Exploring Wales: The UK’s Hidden Gem

Wales has it all: castles (check), beautiful scenery (check), beaches (check), wildlife (check). What more could you ask for? And when Wales is just a stone’s throw away from places like Birmingham, Manchester and Liverpool, there’s no excuse not to visit!

Famous for its natural beauty, Wales is a favourite among outdoor enthusiasts and thrill seekers. Take Snowdonia for example, a jaw-dropping mountain range consisting of 14 majestic peaks over 3,000 feet high! And how about the Brecon Beacons National Park, a hikers paradise consisting of 520-square-miles of mountains, some as high as 1,000 feet, many in excess of 2,000 feet!

And, well, you don’t have to be outdoorsy to enjoy Wales. Travel in style with The Ffestiniog Railway. This iconic steam railway crosses ten heritage sites and some of the most famous landmarks, including mountains, seaside towns, and castles. The Ffestiniog Railway is the ultimate way to explore Wales.

Wales trivia to tell your friends

  • The Welsh name for Wales is Cymru
  • Wales is the land of mythical King Arthur
  • Wales is home to more than 600 castles
  • Wales is the homeland of the superstar Sir Tom Jones!
  • Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwyll-llantysiliogogogoch is the name of a town in North Wales—no really—it means, “The church of St. Mary in the hollow of white hazel trees near the rapid whirlpool by St. Tysilio’s of the red cave.”

If you’re considering a cheeky day out in Wales or a mini weekend break, make sure you check out some of our hot picks whenever you visit;

Perriswood Archery and Falconry Centre

Perriswood is a family-run business in the heart of Gower, overlooking the stunning Oxwich Bay.

Whether you are looking to try something new, relax and take in the surrounding scenery, have fun with the family or celebrate a special occasion, Perriswood is the place to be!

After all that adventuring, you’re going to need somewhere to relax…

Cheeky Witch Massage

Cheeky Witch Massage is a professional massage clinic based in Pontypool. You can treat yourself to cheeky facial, hot stone massage, aromatherapy and much more. The Cheeky Witch clinic offers tailored treatments to suit your aches and pains (which might be a welcome break from all that walking in Wales).

And how about somewhere to eat? Here are our top picks to grab a bite in Wales.

The Castle Inn Pub

The Castle Inn Pub has a superb choice of food and drinks, a snug and intimate dining area and a beautiful outside garden and patio, perfect for hot summer days. The Castle Inn is one of those go-to venues that genuinely believes in maintaining the great traditions of a village pub.

Ciliegino

Ciliegino is an authentic Sicilian restaurant which opened its first UK restaurant in Wales. Using only the finest ingredients brought from Italy, Ciliegino offers fantastic pizzas, freshly cooked in traditional ovens, alongside other traditional Italian recipes including pasta and salads.

If you’re visiting for more than a day, you’re going to need somewhere to stay, of course. Be at one with nature and the beauty of Wales at Grange Farm.

Grange Farm

Basic natural camping at it’s best! The Grange Trekking Centre is located in a delightful spot close to a tree-lined stream. Stay in a cosy glamping pod or shepherds’ hut with a wood-burning stove. Campers and glampers can gorge on a fully cooked breakfast, packed lunch and 3-course evening meals, too.

If you’re preparing for your trip to Wales, make sure to download the ENTERTAINER UK app before you go for offers and discounts.

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Laura Marie Parker
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