irish. However, as part of the United Kingdom, Wales is still subject to its laws and regulations. Best known for their unpronounceable place names, roaring men's choirs, and fierce rugby teams, this is still a friendly and hospitable nation.

Though its largest city, Cardiff, has only about 350,000 residents, cities in Wales are home to interesting urban atmospheres that retain a certain historical quaintness while providing all the modern amenities one could ask for.

Cardiff, especially, has in recent years emerged as one of the hippest cities in the UK. Resort towns such as Llandudno, Swansea, and Tenby provide elegant seaside escapes, and medieval fortifications such as Caernarfon and Conwy offer glimpses into Wales' thousand-year-old history.

Wales is a land of nature and legend with stunning, unspoiled natural scenery that is protected by a series of large National Parks. Headline attractions include majestic parks such as Brecon Beacons and Mount Snowdon, and scenic seaside communities tucked into craggy shorelines. For wilderness enthusiasts and lovers of the great outdoors, Wales is the ideal UK holiday destination.

Key Facts

Language:: English is the official language, though visitors will be astonished by the variety of regional accents.
Passport/Visa:: If a visa is not required, travellers should hold a return or onward ticket, or proof of funds for the duration of stay. Passports must be valid for the period of intended stay in the UK; nationals of the EU require a passport valid on arrival. It is highly recommended that travellers' passports have at least six months' validity remaining after the intended date of departure from their travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources. For visitors who are visa exempt up to a maximum stay of 6 months, the period of stay will be determined by the Immigration Officer on arrival.
Currency:: The currency is the British pound (GBP), which is divided into 100 pence. ATMs are available in almost all towns and Visa, MasterCard and American Express are widely accepted. Foreign currency can be exchanged at bureaux de change and large hotels, though better exchange rates are likely to be found at banks.
Electricity:: The electrical current in the UK is 240 volts, 50Hz. Flat, three-pin plugs are standard.

Travel Advisories

Travel to Wales

Climate

Wales has a temperate climate, with temperatures rarely reaching extremes. As with the rest of the UK, the weather is highly unpredictable. Coastal areas are warm in summer, although the country generally receives more rain and less sunshine than England. On the other hand, Wales is almost always warmer and drier than Scotland.

In summer, between June and August, the average temperatures range between 47F (8C) and 66F (19C) in Wales. July is the warmest and driest month of the year, but even in July some rain is likely. May, which is late spring, is the sunniest month of the year, but it is still notably cooler than the summer months, with an average high temperature of only 58F (14C).

In winter, between December and February, the average temperatures range between 34F (1C) and 45F (7C). Between October and January Wales is very wet, with 15 to 17 days of rain each month, on average. Snow is possible in the winter months but is rare, except on high ground. Fog and frost is fairly common.

May to August is the best time to travel to Wales as it is comparatively sunny and dry. Summer is the peak tourist season.

Health Notes when travelling to United Kingdom

There are no specific health risks associated with travel to the UK and food and water can be considered safe. The British National Health Service is excellent, while a number of countries have reciprocal health agreements with the UK including Australia, New Zealand and EU countries. Visitors from other countries such as Canada, South Africa and the United States are advised to take out comprehensive travel insurance.

Safety Notes when travelling to United Kingdom

It is generally safe to travel throughout the UK.

Customs in United Kingdom

Handshaking is customary when introduced to someone new. Smoking is banned in all enclosed public spaces, including pubs, restaurants and public transport. Queue barging is frowned upon and there is strict etiquette on escalators: stand on the right, walk on the left. Visitors may find Londoners more rushed and less friendly than locals in other parts of the country, particularly on London transport, where tourists are often the only people who talk.

Duty Free in United Kingdom

Travellers can bring the following goods into the UK tax or duty free: 200 cigarettes, 100 cigarillos, 50 cigars or 250g of tobacco, 18 litres of still table wine, 42 litres of beer, 4 litres of spirits or strong liqueurs or 9 litres of fortified wine, sparkling wine or other alcoholic beverages of less than 22 per cent volume. The EU Pet Travel Regulation (Regulation (EU) 576/2013) continues to apply to travel between Northern Ireland, EU Member States and third countries.

Doing Business in United Kingdom

The four countries of the United Kingdom, although culturally and historically different, generally keep to the same business practices. Politeness and punctuality are key to good business relations and initial meetings are often conducted formally and impersonally, becoming more open and social as things progress. Business cards are exchanged at introductions, and dress is formal with dark suits preferred. Business hours are generally 8am to 5pm Monday to Friday with an hour taken at lunch.

The communication style can be difficult to adjust to: the British people respect politeness to a point that often obscures their ability to say exactly what they mean. As a result, travelling business people may need to learn to 'read between the lines' and to take cues from tone of voice and facial expression. Humour is also an integral part of the British system of communication, and is used to diffuse a tense situation and to cultivate relationships. Foreigners should never assume that an attempt at humour undermines a person's ability to do their job, or discredits the importance they attach to a deal or negotiation. Furthermore, they shouldn't be fooled into thinking that the British propensity for irony and sarcasm equates with an informal work environment.

Foreigners should be tactful during meetings, avoid becoming emotional and illustrate their experience with the subject at hand. Performance and initiative are looked upon favourably, whereas academic pretension is given far less credence. Meetings are often used as platforms for debate, rather than moments of confirmation, so there should be no surprise if not much progress is made. Foreigners should be sure to respect and appeal to all parties involved, as the British have recently begun to take a far flatter approach to management and the responsibility of decision-making. And if things go well, it's worth purchasing a pint or two for clients or colleagues; though gifts are borderline inappropriate, a round of drinks will rarely be refused.

