Looking to visit Wales’s most stunning locations? Then look no further than our guide to the famous landmarks in Wales!
Whether you fancy hiking through mountainous landscapes, exploring magnificent castles, or soaking up the beauty of the coast. You are sure to find what you’re looking for.
Keep reading to discover more about the famous landmarks in Wales…
Historic Landmarks
Set in the heart of Wales’s bustling capital of Cardiff is the magnificent Cardiff Castle. Originally built in the 11th century, this motte and bailey castle boasts over 2,000 years of history.
Throughout time, the castle has housed Roman soldiers, knights, and the Bute Family. Its tunnels were even used as shelters during the Second World War!
You can explore the castles opulent interiors, created by the great architect William Burges. Expect to see rich colours, stained glass windows, and intricate murals.
As well as tours, the castle frequently hosts a variety of events. These include concerts, family events, and re-enactments. Performers at the castle this year include Tom Jones, Westlife and Sting.
Perched in the coastal town of Conwy along the river, is the magnificent Conwy Castle. The castle has a rich 700 year history and is one of the most complete in Wales.
Conwy Castle was originally built over the course of four years from 1283-1287 by King Edward and architect Master James of St George.
During your visit, you can explore the castles eight towers which offer superb views out over the River Conwy. You can even catch a glimpse of the rugged mountains of Snowdonia National Park!
From this famous landmark in Wales, you can continue soaking up the views from the Conwy Castle Walls. They stretch for 1.2km and are completely free to walk!
Next up on our guide to famous landmarks in Wales is the iconic Caernarfon Castle. The castle was also constructed by King Edward and Master James of St George over 47 years.
Despite its complete exterior, the interior didn’t survive the great battle led by Madog ap Llewelyn in 1294. It was then later attacked a further three times during the English Civil War.
Fast forward to the present and Caernarfon Castle has gained World Heritage status. Cementing its reputation as one of the most famous landmarks in Wales.
After visiting the castle, you can enjoy leisurely strolls along the Afon Seiont. Or continue delving into history at the Royal Welch Fusiliers Museum and the Segontium Roman Fort.
Perched in the charming town of Caerphilly in South Wales, is the grand Caerphilly Castle.
Built in the 13th century by Gilbert de Clare, the castle has gained its status as the second largest castle in Britain, after Windsor Castle.
Gilbert designed the castle as a defence against the Welsh prince, Llywelyn ap Gruffudd. And to maintain English hold over Glamorgan. It was the first castle of its kind in Britain with its concentric design.
Today, you can explore the castle which houses two exhibits detailing its rich history. As well as the Great Hall, which houses past residents’ family crests.
This magnificent castle has also been the filming location for a variety of films and TV shows. Including Dr Who, Merlin, and Wolf Hall.
Tucked away in the bustling market town of Welshpool, is the beautiful Powis Castle and Garden. Brought to life in the 13th century by Prince Gruffudd ap Gwenwynwyn, the castle was home to the Herbert family who have lived here since the 1570’s.
Now maintained by the National Trust, you can tour the castles decadent interior which includes the families vast collection of paintings, sculptures, and furniture and textiles from India, Europe, and South and East Asia.
Just as lovely as the interior are the castle’s Grade I gardens. Wander through the 18th-century Orangery, enjoy the soothing surroundings of the Fountain Garden, or explore The Edwardian Formal Garden.
If you fancy exploring the woodlands, head to the Wilderness, a wooded ridge set opposite the castle. Here, you can enjoy woodland walks, enjoy views from the Great Lawn, and spot the local wildlife at the Stable Pond.
After all that exploring, why not enjoy a tasty homemade lunch or a slice of cake in the Courtyard Cafe?
Taking centre stage in Britain’s smallest city of St David’s, is the stunning St David’s Cathedral. Named after Wales’s patron saint who once lived in the city, St David’s Cathedral is one of Wales’s most famous landmarks.
Several older cathedrals were built on this site before St David’s Cathedral in the 12th century. These were unfortunately destroyed during attacks by The Vikings.
So what makes St David’s Cathedral so special? It was constructed using a local stone providing it with its iconic dusky purple colouring. As well as being the resting place for St David after his passing.
