Discovering Wales

Discovering Wales

Coastline, Castles & Churches

Wales · EuropePublished October 2026
Introduction

Discover Wales through dramatic coastlines, towering castles, ancient churches and landscapes steeped in legend. From Eryri's majestic mountains to colourful seaside towns and secluded estuaries, this journey uncovers a country where history, culture and natural beauty meet at every turn.

Chester & Chester Cathedral

Chester offers a fascinating introduction to Britain's past, with Roman walls, distinctive black-and-white buildings and historic streets. At its heart, Chester Cathedral reveals centuries of religious heritage through magnificent Gothic architecture, intricate carvings and peaceful medieval cloisters.

Eryri National Park

Eryri, formerly known in English as Snowdonia, is a breathtaking landscape of rugged mountains, glacial valleys, tranquil lakes and ancient woodland. Beyond its spectacular scenery lies a living Welsh culture, shaped by generations of farming, quarrying and mountain life.

Caernarfon Castle

Few Welsh landmarks capture medieval power quite like Caernarfon Castle. Its immense walls, imposing towers and distinctive coloured stone tell a story of conquest, resistance and royal ambition, making this formidable fortress an unforgettable encounter with Welsh history.

Portmeirion

Portmeirion is a colourful architectural fantasy on the North Wales coast, where Italianate buildings, elegant arches and subtropical gardens overlook a peaceful estuary. Created by Sir Clough Williams-Ellis, this extraordinary village feels like stepping into another world.

A country where history, culture and natural beauty meet at every turn.

St David's Cathedral

Hidden within a sheltered valley in Britain's smallest city, St David's Cathedral is one of Wales's most significant religious landmarks. Its ancient stonework, remarkable history and peaceful surroundings recall centuries of pilgrimage and devotion to the patron saint of Wales.

Carew Castle

Overlooking a tranquil millpond in the Pembrokeshire countryside, Carew Castle combines the imposing remains of a medieval fortress with the elegance of an Elizabethan mansion. Nearby, the historic tidal mill adds another fascinating chapter to this picturesque landscape.

Tenby

With its pastel-coloured buildings, bustling harbour and sweeping sandy beaches, Tenby is one of Wales's most appealing coastal towns. Yet beyond its holiday atmosphere lie medieval defences, maritime traditions and centuries of history shaped by its strategic position beside the sea.

Manorbier Castle

Set amid rolling countryside close to a beautiful sandy bay, Manorbier Castle is among Pembrokeshire's most picturesque fortresses. Its towers, curtain walls and surviving buildings offer an intimate glimpse into medieval life, where domestic comfort and military defence existed side by side.

Laugharne

Laugharne is a picturesque estuary town where literary heritage meets medieval history. Best known as the home of poet Dylan Thomas, it offers winding streets, a historic castle and sweeping views across the Taf estuary, creating an atmosphere of timeless Welsh charm.

Rhossili

At the western tip of the Gower Peninsula, Rhossili reveals one of Britain's most spectacular coastal landscapes. Vast sandy beaches, towering cliffs and distant Worm's Head combine to create a breathtaking panorama where changing skies and restless seas continually transform the view.

Ogmore Castle

Set beside the River Ogmore amid open countryside, Ogmore Castle offers a quieter encounter with Wales's medieval past. Established during the Norman expansion into south Wales, its weathered ruins reveal how fortifications controlled river crossings, protected territory and shaped life along this historic frontier.

Watch

The Discovering Wales video

Press play to open the playlist on YouTube.

Watch on YouTube
Discovering Wales travel guide cover
Read

Take the full travel guide with you

The downloadable travel guide provides a detailed commentary along with a collection of pictures. The guide is intended to inform and encourage you.

Where to go
next.

Travel guides, magazines and articles delivered to your inbox a few times a year. Keep in touch and keep informed.

The Newsletter
Subscribe here for our latest travel updates.
© 2026 The Where To Go. All articles by the editor.
Documentary travel · est. 2022