Communication in United Kingdom

The international country dialling code for the UK is +44. Mobile phone coverage is extensive and free WiFi is widely available in pubs and coffee shops.

Tipping in United Kingdom

Tips of 10 to 15 percent are expected in restaurants and upmarket hotels in the UK if a service charge hasn't been included. Hotel service staff receive an optional amount, while taxi drivers are usually given 10 to 15 percent of the fare. Tipping bartenders isn't expected, and tipping for other services is discretionary.

Passport/Visa Note

If a visa is not required, travellers should hold a return or onward ticket, or proof of funds for the duration of stay. Passports must be valid for the period of intended stay in the UK; nationals of the EU require a passport valid on arrival. It is highly recommended that travellers' passports have at least six months' validity remaining after the intended date of departure from their travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources. For visitors who are visa exempt up to a maximum stay of 6 months, the period of stay will be determined by the Immigration Officer on arrival.

Entry Requirements

Entry requirements for Americans:: US travellers must hold a passport that is valid for the duration of their stay; a visa is not required for stays of up to six months.
Entry requirements for Canadians:: Canadian passports must be valid for at least the expected duration of the stay. No visa is required for stays of six months or less.
Entry requirements for Australians:: Australian passports must be valid for at least six months after the departure date. No visa is required for stays of six months or less.
Entry requirements for Irish nationals:: Under the Common Travel Area agreement, citizens from the UK and Ireland are not required to pass through passport control. They can travel between both countries without a valid passport if they can prove they are a valid UK or Irish national.
Entry requirements for New Zealanders:: New Zealand nationals must hold a valid passport, but no visa is required for stays of up to 6 months.
Entry requirements for South Africans:: South Africans require a valid passport and a visa for entry or transit through the UK. South African temporary passports are not recognised.

Currency

The currency is the British pound (GBP), which is divided into 100 pence. ATMs are available in almost all towns and Visa, MasterCard and American Express are widely accepted. Foreign currency can be exchanged at bureaux de change and large hotels, though better exchange rates are likely to be found at banks.

Exchange rate for 1 GBP - U.K. Pound Sterling
0.00 BMD Bermudan Dollar	1.17 EUR Euro	1.26 USD U.S. Dollar	192.05 JPY Japanese Yen	1.72 CAD Canadian Dollar	1.14 CHF Swiss Franc
1.90 AUD Australian Dollar	49.45 UAH Ukrainian Hryvnia	557.22 KZT Kazakhstani Tenge	116,833.28 LBP Lebanese Pound	6.10 LYD Libyan Dinar	8.61 BOB Bolivian Boliviano
0.00 NPR Nepalese Rupee	0.00 OMR Omani Rial	0.00 QAR Qatari Rial	1.70 SGD Singapore Dollar	13.59 SEK Swedish Krona	0.00 TTD Trinidad Tobago Dollar
0.00 VEF Venezuelan Bolivar	72.95 DOP Dominican Peso	0.00 HRK Croatian Kuna	21.28 MXN Mexican Peso	766.38 XOF West African CFA Franc	0.00 PGK Papua New Guinean kina
0.00 BSD Bahamian Dollar	0.00 FJD Fiji Dollar	0.00 HNL Honduran Lempira	168.04 DZD Algerian Dinar	0.00 MMK Myanma Kyat	0.00 BWP Botswana Pula
4.67 PEN Peruvian Nuevo Sol	1,177.99 CLP Chilean Peso	485.58 AMD Armenia Dram	29.24 CZK Czech Koruna	22.13 MDL Moldova Lei	175.60 ISK Icelandic Krona
15,794.18 UZS Uzbekistan Sum	4.67 ILS Israeli New Sheqel	0.89 JOD Jordanian Dinar	0.00 KWD Kuwaiti Dinar	47.89 UYU Uruguayan Peso	0.00 MUR Mauritian Rupee
0.00 NIO Nicaraguan Córdoba	13.66 NOK Norwegian Krone	5.06 PLN Polish Zloty	4.71 SAR Saudi Riyal	0.00 LKR Sri Lanka Rupee	46.18 THB Thai Baht
4.60 AED U.A.E Dirham	6.39 BRL Brazilian Real	5.81 RON Romanian New Leu	9.81 HKD Hong Kong Dollar	766.38 XAF Central African CFA Franc	31,890.75 VND Vietnamese Dong
1,102.57 ARS Argentine Peso	0.00 XCD East Caribbean Dollar	0.00 GTQ Guatemalan Quetzal	12.63 MAD Moroccan Dirham	0.00 BHD Bahrain Dinar	1.26 PAB Panamanian Balboa
2.13 AZN Azerbaijan Manat	4,920.62 COP Colombian Peso	110.99 KGS Kyrgyzstan Som	454.41 HUF Hungarian Forint	13.67 TJS Tajikistan Ruble	20,176.67 IDR Indonesian Rupiah
60.19 EGP Egyptian Pound	1,705.70 KRW South Korean Won	9,359.87 PYG Paraguayan Guaraní	5.95 MYR Malaysian Ringgit	638.07 CRC Costa Rican Colón	2.09 NZD New Zealand Dollar
348.80 PKR Pakistani Rupee	114.72 RUB Russian Rouble	23.23 ZAR South African Rand	3.93 TND Tunisian Dinar	0.00 BBD Barbadian Dollar	2.29 BGN Bulgarian Lev
40.59 TRY Turkish Lira	71.91 PHP Philippine Peso	40.56 TWD New Taiwan Dollar	1,462.18 NGN Nigerian Naira	0.00 XPF CFP Franc	0.00 GHS Ghanaian Cedi
0.00 JMD Jamaican Dollar	0.00 ANG Neth. Antillean Guilder	0.00 BND Brunei Dollar	136.70 RSD Serbian Dinar	9.09 CNY Chinese Yuan	8.71 DKK Danish Krone
4.38 TMT New Turkmenistan Manat	104.71 INR Indian Rupee

