A Few Compelling Reasons to Visit Wales in 2025

When most travellers think of the United Kingdom, Wales rarely makes the list. London’s landmarks, Scotland’s Highlands, and Ireland’s charm tend to take centre stage. Itineraries are carefully planned and often look something like this: London, Cambridge or Oxford, Stonehenge, Edinburgh, and the Highlands, followed by a visit to Dublin or Cork.

For many, especially those visiting the UK for the first time, Wales is an afterthought, if it’s thought of at all.

I lived in England for years, not far from the Welsh border, but didn’t explore what lay just across it until my time there was almost over.

Wales often goes unnoticed, but it shouldn’t. 

Reasons to Visit Wales

Wales may not always be the first place travellers think of when planning a UK trip, but it offers an array of experiences that are as varied as they are memorable. From ancient castles to stunning natural landscapes, from its melodic Welsh language to its warm and welcoming people, Wales is a country that invites you to discover something new at every turn.

In the sections below, I’ll share some of the standout reasons to include Wales in your next itinerary — reasons that captured my imagination and made me wish I’d explored this remarkable country sooner.

Whether you’re drawn to history, nature, culture, or simply the promise of something different, Wales has plenty to offer.

Here are a few reasons to include it in your next UK trip — and perhaps see the country in a whole new light.

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1. Be Enchanted By the Welsh Language

Welsh, or Cymraeg, is more than just a language — it’s a living thread to a Celtic past that remains vibrant in the present. Spoken by approximately 20% of the population, Welsh has endured centuries of cultural shifts and remains a core part of the country’s identity. Its unique sounds, marked by rhythmic patterns and pure vowels, make it a language that feels almost musical to the ear.  

As I listened to it spoken in daily conversations, I found myself captivated by its melody and depth.

Even the place names offer a glimpse into its rich history and distinctiveness. Villages like Bwlchgwyn or Ysbyty Ystwyth can be a tongue-twister for visitors, while the famously long Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch serves as a playful test of patience and pronunciation for anyone daring enough to try.  I admit, I couldn’t resist giving it a go, much to the amusement of bystanders.

For a deeper cultural immersion, listening to locals speak Welsh in everyday settings is an experience in itself. The melody of the language transforms simple conversations into something captivating, a window into one of Europe’s oldest surviving linguistic traditions.

Want to engage further? Challenge yourself to pronounce the village names, try learning a few basic phrases, or simply enjoy seeing Welsh words displayed on signs alongside English. It’s a reminder that Wales isn’t just a destination — it’s a place with a language, history, and identity entirely its own.

2. Explore Castles Like Never Before

With over 600 castles dotting its landscapes, Wales proudly holds the title of the castle capital of the world. As I explored some of these fortresses, from craggy hilltops to town centres, I found they were windows into Wales’ complex history.

Each castle tells its own story, whether of medieval warfare, royal intrigue, or architectural grandeur, and walking through them felt like stepping back in time.

For history buffs and curious travellers alike, these top picks offer an unforgettable journey through time:

• Cardiff Castle: Nestled in the heart of the Welsh capital, this castle is a stunning blend of Roman foundations and Gothic revival architecture. Its opulent interiors and expansive grounds make it a must-see for anyone exploring the city.
• Caerphilly Castle: As one of Europe’s largest medieval fortresses, Caerphilly commands attention with its impressive moat and towering walls. Built in the 13th century, it’s a masterpiece of defensive design and a perfect spot for history lovers.
• Penrhyn Castle: Unlike traditional medieval castles, Penrhyn is a neo-Norman treasure that showcases Victorian opulence. Set against a backdrop of lush countryside, it offers sweeping views and a glimpse into the lives of the 19th-century elite.
• Conwy Castle: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Conwy Castle is an architectural marvel from the reign of Edward I. Its well-preserved walls and towers make it one of the finest examples of medieval military architecture in Europe. Walking along its battlements feels like stepping into another era.

Each castle offers something unique.  For travellers who love to imagine the past coming to life, Wales’ castles are a treasure trove waiting to be explored.

Whether you visit one or many, these fortresses offer more than just history — they capture the spirit of Wales itself.

3. Discover Diverse Scenery: Mountains, Coasts, and More

Wales may be small, but its landscapes are anything but limited. As I explored, I was struck by how dramatic contrasts are packed into such a manageable space — you can climb a mountain in the morning and stroll along a cliffside by sunset. 

The scenery isn’t just beautiful — it’s deeply varied, inviting travellers to explore terrain as diverse as its culture and history. Here’s what awaits those ready to venture into Wales’ great outdoors.

Snowdonia National Park

Snowdonia is synonymous with Mount Snowdon, the highest peak in Wales, but there’s much more to uncover here. The park is a playground for hikers, climbers, and nature enthusiasts. Trails range from challenging summit treks to serene lakeside walks, all set against a backdrop of rugged ridges and hidden valleys.

