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WWT National Wetland Centre Wales
Stretching over 450 acres on the Burry Inlet, this magnificent mosaic of lakes, pools and lagoons is home to countless wild species as diverse as dragonflies and Little Egrets. Plus over 650 of some of the world’s most spectacular ducks, geese, swans and flamingos, many so tame they feed from the hand. Families can have hours of fun in...
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National Waterfront Museum
The National Waterfront Museum at Swansea tells the story of industry and innovation in Wales, now and over the last 300 years. Our vast industrial and maritime heritage is ready to explore via cutting-edge, interactive technology married with traditional displays. It means a unique, captivating and involved visitor experience lies in wait at...
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Cefn Coed Colliery Museum
Located near the village of Crynant in the Dulais Valley five miles north of Neath, the museum tells the story of coal mining at the Cefn Coed Colliery, once the deepest anthracite coal mine in the world. Cefn Coed was one of the most dangerous coalmines in Wales where many men lost their lives in dangerous working conditions gaining the colliery...
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Margam Country Park
Margam Country Park is open all year round so you will always find something to make the visit worthwhile whatever the season. Steeped in history, wildlife and natural beauty, there’s something for everyone at Margam Country Park. The magnificent Margam Castle, Orangery with ornamental gardens and Deer Park, are set within 1000 acres of...
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The National Showcaves Centre for Wales - Swansea
Created 350 Million years ago, the National Showcaves Centre for Wales, is situated in the Brecon Beacons National Park and was recently voted Britain's Finest Natural Wonder. With 10 differnt attractions on the one ticket there is plenty to do and see for all ages! There are ten attractions all included in the one entry ticket, a great...
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Dinefwr Park and Castle
National Nature Reserve, historic house and 18th-century landscape park, enclosing a medieval deer park A magical land of power and influence for more than 2,000 years, Dinefwr is an iconic place in the history of Wales. Two forts are evidence of a dominant Roman presence. The powerful Lord Rhys held court at Dinefwr and influenced decisions in...
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Dolaucothi Gold Mines
These unique gold mines are set amid wooded hillsides overlooking the beautiful Cothi Valley. 2,000 years ago, the powerful Romans left behind a glimpse of gold-mining methods. The harsh mining environment continued in the 19th and 20th centuries, ending in 1938. Guided tours take you back to experience the conditions of the Roman,...
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Tudor Merchant's House
Step back 500 years and discover how the Tudor merchant and his family would have lived in this fascinating three-storey house, situated close to the harbour within the historic walled town of Tenby. Features of the house include a fine 'Flemish' round chimney and the original scarfed roof trusses. Note : no toilet. Don't miss Ask the staff...
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Carew Castle and Tidal Mill
The magnificent Carew Castle has a history spanning 2000 years. Set in a stunning location, overlooking a 23 acre millpond, the castle displays the development from a Norman fortification to an Elizabethan country house. The site incorporates an impressive 11th century Celtic Cross, the only restored Tidal Mill in Wales, a medieval bridge and a...
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Old Beaupre Castle - Cowbridge
Beaupre Castle near Cowbridge is a Medieval Manor house that was modified during the Tudor period and includes a magnificently carved Renaissance porch. Much of Beaupre is ruined, but the exceptional three-storey gatehouse and porch are well preserved. The cluster of buildings surround an inner courtyard and the 14th Century hall boasts an...
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St Quentin's Castle - Llanblethian
Impressive remains of a large 14th Century castle. The castle includes a massive twin-towered gatehouse. It is believed that the majority of the castle was built by Gilbert de Clare (the Last, d. 1314). Also known as Llanblethian Castle. Parking: Free Open: All year, 10am to 4pm daily. Charges: Free admission
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Watermouth Castle - Ilfracombe
Overlooking the picturesque Watermouth Cove, Watermouth Castle Offers a unique and fun day out, with attractions and entertainment for all ages. Enter the Castle's Great Hall with its magnificent suits of armour, classic handcarts and sporting trophies. Then step back in time to enjoy some of the simple pleasures of Victorian life, nostalgic...
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Ilfracombe Aquarium
Ilfracombe Aquarium is an award-winning, all-weather, educational attraction located in the Old Lifeboat House alongside Ilfracombe’s picturesque and historic harbour. The town is found on the dramatic North Devon coast 20 minutes drive from Barnstaple, set amongst the North Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). The aquarium...