Exchange Rate for
U.S. Dollar to U.K. Pound Sterling

1 USD = 0.80 GBP

Exchange Rate for
Euro to U.K. Pound Sterling

1 EUR = 0.86 GBP

Exchange Rate for
Canadian Dollar to U.K. Pound Sterling

1 CAD = 0.58 GBP

Exchange Rate for
Australian Dollar to U.K. Pound Sterling

1 AUD = 0.53 GBP

Exchange Rate for
New Zealand Dollar to U.K. Pound Sterling

1 NZD = 0.48 GBP

Exchange Rate for
South African Rand to U.K. Pound Sterling

1 ZAR = 0.04 GBP

Airports in Wales

Cardiff Airport (CWL)
Cardiff Airport
http://www.cardiff-airport.com

Location: Cardiff The airport is located 12 miles (19km) southwest of Cardiff city centre.

Time: GMT (GMT +1 from last Sunday in March to Saturday before last Sunday in October).

Contacts: Tel: +44 1446 711 111.

Getting to the city: The Cardiff Aiport Express bus service runs every 30 minutes during the day, seven days a week; journey time to Cardiff from the airport is approximately 35 minutes. A rail link also connects Cardiff International Airport to Cardiff Central and Bridgend. Trains run each direction every hour daily (every two hours on Sunday) with onward connections to other destinations on the rail network. A shuttle connects the airport to the nearby train station in 10 minutes, costing about £1.

Car rental: Enterprise, Europcar, and Avis are represented at the airport.

Airport Taxis: Passengers can book a private taxi transfer with FlightLink Wales to and from Cardiff Airport.

Facilities: Facilities include a bureau de change, ATMs, baby changing facilities, faxing and photocopying, game zones, duty-free shops, restaurants, cafes, and bars. There are also facilities for disabled passengers.

Parking: Short-term parking is right outside the terminal building and long-term parking is further away from the terminal but is serviced by a free shuttle. Pre-booking is available.

Cardiff

Although occupied since the Middle Ages, Cardiff really came into its own during the Industrial Revolution as an important dock town used for the distribution of iron and coal in Wales. Since becoming the Welsh capital in 1955, and subsequently the seat of the Welsh National Assembly, Cardiff has undergone a massive transformation from a forgotten industrial port to a vibrant, modern, and cosmopolitan capital city.

Nowhere is the growth and development of the city more evident than in the Cardiff Bay area, a massive commercial development and urban regeneration project. The trendy waterfront district known as Mermaid's Quay is home to striking modern architecture and modern art, as well as chic shops and boutiques, top-class restaurants, and plenty of clubs and bars. The Quay also provides a great launch site for numerous cruises and boat tours, ranging from serene paddleboats to thrilling speed boat rides.

These modern amenities lie alongside some impressive historical sites, including the Cardiff Castle, which was built by the wealthy third Marquis of Bute. The castle is located in the centre of Cardiff on a site used by both the Romans and the Normans as a strategic point of defence. Visitors can still explore the Norman Keep, set on top of a small hill overlooking the city.

Other popular attractions in Cardiff include the National Museum and Gallery, St David's Hall, Llandaff Cathedral, the outdoor St Fagan's National History Museum, and the Millennium Stadium. There are also many historical attractions and points of interest just outside the city (including several Neolithic sites), and the area is resplendent with natural beauty.

This fast-growing urban centre is still relatively undiscovered as a tourist destination, but more and more travellers are venturing to the exciting Welsh capital.

Getting around in Cardiff

Cardiff has a reliable and extensive bus service. Passengers can pay in cash if they have the exact amount (drivers do not give change), or they can use a contactless payment option, which includes Apple Pay and Google Pay. The train services are also dependable, and taxis are easily hailed or ordered by phone. Uber and Lyft are also available.

Hiring a car in Cardiff is easy, with most companies requiring a license in English with a photograph, or an International Drivers Permit. A minimum age requirement may apply. The city is relatively easy to negotiate by car, but parking is often a problem, as many spaces downtown are for permit-holders only. However, Cardiff is compact and easily explored on foot. It is also flat, making it well-suited to cycling. The Taff Trail for walking and cycling runs right through the city.

Nightlife in Cardiff

Cardiff is considered one of the top nightlife cities in the United Kingdom, supposedly having more pubs per square metre than any other city in Britain. With a wide selection of bars, pubs, cafes and restaurants, Cardiff's nightlife is sure to please just about everyone.

Some of the most bustling areas for nightlife in Cardiff are located in the city centre. St Mary Street, Greyfriars Road, and Mill Lane are all busy and offer a number of options. Mermaid Quay in Cardiff Harbour is also a fun place to go for a night out.