Beyond the mountain, you’ll find crystal-clear lakes, cascading waterfalls, and quiet villages nestled into the landscape. Snowdonia feels remote, but it’s a landscape that rewards every effort with breathtaking views.

Pembrokeshire Coast National Park

The Pembrokeshire Coast is Wales at its most striking, where rugged cliffs meet the wild energy of the sea.

The Pembrokeshire Coast Path, a 299-kilometre (186-mile) stretch of trail, offers endless opportunities for exploration. It takes you past secluded beaches, craggy headlands, and hidden coves, each turn revealing a new perspective. Wildlife lovers will enjoy spotting puffins, seals, and dolphins along the shoreline, while those seeking history can visit ancient coastal fortifications and tiny fishing villages.

Brecon Beacons

In the heart of southern Wales lies the Brecon Beacons, a region of rolling hills, expansive moorlands, and tumbling waterfalls. The trails here are ideal for walkers of all levels, whether you’re climbing Pen y Fan — the highest peak in the range — or meandering through lush woodlands.

The area’s Dark Sky Reserve designation makes it one of the UK’s premier stargazing spots. After sunset, the hills become a stage for constellations, visible in their full clarity.

More to Explore

While Snowdonia, Pembrokeshire, and the Brecon Beacons stand out, Wales offers countless other scenic highlights. The Clwydian Range in the north, with its windswept ridges and ancient hillforts, provides stunning views without the crowds.

Anglesey, an island off the northwest coast, combines pastoral charm with unspoiled beaches and dramatic sea arches. The Elan Valley, with its reservoirs framed by rolling hills, feels like stepping into another time.

The Journey is Part of the Experience

Wales’ landscapes aren’t just destinations — they’re a journey in themselves. Driving through the countryside, you’ll encounter sheep-lined roads, single-track lanes hugging the contours of valleys, and moments of absolute stillness. The air feels different, the pace slows, and even the most ordinary journeys take on a sense of connection with the land.

Wales doesn’t overwhelm — it invites. Its varied scenery is an open invitation to step outside, breathe deeply, and discover something new around every corner. Whether you’re scaling peaks, walking along cliffs, or simply letting the landscape unfold in front of you, Wales offers the kind of experience that lingers long after you’ve left.

4. Wander Through Timeless Villages

The villages of Wales offer more than just picturesque streets — they provide a window into the country’s soul. As I wandered through these small, tightly-knit communities, I found myself drawn into a way of life that felt refreshingly unhurried.

These villages invite travellers to experience life at a slower pace, where history, tradition, and everyday life converge in a way that feels both grounded and timeless.

Tenby: The Quintessential Coastal Town

Perched on the Pembrokeshire Coast, Tenby is famous for its pastel-coloured houses, sandy beaches, and well-preserved medieval walls. The town is a haven for seaside lovers, with opportunities for everything from beachcombing to boat trips to nearby Caldey Island.

The narrow streets are lined with local shops and cafés, making it a delight to explore on foot. Tenby’s blend of natural beauty and historic charm makes it one of Wales’ most beloved destinations.

Hay-on-Wye: The Booklover’s Paradise

Known as the “Town of Books,” Hay-on-Wye is a must-visit for bibliophiles. This small town, tucked along the River Wye, is home to dozens of independent bookstores, selling everything from rare first editions to well-loved paperbacks.

Its literary spirit comes alive each spring during the Hay Festival, which draws authors and readers from around the world. But even outside festival season, the town’s relaxed atmosphere and riverside setting make it an enchanting place to linger.

Portmeirion: An Architectural Marvel

Unlike anything else in Wales, Portmeirion is a meticulously designed Italianate village created by Sir Clough Williams-Ellis in the early 20th century. Its brightly coloured buildings, cobbled streets, and Mediterranean-inspired gardens feel like they belong on the Amalfi Coast rather than in North Wales.

Portmeirion is also famous as the filming location for the 1960s cult TV series The Prisoner, adding an extra layer of intrigue for fans.

Other Notable Villages

• Conwy: Nestled within its medieval walls and overlooked by its iconic castle, Conwy combines history with a lively harbour and small-town charm.
• Llangollen: A riverside village known for its heritage railway, annual International Eisteddfod music festival, and dramatic setting in the Dee Valley.
• Aberdaron: A peaceful fishing village at the tip of the Llyn Peninsula, often called the "Land's End of Wales," with a deep connection to Celtic pilgrimage routes.

An Invitation to Slow Down

Wales’ villages are places to savour. As I strolled through stone-paved streets, I couldn’t help but pause for chats with locals, who were often eager to share a story or two. You’ll find independent shops selling handmade crafts, local produce, and other treasures unique to the region.

These villages exude a quiet sense of community, offering a refreshing reminder of life’s simple pleasures — something I found myself appreciating more with each visit.

