The top cities between Carmarthen and Chester are Swansea, Shrewsbury, Ellesmere Port, Aberystwyth, Brecon Beacons National Park, Ludlow, Llangollen, Wrexham, and Oswestry. Swansea is the most popular city on the route. It's less than an hour from Carmarthen and 3 hours from Chester.
Situated on the southern coast of Wales, Swansea is a city and county that boasts several unique attractions. The National Waterfront Museum showcases historical coal-mining artifacts while Swansea Museum exhibits maritime paintings and boats in Swansea Marina. For literature enthusiasts, the Dylan Thomas Centre features interactive displays that commemorate the life of the renowned 20th-century writer. Visitors can also explore the local produce and crafts at Swansea Market. In addition to these urban highlights, Gower Peninsula - designated as the U.K.
Most popular city on this route
25 minutes off the main route, 14% of way to Chester
The vast range of mountains called Brecon Beacons is home to a national park offering nature trails, village eateries and campsites. This charming scenic spot located on the outskirts of the park is a paradise for book lovers as it boasts the world's largest secondhand and antiquarian bookstore. Visitors can stroll through streets with libraries and even find outdoor shelves filled with books tucked away in secret stone-wall gardens.
Amazing views and unlimited walks.
Really is something else fresh air watching the lambs cant wait to return
Buck List — Google review
Started the climb in the fog rain and wind. Once the sky opens up around dawn you can start seeing the beauty of the place. Loved it.
Epa Sowale — Google review
Testing environment, especially in March. Fantastic challenge across the peaks with views across to Devon! Check you have the kit to survive overnight should you get caught out by the weather or terrain. No signal or phone boxes on these routes...
Mike Cooper — Google review
ABSOLUTELY APPALLING!!! Way too hilly for my little legs 🦵🏻. My daughter passed out several times during our one hour hike to see the amazing pile of stones. Stones nice 👍. Journey horrible 🧌.
honor alexandra — Google review
A nature lovers paradise. There is so much on offer specially the walks and hikes for different abilities like slow, hard and medium. Calming to be here, amazing environment and the best views 😍
Japnoor Garcha — Google review
Hometown. Miles of sanctuary and peace. Take rubbish home!
In the moment UK — Google review
Great views, good walking routes
Alexdiego Rivera — Google review
I’ve never fought that you can fight such the beautiful place for hiking, don’t forget to take your swimsuit
Olga Fitzpatrick — Google review
Many little lakes, waterfalls, Pen-Y-Fan mountain, many hiking routes..
Ozcan — Google review
Stunning views in the mountains. Makes you feel like your the only people there it's that peaceful. Great place for hiking.
Sallyann Lodge — Google review
Wonderful to get out and explore.
Great to experience the crowds of people (family, friends, coachloads of bewildered people) making the pilgrimage up Pen-y-Fan from the nearest carpark, in cold & with rain coming, from the age of six, some in slippers and onesies. Fair play with some with buckets collecting for good causes. Fantastic!
Please do think and come prepared a little or you'll risk people rescuing you and perhaps even yourself/ family.
Hugh Porter — Google review
If you don’t wanna do the long 4 hour walk, because of time, then there is another way of seeing the peaks which is a constant up hill path walk. It takes roughly and hour or so to get to the top. The path starts from the last car park, and you’ll see burger vans and coffee vans.
Very good walk and smooth trail.
We went when it was cloudy, so couldn’t really enjoy the views.
A T — Google review
I have been to this place for more than 10 times and love it so much. A great place to see, to walk and enjoy the beautiful and stunning scenes there.
Hengwen Yu — Google review
Beautiful place to visit. I only visited one waterfall due to time, but would have loved to see the other waterfalls. I went on a Monday and it wasn’t very busy either. You can walk near the waterfall! Only con is parking, there’s spaces for max 8-9 cars I believe.
Potato Chucks — Google review
Beautiful place for a day out with Family or friends. Some places quite challenging for young ones. Do recommend have a good shoes with ankle support as can be easy for some twist or worse.
Lukasz Skiba — Google review
34% as popular as Swansea
23 minutes off the main route, 32% of way to Chester
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Aberystwyth, located in Ceredigion, Wales, is a charming seaside town and home to a vibrant university community. With a population of 14,640 people, it stands as the largest town in Ceredigion and is situated approximately 16 miles from Aberaeron, the administrative center of the county. The town boasts a mix of grand architecture and modern styling, offering visitors an array of attractions to explore.
