Regardless of being born in Wales and spending a few years dwelling within the nation, I haven’t as but shared any content material about Wales on this web site. Effectively, that’s about to vary.
Wales is a spectacular nation with so much to supply and its comparatively small dimension means which you can see so much in a 1-week highway journey. On this information we’re going to share our concept of the proper Wales highway journey if in case you have 7 to 10 days.
This itinerary features a little little bit of the whole lot Wales has to supply, which incorporates gorgeous coastlines, mountain hikes, seashores, castles, museums, Welsh cultural sights, and extra. The itinerary was designed to provide you a style of one of the best of Wales and contains the whole lot from tiny rural villages to the capital metropolis of Cardiff.
Wales actually does have one thing to supply everybody, and this highway journey goes to take you throughout Wales. We’ll share a few of our favorite issues to see and do, and likewise supply recommendations on the place to remain, and what to eat. However you’ll be able to in fact alter it the way you need.
Personally, we expect Wales has surroundings to rival different standard highway journeys within the UK, like Scotland’s North Coast 500, however we’ll allow you to determine if that’s the case as you learn the information.
By the tip of this publish, you’ll be able to set off in your very personal Welsh highway journey! Let’s begin by answering some questions you may need.
How Lengthy to Street Journey in Wales?
Wales is just not an enormous nation, however there’s a big quantity to see. We’d say that the minimal period of time for a highway journey masking part of the nation can be three to 5 days. If you happen to don’t have a number of time we’d maybe counsel focusing both on North Wales or South Wales.
If you wish to see extra of what’s on supply, and discover the nation from prime to backside, then we’d suggest at the least 7 – 10 days.
The itinerary on this information is for a 7 to 10-day highway journey, however in fact you’ll be able to alter it primarily based in your pursuits and time. In case you have extra time, there’s all the time extra to see and we’d suggest spending longer in every space of curiosity.
Embrace Wales as A part of a Longer UK journey?
Many individuals are visiting Wales as a part of an extended tour of Nice Britain which will additionally embody England, Scotland, Northern Eire, and/or Eire. It’s straightforward to incorporate Wales as half of a bigger journey.
Once more, we’d suggest at the least 3 days if you wish to go to Wales and in the event you solely have 3 to five days we’d simply keep on with specializing in both North Wales or South Wales.
However ideally you’ll have at the least 5 to 7 days to dedicate to Wales if you wish to see quite a few its highlights coated on this itinerary.
If you’re following our 2 week UK itinerary, you’ll be able to add time in Wales. Round day 3 or 4 of that itinerary, I’d begin this Wales itinerary and observe Days 1 by way of 8 after which head north to Chester after which up in the direction of Manchster.
See our detailed UK itinerary information for extra data on that.
If you’re additionally wanting to go to different components of the UK or Eire as a part of a tour, you may contemplate becoming a member of up excursions resembling with native tour firm Rabbie’swhere you’ll be able to take a collection of excursions exploring completely different components of England, Wales, Scotland, and Eire.
What’s the Greatest Strategy to Get Round in Wales?
There are a number of completely different choices for getting round in Wales, together with native buses and a regional practice community. Nonetheless, because the title of this publish suggests, my beneficial method to journey round Wales is by automobile.
There are an awesome many sights and sights in Wales that may actually solely be visited in a automobile as there’s no public transport to achieve them. Assume distant castles, far-flung stretches of shoreline, and so forth.
The highway journey we’ve put collectively relies on you having a automobile. If you happen to don’t have your individual automobile, we’d extremely suggest choosing up a automobile rental, or contemplate becoming a member of a tour.
Because it’s more economical to select up and drop off a automobile in the identical spot, we’ve chosen Cardiff as one of the best location to begin and finish this journey. Cardiff might be simply reached by rail and coach from areas across the UK.
On a latest journey to Wales we rented a automobile from Enterprise as they’d a location close to Cardiff’s essential practice station, which made choose up and drop off straightforward. Nonetheless, we’d additionally recommending utilizing a value comparability service like Rental Vehicles or Uncover Vehicles, to see if there’s a greater choice in your journey.
If you happen to would like to not drive, then we might as an alternative counsel wanting into taking a tour of Wales. These might be completed as non-public excursions or you’ll be able to be part of a gaggle tour and the excursions.
Excursions of Wales
If you happen to like the concept of visiting Wales however would somewhat not drive, then the best choice is to take a tour. While there’s some public transportation, lots of the sights and sights are a bit off the overwhelmed observe and aren’t nicely served by public transport.
There are nevertheless some wonderful excursions we will suggest. While none of them will precisely mirror our steered Wales highway journey itinerary, a number of them do embody at the least a number of the essential sights we cowl.
You possibly can be part of a guided tour or if in case you have an even bigger funds or a big group, you may also contemplate a non-public tour. The longer Wales excursions typically depart from London, Bristol, or Cardiff.
Some we advise are as follows:
- This 5 day highway journey with Rabbies can be our first choose of obtainable excursions. We’ve taken an awesome many excursions with Rabbie’s and we love their educated driver guides and small group sizes. This tour departs from London and canopy a number of the identical floor as our route, from Snowdonia right down to south west Wales.
- This 8 day tour from Cardiff follows an identical path to our steered Wales itinerary, and contains time in Cardiff, the Brecon Beacons mountains, Snowdonia Nationwide Park, Conwy Fort, St. Davids, Tenby, and the Pembrokeshire Coast Nationwide Park.
- This 3 day tour with Rabbies departs from Bristol and focuses on the highlights of south Wales, together with Carreg Cennen Fort, Hay on Wye, St. Davids, Tenby and the Pembrokeshire Coast Nationwide Park. In case you have extra time, you too can do their North Wales tour.
- This 3 day tour with Rabbies departs from Bristol and covers the highlights of North Wales. It contains Snowdonia Nationwide Parks, Conwy Fort, Harlech Fort, the Slate Museum, and Portmeirion.
There are in fact extra excursions to select from in Wales. See this choice from a variety of operators on TourRadar which can allow you to type and filter by length, locations visited and value.
10 Day Wales Street Journey Itinerary
Okay, let’s get on with this highway journey round Wales! The rationale we are saying this highway journey is 7 – 10 days is as a result of I’ve added a few days in Cardiff initially.
The Welsh capital metropolis has so much to supply, from wonderful museums to citadel ruins and sporting sights.
There’s actually sufficient right here to fill at the least two days. Nonetheless, if in case you have much less time or would somewhat simply hit the highway and never concentrate on metropolis sights, it’s possible you’ll desire to concentrate on the highway journey part of this itinerary somewhat than the time in Cardiff. It’s as much as you!
Jess and I did this precise highway journey, with two full days in Cardiff after which eight days on the highway round Wales. We began and led to Cardiff. It was an excellent journey, and one we’re delighted to have the ability to share with you.
Elements of this highway journey observe the Wales Means driving tour routes (you’ll be able to see extra about these right here), that are promoted by the Go to Wales tourism board to focus on a number of the greatest surroundings and sights that Wales has to supply.
They embody The Cambrian Means, The Coastal Means, and The North Wales Means. You’ll be driving sections of all these routes utilizing our itinerary however we’ve adjusted it to additionally embody lots of my different favourite sights and sights.
Word that this itinerary covers a number of floor and every day has quite a few steered sights. Relying in your pursuits you’ll want to alter it to go well with what you actually need to see and do somewhat than attempting to do completely the whole lot.