If you can’t get enough of the city’s history, head to the neighbouring St David’s Bishop’s Palace, or enjoy an array of artwork at Oriel y Parc.
The next addition to our famous landmarks in Wales blog is the one and only Beaumaris Castle.
It is often referred to as ‘the greatest castle that was never built’ and is the last of Edward I and James of St George’s creations.
Sadly, the castle was never completed due to troubles in Scotland and lack of money. Despite this, it is considered to have one of the most technically perfect concentric castle designs in the world.
As well as some of the best views thanks to its location overlooking the Menai Strait.
After exploring the castle, you are ideally located for visiting some of Beaumaris’ best attractions, including Beaumaris Gaol and Court, Beaumaris Courthouse Museum, and Seacoast Safaris, where you can embark on a boat trip to Puffin Island.
Across the banks of the Menai Strait, you will find our next famous landmark in Wales, Plas Newydd House and Gardens. This awe-inspiring country house was once home to the Marquess of Anglesey, and enjoys incomparable views of Snowdonia.
Explore the home’s grand interior, where you can get up close with Rex Whistler’s famous fantasy mural, and tour the military museum inspired by the Battle of Waterloo.
Outside, be sure to check out the picturesque Grade I listed gardens where you will find 40 acres to discover.
You can choose from Italianate Terraces, a spring garden, Australasian Arboretum, and the Rhododendron Garden to explore. You may even spot the resident grey squirrels!
Throughout the 129-acre woodland and parkland, you will also find the Dairy Wood Play Area, The Old Dairy Cafe, and The Old Dairy Shop, where you can pick up a souvenir.
If you’re continuing your tour of Wales’s best castles, then be sure to check out Chirk Castle in Wrexham.
The castle is set within 480 acres of parkland, featuring 5.5 acres of award-winning gardens with exceptional views looking out to the Cheshire and Shropshire Planes.
During a visit to this 13th century castle, you can explore dungeons, rooms of the Myddleton family, and medieval towers offering superb views.
The castle makes for a wonderful family day out, with two play areas at the estates Home Farm on offer for the little ones to enjoy. As well as a shop, a second-hand bookshop, and cafe available.
The estate is a part of the scenic 177-mile Offa’s Dyke National Trail, so keen walkers and cyclists can easily embark on hikes from this famous landmark in Wales.
Settled in Llandygai, Bangor, in between Snowdonia and the Menai Strait, is the fascinating Penrhyn Castle.
Surrounded by 60 acres of parkland, garden and woodland, with views of the Snowdonia Mountains, Penrhyn Castle is truly a magical place to visit!
Outside, you can take in the beauty of the Walled Garden and Bog Garden, whilst listening to the tranquil sounds of the fountains and spotting wildlife in the ponds. There is also a Natural Woodland Play Area to keep the little ones occupied!
Inside the large 19th-century castle, you can explore Victorian Kitchens, staff quarters, and the Railway Museum. Followed by a bite to eat at both the Castle and Stable Cafes.
Settled above the dunes and looking out over the Irish Sea is the imposing Harlech Castle. Another of Edward I and Master James of St Georges’ creations during Edwards I’s invasion of Wales.
Harlech Castle has arguably the most beautiful setting out of all of Edward I’s castles. Perfectly blending its coastal setting with the rugged peaks of Snowdon which make up the castle’s spectacular backdrop.
During the attack of Madog ap Llewelyn, the castle was cut off, but defenders used their proximity to the sea to their advantage. Using the path of 108 steps which rise up the rock face, they were able to be fed and watered by ship.
Don’t fear, you don’t have to climb the steps if you want to visit the castle. It is now accessed via a ‘floating footbridge’, and has been used as a filming location for Macbeth and Map Man.
Settled on a headland with sweeping sea views is the impressive Criccieth Castle. Built in the 13th century by Llywelyn the Great, it was improved over time by his grandson, Llywelyn the Last.
It was later taken over during the invasion of Edward I, and remained in English hands when it was attacked by Prince Owain Glyndŵr who burnt the towers red.
Step back in time and explore the fascinating castle ruins, check out the display in the visitor centre, and soak up the breath-taking views overlooking the town and Cardigan Bay. It is not to be missed!
This next addition to our famous landmarks in Wales is not to be missed, the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct.