37% as popular as Swansea
8 minutes off the main route, 36% of way to Chester
Ludlow, a charming market town in Shropshire, England, is nestled between the rivers Corve and Teme. The town is renowned for its fairy tale venue, Ludlow Castle, which offers a breathtaking view of Whitcliffe Common Nature Reserve and serves as an enchanting setting for weddings with its rich history dating back almost 1000 years.
33% as popular as Swansea
16 minutes off the main route, 57% of way to Chester
Shrewsbury, located in western England, is the county town of Shropshire. It boasts a picturesque Tudor center with charming half-timbered houses and notable landmarks such as the medieval Shrewsbury Castle housing the Shropshire Regimental Museum. The town also features unique churches like St Chad's Church with its circular nave and St Mary’s Church adorned with intricate stained-glass windows.
78% as popular as Swansea
11 minutes off the main route, 71% of way to Chester
I'll never travel to Chester without this trip planner again
Oswestry, a charming market town in Shropshire, England, is situated near the Welsh border and serves as a junction for several major roads. Once the administrative headquarters of the Borough of Oswestry, it offers a rich historical and cultural experience. Visitors can enjoy family-friendly attractions such as Crazy Knights Indoor Play Centre, featuring a medieval theme and providing a safe environment for children to play while parents relax.
22% as popular as Swansea
2 minutes off the main route, 81% of way to Chester
Llangollen, located in Denbighshire, Wales, is a charming town set along the River Dee. It sits at the edge of the Berwyn range and is part of the Clwydian Range and Dee Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The town marks the easternmost point of the Dee Valley Way, offering access to stunning natural landscapes for outdoor enthusiasts.
18% as popular as Swansea
8 minutes off the main route, 83% of way to Chester
Wrexham, a city in Wales, serves as the administrative center of Wrexham County Borough. Nestled between the Welsh mountains and the lower Dee Valley, it sits close to the border with Cheshire, England. The area is home to a charming family-run coffee shop that was previously known as O'Creme Bakery & Pastry Shop. This establishment offers a taste of Portugal in Wrexham and is highly regarded by locals.
29% as popular as Swansea
2 minutes off the main route, 88% of way to Chester
Ellesmere Port, located in Cheshire, England, is a port town on the southeastern edge of the Wirral Peninsula. Situated 6 miles north of Chester and along the Manchester Ship Canal, it had a population of 61,090 in 2011. The town offers a variety of dining options with American flavors and an extensive selection of topping combinations for burgers, hot dogs, and sandwiches. Additionally, there are over 1,000 different shake mix-in combinations to choose from.
41% as popular as Swansea
8 minutes off the main route, 94% of way to Chester
Best stops along Carmarthen to Chester drive
The top stops along the way from Carmarthen to Chester (with short detours) are Chester Zoo, Chester City Walls, and Big Pit National Coal Museum. Other popular stops include National Trust - Powis Castle and Garden, National Showcaves Centre for Wales, and Chester Cathedral.
Coney Beach in Porthcawl is a family-friendly destination with a fairground that offers entertainment for kids. Nearby Rest Bay, which has been recognized with a Blue Flag status, is popular among surfers and locals. The area also provides opportunities for stand-up paddle boarding. Additionally, Rest Bay, Coney Beach, and Newton Beach are ideal for surfing and offer ample space for beginners. Porthcawl Surf School offers guidance and equipment for those looking to catch their first wave.
A first visit with the next generation of my family. He thoroughly enjoyed the fairground even though the weather was wet. A payable car ark is available just across the road from the beach and funfair. Good local fish 'n' chip shops, too.
Grayson James — Google review
Used to be good. Unfortunately, the park might be closing soon and the attractions are now nothing to shout about. Brand New Breakdance but got rid of their most unique attraction (MegaSpin) which is sad to see.
On a positive note, it is good value for smaller children and those who are popping in for a few rides. But currently Barry Island is so much better ride wise.
ThemeParkJaden — Google review
Great place to take the kids, the rides are very good and all of them were attended by staff. The was a que when we got their but quickly went down. The park was not too busy and only had to wait for one ride of people before it was our turn.