If you would like a extra slower paced journey, we’d counsel seeing much less every day and spending at the least 2 nights at every location. You might simply do that full itinerary in 2 weeks and have extra time to loosen up and see issues extra slowly.
Day 1 – Cardiff
Your first day has you beginning in Cardiff, the Welsh capital since 1955. Cardiff is straightforward to get to from areas across the UK and overseas, with rail, highway, and air hyperlinks that may allow you to get right here in the way in which that most accurately fits your journey.
We’d counsel that in your time in Cardiff you get round both on foot or by public transport. Nearly all of sights within the metropolis centre are straightforward to stroll to, or to go to by bus. I’d advise in opposition to driving across the metropolis centre as you’ll should cope with navigation and discovering parking.
In your first day within the metropolis, our beneficial first cease can be the Museum of Cardiff.
This wonderful free museum tells the story of the town over the centuries, from the Neolithic interval to the current day. It’s a superb method to orient your self to the town and stand up to hurry with its historical past. It’s one in all our favorite museums in Cardiff.
Subsequent, we’d suggest popping throughout the highway to the Cardiff Market. It is a 2 storey Victorian shopping center, opened in 1891, the place you’ll discover quite a lot of outlets promoting all method of products.
There are additionally meals stalls right here in case you are hungry.
From Cardiff Market, proceed north to Cardiff Fort, your subsequent cease for the day.
On this highway journey, you’re going to see fairly a number of castles. Wales has a panorama that lends itself to constructing castles, and a historical past of princes and wars that required these defensive constructions. In truth there are over 400 castles within the nation! So that you do should be selective during which castles you select to go to.
Nonetheless, we’d argue that you simply’re not going to see something fairly like Cardiff Fort wherever else in your Welsh highway journey.
Cardiff Fort takes you on a journey of chateau constructing by way of the ages. There was some type of fortified development right here because the Romans constructed a fort right here within the third century. In truth, a part of the outdated Roman wall can nonetheless be seen.
Nonetheless, the big stone maintain atop the hill that may catch your eye as you stroll in dates from the twelfth century.
Round the remainder of citadel grounds you’ll discover a vary of buildings from varied intervals in historical past, together with a nineteenth century gothic revivalist addition that features a huge clock tower and gorgeous interiors.
There’s a lot to see and do at Cardiff Fort, together with varied excursions and reveals that vary from world battle two air raid shelters to a regimental museum. We’d suggest planning on spending at the least two or three hours right here as there’s heaps to see right here.
You possibly can stroll by way of the grounds of Cardiff Fort without cost, however to go inside, stroll the partitions, or go to the reveals you have to to pay for a ticket. The ticket value is nicely price it in our opinion.
Relying on how your day goes you should still have time for one more sight. If that’s the case, we’d counsel strolling over to the Nationwide Museum Cardiff. This huge free museum (donations welcome) has reveals of artwork, pure historical past and geology, and is an effective method to end off your first day in Wales.
Day 1 Highlights: Museum of Cardiff, Cardiff Market, Cardiff Fort, Nationwide Museum of Cardiff
Day 1 Driving Distance: 0 miles
Day 1 Driving Time: 0 hours
Day 1 Lodging: In your first night time we’d suggest staying in central Cardiff. This shall be handy for sightseeing, in addition to for consuming out. Listed below are some steered choices to think about:
- Metropolis Heart residence – It is a beautiful residence simply minutes stroll from the town middle and practice station. We’ve stayed right here and may suggest it.
- Sleeperz Lodge Cardiff – worth centrally positioned resort providing air conditioned rooms, restaurant, and bar
- Lodge Indigo Cardiff – a pleasant resort in an awesome location with air conditioned rooms, restaurant and bar. We now have stayed at quite a few Indigo branded accommodations and all the time had expertise.
- Clayton Lodge Cardiff – a nicely reviewed resort subsequent to the practice station with clear and comfy rooms
- Parador 44 – a gorgeous upmarket boutique B&B type resort with its personal backyard proper within the middle of Cardiff
Day 2 – Cardiff
If you happen to’d desire to move out of city in the present day you’ll be able to in fact do this, and spend extra time on the highway. Nonetheless, assuming you want to do some extra sightseeing in Cardiff we’re going to suggest you head to the Cardiff Bay space of city.
Cardiff is positioned on the Bristol Channel, though you received’t have seen the water but as the town middle space is a couple of mile away. Nonetheless, you’ll be able to simply attain this space in a 20 minute stroll or a brief bus experience.
The Baycar bus (service 6) runs from central Cardiff to the Cardiff Bay space 4 or 5 occasions an hour and the journey is just some minutes. Alternatively, you may desire to take the Cardiff hop on hop off bus which may also deliver you right here as a part of its sightseeing route round Cardiff.
At Cardiff Bay there’s a lot to see. First, you’ll probably see the big Wales Millenium Centre. This nationwide arts centre is a venue for the performing arts and is the place to return to see dwell performances of the whole lot from music to bounce. There are additionally outlets, bars, and cafes on web site, and it’s price popping inside to see if there are any momentary reveals happening whenever you go to.
From right here you’ll be able to stroll throughout to the Roald Dahl plaza. Named for the well-known kids’s books creator who was born in Cardiff (books embody Charlie and the Chocolate Manufacturing facility, James and the Large Peach, and Matilda), this sunken plaza typically performs host to numerous gala’s, festivals, and dwell music performances.
You’ll now be close to the waterline. If you happen to head east, you’ll first go the Pierhead constructing, an enormous purple brick constructing with a clock tower which is tough to overlook. That is residence to a museum the place you’ll be able to be taught in regards to the historical past of Wales.
Subsequent door to the Pierhead constructing is the Senedd constructing, residence of the Welsh parliament. It is a placing trendy constructing which you’ll go to in case you are focused on studying in regards to the technique of democracy in Wales. There are additionally typically exhibitions of Welsh artwork and crafts inside, so it’s nicely price taking a cease right here.
From the Senedd, you’ll be able to proceed alongside the coastal path to the east on the Cardiff Bay path stroll. There are numerous highlights alongside the route, together with the Norwegian Church Arts Centre which affords a restaurant, beautiful views of the Bay, and an artwork gallery.
It’s as much as you if you wish to proceed at this level. The path continues for miles alongside the bay and if it’s a pleasant day it’s actually a beautiful stroll all the way in which to the Cardiff Bay Barrage. It was the development of the barrage within the Nineties which created this beautiful harbour space.
From right here, somewhat than stroll all the way in which again, you’ll be able to as an alternative hop on a ship that may take you again to the Quay space. You’ll positively need to examine the working timetables prematurely, which you are able to do right here. You possibly can ebook tickets on-line prematurely right here.
In fact, as an alternative of (or in addition to!) strolling all the way in which to the barrage you’ll be able to discover the realm across the Senedd, often known as Mermaid’s Quay. Right here you’re going to search out all method of outlets and eating places, in addition to a ship quay the place you’ll be able to take boat excursions of Cardiff Bay.
There are additionally a few different sights within the space. First is the somewhat eclectic Ianto’s Shrine. If you’re not conversant in the TV present “Torchwood”, which was set in Cardiff, then this may probably be considerably complicated. The shrine is to Ianto, a personality who dies within the present.
It’s truly one of many largest and most well-maintained shrines to a fictional character wherever on the planet, so price a number of moments of your time!
The opposite attraction within the space is Techniquest, which is a family-friendly science museum. If you’re visiting Wales with children, then this paid attraction will certainly maintain them entertained for a while as there are over 100 hand-on reveals to see, contact, and discover.
