Destination Guide to Mid Wales

Mid Wales is a remote region of understated natural beauty and a stronghold of traditional welsh culture.

Nestling comfortably between North and South Wales, Mid Wales spans between the Irish Sea in the West and the English border in the East and encompassing the counties of Ceredigion and Powys. The region is the heart of rural Wales characterised by rolling hills, grassy uplands and wild moorlands.

Often overlooked by visitors in favour of Snowdonia in the north and Pembrokeshire in the south, mid Wales hosts its own protected landscapes in the form of the Brecon Beacons National Park, a series of mountain ranges and uplands which offer a more understated natural beauty, less dramatic but equally beguiling as Wales’ other national parks. Vast lakes, the Elan valley, crystal waterfalls, natural underground caves and thick forests make this region a must for anyone who enjoys tranquillity and the great outdoors.

Culturally, this region remains true to Wales with more than half of the population still speaking the Welsh mother-tongue. Mid Wales is also home to the ancient town of Machynlleth, once a stronghold for 13th century welsh national hero Owain Glyndwr and historic capital of the nation. Powys Castle and Gardens is a “must” a castle of medieval origins with added 17th century tiered gardens. Brecon itself is home to one of Britain’s most renowned music events at the Brecon Jazz Festival and the book-town of Hay on Wye on the border with England is second-hand book capital of the world and host to a stunning annual literary festival.

Sparsely populated there are no cities but just a handful of small towns and villages in mid Wales. The region’s quaint communities such as market town Crickhowell, Victorian Spa town of Llandrindod Wells and bustling fishing village Aberaeron each hold their own unique charms whilst the focal point is the sweeping coastal resort of Aberystwyth home to the National Library of Wales and, in recent years, a lively cosmopolitan student population.

With traditional Welsh townships, some of the nation’s cultural highlights and tranquil natural beauty, mid Wales is more than a stop-over between the north and south on any Wales tour.

Relevant Tours

Tours of Wales - Brecon Beacons

Enjoy an England and Wales driving tour to experience the contrasts of two distinct British cultures on this in-depth tour of two of Britain's intriguing nations.  Enjoy the contrasting vistas of the patchwork fields of the Cotswolds, the rustic Yorkshire Dales, the mountains of Snowdonia and the coastlines of the Pembrokeshire National Park. Not to mention icons of English and Welsh history at Conwy Castle, York Minster, Shakespeare’s Stratford, Cardiff Castle and Stonehenge.

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Tours of Wales - Cardiff

A Driving Tour of Wales - Immerse yourself in breath-taking natural scenery and an ancient Celtic culture as you explore the diminutive nation of Wales. A land of contrasts from the cosmopolitan capital city of Cardiff to the tiny cathedral village of St Davids and from the industrial valleys of the South to the majestic snow-capped peaks Snowdonia in North Wales you’ll see it all on this journey of discovery. Along the way see untouched coastlines, medieval fortresses, meandering rivers, ancient abbeys and a host of traditional towns and villages.

Tours of Wales - St Davids

A small group tour of Wales and the Cotswolds – Experience the rich Celtic heritage of Wales alongside the timeless beauty of England’s Cotswolds on this captivating journey through some of Britain’s most picturesque regions. Discover breathtaking natural scenery, from the rugged coastlines of Pembrokeshire and the dramatic peaks of Snowdonia to the gentle rolling hills and patchwork fields of the Cotswolds. Along the way, explore secluded Welsh market towns and an array of timeless English villages not to mention the heritage cities of Cardiff, Oxford and Chester. This itinerary combines our Enchanting Wales and Cotswolds & Historic England tours into one unforgettable experience.

Tours of Britain - Conwy Bridge

A Rail Tour of Wales – Enjoy an epic rail journey taking you to all corners of this small but magnificent nation. Your rail tour takes you from the Welsh capital of Cardiff through the rugged coastlines of Pembrokeshire to the dramatic mountains of the Snowdonia National Park. Medieval castles and historic harbour towns await as well as some of Wales' renowned historic and heritage railway lines which will take you on some of the most scenic rail journeys that Britain has to offer. All in all a comprehensive tour of Wales travelling by train.

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Wales Rail Tours

A Wales Rail Tour – Relax and enjoy the views of your scenic rail journeys as you explore the unique culture and landscapes of Wales.  From the cosmopolitan capital of Cardiff this rail journey will take you to the rugged coastlines of Pembrokeshire, through the picturesque Welsh border Marches and into the dramatic landscapes of the Snowdonia National Park. Along the way you’ll see the beautiful coastal towns of Tenby and Llandudno, historic Shrewsbury and the hidden gem in medieval Conwy.

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England Tours of Oxford

A Great Britain driving tour - experience all that is great about Britain on the ultimate tour of England, Scotland and Wales. See it all, from the thriving capital cities of London, Edinburgh and Cardiff to the remote Scottish Highlands, tranquil Lake District and spectacular Snowdonia National Park. Along the way you’ll experience diverse cultures and histories and see world-famous landmarks including Stonehenge, the Roman Baths, Cardiff Castle, the Cotswolds, Hadrian’s Wall, Loch Ness and Edinburgh Castle.