5. Experience the Unpretentious Warmth of the Welsh

Before visiting Wales, I didn’t know what to expect from the people. Like many, I’d lumped the Welsh in with their neighbours — the English, Scots, and Irish — assuming similar personalities across the board. But within moments of my first real interaction, it became clear that the Welsh are different, in the best possible way.

There’s a natural openness and candour to conversations in Wales. The people I met weren’t guarded or overly formal, and their warmth wasn’t performative — it felt real, grounded in something deeper. I noticed this especially in smaller villages, where a simple exchange could lead to a rich, meandering discussion about local history, family traditions, or their favourite places to explore.

It wasn’t just conversation — it was connection.

Real Conversations, No Pretences

I remember speaking with a man in a village pub who insisted on sharing his story. It struck me how much the Welsh seem to take pride in their ordinary heroes — family members, neighbours, people whose stories often go untold. Every encounter I had felt grounded in that same sense of authenticity, whether I was asking for directions or chatting with shopkeepers.

Their lack of pretension was a breath of fresh air. In a country so full of history, beauty, and culture, you’d expect a bit of ego, but I didn’t encounter any. The humility and humour of the Welsh made even brief conversations meaningful.

I never felt like an outsider — they spoke to me as though I belonged there, even if I clearly didn’t.

A Sense of Place and Community

I came to realise that this unassuming charm likely stems from the close-knit communities and strong familial ties that define Welsh culture. Every village I visited seemed to have its own rhythm, with neighbours catching up in shop doorways and children playing in the streets. It reminded me of something simpler, something we often lose in busier, more transient places.

In Wales, people seem to genuinely care about where they come from. It’s not just in the way they speak with pride about their villages or the local legends they’re eager to share — it’s in the way they interact with each other, and with visitors like me. That strong sense of belonging radiates outward, and you can’t help but feel part of it, if only for a little while.

Visiting Wales taught me that its landscapes and history are just the beginning. It’s the people — unpretentious, welcoming, and undeniably real — who leave the greatest impression. They make you want to stay a little longer, to hear one more story, to ask one more question.

In Wales, I didn’t feel like a visitor — I felt like I’d been invited.

6. Relish the Quiet: A Refreshing Lack of Tourists

One of the first things I noticed in Wales was how different it felt compared to the UK’s more famous destinations. Walk into a village pub, and you might be greeted with a few curious stares. Surrounded by locals speaking Welsh, you’ll quickly realise you’re not just another tourist in a crowd — you’re an outsider in a place that hasn’t been overrun by visitors.

For me, this was part of Wales’ charm.

Unlike the bustling streets of London, Edinburgh, or Dublin, Wales offers a sleepier, more authentic experience. There are no queues snaking through town squares or clusters of camera-toting crowds vying for the same photo. Instead, the pace is slower, the streets quieter, and the encounters more personal.

A Haven for Travellers Who Seek Something Different

For travellers like me, who value the opportunity to step into the everyday rhythm of a place, Wales feels like a breath of fresh air. It’s not polished or packaged for mass tourism, and that’s precisely what makes it special. The conversations you’ll have in a local café or pub don’t feel rehearsed — they’re spontaneous, shaped by genuine curiosity on both sides.

I’ve always been drawn to experiences where I feel like I’m discovering something others might have missed, and Wales delivers that in spades. From walking down nearly deserted coastal paths to exploring a high street where it seems everyone knows each other’s name, I found that Wales is less about ticking off a list of attractions and more about immersing yourself in the unexpected.

Not Everyone’s Cup of Tea, But Worth a Sip

I’ll admit, Wales’ quiet nature might not appeal to everyone. For those who thrive on the hustle and energy of big cities, it may feel too subdued. But for me, that’s exactly what made it stand out.

Wales invites you to embrace the slower pace, to linger longer over a pint, to enjoy the sound of the Welsh language in conversation around you, and to find beauty in the everyday moments often missed in more crowded places.

In a world where so many destinations have been shaped by tourism, Wales feels like a rare exception. It’s a place where you can still be the odd one out, where locals might look at you with mild curiosity before welcoming you into their world.

If authenticity and the chance to feel like you’ve stumbled into something truly unique appeal to you, then Wales is a destination that shouldn’t be overlooked.

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Other Reasons to Visit Wales?

You could easily devote an entire trip to Wales alone — it’s a country that offers far more than what I’ve been able to share here. From its rich culture and breathtaking landscapes to its friendly, down-to-earth people, there’s something for every type of traveller.

Of course, these are just some of the highlights that stood out to me. Whether you’re drawn to its ancient castles, its quiet coastal villages, or its rugged mountains, Wales has a way of capturing your imagination and pulling you in.

If you think I’ve missed anything, or if you have your own favourite reasons to visit Wales, I’d love to hear them. Feel free to leave a comment below and share what makes Wales special for you — or what you’re most excited to discover on your own adventure.