9 Offbeat Towns to Visit in Wales

Wales, part of the United Kingdom, is a land of breathtaking landscapes, ancient legends, and unexpected discoveries. Beyond its famous castles and bustling cities lie lesser-known towns brimming with quirky attractions and hidden treasures. In Llanwrtyd Wells, the smallest town in Britain, you will find bog snorkeling competitions and peculiar historical museums. Porthmadog is a gateway to heritage railways and secretive wildlife sanctuaries. Criccieth, meanwhile, offers more than just its iconic castle—its sandy expanses and Cardigan Bay are attractions in their own right. Delve into these offbeat towns that promise an unforgettable Welsh adventure.

Llanwrtyd Wells

Famed as the smallest town in Britain, Llanwrtyd Wells is a hub for eccentric outdoor events and unique natural exploration. The town’s most famous draw is the World Bog Snorkeling Championships, held annually in a peat bog near Waen Rhydd. Participants from across the globe don snorkels and flippers to race through a water-filled trench—a quirky tradition that’s become a cult favorite.

For something a bit more historical, visit the Llanwrtyd and District Heritage and Arts Centre, which tells the story of the town’s Victorian spa origins and includes exhibits on its mining and farming history. For nature lovers, the Irfon Forest Trails on the outskirts of town are walking trails with the chance to spot red kites and other local wildlife.

Portmeirion

While technically a tourist village, Portmeirion’s charm is so unique it deserves a visit. Designed by Sir Clough Williams-Ellis, this surreal, Mediterranean-style town stands out for its pastel architecture and whimsical design. Begin your exploration at the Central Piazza, where fountains, statues, and colorful facades create a dreamlike atmosphere.

Then, venture to the Gwyllt Woodland, a sprawling garden with exotic plants, hidden pagodas, and views of the estuary. A must-see is the Prisoner Exhibition, dedicated to the cult 1960s TV show The Prisoner, which was filmed here.

Machynlleth

Known as the "Ancient Capital of Wales," Machynlleth boasts a fascinating mix of history, eco-conscious initiatives, and offbeat attractions. The Centre for Alternative Technology (CAT), just outside town, is a pioneering site promoting sustainable living, with interactive exhibits, renewable energy demonstrations, and an extensive eco-garden. History buffs will enjoy visiting the Owain Glyndŵr Centre, celebrating Wales’ legendary prince and his short-lived Welsh parliament.

For something unexpected, head to the Museum of Modern Art (MOMA), which curates thought-provoking exhibitions in a town better known for its rustic charm. Machynlleth’s embrace of the unconventional makes it a compelling destination.

Llanidloes

Llanidloes, located on the banks of the River Severn (one of the longest rivers in the United Kingdom), is a picturesque town with an offbeat flair for the unusual. Start your visit at the Old Market Hall, the oldest timber-framed building of its kind in Wales, which now serves as a gathering point for quirky events like craft fairs and historical reenactments.

Nature lovers should explore the Hafren Forest, just a short drive from town, where you can follow trails leading to the Severn’s dramatic source. Another hidden gem is the Minerva Arts Centre, showcasing traditional Welsh quilting and crafts in exhibitions that preserve local heritage.

Porthmadog

Nestled on the edge of Snowdonia National Park, Porthmadog is a quirky town that defies expectations with its heritage and natural wonders. The highlight here is the Ffestiniog and Welsh Highland Railways, which depart from Porthmadog and take visitors on scenic journeys through rugged mountains and dense forests. Wildlife enthusiasts should visit the Ynys Tywyn Nature Reserve, a haven for seabirds and rare plants located on a small peninsula near town.

History lovers can explore Portmeirion Pottery’s Archive and Gallery, which dives into the production of the famed ceramics that put this area on the map.

Blaenavon

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Blaenavon combines industrial history with offbeat attractions that give it a different kind of charm. The Big Pit National Coal Museum is a captivating (and slightly eerie) underground tour of a former coal mine, led by former miners who share their stories of life below ground.

Above ground, explore the Blaenavon Ironworks, where preserved 18th-century blast furnaces and workers' cottages transport visitors to the Industrial Revolution era. For something unexpected, hike to Garn Lakes Local Nature Reserve, a transformed coal spoil site now teeming with birdlife and beautiful walking trails.

Llangollen

Nestled in the Dee Valley, Llangollen is a picturesque town with quirky attractions rooted in folklore and engineering marvels. Start with a visit to the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct, a UNESCO-listed canal bridge that towers above the valley and has views of the surrounding countryside.

For a touch of mysticism, hike to the Castell Dinas Brân, the ruins of a medieval castle perched atop a hill that local legend says is haunted. Fans of unusual architecture shouldn’t miss the Plas Newydd, a black-and-white half-timbered house once home to the "Ladies of Llangollen," whose unconventional lives and eccentric decor have fascinated visitors for generations.

Tregaron

This tiny market town in Ceredigion is a tranquil retreat with a touch of the unusual. Begin with the Cors Caron National Nature Reserve, a sprawling expanse of raised bog and wetlands just outside town, where wooden boardwalks wind through rare wildlife habitats. Back in Tregaron, visit the Rhiannon Centre, an artisan workshop showcasing Celtic-inspired jewelry and artwork that reflects the town’s cultural roots. Finally, delve into the past at Strata Florida Abbey, an atmospheric set of medieval ruins located just a short drive away, where Welsh poets and princes were laid to rest.

Criccieth

Overlooking Cardigan Bay, Criccieth is a seaside town with historical intrigue and breathtaking views. Start with Criccieth Castle, a striking fortress that offers views of the bay and fascinating exhibits on Welsh-English conflicts. For wildlife enthusiasts, the Lloyd George Museum just outside town isn’t just a tribute to the famous prime minister—it also highlights local flora and fauna connected to his life in the region. Lastly, explore the Criccieth Lifeboat Station, where interactive exhibits share stories of daring rescues along this rugged coastline.

Wales is brimming with offbeat destinations that go beyond the typical tourist trail. From Llanwrtyd Wells' quirky bog snorkeling and Machynlleth’s sustainability initiatives to the industrial heritage of Blaenavon and the mystical allure of Llangollen, these towns showcase the depth and variety of Welsh culture and landscapes. Whether you are delving into underground mines, walking through ancient ruins, or spotting rare wildlife in serene boglands, these small towns promise experiences as diverse as Wales itself. Step away from the bustling cities and famous landmarks to uncover the unexpected charm of these hidden gems.