An UNESCO World Heritage site stretching for 11 miles across the Llangollen Canal, this historic monument is some of the finest engineering by Thomas Telford.
It is also famed for being the tallest aqueduct in the world! You can enjoy leisurely strolls with your loved ones as you take in the tranquil scenery of the Dee Valley. Or take advantage of the boat trips on offer, where you can sit back and relax at 126ft high.
The aqueduct benefits from being surrounded by some superb attractions which you can explore afterwards. Including the grand Trevor Hall, Chirk Castle, and Castell Dinas Brân.
Natural Landmarks
The next addition to our list is quite possibly one of the most famous landmarks in Wales, Snowdonia National Park. The National Park spans 823 miles and encompasses nine mountain ranges and 23 miles of coastline.
Get ready for incomparable scenery, scenic hiking and cycling trails, wildlife rich landscapes, and excellent watersports opportunities on vast lakes.
If you’re feeling up to the challenge, you can take on the world-famous Snowdon (Yr Wyddfa). The mountains summit can be accessed via six different paths, including the renowned Watkin Path.
If you don’t feel up to the hike, you can hop aboard the Snowdonia Mountain Railway in Llanberis which will take you up to the summit.
Explore the very best of the Snowdonia National Park, where you’ll find the key attractions of Zip World Llechwedd in Blauenau Ffestiniog, Zip World Fforest in Betws-y-Coed, and Llyn Tegid in Bala.
15. The Llyn Peninsula
Craving the sights and sounds of the coast? Look no further than Wales’s stunning Llŷn Peninsula. A designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, it is not hard to see why so many visitors flock here every year.
Experience its beauty by embarking on a hike along the renowned Wales Coast Path. Stretching from Chester to Chepstow for 870 miles, the path ensures you don’t miss out on Wales’s charming coastal villages, heritage sites, and coastal scenery.
Learn more about this famous path with our guide to exploring the Wales Coast Path.
Some of our favourite places to visit along the Llŷn Peninsula include, Aberaeron, Nefyn, Abersoch, Pwllheli, and Criccieth. All of which have beautiful beaches, waterside eateries, and historic sites.
Next up on our most famous landmarks in Wales list is the magnificent Brecon Beacons National Park. A hub of activity offering something for everyone.
You can enjoy exploring the park on horseback with over 600 miles of paths and tracks, where you may even be able to catch a glimpse of the local wildlife as you ride.
If fishing is more your thing, you will be spoilt for choice with the variety of rivers, canals, and lakes on offer. As well as fishing, there is a fantastic choice of watersports on offer in the park, from paddleboarding to kayaking. Or if you’re feeling adventurous, white water rafting!
The activities don’t stop after dark, with exceptional stargazing on offer. The Brecon Beacons National Park became the first Dark Sky Reserve in Wales, with some of the best spots including the Usk Reservoir and Llanthony Priory.
Explore Wales’s great outdoors with a day spent exploring the Cambrian Mountains. Ideally located for exploring Wales’s three National Parks, as well as the Shropshire Hills AONB.
There is plenty to see and do within the park, from beautiful trails, including the challenging Glyndŵr’s Way stretching for 135 miles, and the Cambrian Way.
If you came for the views, follow one of five trails to the summit of Pumlumon Fawr, where you can take in panoramic views of Wales for miles.
Whilst those seeking out a slice of Cambrian history can visit the Soar y Mynydd, the most remote chapel in Wales, and Strata Florida Abbey near Pontrhydfendigaid.
When the night rolls in, the sky comes alive in the Cambrian Mountains, thanks to its dark sky status. Lucky visitors have even caught glimpses of the Northern Lights!
Next up is the stunning Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, spanning 186 miles and renowned for its beauty.
Look forward to taking in the sea views as you enjoy a clifftop walk or a stroll along the Pembrokeshire Coastal Path. There’s plenty of wildlife to spot along the way!
You’ll also find excellent watersports opportunities, where you can take to the waters on canoe, kayak and paddleboard.
If you’d prefer something a little more leisurely, this National Park is renowned for its gorgeous beaches which wouldn’t look out of place abroad.
There are plenty of idyllic towns and villages to visit during your time here, including St Davids, Broad Haven, Solva, and Abercastle.