Tours of Wales - Cardiff

A small group tour of Wales – Experience the captivating beauty and rich heritage of Wales on this unforgettable journey through one of Britain’s most enchanting nations. After a stay in the vibrant capital city of Cardiff, we’ll discover nation's beguiling natural beauty from the coastlines of Pembrokeshire, the majestic peaks of Snowdonia National Park, and the upland wilderness of the Brecon Beacons. Along the way, we’ll explore charming market towns, picturesque villages, ancient sites and some of the country’s most impressive medieval castles. Often overlooked, Wales is a hidden treasure, renowned for its stunning scenery, fascinating history, and enduring Celtic traditions that are sure to leave you truly enchanted.

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A small group tour of Scotland and Wales – Discover the hidden corners of Britain, from the breathtaking Pembrokeshire coastline and the majestic peaks of Snowdonia to the rugged wilderness of the Scottish Highlands and the remote beauty of the Isle of Skye. While Wales and Scotland remain among Britain's lesser explored regions, they captivate visitors with their rich Celtic heritage, distinctive cultures, and spectacular natural landscapes. Along the way, enjoy stays in the historic cities of Cardiff, Edinburgh, and Inverness, as well as time to experience the vibrant English city of Manchester. This itinerary combines the highlights of our Enchanting Wales and Secrets of Scotland small group tours into one unforgettable journey.

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Tours of Britain Search

A small group tour of England and Wales – Embark on an unforgettable journey through the rich history and breathtaking landscapes of England and Wales. Discover some of Britain’s most spectacular scenery, from the golden shores of Pembrokeshire and the dramatic peaks of Snowdonia in Wales to the rolling hills of Yorkshire and the stunning Lake District in England. Along the way, enjoy a variety of memorable experiences, including visits to medieval castles, elegant country manors, and charming villages, as well as the historic cities of Cardiff, Oxford, Chester, and York. Combining our Enchanting Wales and England’s Rustic Charm itineraries, this tour offers a captivating exploration of the very heart and soul of Britain.

Tours of Wales - Tenby

A Small Group Tour of Britain - Discover the remote corners and hidden gems of Britain on this small group adventure through the English counties of Devon & Cornwall and the unique nations of Wales and Scotland. From the windswept cliffs of the Cornish Peninsula to the mountain beauty of the Snowdonia National Park and the wilderness of the Scottish Highlands, this tour blends dramatic and diverse landscapes with a common Celtic heritage and local charm. We'll explore ancient castles, historic abbeys, opulent country estates, quaint villages and the vibrant heritage cities of Bath, Cardiff and Edinburgh. Combining our "Treasures of Devon and Cornwall", "Enchanting Wales” and “Secrets of Scotland” itineraries, you'll find folklore, local flavours, and unforgettable scenery at every turn, on this tour of Britain off the beaten path.

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A small group tour of Wales and England’s West Country – A perfect combination of Celtic cultures, discover the beauty of England’s South West region and the beguiling landscapes of Wales. Our journey will take us firstly over the barren moorlands of Devon and along the rugged coastlines and fishing villages of the Cornish Peninsula. We then cross the border to the ancient nation of Wales where we'll experience towering mountain ranges, dramatic castle ruin and an utterly unique culture. Along the way we'll sample local treats, visit Stately homes, experience the grandeur of the Regency city of Bath and spend time in the Welsh Capital of Cardiff. This journey is a combination of our “Treasures of Devon and Cornwall” and “Enchanting Wales” tours.

A private chauffeur tour of Wales – Experience the incredible sights, sounds and unique culture of the wonderful nation of Wales on this entirely private tour with your very own Welsh driver.  After time in Cardiff, the Welsh capital, to explore independently, you and your travel companions will be personally chauffeured across South, West and North Wales. Escorted by your local driver, this epic journey will take you along the coastlines and through the mountain lanes of Snowdonia to experience the historic monuments, breathtaking natural sights and local charm that Wales so richly embodies.

Tours of North Wales - Caernarfon Castle

A Castle Tour of Wales – A nation renowned for its ancient fortresses, discover the heritage and natural beauty of Wales on a trip staying in elegant country house hotels and grandiose castle accommodations. Explore the untouched landscapes of Snowdonia and Pembrokeshire and the awe-inspiring ruins of Wales' glorious World Heritage Castles including Conwy, Harlech and Caernarfon. Your tour ends with two nights in the cosmopolitan capital city of Cardiff.

A small group tour of Wales, Devon and Cornwall – Discover the captivating blend of Celtic heritage and breathtaking scenery as you explore the South West of England and the enchanting nation of Wales. From the elegant Georgian city of Bath, we'll journey over the wild moorlands of Devon and along the rugged coastlines of Cornwall before crossing the border to traverse the hills and mountains of Wales. In these distinct regions we'll not only enjoy awe-inspiring natural landscapes but also experience regions of ancient history, rich in myth and legend. On our journey we'll see Roman ruins, roam cobbled fishing towns, visit evocative castle ruins and explore elegant stately homes as well as spending time discovering the vibrant Welsh capital, Cardiff. Combining our Treasures of Devon and Cornwall and Enchanting Wales tours, this unforgettable journey showcases the very best of two unique regions.

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