Wales is a small nation, but boy does it have a lot of claims to fame, stunning scenery and heritage in the mix – we highlight our 5 fave facts we found out about the little country:
1. The smallest city in Europe
St Davids Cathedral Photo: © iStock/Chris_Westwood
St Davids in Pembrokeshire is the smallest city in Europe. More like a little, attractive village, it has a population of less than 1,700 residents. The presence of the medieval cathedral earned the city status.
2. The oldest stone-built castle in the UK
Chepstow Castle © iStock/Maxian
Wales has the oldest stone-built castle in the UK – Chepstow Castle. Beautifully preserved and picture-perfect, the castle also has the oldest castle doors in Europe – all wood and 800 years old.
4. Inspiration for famous children’s books
Llanrwst bridge in Snowdonia Photo: iStock/lazortech
Wales is a hotspot for children’s literature: Lewis Carroll's Alice in Wonderland was set in Llandudno; Rupert Bear’s adventures were set in Snowdonia; and Beatrix Potter created her Peter Rabbit story after spending a holiday in Tenby overlooking a vegetable garden.
4. One of the world’s greatest poets
Dylan Thomas, considered one of the world’s best poets, was born and lived most of his life in Wales. You can visit his Boathouse and his birthplace, and in 2014 there are all sorts of events happening to commemorate 100 years since his birth.
5. One of the UK's best beauty spots
Brecon Beacons National Park landscape Photo: istock/kodachrome25
There are no fewer than 3 National Parks, 5 Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, more than 700 Sites of Special Scientific Interest, dozens of Nature Reserves and 7 RSPB Bird Sanctuaries in Wales – nowhere is the green, green grass greener! Where will you go in Wales? Tell us in the comments boxes below.