Matthew Elwell — Google review
Lovely beach especially in the sun, nice and clean, good parking, lovely walks :) fab place. Everything is very expensive (£5 for a slush puppy, £5 for a burger, £24 per person for the rides) my advice take a pack lunch and just enjoy the beautiful beach. Otherwise fab day out, just expensive 🙂
Adele Hawker — Google review
Porthcawl is OK, it has a descent beach, a fun fair, arcades, fast food places, if your lucky you can find on road parking, but there are pay and display car parks. There is an Aldi right by the beach which is ideal for getting food for picnics on the beach. There is a distinct lack of public toilets which is a shame if you have a need for one. Good luck finding one. The town centre is ok nothing special.
Andy M — Google review
Brilliant place to be a child again or to take the kids. Spent a few hours here on the rides and then in the arcades.
I have posted a picture of the opening times and ride costs. £5 for 10 tokens so choose wisely.
In the arcades it was a pound per machine but they had a ticket office where you could exchange your hard earned tickets for a naff souvenir.
As a big kid we enjoyed the Go Karts. Petrol powered carts around a tiny track. Exhilarating.
@momentsofoutdoors
Moments Of Outdoors — Google review
Beautiful beach and lovely place to picnic. However, I couldn't see any public toilets nearby the pavilion walk.
Brother Bhaskar — Google review
One of the best beaches in the UK without a doubt. Beautiful and not overly busy. The rock pools had loads of snails, little fish, and crustaceans to keep the little one amused.
A small arcade, some food stalls and shops to wander around. Good family day out overall.
Cam — Google review
Lovely experience. Perfect for young kids. Wrist bands are the best as can go on rides as many times as you would like for cheaper than paying for each ride !.caravan place nearby to rent too. Amazing for a little get away.
Kali D — Google review
Beach is lovely, been going her since childhood and it would be nice to see it have a makeover at some point as a little tacky but good fun. Fairground area was very expensive for what it is, we paid for 20 tokens. One ride cost 12 tokens, each other ride is minimum of 6 tokens per person which meant we couldn't go on anything else together and no refund option. I guess trick is to figure out rides and cost before buying tokens. Also we were left waiting on one ride for 15mins in the cold before enough people filled the ride for it to start, my son was freezing and we tried to get the attention of the ride operator to get off but they had dissappeared, ride eventually got going and was fun.
Stephen Lewis — Google review
Had a great time kids really enjoyed it and we will be back, I do recommend you take advantage of the half price wristband offer after 5pm.
Beach looks amazing and we look forward to coming back
Steven — Google review
It’s a great family day out with lots to do that entertains kids and adults alike.
The downside being that the rides are more representative of a touring fairground and misses the feature of a signature roller coaster.
Don’t get me wrong as a tourist it was great fun and good prices.
Plenty of food and drink, great beach and the tacky seaside type shops.
Scotty Grech-Matthews — Google review
Amazing beach, we stopped here on the way back to London as we were doing a tour of rural countryside Wales. Really lovely beach, clean and very busy as would be on a weekend. The weather was perfect, the water was not too cold either! Lots to see and do here definitely a great spot for just relaxing and getting in some downtime from the usual hustle and bustle of city life.
Jas Singh — Google review
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3.0
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Eastern Promenade, Porthcawl, CF36 5TS, United Kingdom
Vast terrain with a castle, orangery, gardens, narrow-gauge railway and rare breeds farm trail.
When planning to visit this place, I wasn't expecting a huge amount of interesting things for kids or for the rest of the family. I was completely mistaken! With two young kids, we spent a good time walking to the adventure playground through the wood vibrations pathway. It was interesting, fun and while windy the play area was great and hidden by trees which helped cut out the wind.
Unfortunately, the train was out of service when we went, but it looked like it would have been great as well. The house and Abbey were stunning, as were the walled gardens. A very dog friendly place, but beware that the paths through the wood are steep and not paved and can be slippery if wet.
A wonderful time had by all and I highly recommend it!
Bethany Fahrer — Google review
We had a lovely walk here with dogs and kids. Plenty of grounds to explore. Lots of farm animals as well as their flock of deer. Good playground for the kids. Cafe and house were closed due to refurbishment when we were there - look forward to seeing them when they are reopened later in the year.