A little ways out of town, the Red Dragon Centre is a lively shopping centre with entertainment options for the whole family. There are numerous live music venues in Cardiff; the hottest live music club is arguably the unpronounceable Clwb ifor Bach, which hosts live bands at least twice a week.

If visitors are after a cultural experience, Cardiff is the heart of the arts in Wales and offers plenty of theatre and performing arts venues. The architecturally beautiful Wales Millennium Centre is the base for the Welsh National Opera and the Dance Company of Wales, and also houses the Donald Gordon Theatre and the Weston Studio for all manner of performances.

St David's Hall also hosts orchestral concerts, ballets, film screenings, and international touring bands. Sherman Cymru and the Chapter Arts Centre are smaller venues that host a variety of arts and entertainment performances, exhibitions, and workshops.

Dining in Cardiff

The variety of restaurants in Cardiff has steadily increased with the burgeoning local food culture. Featuring a wealth of independent eateries, diners can choose from an abundance of good quality international fare, fusion, fine-dining, and Welsh cuisine.

There are a number of good restaurants to visit in Cardiff and many celebrate classic Welsh dishes. Tourists should try the famous Welsh rarebit, a decadent bread and cheese sauce dish; Shepherd's Pie; or Welsh Glamorgan vegetarian sausage.

The city boasts some atmospheric old pubs, which are the highlight for many visitors. Visitors should be sure to try the Old Arcade, a world-famous rugby pub opened in 1844; and the Rummer Inn, opened in about 1813, which is rumoured to have a resident ghost in the cellar.

Mermaid Quay in Cardiff Harbour and the Brewery Quarter offer the biggest range of dining options, and tourists eating out in Cardiff will have no difficulty finding something they enjoy. Wales also has a number of wineries, distilleries, breweries and tea plantations.

Shopping in Cardiff

Shopping in Cardiff is a pleasant experience for visitors, who can stroll peacefully along the pretty Victorian arcades and pedestrianised shopping streets in the city centre, browsing through well-known shops, food and craft markets, and smaller boutiques.

The main shopping streets in Cardiff are Castle, Duke, St Mary, Queen, and High streets, and the best-known arcades are the Castle and Royal arcades. The Hayes offers more independent shops, including Spillers Records, reportedly the oldest record shop in the world and a delight for music enthusiasts.

There are a number of shopping malls in Cardiff as well, including St David's Shopping Centre and Capitol Shopping Centre. The city also boasts a few very good markets, the most popular being the Central Market, which offers everything from art and jewellery to antiques and food. There is an outdoor fruit and vegetable market on Mary Ann Street, and a Sunday morning open-air market in Bessemer Street.

For local arts and crafts and popular Cardiff souvenirs, visitors should look in the tourist areas: Castle Welsh Crafts is opposite the entrance to Cardiff Castle, and Craft in the Bay is in Lloyd George Avenue. The Cardiff Christmas Market runs annually from early November until the day before Christmas Eve and is a delight; it has an assortment of Christmas gift options, as well as festive food and drink.

Climate in Cardiff

Cardiff has a maritime climate, characterised by mild weather. It is cloudy, wet and windy, and, like the rest of the United Kingdom, highly unpredictable. The average temperatures in summer, June to August, range between 51F (11C) and 71F (22C).

Average temperatures in winter, December to February, range between 35F (2C) and 47F (8C). Rain is possible at any time of year but summer is generally the driest season, with October, November, December, and January the wettest months. Snow is rare in Cardiff.

Springtime (March to May) is a popular time to travel to Cardiff, as visitors will find mild weather and plenty of flowers to enjoy, though sporadic rain and wind is always possible. Summer, between June and August, is by far the best time to visit Cardiff, as the weather is at its best and many of the city's most popular events and festivals are held over this period.

Sightseeing in Cardiff

Cardiff is home to many of the top tourist attractions in Wales. Highlights include the Cardiff Castle with its Roman, Norman, and Victorian history, and the St Fagan's National History Museum, an open-air museum said to be the most popular heritage attraction in the country. The Wales Millennium Centre, one of the best performing arts venues in the UK, and the 12th-century Llandaff Cathedral, are also notable.

Cardiff is a popular destination for rugby and football fans from all over the world. Undeterred by wintry weather, they flood into the city to support their favourite teams at international matches held at the world-famous Millennium Stadium.

The National Museum and Art Gallery contains a world-class collection of art and artefacts, and Bute Park and the Cardiff waterfront are lovely places to stroll. Like many old UK cities, Cardiff has its share of ghost stories, and many tourists like to take one of the night-time ghost tours available in the city.

Cardiff is also beautifully situated and surrounded by the famously lovely Welsh countryside. One of the best places to experience this natural bounty is the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, which is just a short drive from the city and home to wonderful beaches and a picturesque coastline.

Cardiff Attractions

Pembrokeshire Coast National Park

Pentre Ifan, Wales
Photo credit: Paul Griffin

Located in the southwest corner of Wales just a short drive from Cardiff, the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park runs along a coastline riddled with rugged cliffs, superb sandy beaches, rocky coves, and tiny fishing villages. Visitors will find some spectacular scenery and wonderful coastal walks, including the well-trodden 167-mile (269km) Coast Path. Inland, the historic Preseli Hills conceal ancient trade routes, hill forts, standing stones, and burial chambers; tiny islands offshore are inhabited by colonies of puffins, guillemots, razorbills, gannets, and grey seals. The area is also an activity-lover's paradise, as there are hiking, pony trekking, surfing, windsurfing, kayaking, and fishing opportunities. Just south of the park is the city of St David's, which is actually only a little larger than the average village. The cathedral found there is the resting place of St David, the patron Saint of Wales, and during the Middle Ages was one of the most holy places in Britain.