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Castell Coch - Cardiff
Late nineteenth-century 'fairytale'-style castle, built on medieval remains, designed for the third marquess of Bute by William Burges. Lavishly decorated and furnished in the Victorian Gothic style; a Romantic vision of the Middle Ages. OS map 171: ST 131826 Site exhibition, audio tour, parking, toilets, cafe, shop, guidebook, baby changing...
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Fonmon Castle Park and Gardens
Situated on one of Wales' most historical castle and grounds, Fonmon has now opened a fun family attraction that gives your children adventure from Dinosaurs to Dragons, Fairies to Medieval and a whole load of outdoor fun and adventure. Parks, woodlands walks and cafes. This unique 12th century castle is home to an exciting outdoors...
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Caerphilly Castle
Caerphilly Castle is one of the great medieval castles of western Europe. Several factors give it this pre-eminence - its immense size (1.2h), making it the largest in Britain after Windsor, its large-scale use of water for defence and the fact that it is the first truly concentric castle in Britain. Of the time of its building in the late 13th...
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Museum of Welsh Life - Cardiff
A walk around Wales – from Celtic times to the present day. St Fagans is one of Europe's leading open–air museums and Wales's most popular heritage attraction. Before visiting why not watch our taster video and see the magic of St Fagans for yourself. Open to the public since 1 November 1948, the museum stands in the grounds of...
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Pembroke Castle
Idyllically set on the banks of the river estuary, this mighty fortress is largely intact, and its endless passages, tunnels and stairways are great fun to explore, plus there are super exhibitions, which tell the tale of its medieval life. Once the seat of a succession of major barons who played leading roles in shaping Britain's history, this...
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Castell Henllys Iron Age Hill Fort
Step back in time at Castell Henllys, a unique Iron Age hill fort recreated with fantastic replica Iron Age roundhouses, built right on top of the excavated remains of an existing hill fort, dating back 2,400 years. A Scheduled Ancient Monument, Castell Henllys is one of many prehistoric promontory forts in the National Park dating to around...
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Arlington Court
Arlington Court is an unexpected jewel: a complete family estate. The intimate Regency house contains treasures for all tastes, from model ships to shells, all collected by the Chichesters. Offering incident and contrast, the 19th-century picturesque garden is a perfect place to explore, picnic or play. The walled kitchen garden provides...
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Cardiff Castle
C ardiff Castle is one of Wales's leading tourist attractions. Situated in the very heart of the capital, alongside city centre shopping and the magnificent Bute Park, the Castle's enchanting fairytale towers conceal an elaborate and splendid interior. Contained within its mighty walls is a history spanning nearly 2,000 years, dating from...
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National Museum of Wales
Discover art, archaeology and the geological evolution of Wales. With a busy programme of exhibitions and events, we have something to amaze everyone, whatever your interest – and admission is free! Although not the oldest of Amgueddfa Cymru – National Museum Wales’s buildings, this is the first location of the National Museum...
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Cosmeston Medieval Village
One of the most exciting heritage projects in South Wales, Cosmeston Medieval Village lets you step back in time to see, touch, and even smell how life was in 14th century Wales. Meet the villagers, all dressed in period costume, and experience how they lived. Take a tour, book a party or enjoy one of the special events that take place throughout...
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Dunster Castle - Minehead
The red turrets and towers of Dunster Castle rising up from their wooded perch is a dramatic spectacle for any visitor. Drama that is mirrored in the castle's history, more than 1,000 years of turmoil and change. Come and visit to find out more about the families of Dunster Castle, marvell at the beautiful interiors, enjoy the depths of the...
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DUNSTER YARN MARKET
This fine 17th century timber-framed octagonal market hall is a monument to Dunster's once-flourishing cloth trade. Managed by The National Trust. Read more about the history of the Yarn Market. BEFORE YOU GO Parking: Charged parking is available within the village (car park postcode TA24 6SE), not managed by English Heritage. ...
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DUNSTER BUTTER CROSS
Set on the outskirts of the charming village of Dunster, this transplanted stump of a medieval stone cross was once a meeting place for butter-sellers. Managed by The National Trust. Read more about the history of the Butter Cross. BEFORE YOU GO Parking: Charged parking is available within the village (car park postcode TA24 6SE), not...