James Odlum — Google review
Enormous and gorgeous park. Visited this place to see the Kite Festival, and we truly enjoyed it. It was well maintained and the staff were friendly. They explained some of the plants when they saw me having an interest in them. Perfect spot for a picnic in good weather. Beautiful ruins and gardens.
Lina Kristianti — Google review
Absolutely amazing. The view is beautiful around the castle. There are a few lakes that you can visit and see swans. You can also see deers from the distance. The compound is free to enter but you have to pay for car parking. Overall, great place to spend the day with your family.
Ahmet İhsan Kaya — Google review
Great place to spend a few hours. We took a picnic today but have eaten in the cafe on previous occasions which has always served nice food. Great little play area for kids as well as some ponds to see wildlife. Not to mention the deer which can sometimes be seen
Dan Gibbins — Google review
Beautiful place some beautiful views and lovely walk around the orangery and park for kids. Historical too with a castle too. Steep in history. A day out easily. There is also a lovely little pantry and ice cream parlour plus 🚻 and lovely lake with wild birds.
Katrina Mills — Google review
Really lovely. There is disabled parking however only 4 spaces which were full when I came but the main car park had space near the entrance so was not an issue.
This park is so beautifully maintained and the animals super friendly! Can give them a head rub if they fancy it.
The pathways are wheelchair and buggy friendly and there are go cart type things that you can hire.
Really nice cafe and ice cream shops around. Just a perfect place to be. The historical buildings are really well maintained and definately a sight to see.
Robyn Swanepoel — Google review
Lovely place for walking and enjoying the open space. Animal walk trail has alpaca's they were so cute my niece (2yrs) got to feed them. Castle was closed for works but it had no effect on us as was not planning on going inside today. Children's fairytale land could prob do with some upgrading bit worn looking. £7.50 for a car not to bad if you plan to be there a few hrs.
JG Taylor — Google review
Even though the entry is free, the parking charge for an hour is 7.5 pounds which is relatively high. But the place is beautiful and relaxing. You don't get to see the insides of the palace much. The park, wildlife, history and the aesthetics are worth visiting for.
Gowri Anil — Google review
Lots of space and very dog friendly, they have a small farm area you can go through and you can easily spend and hour or two just walking around. Parking is reasonable as it's around £6 per car but that allows you access into the estate. Wish the cafe was slightly more exciting and did a larger range of cakes and snacks etc. We live nearby and it's great when you want to walk the dog but avoid the hills, although there is a lovely walk if you go up the hill past the go ape setup.
Emily Britton — Google review
Beautiful park with deer roaming around the grounds. The gardens are extensive, especially magnificent are the Tulip trees (liriodendron tulipiers). There’s a great play area for children, a castle and other buildings for them to play around. Pleasant cafe in the stables (currently outdoor seating). The paths are well made and easy to walk, gravel finish. A beautiful spot with far reaching views. It is a large area to explore!
AM J — Google review
Brilliant place for the kids. Couple of parks, both with plenty going on. The Fairytal one with the little houses is great and the castle great for hide and seek. Pedalo, go karts for getting about. Only thing I'd say lets it down is no decent food, burger van and couple of other things but couldn't find any cafe etc. But I may have missed it. Great little farm also.
Rhodri Lazarus — Google review
Visited for the luminate Christmas trail. What a beautiful, beautiful event! Went with a two year old and nine year old, didn't take a pram but definitely could have. It was so magical, we spent a good two hours there. It was a feel good place, it was relaxed and not rushed and we absolutely loved it and will definitely be returning again. We usually do Bute park but decided against it due to the parking and I ended up preferring it. It was wonderful!
Emma — Google review
The light displays were beautiful. It wasn't overcrowded, so you could stroll through at a leisurely pace without being herded, unlike other places we have been. There were interactive displays dotted around and a lovely display of fairies that the children loved. The food was well placed, and there were plenty of choices. We took our own marshmallows, and you can use the firepits provided to toast them.
Rebecca Henderson — Google review
What a lovely park. It is unexpectedly huge. There is a cafe serving hot meals. The toilet is clean. I would wear boots; it rains anytime in this country.
We actually returned within a week to enjoy the Christmas lights. Highly recommend.