19. The Isle of Anglesey Coastal Path
If you’re wanting to explore the very best of Anglesey, then what better way than the Isle of Anglesey Coastal Path?
You can follow the path for 125 miles, where you can explore a variety of landscapes, and pit stop at some of Anglesey’s most picturesque towns and villages. Including Beaumaris, Benllech, Cemaes Bay, and Holyhead.
Wildlife enthusiasts will delight at the path’s route, as it takes you through the popular RSPB South Stack Nature Reserve, where you can spot a wealth of birdlife.
Be sure to bring your binoculars as grey seals and dolphins have been known to frequent the waters below!
Other Famous Landmarks in Wales
Nestled in the bustling city centre of Cardiff, you’ll find the Wales Millennium Centre. A cultural hub bringing the very best of theatre, opera, ballet, comedy, and music to South Wales!
Before your performance, you can enjoy a bite to eat or a glass of wine at Caffi or Bar One, the latter of which has views over Cardiff Bay. Alternatively, there is the popular, outdoor Teras Bar, serving drinks and street food.
This year’s performances include Jersey Boys, The Bodyguard, and The Ocean At The End Of The Lane.
Perched in the idyllic Camarthenshire village of Llanarthne, is the popular National Botanic Garden of Wales.
Spanning for 568 acres, you can look forward to exploring formal gardens, including Japanese and Botanic Gardens. As well as woodlands speckled with lakes.
Not forgetting the impressive glasshouse designed by Lord Foster which sits at its heart and is home to some of the most endangered plants in the world.
The gardens are also home to The British Bird of Prey Centre, where you can expect to see Golden eagles, Red kites, and Peregrines soaring the skies! For more information, check out our guide to The National Botanic Garden of Wales.
22. Swallow Falls
Venture into the Snowdonia National Park, where you will discover our next famous landmark in Wales, Swallow Falls. Otherwise known as Rhaeadr Ewynnol.
Ideally located on the outskirts of the pretty village of Betws-y-Coed and near the Gwydir Forest Park, Swallow Falls is a must-visit during your stay in North Wales.
Follow The Swallow Falls Trail along the River Llugwy and through the woodland up to the viewpoint, where you can sit and admire the falls from above.
After your hike, return to the village to refuel with a Cadwaladers ice cream, or home-cooked pizza at Hangin’ Pizzeria.
For any budding gardeners, Bodnant Garden should definitely be on your itinerary when visiting North Wales.
This famous landmark in Wales is renowned for its Grade I listed, 80 acre gardens. Within them you will find the beautiful Victorian East Garden, where you can admire rose beds speckled along the Edwardian Italianate Terraces.
Along with the Arboretum, where you can enjoy woodland strolls surrounded by exotic trees, and the Meadows where you can enjoy views over the riverside garden.
You will also find impressive architecture speckled throughout the gardens, including the Grade II listed Pin Mill, the Georgian Old Mill, and a Victorian mausoleum.
Did we mention it also enjoys a breath-taking backdrop of the Carneddau mountains?
24. South Stack Lighthouse
Settled on the north-west coast of Holyhead, Anglesey, is this historic South Stack Lighthouse and Visitor Centre. Built in 1809 the lighthouse was designed to warn ships of the rocks below.
You can go inside the lighthouse where you can tour the former engine room, before embarking up the 365 steps to the top to soak up the amazing views.
After exploring the lighthouse, you can make your way to the visitor centre, where you can grab a bite to eat in the cafe.
Or head up to Elin’s Tower which offers exceptional views of the cliffs, Irish Sea, lighthouse, and variety of birdlife. You’ll be able to spot the likes of falcons, puffins, and razorbills.
You can purchase your tickets at the kiosk next to the RSPB cafe.
Have we inspired you to tick some of these famous landmarks in Wales off your bucket list? Here at Coast & Country Holidays, we have a range of holiday cottages in West Wales to suit all tastes and budgets!
If you’re looking for more things to do during your stay, check out our blog on West Wales’ most stunning beaches or our guide to 13 things to do in West Wales for an unforgettable holiday.
What are you waiting for? Embark on your adventure to West Wales with Coast & Country Holidays today!