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DUNSTER GALLOX BRIDGE
This late medieval stone bridge - originally 'gallows bridge' - across the River Avill once carried packhorses bringing fleeces from Exmoor to the Somerset market town of Dunster. The town had become a centre of the wool trade by the 13th century, when it was the main source of England's wealth. Managed by the National Trust. Read more...
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Cardigan Heritage Centre
Trace the history of Cardigan from pre-Norman times to the present day in this 18th century warehouse at Teifi Wharf which is managed by Cardigan's historic society, Hanes Aberteifi. Opened in June 1997, Cardigan Heritage Centre is housed in a Grade 2 listed building on the banks of the river Teifi. The ...
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Penarth Pier
Built in 1894, and opened a year later, the 658-foot-long Penarth Pier is reminiscent of more gentle times and is one of only two surviving pleasure piers in south Wales, the other being Mumbles. History of the Pier In 1907 a wooden pavilion was built at the seaward end that became a dance hall. In 1929 the existing pavilion entrance was built....
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Big Pit National Mining Museum
Big Pit is a real coal mine and one of Britain's leading mining museums. With facilities to educate and entertain all ages, Big Pit is an exciting and informative day out. Enjoy a multi-media tour of a modern coal mine with a virtual miner in the Mining Galleries, exhibitions in the Pithead Baths and Historic colliery buildings open to the public...
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Clovelly Village - Bideford
The cobbled, traffic-free, high street of this world famous fishing village, built into a cleft in a 400' high cliff, tumbles its way down past whitewashed cottages festooned with flowers to the tiny working port. It is famous for its donkeys, which traditionally carry goods up the hill; sledges bring things down. There are links with Charles...
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DAWS CASTLE
The clifftop fortress of Daws Castle was founded by King Alfred to defend the people of Watchet against Viking attacks. BEFORE YOU GO Access: The walk from Watchet is challenging, so we recommend wearing sturdy footwear. The site is exposed with no shelter. Parking: Paid parking is available in Watchet. How to Find it: From Watchet...
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CLEEVE ABBEY
In Washford lies one of the undiscovered jewels of Somerset, providing an interesting day out for families and budding historians alike. The Cistercian abbey of Cleeve is a haven of peace and tranquillity, said to contain the finest cloister buildings in England. Visitors today can catch a glimpse of monastic life 800 years ago; although the...
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Cobbaton Combat Collection - Umberleigh
The Collection ranges from tanks to song sheets, mostly WW2. Some 60 vehicles and artillery pieces, and thousands of smaller exhibits. Two hangars house the military displays of tanks and vehicles. A new building has wartime British civilian life displays. Mail order sales of militaria and collectables. Admission charges Adults...
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Newport Museum and Art Gallery
Since 1888 Newport Museum and Art Gallery has been collecting evidence of Newport’s history, culture and environment. Archaeology The archaeology collections span over 100 years of collecting and represent thousands of years of human activity in and around Newport. The oldest objects date to the Prehistoric periods before people could...
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Abergavenny Museum & Castle
Abergavenny Museum is housed in a Regency hunting lodge set within the ruins of a Norman castle. As the seat of the medieval lords of Abergavenny, the castle was the focus for over three centuries of border warfare. In 1175 it was the scene of the infamous massacre of the Welsh chieftains by the Norman Lord, William de Braose. The museum houses...
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Hartland Abbey And Gardens - Bideford
Only one mile from Hartland Quay, Hartland Abbey lies across a narrow, sheltered valley which winds its way to the spectacular Atlantic Coast. Within a designated ‘Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty’ visitors may wander around the beautiful gardens and grounds...
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This section covers castles and stately homes in the Swansea Region, these historic buildings usually date back hundreds even thousands of years and are real educational experiences for the whole family. Topics covered include the middle ages, political and royalty evolution spanning time and history. Or just a great day out at lush tree lined grounds and flowered gardens and take in the sights of wonderful buildings and castles. Tours of these buildings are widely available and worth consideration for an in depth knowledge of the sites you wish to visit. Some sites like stately homes have gardens, animals and lots of other things to see and do. We provide information on castles and stately homes by county, city or by activity. Please use the home page map for county level castles and stately homes browsing. If you cannot find what castles and stately homes you like by city level here, please use the home page search box for more detailed searching castles and stately homes options.