James and Nhu Milton — Google review
Lovely place. Family friendly. Great for young children, farm and play areas. Can stick to paths and castle or go off road and complete some of the longer walks. Steep ascent but great views from the top that were worth it.
Tom Duggan — Google review
Such a beautiful place to be, beautiful and clean, set across a vast area with plenty of activities for everyone. Amazing historical place to be and it’s so nice to access. The Orangery looks incredible. Good access and excellent facilities, though being winter some parts were closed which is no surprise. The Turbine room was fascinating and so great to learn they still use Hydroelectric, just amazing. Lovely gentleman explaining everything and who clearly was well informed about the House and the Gardens, top man! Felt the lady serving in the tea room for the Manor House could learn to smile or be a little more welcoming, seemed a hard one to crack. Some of the signage for the trails were damaged or missing so finding your way around was challenging at times. We loved the place though and we plan coming back in the summer months.
Michael Jones — Google review
Really beautiful park and buildings, lovely sculptures dotted around the grounds. Can spend endless hours walking or other activities. Nice little cafe in the castle courtyard with veggie/vegan/gf options. Great for photographers. Walk-in entry is free, but car parking is £7.20 which isn't too and if there are a few of you and the money all goes to upkeep of the park.
Claire Sinnott — Google review
Fantastic place. All my family enjoys walking ,places and activities.
You pay only for car park £7.70 and entrance for free
Liene Timma — Google review
Lovely country park, plenty of wildlife and open spaces. Lovely adventure playground for young children to keep them occupied for hours. Lovely places to eat and to picnic
Helen Mary Thomas — Google review
I spent the day here with my wife and 2 boys (10 & 3 years old). There was plenty of parking available, and there was an entry fee, which was quite expensive at £7.20. The park is kept in excellent t condition and I'd recommend planning in a full day for your visit as there is quite a lot of ground to cover and lots to see.
The Manor House itself always seems to be having some restoration work done, or at least it has the few times I have visited over the past few years.
The gardens are well kept and are perfect for people looking for some nice family photos. Near the gardens are some tiny houses in a kids' park that depict nursery rhymes inside. The boys loved this little park as it had assault courses and massive board games.
The cafe located next to the Manor House was rather pricey but the quality of the food was very good.
There was another kids' play area with wooden climbing frames, etc. On the way from the Manor house to the farm area, against the backdrop of the Port Talbot steel works. This was a well-kept park, although lacking in benches, but there were some rocks to sit on.
The farm area had a variety of farm animals, which were relatively tame and enjoyed a fuss from the boys.
There is a nice little trail that takes you back to the car park. It would be great if you are a dog owner or like me making every effort to wear the kids out.
Great day out, I would recommend bringing a packed lunch if you're aiming to keep the spend down. Will definitely pay a visit again in the near future. Maybe next time, we will tackle the Go Ape course or even explore some of the walking trails.
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Rooms, guests
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Rooms and guests
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Fantasy Farm Park
Farm
Sights & Landmarks
Animal park
Cafe
Gift shop
Really fun day out. Reasonably priced and alot is included in the price, would totally recommend this for anyone with kids that love animals l. The staff are also really nice. Good work guys, great fun today 😎
james kelley — Google review
What an amazing place to go! So much to do and see, food was absolutely gorgeous, so many play areas for kids. We did the lamb feeding as well, that was an absolute dream come true! All at an absolute bargain of a price! Would definitely come again and again! Friendly staff as well they were absolutely brilliant!!
Izabella Horvath — Google review
We arrived shortly after opening, purchased some animal food, and went straight in to feed the animals. The alpacas were my favourite, and my children loved it when you fed one of the goats, and then they all came bounding over. They held bunnies that were so calm, and then we went on a trailer on the back of a tractor and watched a farmer feed the cows. There were bouncy castles, a sand pit, and tractors that the kids could play on. There was so much to do, and we were there for hours. There was never a moment of boredom. The staff were really good with my children and they did a wonderful job.
Robbie Bladon — Google review
Great value for the money and the staff were very friendly and helpful. Good little cafe and the animal barn was well looked after. I would say the park could do with a little TLC in places but unfortunately my son enjoyed it which is the main thing.
Trevor Bishenden — Google review
Omg amazing loved the place. Best day ever could of stayed there all day. Best staff ever. The farmer was amazing. Telling us all the names of the animals and feed the baby lambs 💗 definitely will be going back.
naomi louise bell — Google review
It wasn't the weather for playing outside so we had lunch in the cafe - very nicely prepared cafe food and all the staff were lovely.