That appears like sufficient in your second day in Cardiff, though there’s nonetheless a lot to see together with extra museums and loads of outlets. Cardiff can be residence to the Principality Stadium which performs host to main sporting and music occasions all year long.
There are additionally a number of different venues across the metropolis for dwell music and leisure if that’s one thing you have an interest in. On a latest go to to Cardiff we loved watching a dwell efficiency at Porter’s Cardiff for instance.
And naturally there are a number of pubs, golf equipment, and different nightlife hangouts in Cardiff. If you happen to’re into historic pubs, a number of the oldest in Cardiff are The Rummer Tavern, Cardiff Cottage, The Goat Main, and The Nice Western. So you should have no scarcity of locations to go for a drink or a chew to eat!
Day 2 Highlights: Cardiff Bay, Wales Millenium Centre, Norwegian Church Arts Centre, Bay boat tour / stroll, Techniquest
Day 2 Driving Distance: 0 miles
Day 2 Driving Time: 0 hours
Day 2 Lodging: In a single day in Cardiff (similar as Day 1)
Day 3 – Cardiff to Tenby
It’s time to hit the highway! If you’re choosing up a rental automobile, you’ll need to ebook this for earlier within the morning as you’re going to have a busy day in the present day.
Your first cease for the day is simply exterior of Cardiff, the St. Fagan’s Nationwide Museum of Historical past. It’s about 20 minutes’ drive from central Cardiff.
It is a good free out of doors museum which options over forty authentic buildings unfold out throughout 100 acres of parkland. These buildings span a large time interval, and will provide you with an actual perception into how Welsh folks have lived, labored, realized, and performed through the years.
There are farmhouses, schoolhouses, pubs, and union buildings, the vast majority of which you’ll go inside and discover. It’s additionally a dwelling museum, with dwell workshops and demonstrations of conventional abilities and crafts like ironmongery and farming.
It’s a giant web site with so much to see, so we’d suggest planning on spending at the least 90 minutes to 2 hours right here. There’s additionally a restaurant on-site which serves good meals in addition to espresso and different sizzling drinks. There’s a big carpark on web site with a modest price for parking.
From Cardiff you’re going to proceed to move west to your subsequent cease, Castell Carreg Cennen.
The quickest choice to get to right here will usually be to observe the M4 round Swansea, which is what we might suggest you do. In fact, in the event you would like a extra scenic route be at liberty to observe the roads as much as Glynneath and throughout. Simply pay attention to timing as you’ve gotten so much to see in the present day.
Castell Carreg Cennen, or Carreg Cennen Fort, is a dramatically positioned crumbling citadel which dates from the early 14th century. There’s a little bit of an uphill stroll to get to the citadel, however we’d say the views of the encompassing panorama and the citadel itself are nicely well worth the effort.
Fairly a little bit of the citadel survives, together with lots of the towers, partitions and maintain. There are data panels on web site and there’s a superb cafe on the backside of the hill the place you park as nicely. We’d estimate you’ll want round an hour on web site.
The Fort does have an entry price. It’s managed by Cadw, a department of the Welsh Authorities accountable for preservation of historic websites in Wales.
Cadw affords an annual membership, which supplies you free entry to all of the Cadw areas, amongst different advantages.
Loads of the sights you’re going to be seeing on this journey are going to be coated by the membership and in the event you go to the vast majority of them you’ll positively avoid wasting cash. You should buy this on-line right here, or in particular person at most Cadw websites.
We expect that is very a lot price it and we all the time get a CADW membership if we plan on sightseeing in Wales.
From Castell Carreg it’s a 20 minute drive to the following cease for the day, the Nationwide Belief Dinefwr web site. That is truly two sights, the seventeenth century Newton Home and the twelfth century Dinefwr Fort, discovered round a mile aside.
If the climate is nice, we will extremely suggest taking a while to discover the grounds right here and to stroll as much as Dinefwr Fort. There are some actually beautiful strolling trails across the grounds, which wend their approach by way of lovely mature woodlands.
You can even go to Newton Home itself in fact, which has a separate entry price (free for Nationwide Belief members). There may be paid parking on web site (additionally free to Nationwide Belief members).
It’s round an hour’s drive to the final cease of the day, the lovable seaside city of Tenby. If you would like one thing additional to see on the way in which, and you actually love castles, be at liberty to detour to Laugharne Fort, though we really feel you might have seen sufficient castles for the day and be able to loosen up by this level.
Tenby is a well-liked and picturesque seaside city with colourful homes forming a line above the big seashore and curved harbour. There are many locations to eat, store ,and keep. If you’re not too drained, we’d suggest a stroll to the headland to see the ruins of Tenby Fort and a stroll on the seashore.
In fact, you too can do this stuff on the morning of your fourth day as nicely. And that’s the tip of your first day on the highway!
Day 3 Highlights: St. Fagan’s Nationwide Museum of Historical past, Castell Carreg Cennen, Dinefwr Fort, Tenby
Day 3 Driving Distance: 110 miles
Day 3 Driving Time: 2.5 hours
Day 3 Lodging: In a single day at (or close to) Tenby. There are a number of wonderful choices to select from in Tenby and close by, and the city additionally has many good eating choices. Lodging choices we suggest are:
- Beachcomber B&B – 5 minutes stroll from the centre of Tenby and the seashore, this very nicely rated household run B&B affords comfy rooms and a very good breakfast
- The Strathmore – this nicely rated household run B&B is near Tenby’s south seashore and 5 minutes stroll from the city centre. Snug rooms embody a continental breakfast or breakfast bap.
- Coach Visitor Home – a really nicely rated trendy household enjoyable B&B simply minutes stroll from Tenby’s seashores and sights. Breakfast is included.
- Trefloyne Manor – 5 minutes drive from Tenby, this lovely outdated manor home affords 12 attractive rooms with en-suite amenities. There’s an on-site restaurant, breakfast is included and there’s even an on-site 18 gap golf course
Day 4 – Tenby to St. David’s
At this time you’re going to be exploring the far southwestern nook of Wales, residence to the smallest metropolis within the UK and a surprising coastal Nationwide Park.
Let’s get going.
From Tenby, take a 15 minute drive west to Carew Fort & Tidal Mill. Because the identify suggests, right here you’re going to search out two sights in a single place.
The primary is Carew Fort, a citadel which dates from the Norman conquest of Britain within the eleventh century. Through the years it has had many updates and enhancements, with the ultimate addition being an Elizabethan manor home within the sixteenth century! That makes this fairly the distinctive location to go to in Wales.
The second attraction on the positioning is the Carew Tidal Mill, which is the one restored tidal mill in Wales. This dates from the nineteenth century, and when in operation it used the ability of the tide to energy the mill wheel. It’s now not working however it’s open for excursions.
As you’ll be able to see there’s a lot to see and do right here, so I’d counsel allocating at the least 90 minutes – 2 hours in your go to. There may be free parking on web site and a price for admission. It’s not a part of Cadw or every other membership program that we’re conscious of.
From Carew Fort you’ve gotten a number of choices, all of which contain visiting the Pembrokeshire Nationwide Park. This Nationwide Park stretches throughout the Pembrokeshire coast and affords dramatic clifftop strolling, splendid sea vistas, and wildlife recognizing alternatives.
One good stroll alternative, round a 25 minute drive from Carew Fort, is the Stack Rock stroll (carpark right here on Google Maps). The automobile park (free) is simply a few hundred metres from the cliff prime stroll, and there are nice views of some rock stacks in addition to a rock arch right here.
