by Niki Greig
Hot on the heels of our popular feature for holiday ideas in Cornwall , we’ve been inspired to look at other popular UK holiday destinations. This week we’re focusing on Wales and many of the wonderful sights and sounds that there are on offer there.
As we’re in the midst of a recession, we’ve tried to keep the cost down as much as possible and everything on this list comes in at under £10 per person or is, even better, completely free!
1. International Sheepdog Trials, Bonvilston, Cardiff
This event, taking place on 6th-8th September 2012, promises to be a fun day out for the whole family. Kids will love watching the animals and adults are able to admire the skill and precision needed to keep both sheepdog and flock under perfect control.
Not only is there exciting action to watch but alongside the trail there are also gun dogs, wood carving and falconry displays to be seen, all included in the price of the £8 admission per adult, and even better, kids under 16 get in for free!
Nearest caravan sites are: Acorn Camping and caravan site, Llandow Caravan Park and Happy Jakes touring caravan park
2. National Wool Museum, Llandysul
Wales is well known for its farming and its sheep and this museum shows you the entire wool process from fleece to fabric. This museum is not only an informative visit for both children and adults alike, but it is completely free.
The museum also houses much historic machinery and a textile gallery for those interested in inspecting the different types of the finished product.
Nearest caravan sites are: Afon Teifi, Rhandirmwyn C&CC site and Dolbryn.
3. Great Orme Ancient Copper Mine, Llandudno
Recently discovered in 1987, this mine dates back to the Bronze Age and was mined over 4,000 years ago, making it a fascinating day out for all. Informative boards and videos tell you what would have taken place on the site before you begin a self guided tour which ends in the spectacular Bronze Age cavern.
The cavern was sculpted over 3,500 years ago by our ancestors using nothing more than stone and bone tools. Who would have thought that the world’s largest prehistoric mine would be right on your doorstep? At £6.50 per adult and £4.50 per child, this informative site is well worth a visit. Whilst there you can also enjoy a trip on the Great Orme Tramway or if you’re feeling brave you can walk to the summit and enjoy panoramic views to Snowdonia, the Isle of Man and the Lake District.
Nearest caravan sites are: Tan y Bryn, Bron y Wendon and Plas Farm
4. Ffestiniog Railway
Most people think of ascending Mount Snowdon when thinking of Snowdon National Park, but there is so much more to see and do here. Why not try exploring the southern region of the park on this historic railway? This little gem is tucked away in the shadow of Mount Snowdon operating small gauge steam trains as a charming way to discover more of the Welsh countryside.
They know what they’re doing here as, founded in 1832, this is the oldest railway company in the world still operating trains today. Take the trip from Blaenau Ffestiniog to Tan Y Bwlch which costs £10.80 per adult for a return (we know its 80p over but we’d rather pay that than walk back!) plus all kids accompanied by a fee paying adult go free. You can enjoy a nice lunch in the former mining town and potter back at your leisure.
Nearest caravan sites are: Barcdy, Tyddyn Llwyn and Methyr Farm
5. Devils bridge falls, Aberystwyth
Welsh legend surrounds the construction of these bridges with the original story being that the devil himself built the first of three to span the valley. Whatever the reason, these spectacular falls of the Rheidol River are worth a visit.
Today you can take in the magnificent cascading 300ft waterfalls by taking either a 45 minute walk (which is steep in places, sensible footwear advised) or a ten minute walk to see the punchbowl. Nature abounds as this is a site of Scientific Special Interest and is an excellent example of Ancient Sessile Oak woodland. There is also the possibility of seeing Red Kites fly overhead in the area.
The punchbowl walk costs just £1 and the longer walk to view the waterfalls will set you back £3.50 per adult or £2.00 per child (under fives free).
Nearest caravan sites are: Tyllwyd Camp Site, Woodlands Caravan Park and Erwbarfe Farm Caravan Park
Of course this is just the tip of the iceberg of the many things to do in Wales. Why not try exploring the beautiful Welsh Coastline, try your hand at surfing on one of the many wonderful beaches or mountain biking through the rugged forests? Remember to let us all at Caravan Times know of your adventures – why not put up some pictures in our forum to inspire other caravanners?
