6 of the Quirkiest Towns in Wales
Known as the ‘Castle Capital of the World,’ Wales is a vibrant country that offers an array of delightful nature and culture. Over 600 castles with ancient architecture waiting to be visited are sprinkled across the country. Wales is also home to Queen Elizabeth II’s precious pet corgis. The Pembroke Welsh corgi's ancestry dates back to the 10th century and has been used for herding in Wales for decades.
Wales shares its eastern border with England and its northern and western borders with the Irish Sea. There are many beautiful flowing rivers and marvelous mountain terrains to explore. The most iconic mountain range is Snowdonia in the northwest, which has the highest peak in Wales, Mount Snowdon, which stands at 3,560 feet above sea level. Visitors can find the Pistyll Rhaeadr waterfall in the Berwyn Mountains. It is Britain’s tallest single-drop waterfall, measuring 240 feet.
Beddegelert
First up on the list is the lovely little stone-built village of Beddegelert. In the heart of Snowdonia National Park, Beddegelert is the perfect base to explore neighboring attractions such as Aberglaslyn Pass, Nant Gwynant, and Mount Snowdon. With Beddegelert in the marvelous Snowdonia mountain rangers and nature, the hiking or biking trails are endless. Beddgelert Forest and Llyn Llywelyn Walk are popular routes to go adventuring!
If visitors want to be grounded in nature, there are several campsites in the area with stunning landscapes to wake up to. Beddgelert campsite is a great option for those in the mood for a peaceful area tucked in a conifer and broadleaf forest.
Beddegelert also has many local shops and restaurants. For those with a sweet tooth, make sure to stop by Glaslyn Artisan Ice Cream and Pizza, the oldest Ice Cream Parlour and Pizzeria in Snowdonia National Park. Siop Pen Gwyn is an adorable little shop that sells homemade fudge and an assortment of other tasty treats.
Aberystwyth
Sitting pretty on the coast of Western Wales in the town of Aberystwyth. This coastal gem is one of Mid Wales's biggest towns and is bursting with rich arts and history. It is home to Aberystwyth University, the Aberystwyth Arts Centre, and the National Library of Wales. For a great view of the town, head down North Beach’s promenade and climb the 430-foot Constitution Hill.
Don’t leave Aberystwyth without going on a scenic walk or morning jog on the mile-long Victorian promenade. The promenade is also the perfect stop to pause for a moment of peace and clear the mind while sipping on a cup of tea. Aberystwyth is also home to the oldest pier in Wales, the Royal Pier, constructed in 1865.
Hay-on-Wye
Calling all book lovers! Hay-on-Wye is a town famous for its charming secondhand and antiquarian bookshops. In 1961, bookseller Richard Booth bought thousands of books from libraries that were closing and brought them to Hay-on-Wye and set up his own bookshop. Now, the town is home to over 20 bookshops and proudly hosts the annual Hay Festival, the United Kingdom's largest literary event.
Hay-on-Wye also has a gift of flourishing scenery to explore. Between the Black Mountains, Brecon Beacons, and the winding River Wye, the canvas of landscape will exceed visitors' expectations for hiking mountain ranges and chasing waterfalls. Canoeing and kayaking in the rivers are also popular activities in nature.
Tenby
The quaint town of Tenby, which translates to “Little Fortress of the Fish” in Welsh, feels like the perfect catch. This coastal town is full of life and culture to discover. Wander down the harbor beside Castle Hill for a stunning postcard view, or relax on the beach and admire the boats dancing in the water. Tenby’s Castle Beach was named a Sunday Times Beach of the Year in 2019 and is recognized as a Blue Flag beach for meeting clean water quality and safety standards.
The coastal walks are just the breath of fresh air visitors need when traveling to Tenby. One of the most popular routes to hike is the Pembrokeshire Coast Path, a 186-mile trek that offers views of Saundersfoot Bay. In the heart of town, visitors can hop around many restaurants, cafes, and shops. For something more unique, sign up for the Tenby Ghost Walk tour for spooky town tales or visit the Tudor Merchant's House for a glimpse of what wealthy merchant life was like in the 16th century.
Brecon
One of the United Kingdom’s most desired tourist destinations and shining bright in the heart of the Brecon Beacons National Park, is the magical town of Brecon. Sandwiched between the Brecon Beacons and the Black Mountains, Brecon is the golden ticket for hiking to new summits and camping in the comfort of nature. It also makes for a great place to go climbing, canoeing and horseback riding.
The culture of Brecon never has a dull moment. Many events are hosted right in town such as the Brecon Jazz and Brecon Baroque Festivals, Brecon County Show, and the colourful annual Gurkha Freedom Parade. If meandering around town is more a visitors forte, spend time walking, biking, or riding a boat at the Monmouthshire & Brecon Canal basin. It has been recognized as one of the most attractive canals of the South Wales network.
Llangollen
Last but not least on the list is the town of Llangollen, which was awarded Cittaslow status in 2013. Cittaslow status, often referred to as a “slow city,” means that a town has implemented efforts to improve quality of life by promoting sustainable actions such as waste reduction, supporting local businesses, and preserving natural resources.
Even though Llangollen is known as a “slow city,” there are still lots of activities to make the visit an adventure to remember. Close by is the iconic Berwyn Mountains to get the adrenaline going on a hike. The tallest peak is Cadair Berwyn, which measures 830 meters. Some other activities to enjoy are canoeing, quad biking, climbing, rafting, and riding the steam train.
Throughout the year, many fun festivals are put on to spread the joy of music and culture in the town's streets. Visitors can seek entertainment from the International Musical Eisteddfod and the Fringe Festival in July, the Food Festival in October, and the Christmas Festival in November.
A Journey Through Wales’ Most Unforgettable Towns
Wales is a land of breathtaking landscapes, historic sites, and vibrant communities. Whether you seek literary wonders in Hay-on-Wye, coastal serenity in Tenby, or the cultural energy of Aberystwyth, these six quirky towns offer something special. From castle ruins to scenic coastlines and local traditions, each destination leaves a lasting impression.