That is additionally place to see seals and seal pups within the breeding season (normally August by way of January).
If you happen to’d wish to take a hike right here, there’s a beautiful stroll alongside the coast to St. Govan’s Chapel. It’s a 6.3 mile stroll, and you may see instructions right here.
Another choice in the event you’d desire to spend extra time on the seashore can be to drive additional west to Freshwater West seashore. It is a standard browsing spot the place you’ll discover a lengthy stretch of golden sand backed by dunes.
It’s additionally a Harry Potter filming location – followers of the flicks will certainly need to go to the positioning of Dobby’s Grave. There’s a mound of rocks right here which followers have written tributes on, which makes for a pleasant image. There’s a small automobile park right here in addition to parking alongside the highway.
There are in fact many different walks that you could possibly do in the present day as you head in the direction of St. David’s, and you may see a full choice right here.
My private favorite, and the one I’d suggest, is the Marloes Peninsula stroll. That is about an hour’s drive from the Stack Rocks carpark, or 25 minutes from Carew Fort, relying on what you select to go to in the present day.
The Marloes Peninsula stroll is a 4.4 mile (7.1km) loop stroll which loops across the attractive Marloes peninsula. The stroll is basically flat with just some gradients to deal with. There’s a car-park at Marloes Sands (paid).
This stroll was my favorite of all of the walks we did on this space as a result of it provided such spectacular views, in addition to some wonderful wildlife recognizing alternatives. We noticed numerous seals and seal pups in addition to an awesome many sea birds.
There have been additionally attractive coastal views and even an iron age hill fort. It took us round 3 hours in complete with a number of picture stops and was nicely well worth the effort.
From Marloes, one other hour’s drive will deliver you to the tiny metropolis of St. David’s the place you’ll spend the night time. Positively spend a while exploring the city, both this night or on the morning of Day 5.
You’ll discover a beautiful outdated cathedral, in addition to varied galleries and outlets. Town is tiny, and it doesn’t take lengthy to stroll round and discover.
If you happen to nonetheless need to discover, then we’d counsel strolling the 20 minutes or so out of city to St. Non’s Chapel and Effectively, reputed to be the birthplace of Wales’s patron saint, Saint David, for whom the town is called.
One other close by attraction is the gorgeous seashore of Whitesands, which makes for place to look at the sundown.
For meals, there are many good eating choices on the town, from eating places to pubs. We’ve had an awesome pub meal at The Bishops, however the Farmer’s Arms can be a well-liked choice for pub meals.
We’d suggest asking your native lodging supplier for suggestions as they’ll know one of the best native choices open throughout your go to.
Day 4 Highlights: Carew Fort & Tidal Mill, Pembrokeshire Coastal Walks, St. David’s sights
Day 4 Driving Distance: ~ 70 miles
Day 4 Driving Time: ~ 2 hours
Day 4 Lodging: In a single day at (or close to) St. David’s. This lovely little metropolis has a variety of lodging choices in addition to quite a few pubs and eating places for meals. We suggest the next choices:
- 4 Winds B&B – this can be a beautiful B&B simply 5 minutes stroll from the centre of St. David’s. Proprietor Nikki could be very pleasant, breakfast is great and there are beautiful views. We’ve stayed right here and had a beautiful night time’s sleep.
- Glendower B&B – a nicely reviewed B&B just some minutes stroll from the town middle. Breakfast is included.
- St. David’s Cross Lodge – a well-liked conventional resort proper within the metropolis middle that includes a restaurant and bar. Breakfast is included.
- Twr y Felin Lodge – a really nicely reviewed centrally positioned 4* resort with a restaurant, room service, and breakfast.
- Crug Glass Nation Home – a gorgeous nation home resort present in a twelfth century farmhouse on a 600 acre working farm. 8 minutes drive from St. David’s. There’s an on-site restaurant and bar, and breakfast can be accessible.
Day 5 – St. David’s to Aberystwyth
At this time you’re going to drive up the sweeping curve of Wales’s west coast. There’s a lot to see alongside the way in which, together with historic burial chambers, iron age villages, ruined castles, a wildlife middle, lovely seashores, and extra.
We’d counsel choosing some sights that sound probably the most attention-grabbing to you from our solutions as there’s positively extra to see than you are able to do in a day! Or contemplate doing this over 2 days if you wish to do and see the whole lot. If you happen to choose to do this, we’d counsel overnighting round Cardigan.
After ending up any sightseeing or memento procuring in St. David’s, observe the A487 for about 45 minutes, simply previous Fishguard. The primary cease for the day is the Pentre Ifan burial chamber.
This 5,000 yr outdated tomb has a 16.5ft capstone rigorously balanced atop three uprights. It’s a few minutes stroll from the free parking place on the highway and entry is free. Simply bear in mind that there the parking spot is sort of small and the highway right here is sort of slender.
From Pentre Ifan, return to the primary highway. If you’re focused on studying about life within the Stone Age, then positively contemplate a go to to Castell Henllys Iron Age Village.
This attraction encompasses a collection of Iron Age roundhouses, constructed the place they initially stood 2,000 years in the past. On web site one can find quite a few costumed interpreters who will share particulars of how folks lived right here through the Iron Age.
Now, proceed on in the direction of Cardigan. There are a number of sights you may contemplate stopping at, relying in your pursuits.
Nature lovers will probably need to go to the Welsh Wildlife Centre, the place there’s an interpretive middle, varied trails, and hen watching hides. It’s free to go to however there’s a small price for parking. An excellent location for birdwatching on the Tefi Marshes.
A 5 minute drive from the Welsh Wildlife Heart is Cilgerran Fort. This Norman age citadel initially dates from 1108, though the construction in the present day largely dates from the thirteenth century. It occupies a commanding location above the gorge of the River Tefi and is nicely price a go to.
Free for CADW and Nationwide Belief members, small price in any other case. There’s no parking on web site, observe indicators to the automobile park. We parked in Cilgerran Decrease automobile park from the place there’s a beautiful stroll alongside the river and up the hill to the citadel.
We’d additionally suggest stopping in Cardigan itself. The community-run Cardigan Fort right here is nicely price a go to for a small price.
You possibly can truly keep in a single day right here, which we’ve completed, and it has cafe on web site as nicely. In case you have extra time, or just need to alter your schedule, it makes for in a single day keep choice.
From Cardigan, proceed alongside the A487. If you want to take a stroll in the present day, we’d counsel heading as much as Mwnt. There’s a small automobile park at Mwnt head seashore (price) and you may go to fairly Holy Cross Church. There’s additionally a brief path up the hill right here which affords good views of the coast.
Different good spots alongside the coast to cease as you proceed north embody Penbryn Seashore and the gorgeous seaside fishing village of New Quay.
New Quay is an effective location for taking seal-watching boat journeys, in addition to to select up a sizzling plate of fish and chips.
Simply past New Quay one can find the Nationwide Belief property of Llanerchaeron. It is a beautiful Georgian villa which additionally affords strolling trails, a walled backyard, and a farmyard residence to numerous Welsh breeds of livestock. There’s a price to go to, and it’s free for Nationwide belief members.
Lastly, proceed on up the coast to Aberystwyth, the place you’ll spend the night time. It is a mid-size coastal city which is thought for its college. There are additionally quite a few wonderful sights within the city itself which you’ll both go to in the present day or on the morning of day 6, relying on how your time goes.