Then we headed to the barn, which was adorable! There were sheep and goats with new babies, 2 alpacas, donkeys, a pony, 2 pigs, some chickens, and rabbits too! You can buy a little bag of feed in the shop and they'll happily feed from your hand.
Next stop was the playbarn with large bouncy castles and inflatable slides where our 7yr old Granddaughter played happily for an hour!
Well worth a visit even on an indoor only day, we'll definitely be back!
Julie Boltwood — Google review
Cannot recommend fantasy farm enough! We came across it 2 years ago on a family holiday, we returned this year and we were so excited to be visiting again!
Run by lovely people who make you feel welcome, the animals are great- I’ve got a soft spot for the goats!
We love going on the cars, the indoor play area is fab, lots to do around the farm- outside play, tractor rides, animal feeding, bottle feeding lambs the list goes on.
The cafe is home style food and is delicious.
Everytime we are in wales, if we are able to we will be repeating our great experiences and be visiting again!
Sarah Potts — Google review
An absolutely must visit place for toddlers and adults alike!
The whole site is enclosed once you get past reception so you the little ones can run free for the most part. The barn was a hit with not just farm animals but rabbits and guinea pigs as well coming out to be held.
The indoor soft play area was perfect for when the weather didn't cooperate, multiple bouncy castles and inflatable slides makes it perfect for any age.
The large outdoor play area with manual diggers and electric tractors which the little ones can drive is well set up. Each area has its own spot so it's not all lumped together, there were six different areas from sand pits to outdoor Wendy houses to play in.
The staff in the reception and cafe were outstanding as well, friendly and helpful they rounded the day off nicely.
Would highly recommend this for toddlers and even older kids.
Ryan Riordan — Google review
Brilliant! We were very impressed. 2 adults, 2 children aged 3 and 7 came here whilst we were on holiday. Looked at the good reviews beforehand and they weren't wrong. Great day. Clean. Well organised. Really friendly staff. Animal feeding and petting was the best part .. animals literally let out free in the barn for visitors to stroke, hold, feed etc! Plenty of activities, good for all ages, nice grounds. Highly recommend Thank you for a lovely day.
Keighley Brogan — Google review
Absolutely brilliant.. lots to do .. and the staff are absolutely wonderful.. we have been 2 times to this place and the kids absolutely love it
Nicola Jones — Google review
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Aberystwyth, B4337, Llanrhystud SY23 5DA, United Kingdom
Cave exploration attraction with a dinosaur park, museum, Iron Age farm and kids' play area.
A great day out, very reasonably priced ticket as there is a lot included. 3 stunning caves to explore, 2 much larger than the third. A cafe, souvenir shop, lots of dinosaurs and information to learn. The visit takes 2-3 hours, you ideally need to wear closed shoes or trainers, as it can be slippery in the caves. Also a jacket is recommended, as the caves temperature is fairly lower than outside. A very unique experience, we would definitely recommend visiting with friends or family. Highly enjoyable and a lot of parking available.
Eleftheria Fyrogeni — Google review
Well-worth a visit, very well maintained and managed caves. No mouldy smell inside, very well lit & very helpful and friendly staff. The pictures don't do much justice as the real deal... Sincerely suggest a visit, especially if you have kids who would like caves & dinosaur stories. The view from the top is beautiful ❤️
Explorer — Google review
Fantastic day out with so many attractions on site. 3 caves, dinosaurs Park, iron age village a farm ,stone circles and play parks. There is so much to do and see. Gold panning and the land train are also great fun. There is a gift shop, cafe and a car park. Booking in advance is a must.
Steven Moseley — Google review
Fantastic experience visiting these show caves!
3 Caves in total located around the park as you walkthrough, with the iron age village and dinosaur path to look at along the way.
Great place for families to visit as having the model dinosaurs keep the kids entertained if they don't take to the caves too much!
There is a cafe on site if you want food, drink or a cup of tea while you're there.
Would advise that this attraction does have some areas with low head room inside some of the caves and entering one also. This attraction is also on the side of a steep hill, so walking around for some people may be difficult at times.
