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Wales Holidays 2024/2025
Wales Holiday Guide
Nestled on the western edge of the UK, Wales is a gem just waiting to be explored. From its stunning natural landscapes to its rich cultural heritage, Wales offers a delightful holiday experience, whether you seek adventure in the great outdoors, a taste of history and tradition, or a relaxing escape at a spa hotel, Wales has it all. In this guide, we'll show you how to get to and around Wales, highlight some must-do activities, suggest great places to stay including some of the fantastic holiday cottages in Wales, and introduce you to the diverse range of accommodation options available. Get ready for a memorable Welsh getaway!
Popular hotels and holiday parks in Wales
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Haven Kiln ParkTenby
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The Parkgate HotelCardiff
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Haven Hafan Y MorNear Pwllheli
Getting to, from and around Wales
Getting to Wales is a breeze for UK residents. You can drive from most major cities, such as London, Birmingham, or Manchester, in just a few hours. The road network is well-maintained, and you'll enjoy scenic drives as you approach your destination.
Public Transport
If you prefer public transport, trains and buses connect major cities and towns in Wales with the rest of the UK. Cardiff, the capital, and Swansea are key transport hubs.
Getting Around
Once you're in Wales, the best way to explore is by car or public transport. Trains and buses cover most regions, with the scenic train journeys being particularly noteworthy. Alternatively, hire a bicycle or explore on foot, taking advantage of the numerous hiking trails and paths that crisscross this picturesque land.
Things to do in Wales
Wales is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. The Brecon Beacons beckon with its lush valleys, while the rugged mountains of Snowdonia National Park offer some of the UK's finest hiking and rock climbing opportunities. Both offer incredible opportunities for stargazing, and in particular Eryri National Park (Snowdonia) as it is an official Dark Sky Reserve.
For history buffs, Wales boasts an abundance of castles. Conwy, Caernarfon, and Cardiff Castle are just a few of the many that provide a glimpse into the country's medieval past. Don't miss the opportunity to learn about Welsh culture at St. Fagans National Museum, an open-air museum showcasing historic buildings and traditions.
If you're a fan of coastal beauty, Wales has over 870 miles of stunning coastline for you to discover. The Pembrokeshire Coast National Park offers dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, and vibrant marine life, making it an ideal spot for kayaking, coasteering, and wildlife watching. There are plenty of sandy beaches to build sandcastles on too.
Wales is also famous for its festivals and events, including the Hay Festival of Literature & Arts and the National Eisteddfod of Wales, a celebration of Welsh music, poetry, and performance.
Where to stay in Wales
Wales offers a diverse range of accommodation options to suit all tastes and budgets. In the cities, you'll find modern hotels ranging from luxury establishments to charming boutique B&Bs. Cardiff, Swansea, and Bangor offer a vibrant urban experience, with plenty of dining and entertainment options.
For a more immersive experience, consider staying in a traditional Welsh cottage or farmhouse. These quaint accommodations provide a cozy and authentic atmosphere, often with stunning rural views. You can find them in picturesque settings throughout the countryside, especially in areas like Snowdonia and the Brecon Beacons.
If you're seeking something truly unique, why not try glamping? Wales boasts a variety of glamping sites, from safari tents to yurts, where you can enjoy the beauty of nature without sacrificing comfort.
For those on a tighter budget, hostels and guesthouses are widespread, providing affordable yet comfortable options for travellers. Camping and caravan sites are also available, allowing you to get close to nature in some of the most beautiful spots in Wales.
Accommodation Types
Bed & Breakfasts
Welsh guesthouses and bed-and-breakfasts provide a warm, personal touch. They're often family-run and offer a taste of local hospitality.
Holiday Cottages
Traditional Wales holiday cottages are perfect for a cozy, self catering experience. Many often come with beautiful gardens and scenic surroundings, and help you settle in like a local. Some even have a hot tub to relax in the outdoors. One of the benefits of a staycation is that you can bring your dog, and some cottages are also pet friendly.
Glamping
Glamorous camping, or glamping, is a popular choice for those who want to connect with nature without sacrificing comfort. Choose from yurts, safari tents, or treehouses. You'll find many unusual stays on the likes of Airbnb or Booking.com too.
Holiday Parks
There are some absolutely fantastic holiday parks in Wales, many with plenty of entertainment and activities. Haven Hafan y Mor, located near Pwllheli in North Wales, is a very popular choice with a brilliant mini indoor water park, and certainly worth taking a look at for a fun-filled, family holiday.