We’d positively suggest visiting the Amgueddfa Ceredigion Museum. That is positioned in a preserved Edwardian period theatre, which makes for fairly a novel museum location!
The museum has shows on all types of issues, masking native life, artwork, geography, and tradition throughout the ages. It’s additionally free (donations beneficial).
We will additionally suggest the Aberystwyth Cliff Railway on the north finish of the promenade. This steep funicular railway has been ferrying folks up and right down to the clifftop viewpoint since 1896.
There’s a price to make use of it, we’d counsel taking the railway up after which strolling down for beautiful views of the bay and city under.
A stroll across the very ruined Aberystwyth Fort in the course of city can be nicely price a couple of minutes of your time. It’s free to go to.
Day 5 Highlights: Pentre Ifan burial chamber, Castell Henllys Iron Age Village, Welsh Wildlife Centre, Cilgerran Fort, Cardigan Fort, Holy Cross Church, New Quay, Aberystwyth websites
Day 5 Driving Distance: ~80 miles
Day 5 Driving Time: ~ 2 hours
Day 5 Lodging: In a single day at (or close to) Aberystwyth. The city has a number of lodging choices, many alongside the seashore entrance. Some choices we suggest embody:
- Llwynygog Visitor Home – an awesome worth centrally positioned family-run guesthouses providing rooms with shared or non-public loos. Word breakfast is just not accessible.
- Bodalwyn Visitor Home – a centrally positioned 4* guesthouse a brief stroll from the seashore. All rooms are en-suite. Word breakfast is just not accessible.
- Richmond Lodge – this seafront resort affords attractive views throughout Cardigan Bay from some rooms. A superb breakfast is included. We now have stayed right here and had a beautiful night time’s keep.
- The Glengower – discovered proper on the seashore, this can be a conventional pub with en-suite rooms, a few of which provide spectacular sea views. Breakfast is included.
- Townhouse No.1 – a trendy boutique resort in a refurbished Edwardian property with beautiful en-suite rooms in addition to two residences. There’s a kitchen with snacks and drinks accessible, however no breakfast choice.
Day 6 – Aberystwyth to Porthmadog
At this time you’re going to proceed touring up the Welsh shoreline, and also you’re going to have choices in the present day for issues to do which can rely upon whether or not you need to do a mountain hike or not. Or in the event you’d desire wildlife watching and coastal cities as an alternative.
You can begin the day by ending any exploration that you simply didn’t get spherical to in Aberystwyth. In your approach out of city we will extremely suggest dropping in on the Nationwide Library of Wales.
This big constructing has some wonderful reveals together with an interactive archive of TV and audio footage, shows of uncommon books, and extra. Free to go to with parking on web site.
Now, you might want to determine between coastal exploration and wildlife viewing, or a hike up a mountain.
If you wish to hike up a mountain in the present day, our suggestion is to drive an hour or so north to the Dôl Idris carpark subsequent to Minffordd. From right here there’s a spectacular stroll up Cadair Idris.
That is one in all my favorite hikes in Wales, with views from the highest throughout the entire of the Snowdonia Nationwide Park, together with the shoreline, Snowdon itself, the Mawddach Valley and extra.
I’d say that this can be a pretty demanding hike, particularly if tackled from the Minffordd facet as I like to recommend. Nonetheless, it’s actually price it if in case you have the time and bodily capability to take action.
It’s attainable to do that largely as a loop stroll, ascending up one facet of the lake after which again down the opposite. The paths are nicely marked however we might suggest bringing a map and dressing appropriately for mountain mountain climbing situations. You’ll additionally need to concentrate on the climate and forecast as you’ll need to skip this in dangerous climate situations.
You possibly can see an summary of the Minffordd path right here. It’s about 9km (5.59 miles) lengthy. Count on the entire hike to take 4 – 6 hours, relying in your health stage and the way typically you cease.
In fact there are a great deal of different hikes on this space that you could possibly do as an alternative. If you’re in search of a a lot simpler and shorter hike right here, contemplate the Dôl Idris path which is an all-abilities path that’s a couple of 1.25 km (0.77 miles) lengthy and is paved in order that it may be accessed by wheelchair customers and people with pushchairs.
If you happen to would somewhat not deal with a giant hike in the present day (there shall be extra alternatives in a while within the itinerary!), then there are a number of choices to think about as you head as much as Porthmadog.
We’d counsel choosing these choices which enchantment most to you from the choices accessible as you received’t be capable to match the whole lot in.
First, head up the coast to the coastal city of Borth, the place there’s an extended promenade you’ll be able to stroll alongside. If you’re fortunate, you is perhaps on the town on one of many days the Borth Station Musuem is open.
It is a beautiful tiny museum devoted to the historical past of the railway, recreating the station because it was within the early 1900s. It’s free to go to.
From Borth, drive a few miles additional up the B4353 alongside the coast, and take the turning for Ynyslas Customer Centre, which is a part of the Dyfi Nationwide Nature Reserve.
Right here there are some beautiful walks by way of the dunes, that are a number of the largest within the space.
There’s additionally a pleasant customer middle right here the place you’ll be able to find out about what you’re prone to see, in addition to a store and cafe promoting snacks and drinks. Count on to spend round an hour right here in the event you do the round dune stroll.
From Ynyslas head again to the A487 and proceed north. We’d counsel a fast cease on the Dyfi Furnace (right here on Google Maps), an outdated charcoal fired blast furnace which dates from 1755.
It’s free to go to and there are a selection of data panels to clarify what you’re seeing. It’s solely a ten minute cease however nicely price it. There’s additionally a pleasant waterfall right here.
The eager birdwatchers amongst additionally, you will need to make a cease at close by RSPB Ynys-hir. This reserve has a variety of habitats, from woodland to saltmarsh to grassland.
Which means there’s a vastly various vary of wildlife that calls the reserve residence. There’s a small price to go to, with entry free for RSPB members.
One other wildlife middle it’s possible you’ll contemplate visiting is Cors Dyfi, just a bit additional alongside the highway. It is a nature reserve and wildlife middle which can be residence to the Dyfi Osprey Venture. There’s a small price to go to.
Persevering with up the A487 you’ll come to the city of Machynlleth. There are a variety of cafes and eating places right here in addition to a reasonably city clock and city middle. There’s additionally a free museum of contemporary artwork right here.
North of Machynlleth are two standard sights. The primary is the Centre for Various Expertise, the place you’ll be able to be taught all about different power choices, sustainability, and extra.
One other standard choice, particularly with households, is King Arthur’s Labyrinth. Present in a former slate mine, this can be a guided story telling tour which takes you thru the story of King Arthur. It’s a number of enjoyable however you should definitely costume warmly because the mine is a cold place! There’s additionally a very nice artwork and craft middle on web site right here, in addition to a restaurant with good native meals.
Persevering with on to Porthmadog you’ll go by way of the city of Dolgellau, the place we suggest driving the coastal route down the Mawddach estuary to the seaside city of Barmouth.
This has a beautiful sandy seashore and is a good spot to cease for an ice cream or fish and chips.
Proceed up the coast and also you’ll come to the city of Harlech. That is residence to the spectacular Harlech Fort, a mighty thirteenth century fortress constructed by Edward I throughout his invasion of Wales.
This citadel, together with Beaumaris, Conwy and Caernarfon castles, is rated by UNESCO to be one of many most interesting examples of late thirteenth century navy structure in Europe. So we will extremely suggest a go to to this, or one (or all!) of the opposite three. There’s a price to go to Harlech, and it’s free for CADW members.