Where's_Mike — Google review
Amazing day out. The caves are some of the best I've been in, well presented and easy access. Tickets need to be booked online in advance. Toilets and baby change can only be accessed by leaving and re-entering the park which is a bit of a pain, especially with so much to see inside. The dinosaur park kept it interesting for our toddler as we walked between the caves.
Christopher Llewellyn — Google review
Wonderful Cave experience. Kids enjoyed it as there were lots of dinosaur models outside the caves. Bone cave was very narrow and low head clearance, so it will be difficult for people with mobility issues. There was a charity train running from the lower carpark every 10 mins.
Kids enjoyed petting the farm animals located near the charity train stop. You will need a cave entrance ticket to enter this farm, though there were no checks done.
Martin Robert — Google review
Fantastic time here as a couple with a 6 year old. I really enjoyed the history, the little one enjoyed exploring!
Everyone loves the Dino's!
Great experience but not disabled friendly, though I'm not sure how they could change that inside the caves.
Rhys Ford-Young — Google review
This is an amazing experience, especially for the price. There are 3 caves to visit and a good walk around the park packed with excellent dinosaur models with movement and sound. My God sons loved it. After that there is a free miniature golf course, a free roam animal experience with interactive elements such as milking a goat model and also a kids adventure play area with scooters, slides and a little tractor course all included on the price. There is also a donation based land train to and from the park from the caves which the littlest loved. Highly recommend the park it's self. Would have been 5* but the food from the cafe was not good, would avoid the baguettes and bring a packed lunch next time.
Ciara — Google review
Amazing place to visit with kids. Whole day can be spent easily. 3 caves to visit and the Cathedral is the best and most beautiful. The dinosaur park which lead you to the two additional caves help you to climb up to the mountain which gives you a beautiful view for the surrounding mountains. Highly recommend! It worth its price and under 3s can go free. Helpful staff and well looked after place.
László Lovas — Google review
Great place to visit. The first cave is very big. The dinosaur park is amazing with so many species and lots of dinosaurs. The farm is nice as well, you can stroke ponies, horses and goats. Definitely would go again!
Sergiu O — Google review
Great as always, with lots of walks, places to see and exhibits to admire. Caves are open, as well. Some of the pathways to dinosaurs ( down to the stream) were closed, but we enjoyed the rest of it. The Shire with playgrounds and animals roaming freely were amazing. It was such a relaxing day. Highly recommend.
Ioana Preoteasa — Google review
Absolutely stunning place! Amazing day out and definitely has to be seen! Everything is included in the tickets the entrance for the caves and the farm! One of the best places in the heart of Wales! Book tickets before visit and the parking is also included!
Magdalena Petrova — Google review
I have been visiting here since I was a kid. The place is beautiful, informative and fun for the kids.
Some of the outdoor exhibits are starting to show their age, but only if you look closely.
The cafe offers simple fayre at a reasonable price, and all the staff try to be as helpful as possible.
When you visit the farm area, keep an eye out for Ivy, she loves a good scratch behind the ears.
The paths are quite steep in places, and some areas are simply not wheelchair or buggy friendly at all, but that is the nature of the attraction, and the place is as accommodating as possible.
Evan Williams — Google review
Fair priced considering how many caves you get to explore, weather was terrible when we came but didn’t affect anything. They have a big outdoor dinosaur area which looks really cool- perfect for the little ones!
life0ffthegrid — Google review
Fantastic experience for a family. Our daughter loved the dinosaurs and the cave experience. Well maintained, clean and immersive experience with brilliant caves to explore. Cave 1 is a long and winding tunnel, low in parts but still accessible. There are some steps and steep parts and lots of water when we visited after a month of heavy rain. Some parts of the caves were blocked off due to flooding which was a little concerning especially as not told of this before entering. Cave 2 the cathedral cave was a huge stunning cave. The food was a bit of a let down, £8 for a very basic baguette sandwich, they could douch better. All in all a great family day out though.
Victoria Brighton — Google review
I last visited the caves 22 years ago and it was lovely to go back with my family. On the whole the experience was great, however the museum was pretty awful and dated. Lots of the lights weren’t working so we couldn’t see the exhibits and I don’t think much has changed in 22 years. Time for a refresh there I think, maybe some decent artefacts etc.
cafe was fine, again maybe a refresh would be good but I’m pleased to see it hasn’t gone too commercial. Kids enjoyed the dinosaurs and the caves are brilliant. Always worth a visit.
