Wales – land of castles
Learn everything about Wales from its beautiful scenery and historic landmarks to its vibrant and cosmopolitan cities. You’ll also find useful travel information such as a map of Wales, accommodation booking and information on famous attractions and events such as Cardiff Castle, Snowdonia and much more.
Memory of Wales"What a beautiful country...We had such a glorious time and saw so much that I can't pick a favourite. The tour of Cardiff Castle, many other castles, walking on Rhossili Beach, the Gower Peninsula, touring through the Brecon Beacons, down in the mines at Big Pit, etc etc. WoW!."
Barbara, Canada
Packed full of natural beauty
Wales, bordered by England on the east, is a small country with a colourful history and spectacular landscapes, including 3 National Parks and 5 Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty. At only 170 miles from north to south and 60 miles east to west, it's no surprise that you're never far from a mountain or the sea. But Wales is also home to vibrant cities, traditional villages and great tourist attractions. Welsh - the native language - is spoken by many people in Wales, and is one of the oldest languages in the world.
Culture & heritage
Wales is rich in history, culture, myth and legend. Known as 'the land of castles', it is home to 641 famous fortresses - more per head than anywhere else in the world. Wales is also home to 2 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and although Cardiff, the capital city, dates back to Roman times, it's actually Britain's youngest city.
Attractions
The history and myths of one of the world's oldest civilisations have created an unforgettable range of sights to explore; Roman forts, 641 castles, and countless sights linked to Kind Arthur and Merlin the magician. And from small country villages to the buzzing cities with their vibrant music and nightlife, there are fascinating local attractions to explore everywhere.
Shopping
Like most capital cities, Cardiff is a shopper's paradise. Queen Street is the city's main shopping area, where you'll find all your favourite high street shops. If you prefer everything under one roof, head to St David's Shopping Centre, and for unique boutiques and cafés, the Victorian Arcades are a must-see.
Sport
Like most of Britain, football and cricket are both popular in Wales, but rugby union is the national sport. The Millennium Stadium in Cardiff is the national stadium for rugby and football matches, and hold up to 75,000 spectators. The Welsh rugby team are hugely successful - they have won the Six Nations 24 times and have qualified for every World Cup.
Food & drink
Wales is a haven for food lovers - in every corner of the country you'll find fantastic local flavours. Sample the fresh cockles with your breakfast, and don't miss the chance to try laverbread - seaweed pancakes fried with bacon. At local farms, try the delicious homemade cheeses, and for dinner, try the world-famous Welsh Black Beef or Mountain Lamb.
Buy before you fly
There's so much to see and do in Wales, so don't waste time in queues, buy your travel passes and attraction tickets online! With the BritRail GB Flexi Pass you can hop on a train wherever and whenever you like, and explore the country at your own pace. And make sure you see all the castles Wales has to offer - the National Trust Touring Pass (www.visitbritaindirect.com/en-gb/detail.aspx?ProductCode=TP3) gives you free entry to over 350 of England, Wales and Northern Ireland's finest castles, historical homes and gardens. For more great offers, go to VisitBritain Direct (www.visitbritaindirect.com).
Must see and do
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Top night time must-do’s |
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- Take a trip to Snowdonia and have a go at climbing Mount Snowdon
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| • Wales is the land of castles, so where better to stay than your very own castle? |