From Harlech it’s a brief drive to your vacation spot for the night time, the city of Porthmadog.
Day 6 Highlights: Cadair Idris hike, Borth Station Museum, Dyfi Nationwide Nature Reserve, Dyfi Furnace, RSPB Ynys-hir, Centre for Various Expertise, King Arthur’s Labyrinth, Harlech Fort
Day 6 Driving Distance: ~ 65 miles
Day 6 Driving Time: ~ 2 hours
Day 6 Lodging: In a single day at (or close to) Porthmadog. You’ve got many choices within the Porthmadog space, some on the town after which extra within the surrounding space. Some choices we suggest embody the next:
- The Golden Fleece Inn – this 4 star inn is within the village of Tremadog, a couple of 5 minute drive from Porthmadog itself. It has a superb on-site restaurant and good worth rooms. We’ve stayed right here and may positively suggest each the restaurant and the lodging. Breakfast is out there.
- Royal Sportsman Lodge – discovered within the middle of Porthmadog just some moments from the Ffestiniog Railway, this nicely rated resort affords en-suite rooms and on-site restaurant. Breakfast is included.
- Tudor Lodge – minutes stroll from the Ffestiniog Railway this nicely rated family-run guesthouse supply en-sute accommdation with breakfast included.
- Portmeirion Village & Castell Deudraeth – if you wish to spoil your self, then you definately may contemplate staying in Portmeirion Village itself. A variety of rooms can be found throughout the positioning, together with in a citadel, and there are additionally varied eating places to select from. A good way to expertise Portmeririon.
- Sygun Fawr Nation Home – Discovered round 20 minutes from Porthmadog within the peaceable village of Beddgelert, this nation home resort makes an awesome base for mountain climbing Snowdon. There’s a bar and on-site restaurant, and the meal we had after we stayed right here was wonderful.
Day 7 – Porthmadog to Caernarfon
My essential suggestion in the present day is to take one of many scenic slender gauge rail journeys that depart from Porthmadog. These supply spectacular views of the Snowdonia Nationwide Park, and you may simply loosen up and let the surroundings roll on by.
There are two railway routes to select from, each of which function from Porthmadog. There’s the Ffestiniog Railway, a 13.5 mile lengthy route which runs from Porthmadog to the city of Blaenau Ffestiniog. That is the oldest surviving railway firm on the planet.
Then there’s the Welsh Highland Railway. That is truly operated by the Ffestiniog Railway Firm, so the expertise could be very related. The primary distinction is the route.
This 25 mile stretch of observe goes from Porthmadog all the way in which to Caernarfon, and you too can do a visit to and from the gorgeous village of Beddgelert on this practice.
There’s no “greatest” choice truthfully, each trains supply nice views and sightseeing alternatives. We loved taking the half-day journey on the Welsh Highland Railway to Beddgelert and again once more, nevertheless the journey to Blaenau Ffestiniog can be nicely price it.
Whichever journey you select, we suggest reserving prematurely on the official web site right here, because the route could be very standard and may promote out.
One other standard attraction close to Porthmadog that you could be contemplate is Portmeirion Village. It is a purpose-built vacationer village, constructed between 1925 and 1975 to emulate a Mediterranean seaside city, and significantly the city of Portofino in Italy.
It’s actually an uncommon attraction, as you wander previous colourful homes with ornate designs. If not for the Welsh mountains within the background and the upper chance of rain, you may even assume you’ve gotten left Wales totally.
While this can be a standard attraction, I’ll admit that Jess and I didn’t totally fall for it. It was a reasonably expensive place to go to, and aside from wanting on the buildings, having fun with the views, and dropping into the outlets, there wasn’t an enormous quantity to do.
In fact, everybody can have a distinct expertise, so it’s as much as you. Now there are about 20 miles of paths you’ll be able to stroll that are good, however a few of these had been closed after we visited and it rained a lot of our go to. So I believe the climate actually put a damper on our go to.
I believe the expertise at Portmerion Village is greatest on a pleasant sunny day and in the event you spend the night time. There are a number of varieties of lodging right here and close by in the event you determine to remain the night time.
Relying on what you’ve gotten chosen to do in the present day, it’s possible you’ll or could not have extra time to spare. If you’re in search of extra to do, then I’d counsel taking a highway journey across the Llŷn Peninsula.
This affords attractive shoreline views, cute seaside villages, and extra castles to discover. For example, you’ll be able to go get ice cream at Cadwaladers in Criccieth, go to Criccieth Fort, and do some coastal walks at Aberdaron. There’s additionally a beautiful free artwork gallery with cafe in Llanbedrgo.
Lastly, head to Caernarfon the place you’ll in a single day. The primary attraction right here is the gorgeous Caernarfon Fort which you need to positively go to if in case you have time and nonetheless have an urge for food for Welsh castles!
It is a fairly spectacular late eleventh century motte and bailey type citadel. Free to CADW members, in any other case there’s an entry price.
Relying in your schedule you might have to do that on the next day.
Day 7 Highlights: Slim gauge railway experience, Llŷn Peninsula, Criccieth Fort
Day 7 Driving Distance: ~ 60 miles
Day 7 Driving Time: ~ 2 hours
Day 7 Lodging: In a single day at (or close to) Caernarfon. In fact, you could possibly additionally base your self in Porthmadog or one other location for nights 6 and seven in the event you’d desire to not maintain packing and unpacking. Nonetheless, in the event you select to remain in Caernarfon, we advise the next choices:
- Totters Hostel – this centrally positioned hostel affords rooms with shared or non-public loos and breakfast is included.
- Ty Glyndwr Bunkhouse – this nicely reviewed centrally positioned resort has a bar and cafe, and a mixture of shared or non-public loos. Breakfast is included.
- Ty Castell – a centrally positioned 4* resort providing en-suite rooms. There’s an on-site restaurant and bar, and breakfast is out there.
- The Black Boy Inn – a beautiful sixteenth century teaching inn discovered inside the town partitions, this is without doubt one of the oldest inns nonetheless working in North Wales. There’s restaurant and bar on web site, and a variety of en-suite rooms to select from. Breakfast is out there.
- Plas Dinas Nation Home – simply 10 minutes drive from Caernarfon, this attractive nation home resort was as soon as the house of Lord Snowdon. At this time it has an award-winning restaurant and gorgeously furnished en-suite rooms. Breakfast included.
Day 8 – Caernarfon to Conwy
On your eighth day you once more have a number of choices, because the northern a part of Wales has an enormous quantity to supply.
One highly regarded choice is in fact to deal with the very best mountain in Wales, Snowdon (Yr Wyddfa in Welsh). You’ve got a few choices for going to the summit.
First, and most clearly maybe, you’ll be able to stroll. There are at least six routes to select from, and you may see all of them outlined right here. The Llanberis path tends to be the preferred because it’s thought to be the best, though that is nonetheless a strenuous hike.
My private favorite routes are the quieter Snowdon Ranger or Rhyd Ddu paths. I’ve completed these paths and solely handed a number of different walkers, even when the summit is busy.
Whichever route you select, you’ll want to permit between 5 to eight hours for the hike, relying on the route selected and your health stage. So that you’ll need to mainly plan your full day round your hike as you received’t have an excessive amount of time to suit a lot else in and can probably be exhausted after your hike.
Word that the automobile parks within the space are all pay and show, and a few require advance bookings. Make sure you examine forward.
