What do you need for a perfect family holiday? It could be sandy beaches, challenging hikes and stunning countryside walks. Or bustling towns and villages, with loads to see and do — and plenty to eat and drink, as well!
Wales ticks all those boxes, and more.
For adventure, head north to Snowdonia National Park. There’s 14 peaks to explore with rafting, abseiling, mountain biking and even surfing available for the whole family. Further south, the Brecon Beacons is a much-needed breath of fresh air, while Cardiff offers entertainment, shopping and great food all at an affordable price.
Just a train or car journey away, Wales is a top choice for a family holiday in the UK...
Seaside towns don’t come much prettier than Tenby, in the Welsh south west. With brightly painted houses and emerald waters, on a good day it can feel more like an Italian coast than a British one!
But north Wales is known for its beaches, too. A little more rugged and windswept, Whistling Sands and Splash Point are perfect for family days out with miles of open sand (great if you’re bringing the pooch along, too).
And surfers should head to Pembrokshire to catch the best waves.
There are 67 nature reserves across Wales — an incredible number for a reasonably small country. Bird spotters will love a trip to Bwlch Nant yr Arian Forest in Mid Wales, where iconic Red Kites cruise the skies.
But on ground-level there’s a long list of wildlife to look out for, too. See red squirrels in the northern island of Anglesey, or dolphins and porpoises in Cardigan Bay.
Looking for the best castles in Wales? You won’t struggle to find them...
Wales has more castles per square mile than any other country in the world.
If you’re tackling Mount Snowdon on your trip, take a day to stretch your legs around Cowny Castle, a jaw-dropping medieval fortress dating back 700 years. Or if you’re staying in the capital, Cardiff Castle provides an amazing bird’s eye view over the city — a great way to get your bearings before exploring what’s below.
If you’re seeking sunshine and action, June to August are Wales’ warmest months and are when most major events take place across the country.
Alternatively, for a relaxing retreat with fewer tourists, the spring months of April and May are a good time to squeeze in a weekend break and get Wales’s natural beauty all to yourselves. Similarly, there’s plenty to do in Cardiff and its surrounding areas during the winter. You’re much more likely to snag a great deal during the “off-season”, too.
If you plan on walking and hiking around any national park or nature reserve, t-shirts, warm jumpers and waterproofs are a must — you never know what the British weather will bring!
It’s easy to get to and around Wales by train, bus or even domestic flight.
If you’re keen to sightsee, you can tick off several local hotspots in a day by hiring or taking your own car— and the drives between are a sightseeing experience of their own!
Popular family holiday discounts
A selection of the best family holiday types