Website: http://www.visitpembrokeshire.com

Cardiff Castle

Situated right in the heart of the city, Cardiff Castle is a unique complex of historical buildings incorporating a medieval castle, a Victorian Gothic mansion, and a Norman keep, which in turn was built over a Roman fort. Cardiff Castle stands as witness to more than 2,000 years of history. Roman soldiers and knights have lived in the castle, and the wealthy Bute family resided in it from early 19th century up until 1947. Those who visit Cardiff Castle will be rewarded with opulent rooms, Mediterranean gardens, and Italian and Arabian decor. The admission ticket includes access to a selection of the lavish Castle Apartments, the Norman Keep, the Battlement Walk, the Wartime Shelters, the Cardiff Castle Museum of the Welsh Soldier, the Interpretation Centre (including a film show), and an audio guide in multiple languages.

Website: http://www.cardiffcastle.com

St Fagans National History Museum

St Fagan's Manor House
Photo credit: Immanuel Giel

This open-air museum, located in St Fagans, chronicles the historical lifestyle, architecture, and cultural heritage of the people of Wales. St Fagans National History Museum is one of Europe's leading open-air museums, and the most popular heritage attraction in Wales. The 16th-century manor house in which the museum stands bears testament to the magnificent heritage of the Welsh, and the museum features more than 40 original historic buildings, moved from various parts of Wales and erected to show how the people of Wales have lived over the last five centuries. Among these are houses, a farm, a school, a chapel, and a splendid Workmen's Institute. Donated to the Welsh by the Earl of Plymouth, the museum first opened in 1948 and to this day, the original strain of native livestock can be seen in the fields and farmyards, and the musical Welsh language proudly heard in the air.

Website: http://www.museumwales.ac.uk

Wales Millennium Centre

Nicknamed 'The Armadillo', this performing arts centre located in the Cardiff Bay area hosts performances such as operas, ballet and dance recitals, stand-up comedy, and musicals. Known as one of the world's iconic performing arts venues, it features a world-class stage and also offers free foyer performances, tours, and exhibitions for visitors to get an overall vision of the best of the arts world in Wales. The centre stages all the most popular and famous shows performed in London and all over the world, with classic favourites such as Cats, West Side Story, Wicked, and Priscilla Queen of the Desert frequently performed, alongside the best in contemporary Welsh, British, and international entertainment. Guided tours of the centre are available, allowing guests to check out the dressing rooms and marvel at the sheer size of the stage.

Website: http://www.wmc.org.uk

Llandaff Cathedral

The Llandaff Cathedral, located on the western edge of Cardiff, is one of Wales' premier sights and is not to be missed by visitors to the Welsh capital. Situated in what used to be the tiny village of Llandaff, the area surrounding the cathedral still retains a village-like feel, with stone-and-timber buildings and narrow and crooked lanes. Constructed in the 12th century on the site of an earlier church, the Llandaff Cathedral boasts some of the greatest medieval art to be found in all of Wales. Suffering extensive damage during Nazi bomb raids in World War II, the cathedral was restored and received two modern additions: the Welsh Regiment Chapel, and the striking Jacob Epstein sculpture Christ in Majesty. The sculpture, made of aluminium and suspended from a concrete arch that dominates the cathedral's nave, divides opinion between those who find it arresting and those who find it garish and out of place.

Website: http://www.llandaffcathedral.org.uk

Gower Peninsula

Designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty by the UK government, Gower is home to some of the most popular holiday destinations in Wales, including the resort towns of Swansea, Mumbles, Rhossili, and Llangennith. Though it's just 16 by seven miles (26 by 11km) in size, the area has a large concentration of Blue Flag beaches, including Bracelet Bay, Caswell Bay, Langland Bay, Port Eynon, and the Swansea Marina. Mumbles is a lovely resort village beautifully located beneath pine-forested slopes overlooking Swansea Bay, which is fast-becoming one of the United Kingdom's favourite seaside getaway destinations. It has a range of excellent seafront pubs and restaurants, with a history dating back to the 12th century. Mumbles is home to some great cultural sights, such as the ruins of Oystermouth Castle, a historic lighthouse, and the pretty Mumbles Pier. The real allure of Mumbles remains its sheer natural beauty, with the sunlight reflected by the bay illuminating the age-old stone buildings that surround the water.

Airports in Cardiff

Cardiff Airport (CWL)
Cardiff Airport
http://www.cardiff-airport.com

Location: Cardiff The airport is located 12 miles (19km) southwest of Cardiff city centre.

Time: GMT (GMT +1 from last Sunday in March to Saturday before last Sunday in October).

Contacts: Tel: +44 1446 711 111.

Car rental: Enterprise, Europcar, and Avis are represented at the airport.

Airport Taxis: Passengers can book a private taxi transfer with FlightLink Wales to and from Cardiff Airport.

Parking: Short-term parking is right outside the terminal building and long-term parking is further away from the terminal but is serviced by a free shuttle. Pre-booking is available.

Swansea

Three Cliffs Bay
Photo credit: Rainer Boettchers

Poet and native son Dylan Thomas described Swansea as 'marble town, city of laughter, Little Dublin; the most romantic town I know', and anyone who's visited Swansea will appreciate how the idyllic seaside city is able to inspire feelings such as these.

