Explore the Wonders of West Wales
Adventure, Heritage and Beauty Await
All at Sea
Catch the waves at Llangennith on the Gower Peninsula, one of the birthplaces of British surfing. Pembrokeshire, with its rugged cliffs, is ideal for coasteering, an adrenaline-filled activity involving rock scrambling and plunging into waves. Pembrokeshire also offers excellent sea-kayaking opportunities for those wanting a closer look at the coastline.
Rolling On
Llanelli’s Millennium Coastal Park offers scenic, traffic-free paths perfect for cycling. Follow National Cycle Route 4 for stunning views of Carmarthen Bay and Gower, as well as the bird-rich World Wildlife Trust Wetland Centre, the golden sands of Machynys Bay, and the quaint marina at Burry Port.
Festivals and Events
West Wales hosts a range of festivals and events throughout the year. The Pembrokeshire Fish Week celebrates the region's rich seafood heritage with cooking demonstrations, tastings, and fishing competitions. The Llandeilo Fawr Festival of Music and Flowers combines classical music performances with beautiful floral displays. Don't miss the Swansea Festival of Music and the Arts, which features a diverse programme of music, theatre, and visual arts. These events offer a glimpse into the vibrant culture of West Wales.
Coastal Walks
West Wales offers some of the most beautiful coastal walks in the UK. The Pembrokeshire Coast Path stretches for 186 miles, providing stunning views of cliffs, beaches, and wildlife. Shorter walks, like the route from Porthgain to Abercastle, offer equally spectacular scenery in a more manageable distance. The Gower Peninsula also boasts beautiful trails, such as the walk from Rhossili to Worm’s Head, renowned for its dramatic coastline and panoramic vistas.
Hidden Gems
West Wales is full of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Explore the secluded Marloes Sands in Pembrokeshire, a perfect spot for a quiet beach day. Visit the charming village of Aberaeron, known for its colourful Georgian houses and bustling harbour. Discover the remote Cilgerran Castle, perched high above the Teifi Gorge, offering stunning views and a rich history. These lesser-known spots provide a unique and tranquil experience.
Set Sail
Embark on a seafaring adventure to Ramsey and Skomer Islands off the Pembrokeshire coast. These islands are teeming with marine wildlife, including dolphins, porpoises, seals, and puffins, along with numerous other seabirds.
Park Life
Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, the UK’s only coastal national park, lives up to its medieval description as a "land of magic and enchantment." Discover islands, cliffs, coves, and award-winning sandy beaches, along with picturesque coastal towns like Saundersfoot and Tenby, known for their colourful harbourside houses.
Green and Gold
Carmarthenshire, known as the "Garden of Wales," is nurtured by the River Tywi as it flows to the sea. This area features green spaces like the National Botanic Garden and Aberglasney Gardens, as well as some of the longest sandy beaches in Wales along Carmarthen Bay.
Town and Country
Swansea, the city by the sea, is just a short trip from the Gower Peninsula. The UK's first Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Gower’s diverse coastline includes limestone cliffs, shifting dunes, beaches, and saltmarshes.
Local Hero
Dylan Thomas, the renowned poet, was born in Swansea. Visit his dedicated visitor centre and his family home, now a museum. Then head to the quiet coastal town of Laugharne to see the Boathouse, where Thomas wrote many of his famous works.
Adventure Sports
West Wales is a haven for adventure enthusiasts. From rock climbing in the Brecon Beacons to zip-lining at the Llangorse Multi Activity Centre, there's no shortage of thrills. Try your hand at paragliding over the scenic landscapes or enjoy the rush of mountain biking on the trails of Afan Forest Park. For water sports lovers, sailing and windsurfing in Tenby offer unforgettable experiences.
Historic Trails
West Wales is rich in history, with trails that guide you through time. The Dylan Thomas Trail in Swansea takes you to places that inspired the famous poet. Explore the Saints and Stones Trail, which reveals the region's religious heritage through ancient churches and standing stones. The Pembrokeshire Coast Path, with its prehistoric sites and medieval castles, offers a journey through centuries of history.
Family Fun
West Wales is perfect for a family getaway. Visit Folly Farm Adventure Park and Zoo for a day of fun with animals and fairground rides. Oakwood Theme Park offers thrilling roller coasters and water rides for all ages. Explore the National Showcaves Centre for Wales, where kids can marvel at stunning caves and dinosaur models. The Blue Lagoon Water Park in Pembrokeshire is a great spot for aquatic adventures.
The Fabric of Life
Wool has been a crucial industry in Wales for centuries. Discover its history at the National Wool Museum in the Teifi Valley. This tradition continues with a modern twist at Melin Tregwynt near Fishguard, which exports Welsh wool globally.
A Saintly City
St Davids, the UK’s smallest city, is home to a magnificent cathedral dedicated to Wales’ patron saint. It remains an important pilgrimage site and attracts visitors with its beautiful peninsula setting, relaxed café culture, and artistic atmosphere.
Heavyweight Heritage
Begin your journey at the prehistoric Pentre Ifan burial chamber, made from the same Pembrokeshire bluestones as Stonehenge. Explore numerous castles, such as the romantic Carreg Cennen in Carmarthenshire and the monumental Pembroke Castle, birthplace of Henry VII.
Food and Drink
The culinary scene in West Wales is thriving. Sample fresh seafood in coastal towns like Tenby and Saundersfoot. Visit local farmers' markets in Carmarthen and Swansea for artisanal cheeses, meats, and vegetables. Don’t miss the opportunity to try traditional Welsh dishes such as cawl (a hearty soup) and bara brith (spiced fruit bread). Wash it down with a pint of Welsh ale from one of the region's many microbreweries.
Arts and Crafts
West Wales is a creative hub. Visit the many art galleries and craft shops in towns like Cardigan and Narberth. The National Wool Museum in Drefach showcases traditional and contemporary textile arts. Attend workshops at local studios to learn pottery, weaving, and other crafts. The area's vibrant arts festivals, such as the Fishguard International Music Festival, celebrate local and international talent.
Wildlife Watching
Wildlife enthusiasts will find plenty to see in West Wales. The Pembrokeshire Coast National Park is home to a variety of seabirds, including puffins and razorbills. Take a boat trip to spot dolphins and porpoises off the coast. Inland, the forests and rivers are habitats for otters, badgers, and red kites. The Teifi Marshes Nature Reserve offers guided walks and bird watching hides for an immersive experience.
West Wales Awaits!
From its awe-inspiring coastlines and historic sites to its vibrant culture and thrilling outdoor activities, West Wales offers lot’s of different experiences that captivate and inspire. Whether you’re an adventurer, a history buff, or simply seeking a little bit of tranquillity, this region has something for everyone.