Exploring Wales

Welcome to our Wales travel blog.  If there is one country that has called us back time and time again over the years, it is Wales.  From the rugged peaks of the north to the breathtaking coastal paths of the south, we have spent years uncovering the magic of this ancient, Celtic land.

We’ve made it our mission to see every corner of Wales.  Whether you’re looking for adrenaline pumping adventures, historic castles, or the quietest beaches in the UK, our collection of Welsh travel blogs has you covered.

North Wales: Peaks and Medieval Marvels

North Wales is where history and nature collide in the most dramatic way possible. We have spent many years exploring things to do in North Wales, and it remains one of our favourite places for a family adventure.

  • Eryri (Snowdonia) National Park: We’ve tackled the summits and the low-level lakeside walks. We share our tips on the best routes up Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) and how to find the hidden gems within the national park.

  • The Welsh Mountain Zoo: Perched high above Colwyn Bay, this is a zoo with a view! We’ve documented our visits to this unique conservation zoo, which offers incredible panoramas of the coastline alongside its amazing wildlife.

  • The Iron Ring of Castles: North Wales is home to some of the most impressive medieval architecture in the world. We dive deep into our explorations of:

    • Conwy Castle: Walking the exceptionally well-preserved town walls and exploring the towers of this gritty, dark-stoned fortress.

    • Caernarfon Castle: Discovering the sheer scale of this imperial stronghold, famous for its unique polygonal towers and colored stone bands.

Discover the Magic of North Wales: A Family Review of the Welsh Mountain Zoo

4 Oct 2025 15:33

Looking for the perfect family day out in North Wales?  The , nestled high above Colwyn Bay, is an absolute must-visit.  Officially known as the National Zoo of Wales, this charming, conservation-focused attraction offers a unique blend of rare animals, stunning panoramic views, and an incredibly relaxing atmosphere that makes it perfect for creating memories that last a lifetime, especially those unexpected, heart warming interactions.

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Exploring Conwy Castle in North Wales - A Medieval Experience

2 Jun 2023 19:19

If you are looking for a fun and educational day out in North Wales, look no further than Conway Castle.  This magnificent medieval fortress is one of the best-preserved castles in Britain and a World Heritage Site.  Here are some reasons why you should visit Conway Castle and what you can expect to see and do there.

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Mid Wales: The Hidden Heart of the Country

Often overlooked by those rushing to the peaks of the north, Mid Wales is where we go to truly get away from it all.  It’s a land of rolling hills, ancient forests, and total tranquillity.

  • The Elan Valley: Often called the "Welsh Lake District," we share our guide to the spectacular Victorian dams and reservoirs. It is one of the most peaceful places in the UK and a dream for photographers.

  • Market Towns & Country Lanes: We’ve spent time exploring the charming streets of Llandeilo and the riverside walks of Rhayader.  We love wandering the boutique shops and exploring the nearby Dinefwr Park and the ruins of Drysllwyn Castle.

West & South Wales: Coastal Magic & Seaside Fun

The Welsh coastline is world-famous, and for good reason. We’ve spent countless summers tracking the Wales Coast Path.

  • Pembrokeshire: Home to some of the best beaches in Europe.  We share our favourites, from the colourful harbour of Tenby to fun family days out at Folly Farm Adventure Park.

  • Barry Island: No trip to South Wales is complete without a stop at "Barrybados!"  We share our guide to Whitmore Bay and the famous amusements.

  • Cardiff: The Capital: Our city guides to Cardiff, including matchday atmospheres at the Principality Stadium, the history of Cardiff Castle, and the modern vibe of the Bay.

Why We Keep Coming Back to Wales

After years of traveling the length and breadth of the country, people often ask us what it is about Wales that pulls us back year after year.  The truth is, Wales offers a feeling you just can’t find anywhere else.  It’s the combination of:

  • The History: From the towering turrets of the North to the ancient ruins in the Towy Valley, history isn't just in books here—it’s under your feet. We love that our kids can explore more castles per square mile here than anywhere else on Earth.

  • The Landscape: There is a rugged, honest beauty to the Welsh landscape.  One day you can be trekking through the mist of Eryri, and the next you're eating fish and chips on a sun drenched beach in Pembrokeshire.  It’s a country of constant, stunning contrasts.

  • The People: The incredible warmth and "hwyl" (spirit) of the Welsh people is infectious.

Planning Your Welsh Adventure

  • The Weather: We’ve learned the hard way: always pack a raincoat, regardless of what the forecast says!

  • Road Tripping: Wales is made for driving. We share our favorite scenic routes, including the "A470" which runs the entire length of the country.

  • When to Visit: Our guide to seeing the bluebells in spring, the purple heather in summer, and the crisp golden leaves of autumn.

Cooke Family Tip: If you're visiting the popular spots like Snowdon or Tenby, try to go mid-week or during the "shoulder" seasons of May and September. You’ll get the same stunning views with half the crowds!

Join the Adventure 

We are constantly adding new blogs about the amazing places that we visit across Wales along with our top tips, hidden gems and photos from our travels.  Is there a specific spot you’d like us to review next?

Want more live updates? Follow Explore with the Cookes on Instagram and TikTok for daily videos of our adventures.

Explore More of the UK

Follow our blogs around the UK, for the latest tips and reviews. 

North West Travel Blog

London Travel Blog

West Midlands Travel Blog

Yorkshire Travel Blog

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