The second-largest city in Wales, Swansea has a long and prosperous history as a market town going back more than 800 years. As the trading community grew up, it became an important exporter of the coal mined in Cardiff, and in the 18th century developed its own industry in the form of massive copper works, becoming for a time the 'copper capital of the world'.

These days, Swansea is known first and foremost as a seaside resort town, with pride of place belonging to the 12th-century fishing village of Mumbles, a quaint and fashionable seaside resort with a number of boutiques and restaurants.

Though many of the city's historical buildings were damaged in World War II, there are still a number of medieval castles dotted among the slick high-rise office blocks and Tudor-style houses in the city centre.

There is much to see in Swansea, from ancient sites such as Arthur's Stone, which dates back to 2,500 BC, to medieval castles such as Swansea Castle and Oystermouth Castle, to Victorian structures such as the Guildhall and Mumbles Pier. Swansea also has a number of interesting museums and galleries featuring exhibitions ranging from Egyptian artefacts to female jazz musicians.

For active visitors there is no shortage of things to do Swansea. Cruises on paddle boats, yachts, and motor boats are available from the harbour; water sports such as kayaking, waterskiing, and surfing, and activities such as golf, hiking, mountain biking and bowling are also on the menu.

Literary buffs will love the Dylan Thomas Centre; and children will enjoy learning about wildlife at the Discovery Centre, touring the Michton Chocolate Factory, and riding the Swansea Bay Rider children's train.

Tenby

Despite its relatively remote location, Tenby is one of the most popular seaside resorts in Wales, filling with tourists from all over the UK during the summer months. Located about 92 miles (148km) west of Cardiff, this small city exudes medieval charm and offers cultural attractions beyond the lure of its two and a half miles (4km) of beach.

Tenby has a number of nicknames: 'Little England Beyond Wales'; 'The Jewel in Pembrokeshire's Crown'; and 'Little Town of Fishes', which comes from its Welsh name, Dinbych-Y-Pysgod. The town came to prominence in medieval times as a port city, and in the Georgian and Victorian eras as a health resort and centre of scientific study.

Tenby's sandy beaches are surrounded with excellent facilities, including wide promenades, children's play areas, and plenty of variety in food and drink. The city itself has more than 20 licensed pubs, and a number of good restaurants and shops.

Tenby has a number of historical sites, with buildings dating back hundreds of years. The Merchant's House showcases Tudor style, with beautifully painted walls and furniture. The city walls are another major attraction, showcasing impressive architecture and engineering from the 15th century.

The main historical sight of Tenby is the ruined castle, which was built by the Normans in the 13th century, and the museum and art gallery that have been installed there. Another fascinating site lies in the bay, roughly two miles (3km) from Tenby: Caldy Island is home to an ancient Benedictine monastic cell, and the current Cistercian abbey holds relics dating back to the 6th century.

North West Wales

Clarach Bay, North Wales
Photo credit: Darren Wyn Rees

Though few tourists in the United Kingdom venture further into Wales than Cardiff or Swansea, the northern part of the country is full of rugged landscapes, bustling towns, and quaint seaside communities that richly reward the intrepid traveller with beautiful sights and fun activities.

The northern region of Wales is steeped in centuries of history and used to be known as the Kingdom of Gwynedd; it was the last region of Wales to surrender independence and to this day remains the stronghold of Welsh identity and the Welsh language. In addition to this cultural wealth, the region is known for its rural natural beauty and protected wilderness areas and is a wonderful destination for those wanting an active cycling or hiking holiday.

Northern Wales is home to some of the country's greatest attractions, including the rugged peaks of Snowdonia National Park and Mount Snowdon, the historical seaside town of Aberystwyth, the stark vistas of Holyhead, and the beaches of Llandudno.

The region is also home to two of the four UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Wales: the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct and Canal, and the collective of Edwardian castles and town walls of the region, which can be found at Caernarfon, Beaumaris, Conwy, and Harlech.

Sightseeing in North West Wales

North Wales is blessed with a glorious combination of cultural and natural attractions, which lure active nature lovers and culture vultures alike. The most popular attraction is Mount Snowdon, the highest mountain in Wales and the jewel in the crown of the Snowdonia National Park. Made famous by many poets and artists, hiking Mount Snowdon is the highlight of a trip to the UK for many active travellers.

The historic towns of Caernarfon, Beaumaris, Conwy, and Harlech all offer worthwhile sightseeing opportunities, and the Edwardian castles and fortifications of these old towns have collectively been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The north of Wales also offers seaside charm, with Llandudno and Holyhead attracting many visitors. Llandudno boasts a wonderful promenade and some glorious coastal walking trails.

A glorious way to experience some of the Welsh countryside is to take a trip on the Ffestiniog Railway, said to be the oldest operational railway in the world, which runs from the harbour at Porthmadog to the old village of Blaenau Ffestiniog, traversing some beautiful landscapes. A regional rail pass for northern Wales is a good option for travellers, as the area is lovely to explore by rail.

North West Wales Attractions

Snowdonia National Park

Snowdonia is Britain's second-biggest national park, after the Lake District, and the biggest in Wales, boasting rugged mountain trails through some of the tallest peaks south of the Scottish Highlands. The tallest peak is Mount Snowdon at 3,560 feet (1,068m), which is visited by half a million people each year, many climbing or walking while the less adventurous ride the magnificently scenic Snowdon Mountain Railway to the top. Mount Snowden was written about by William Wordsworth, and has retained an aura of profound romance for many fans of the poet ever since. There is plenty more to explore, including lakes, waterfalls, and glacial valleys, as well as Roman forts, Stone Age burial chambers, railways, and the crumbling remains of the country's mining heritage. Other nearby destinations not to be missed include the beautiful Victorian resort of Betws-y-Coed, whose former copper mines are open to the public, and Blaenau Ffestiniog, which also offers tours through its cavernous slate mines.