So do you should definitely plan forward in case you are contemplating a hike up Snowdon as you’ll have to you should definitely pack accordingly for a mountain hike, know which route you need to do, and plan head for parking. You additionally need to begin early to make sure you get a parking spot and are again earlier than sunset.
Lastly, you should definitely examine the native climate forecast from the Met Workplace earlier than your hike as climate situations could make these paths very harmful. You’ll need to keep away from this hike in dangerous climate.
The opposite method to get to the highest of Snowdon is to take the practice. Sure, there’s a practice that may take you to the highest of the mountain.
The Snowdon Mountain railway has been whisking folks to the summit of Snowdon since 1896, and its a beautiful method to attain the highest, with epic views all the way in which up.
It is a paid service, and you may select to go a technique or return. If you wish to do that we strongly suggest reserving tickets prematurely because it’s a highly regarded service. You are able to do that on the Snowdon Mountain railway web site.
For this one you’ll be able to park both on the Snowdon Mountain railway station on Victoria Terrace (postcode LL55 4TU). If that is full, there are a selection of automobile parks a brief stroll away in Llanberis.
In comparison with a Snowden hike which generally takes between 6 and eight hours, a spherical journey practice experience is round 2.5 hours, which incorporates half-hour on the prime. In order that’s choice if you wish to match extra in in the present day.
Talking of which, there’s a lot extra to see and do within the space, whether or not or not you select to ascend Snowdon.
First, in Llanberis we will extremely suggest visiting the superb and free Nationwide Slate Museum. This tells the story of slate mining in Wales, which has formed the panorama and the approach to life of the folks right here for a whole lot of years.
Present in a former slate quarry, you’ll discover reveals masking all elements of slate mining in addition to dwell demonstrations of varied slate mining processes.
We will additionally extremely suggest heading throughout the bridge over the Menai Straits to the island of Anglesey. There are two standard sights right here that we suggest. The primary is the village of Llanfairpwllgwyngyll, which is residence to the longest railway station signal on the planet.
The signal, which reads Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch, means “The Church of St Mary in a hole of white hazel, close to to a fast whirlpool, and to St Tysilio’s Church close to to a purple cave”.
The signal identify was totally invented to draw vacationers within the 1860s, and has been a well-liked customer attraction ever since. So clearly that was a profitable plan!
It’s free to go to, and there’s a superb and large memento retailer right here the place you should purchase all method of issues.
The opposite attraction we suggest visiting on Anglesey is the spectacular thirteenth century Beaumaris Fort.
This splendidly symmetrical citadel is surrounded on most sides by a water crammed moat. Apparently, the citadel was by no means truly accomplished, however there’s nonetheless a lot to see and do. Free for CADW members, in any other case there’s a price.
Lastly, if you need to do a stroll however would like one thing a bit shorter and flatter than the Snowdon ascent, then we might suggest the hike to Aber Falls. That is roughly a 4 mile spherical journey hike on pretty stage terrain that takes most individuals 90 minutes to 2 hours.
Your reward for the hassle is the gorgeous 120 foot excessive Aber Falls. There’s paid parking on the stroll begin level.
One other good waterfall which is simply off the highway and requires solely a really temporary stroll are the Swallow Falls, as seen on the picture under. So it’s as much as you what you select to do.
You’re going to complete your day with an in a single day within the seaside city of Conwy. That is additionally residence to a surprising citadel, which can be price visiting though we’d counsel in all probability shortlisting a number of castles from this itinerary, so that you don’t get castled out!
Conwy Fort is free to CADW members and there’s a price for visiting in any other case. It’s proper in the course of Conwy and there’s no on-site parking, however you’ll be able to simply stroll right here from a lot of the city automobile parks.
That is one other of Edward I constructions, and it dates from the thirteenth century. If you happen to go to, we extremely suggest climbing to the highest of the tower staircases for one of the best views.
Lastly, in a single day in Conwy. Once more, you may want to maneuver some sightseeing to Day 9 relying in your schedule.
Day 8 Highlights: Snowdon, Nationwide Slate Museum, Llanfairpwllgwyngyll signal, Beaumaris Fort, Aber Falls, Conwy Fort
Day 8 Driving Distance: ~ 30 miles
Day 8 Driving Time: ~ 1 hour
Day 8 Lodging: In a single day at (or close to) Conwy. Once more, this a part of the journey nonetheless has you exploring the northwestern space of Wales, so you could possibly select one location for nights 6 by way of 8. If you happen to select to base your self in Conwy, we suggest the next:
- YHA Conwy – simply 10 minutes stroll from the centre of Conwy, this nicely rated hostel affords nice worth rooms, some with non-public loos. A big buffet breakfast is out there, and there’s additionally a kitchen for visitor use in addition to a laundry, bar and cafe.
- Quantity 18 – a really extremely rated household run mattress and breakfast simply 5 minutes stroll from the citadel. Rooms are all en-suite and breakfast is included.
- Bryn Derwen Visitor Home – a nicely rated centrally positioned household run guesthouse with en-suite rooms and breakfast included.
- Gwynfryn – this uncommon resort is present in a transformed chapel simply 300 metres from Conwy Fort. All rooms are en-suite and breakfast is out there.
- The Erskine Arms – 5 minutes stroll from Conwy centre, this Georgian teaching inn affords 10 en-suite rooms with breakfast included. There’s additionally a bar on-site serving good meals and drinks.
- The Quay Lodge and Spa – discovered within the marina on the alternative facet of the river to the city centre, this resort affords en-suite rooms, some with attractive sea views. There’s an on-site restaurant and breakfast is included.
Day 9 – Conwy to Hay-on-Wye
At this time it’s time to begin heading again down south to finish our loop of Wales. Heading again to Cardiff by way of Hay-on-Wye.
Earlier than you set off, be sure you go to any sights you haven’t but seen in Conwy and surrounds. Nationwide Belief members will probably need to try Penrhyn Fort and Backyard for instance.
Now you’ve gotten two completely different route choices in the present day, the primary is heading alongside the northern shoreline and the second is following an inland route south.
Each routes have you ever spend the night time in Hay-on-Wye. Each routes are nice and I’d try the highlights alongside each to see which sounds higher to you.
If you happen to determine to observe the northern shoreline, then your first cease shall be Rhuddlan Fort. That is one other of Edward I’s castles, which dates from 1277.
From Rhuddlan it’s a brief drive to Rhaeadr Dyserth Waterfall, the place a minute’s stroll from the automobile park will reward you with a reasonably view of a beautiful little waterfall.
The following cease alongside the northern shoreline that we suggest is St Winefride’s Effectively & Shrine, a web site which has been welcoming pilgrims for over 1300 years. It’s additionally distinctive in that it’s the one pilgrimage web site within the UK that was capable of proceed working even through the Reformation.
The nicely itself is discovered on the location the place St. Winefride was stated to have been decapitated after which introduced again to life. There’s a pool right here which is open at particular occasions of the day for folks to wash in.
It’s stated to have therapeutic properties. There’s a small museum on web site as nicely the place you’ll be able to find out about St. Winefride. A small price applies for visiting.
Lastly, the final attraction on the northern shoreline we suggest earlier than you flip south is the ruinous Flint Fort. That is noteworthy as being the closest citadel to the English border, and due to this fact the primary to be constructed throughout Edward I’s marketing campaign in opposition to the Welsh. Free to go to.
From Flint, you’d head south passing by way of by way of Wrexham, Oswestry and Newtown till you attain Hay on Wye.
This northern shoreline route takes about 3 hours with out stops. This may positively be faster than the route under, even when components of the journey have you ever leaving Wales.