Website: http://www.eryri-npa.gov.uk

Caernarfon

Situated in North Wales, across the Menai Strait from the Isle of Anglesey, is Caernarfon, which is dominated by the walls of its 13th-century castle. It was here, in 1969, that Prince Charles' investiture as Prince of Wales took place. It was a dramatic event marked by pomp and ceremony, and had the strong symbolic impact of strengthening Britain's dominion over Wales in this staunchly nationalist district. Across the strait is Anglesey, which is probably most noted for the town of Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndobwlllantysiliogogogoch, which has the longest place name in the United Kingdom, and quite possibly the world. The name, when translated into English, means 'The church of St Mary in a hollow of white hazel near a rapid whirlpool and near St Tysilio's church by the red cave'. The island of Anglesey was the crucible for pre-Roman druidic activity in Britain and many mysterious Neolithic ruins remain.

Llandudno

The largest seaside resort town in Wales, Llandudno is a small city with a great deal of Victorian flavour. Nestled on a rocky coastline that was once the haunt of Viking ships, the city's rows of peaked houses are framed by forests on one side and Blue Flag beaches on the other. Some of the top attractions in Llandudno are manmade: the longest pier in Wales is located at the end of the north-shore promenade and features food, entertainment, and relaxation options at its pavilion, as well as boat trips. Bodafon Farm Park is a working farm turned tourist attraction that also houses a bird of prey sanctuary. Active visitors to Llandudno will enjoy Happy Valley, which boasts an artificial ski slope and toboggan run, miniature golf, hiking trails, and a cable car to the summit of the Great Orme. The surrounding areas of County Conwy offer their own enticements, including golf, quad biking, hiking, and a number of interesting castle ruins.

Portmeirion

The pretty village of Portmeirion in Northern Wales is as charming as they come. Portmeirion was designed by the architect Sir Clough Williams-Ellis, between 1925 and 1976, and was intended to demonstrate how a village could be designed to suit its natural landscape so as not to detract from the natural beauty. Portmeirion was intended to be a space for events, leisure, and exhibitions, and is now run more as a tourist attraction than a residential village. It is, however, possible to spend the night in the quaint coastal village, which includes 13 self-catering cottages and two hotels. Small enough to see on foot, there are manicured gardens and a beach, as well as a few souvenir shops and a restaurant, ice-cream shop, and pizzeria to enjoy. As befitting a village that celebrates the beauty of nature, Portmeirion is surrounded by acres of lovely woodland and there are miles of coastal walking trails to explore.

Website: http://www.portmeirion-village.com

Aberystwyth

The tiny seaside town of Aberystwyth is the historical heart of Wales and the birthplace of the Welsh language. It is also home to the University of Wales and its 10,000 students, who take full advantage of Aberystwyth's numerous pubs and bars, as well as its restaurants and shops. Aberystwyth is prettily situated near the confluence of the rivers Ystwyth and Rheidol, on the west coast of Wales. The town has beautiful views over Cardigan Bay and a lovely long promenade, with two stretches of beach divided by the castle. Historical sites such as the ruins of Aberystwyth Castle and Constitution Hill provide pleasant vistas and are interesting attractions in their own right. The town is modern in appearance, but still boasts some historic buildings and many wonderful cultural attractions.

Holyhead

Located on the northwest side of tiny Holy Island near Anglesey, Holyhead is a picturesque town with wonderful rugged terrain and fantastic views created by the rocky coastline. Holyhead Mountain is the highest point, and its summit provides panoramic views that extend to Ireland, the Isle of Man, and Cumbria. Holyhead has long been an important link between Wales and Ireland, and its port is busy with ferry traffic to Dublin. The town itself is built around several historic sites, including the prehistoric hill fort Mynydd y Twr, the Roman fort of Caer Gybi, and the 6th-century St Cybi's Church, which was built inside a Roman fort. Sailing, power boating, and fishing are popular activities in this marine-minded town, and the sandy beaches of Porth Trwyn, Borth Wen, and Porth Tywn Mawr are popular for watersports.

Brecon Beacons

The Brecon Beacons National Park is only half an hour's drive north of Cardiff, and comprises four mountain ranges and an interesting terrain of old mining valleys, bare escarpments, and sprawling sheep farms.

Most visitors are walkers heading for Offa's Dyke Path, which passes along the eastern border, or the Taff Trail, heading south from Brecon. Offa's Path runs through the Black Mountains, which boast spectacular views such as the ruins of Llanthony Priory, the River Honddu, the ancient hill forts at Y Garn Goch, and the pretty church at Partrishow.

There is much to see and do in Brecon Beacons, and popular activities include hiking, horseback riding, fishing, rock climbing, canoeing, spelunking (cave exploring), and sailing. The popular mountain bike route, the Taff Trail, traces 100 miles (160km) along Beacon's Way across the park. The highest point in the Black Mountains is Waun Fach and the tallest peak in the Brecon Beacons is Pen-y-Fan.

Travellers shouldn't be surprised if they bump into groups of soldiers in the park, as this is a major army exercise area and a main training ground for the SAS, who travellers might see bounding up the mountains, doing the Fan Dance. Around the park are the historic market towns of Brecon and Hay-on-Wye, fascinating destinations with Norman and Jacobean ruins and famous second-hand book shops.

Sightseeing in Brecon Beacons

Popular for nature excursions out of Cardiff, or as a holiday destination in its own right, the Brecon Beacons National Park is packed full of attractions. The dramatic natural scenery is the main drawcard: the spectacular views earned by climbing the many peaks of the Black Mountains will single-handedly justify travel to the region. Pen-y-Fan, the highest peak in southern Wales, is a particular favourite with hikers.

For those interested in exploring underground as well as touching the sky, Brecon Beacons also boasts some impressive caves. The National Showcaves Centre for Wales allows visitors to explore the Dan-yr-Ogof Caves as well as a number of cultural attractions.

Speaking of cultural attractions, the village of Hay-on-Wye is world-famous for being the home of the Hay Festival of Literature and the Arts, and is paradise for book lovers at any time of year. The town of Brecon is also charming and a popular base for travel in the region, as is Llanelli.

Outside of the lovely little villages, the mountainous region is strewn with Iron Age hill forts, Roman roads, Norman castles, and ancient standing stones, providing fascinating sightseeing fodder. One of the most popular ruins is the Carreg Cennen Castle. Also in Brecon Beacons, Tintern Abbey is one of the most popular and atmospheric attractions in Wales.

Brecon Beacons Attractions

Dan-yr-Ogof Caves

One of many cave systems in Brecon Beacons National Park, the Dan-yr-Ogof Caves are an 11-mile (17km) cave complex located about 15 miles (24km) southwest of Brecon. Only the first portion is open to the public, including the unmissable Dan yr Ogof Showcave, the Cathedral Showcave, and the Bone Cave. Formed 315 million years ago, the formations include vertical stalactites and stalagmites, and also rare helectites, which grow sideways. The Bone Cave is named for the 42 human skeletons that have so far been discovered in the chamber. Many of the skeletons date back to the Bronze Age, more than 3,000 years ago. The cave now contains some award-winning exhibits on humankind's cave-dwelling history. The National Showcaves Centre for Wales also has a dinosaur park with more than 50 life-size statues; an Iron Age farm with a replica village; a Victorian farm where kids can interact with numerous domestic animals; the Shire Horse Centre; an adventure playground which will delight kids; and replicas of some of the famous stone circles found in Wales.

Website: http://www.showcaves.co.uk

Hay-on-Wye

Culture enthusiasts are urged to visit Hay-on-Wye, a charming market-town located within the boundaries of Brecon Beacons National Park. Widely referred to as the 'Town of Books', Hay-on-Wye is the bibliophile's equivalent of Mecca, featuring more than 30 second-hand bookstores, many of which stock collector's items and hard-to-find rarities. Hay-on-Wye hosts the annual Hay Festival, one of the biggest literary festivals on the planet, drawing crowds in excess of 80,000 people, who come to attend lectures and readings given by some of the world's most eminent writers. The festival is held annually in May or June. Hay-on-Wye offers more than books, though, as the town also boasts lovely architecture, a celebrated collection of quaint pubs and restaurants, the fascinating ruins of two Norman-built castles, and a popular Thursday Market, where all manner of things can be bought, from antiques to hand-made cheeses.

Website: http://www.hay-on-wye.co.uk

Tintern Abbey

Famous Tintern Abbey, a monastery established by William the Marshal to give thanks to God after surviving a narrow escape at sea, is one of the most inspiring and enduring tourist sights that Wales has to offer. The abbey, whose first inhabitants were Cistercian monks, dates from the early 13th century and has been well preserved, affording visitors great views of its ruined nave, chancel, tower, cloister, and chapel. The surviving buildings span a 400-year period between 1131 and 1536. Just as beautiful are the grounds around the abbey, which consists of green fields, craggy, moss-strewn hills, and a stone bridge that leads across an inlet from the sea. Gorgeous Tintern Abbey has a long history of inspiring works of art, from paintings by William Turner to poems by William Wordsworth, Lord Tennyson, and even Allen Ginsberg. Located a mere stone's throw from the English border, Tintern Abbey makes a wonderful first stop on a memorable sightseeing tour of Wales.

Wales Attractions

Overview

The top tourist attractions in Wales include the Millennium Stadium in Cardiff, one of the top performing arts venues in the UK; Cardiff Castle, a complex including Roman, Norman, medieval, and Victorian remains; St Fagan's National History Museum, arguably the best open-air museum in Europe; St David's Cathedral, which dates back to 1181 and graces a site that has held a church since the 6th century; Caernarfon Castle, in the delightful medieval town of the same name; the atmospheric Tintern Abbey, immortalised by poets such as Wordsworth; Hay-on-Wye, known for its wealth of book shops and the Hay Festival of Literature and the Arts; and Pontcysyllte Aqueduct, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

However, despite this wealth of fascinating cultural and historical sites, Wales remains most famous among travellers for its stunning natural landscapes and attracts many people wanting walking holidays. There are many popular hiking trails in Wales, but the most celebrated is Offa's Dyke Path, which traverses the country from north to south, following a dyke constructed in the 8th century. Walking this National Trail path in its entirety takes about two weeks, but it can be broken up into short sections. Two of the best places to experience the scenic beauty of the country are Snowdonia National Park and Pembrokeshire Coast National Park.