A second choice is to move south instantly, skipping the northern shoreline and as an alternative visiting extra of japanese Wales. Highlights alongside this route embody Merion Mill, Pont Minllyn, Bryntail Lead Mining buildings, and the Elan Valley. This route takes about 3.5 hours to drive with out stops.
For the inland route, head from Conwy right down to Dolgellau, then out to Minllyn on the A470.
At Minllyn, take a break at Merion Mill, a wool crafting mill the place you’ll be able to peruse all method of authentic merchandise that might make for a superb memento or present. There’s free parking and a restaurant on web site as nicely.
We’d additionally extremely suggest speaking a one-minute stroll to the doorway of the automobile park the place you’ll be able to see what stays of the gorgeous outdated stone bridge which crosses the river right here, Pont Minllyn.
Now proceed south in the direction of Llandiloes. A quick detour will take you to the Bryntail Lead Mining buildings. Right here you’ll be able to see the stays of this former lead mining neighborhood.
There are additionally strolling trails within the space if you wish to stretch your legs. Free parking, and it’s simply a few minutes’ stroll from the automobile park to the positioning. Extra data on the official CADW web site right here. It’s free to go to.
Persevering with on, one other good cease in the present day is the Elan Valley. This seventy sq. mile space covers a variety of hills, valleys and man-made reservoirs which kind 5 lakes. These lakes present ingesting water for the town of Birmingham.
There’s a customer middle right here the place you’ll be able to be taught all in regards to the space. The most well-liked activitiy right here is to cycle across the reseviors on the Elan Valley Path. Bikes can be found for rent on the customer middle.
Nonetheless, you too can stroll or drive to quite a few viewpoints in the event you desire. Word the customer middle is free to go to however there’s a cost for parking.
Lastly, proceed on to the gorgeous city of Hay-on-Wye the place you may be spending the night time. That is proper on the border of England and Wales, and the city is legendary for its bookshops.
There are over twenty bookshops within the city masking just about each style and elegance of literature, and each new and used books can be found.
We extremely suggest taking a while to wander the city and go to a few of these bookshops earlier than discovering a pleasant spot for dinner and delivering for the night time.
Day 9 Highlights: Merion Mill, Bryntail Lead Mining buildings, Elan Valley, Hay-on-Wye
Day 9 Driving Distance: ~ 140 miles
Day 9 Driving Time: ~ 3 – 3.5 hours relying on route
Day 9 Lodging: In a single day at (or close to) Hay-on-Wye. There are a number of choices to select from in and across the village. We suggest the next:
- The Previous Black Lion – voted greatest pub within the county, this lovely seventeenth century inn has a superb on-site restaurant and comfy en-suite rooms. We had a beautiful meal right here and night time’s relaxation. Breakfast is out there.
- Seven Stars – this guesthouse is present in a sixteenth century constructing and now options eight beautiful en-suite rooms. There’s additionally an indoor swimming pool and sauna. Breakfast is included.
- The Swan At Hay – this former Georgian teaching inn is now a 19 room resort with 2 bars and a eating room. Breakfast is out there.
- Baskerville Home – discovered a couple of minutes drive exterior Hay on Wye, this guesthouse affords comfy en-suite rooms with breakfast included.
Day 10 – Hay-on-Wye to Cardiff
We now have reached the ultimate day of your Welsh highway journey! At this time you’re heading again to Cardiff the place you’ll be able to drop off your rental automobile (if wanted) after which journey onwards.
How your day in the present day seems to be will in fact rely in your schedule. In case you have an early practice or flight, then you’ll want to head straight again to Cardiff, which is round a 90 minute drive away.
Nonetheless, if in case you have time to spare then there are some good choices for stops alongside the way in which.
First, head instantly south alongside tiny nation lanes from Hay on Wye to Llanthony Priory. This spectacular Grade I listed 900 yr outdated spoil was as soon as one of many biggest medieval buildings in Wales, and it flourished till Henry VIII put an finish to the monasteries. At this time the positioning is free to go to.
Persevering with on to Cardiff, you’ve gotten a few choices. First, it’s possible you’ll choose to go to the previous coal mining village of Aberfan. This was the positioning of the tragic Aberfan catastrophe in 1966, when a spoil tip collapsed into the village, killing 116 kids and 28 adults. There’s a shifting memorial you’ll be able to go to in the event you want to pay your respects.
Lastly, if you need to see one other citadel, we will extremely suggest dropping by Caerphilly Fort as you come back to Cardiff. This thirteenth century medieval fortress was the biggest in Wales, and actually is the second largest within the UK, second solely to Windsor Fort.
Protecting 30 acres, the positioning options big defensive partitions, towers, gatehouses and a variety of water defenses. It’s actually a web site to behold, and a very good method to end off your Welsh highway journey. There’s a price to go to, and it’s free for CADW members.
Now, on to Cardiff the place this highway journey wraps up! In case you have extra time in Cardiff, you’ll be able to go and go to any of the sights you didn’t have time to go to initially of your journey.
Day 10 Highlights: Llanthony Priory, Aberfan memorial, Caerphilly Fort
Day 10 Driving Distance: ~ 65 miles
Day 10 Driving Time: ~ 2 hours
Day 10 Lodging: You possibly can keep one other night time in Cardiff if you want, or in your onward vacation spot.
Map of Wales Street Journey Itinerary
Right here’s a map of the route that can assist you visualise the place you’ll be going. You possibly can see a full model of this map on Google Maps right here, which incorporates all of the highlights in addition to lodging listings.
Wales Street Journey Itinerary Overview
Right here’s an summary of the itinerary for reference.
- Day 1: Cardiff
- Day 2: Cardiff
- Day 3: Cardiff to Tenby
- Day 4: Tenby to St. David’s
- Day 5: St. David’s to Aberystwyth
- Day 6: Aberystwyth to Porthmadog
- Day 7: Porthmadog to Caernarfon
- Day 8: Caernarfon to Conwy
- Day 9: Conwy to Hay-on-Wye
- Day 10: Hay on Wye to Cardiff
Additional Studying
And that’s it for our detailed Wales highway journey itinerary! We hope you discovered this information helpful. We additionally wished to share some extra sources we expect may allow you to with planning this and future journeys within the UK.
- If you happen to’re in search of extra highway journey inspiration within the UK, try our North Coast 500 planning information and North Coast 500 seven day itinerary
- If you happen to’re heading to Scotland, try our 2 day Edinburgh itinerary, our Glasgow and Loch Lomond itinerary, our information to the greatest day journeys from Glasgow, our information to issues to do in Edinburgh, our itinerary for Skye and the Highlands, our information to the greatest day journeys from Aberdeen, and our information to one of the best day journeys from Edinburgh to get you began.
- We now have a two week UK highway journey itinerary and a one week UK highway journey itinerary
- We even have a one week Cornwall itinerary
- If you happen to’re not conversant in driving within the UK, see my information to driving within the UK for useful suggestions.
- We now have guides to many cities within the UK you’ll be able to try! See our guides to issues to do in Manchester, issues to do in Stratford upon Avon, issues to do in Bristol, issues to do in Portsmouth, recommendations on a weekend in York, recommendations on Visiting Oxford on a Day Journey, and issues to do in Cambridge to get began
- If you happen to’re in search of a guidebook in your journey, try the Tough Information to Wales
And that’s it! Have you ever ever visited Wales? Do you’ve gotten something you’d add to the above? Simply tell us within the feedback under, and secure travels!