Rhyann Milne — Google review
It's a really nice way to spend a few hours. The caves are great, with good non-slip paths and not many low points. Only the bone caves needs a hat, and you need strong knees to follow the path. The dinosaur park is great for the kids with loads of animatronics and an atmospheric setting.
Mark Brown — Google review
There is a good amount to see here: there are three caves, one is a good walk around (easy enough to do), the other smaller but with piped music which was cool. The final smaller but with an interesting film on some history. There is a dinosaur park, interesting for the littler ones. A cafe that's a bit pricey but ok, and a few other bits. If you go then definitely walk down to the bottom of the hill where they have a show farm with a variety of animals wondering about, and a big play barn that's good fun!
Jon Hobson — Google review
Stunning caves and very big. Hidden natural beauty in the mountains. My daughter also loved the dinosaurs.
Christina Penaluna — Google review
The caves are incredible, I've visited others and these are so much bigger and really are spectacular. The video of behind the show caves was an amazing watch, especially whilst you're down in the caves themselves.
The dinosaurs are fun if a little dated, some of the other exhibits are the same. The shire horses were beautiful and there were some sweet other animals.
What really lets it down is the cafe. So expensive and the food is really poor. We had baguettes and at over £7 each for chicken and bacon mayo that was predominantly mayo and rubbery ham we felt really ripped off.
Plus they had crammed in far too many tables and chairs, trying to move through the area with a cane was really difficult. Definitely think about less mobile people and accommodate them a little more, maybe with a bench by the cave entrance for example as it's quite the journey and nowhere to sit until you get to the dinosaur section.
Heavily shaded walking path leading past cascading waterfalls, woodland streams & pools.
Brilliant day out. Really tricky walk in places, lots of climbing and finding the best path. Well worth the walk. Cannot wait to do it again.
Gilly Crawford — Google review
Amazing views. Trail is difficult in places and suggested times are a quick pace. Arrive early for ease to park. Facilities are very basic - although opportunities to sit and eat a pack lunch are abundant.
Anne Addison — Google review
Beautiful hike, we saw all 4 waterfalls and it took us about 3 hours. It's not an easy walk but kids can do it and you can take it slowly so you don't slip. We recommend getting to the parking before 10:30 because it gets full very quickly (£6 per car for the whole day)
Hadas H — Google review
Great day out. Lovely walk in nature and the waterfalls are spectacular.
Brenndon Herbert — Google review
Lovely trail to follow! The waterfalls are all well-marked, there’s lots of signage and the paths are easy to walk. Can be quite steep in places but definitely nothing too crazy. The steps were quite slippery when we went so be careful if it’s wet!
Beth J — Google review
Amazing day out, and so much fun, we had a great time but it was a little steep at times, but the waterfalls were fantastic.
DANNYG428 — Google review
It is a beautiful walk, but have in mind its steep hills but lovely views
Nathan Foster — Google review
Cool walk, waterfalls were better than I expected. Definitely worth a visit.
Parking was a bit expensive and was pretty busy on the narrow sections, not really a walk for solitude but the waterfalls are pretty impressive.
Malcolm Guile — Google review
Really good walk, great scenery and amazing waterfalls. Took about 3 hours!
Sarah Gray — Google review
It was a brilliant experience.. and the place is absolutely beautiful ♥️. There are 3 carparks around the area to experience this walk, I parked in cwm porth Parking lot and it cost me £5 to park. Make sure you get one of the maps from the little store in the parking lot to help you navigate through the place. The whole walk is well designed and labelled with number posts to find the way around easily. I walked nearly 11 Kilometres to see all 4 water falls and comeback to the parking lot and it was worth it.
Pranav Haridas — Google review
Great hike. People should be cautious of the walk though as there’s a lot of step and during the monsoons, get mucky.
Joston Fernandes — Google review
Absolutely incredible this is a must visit for anyone who enjoys walking
Jack Smith — Google review
Went there on a off chance as it was the day we were leaving Wales, absolutely recommend this walk the views are amazing and it was so nice to be able to walk for hours.
Parking was good when we arrived as we got there early but was alot busier when we got back.
The walks to the waterfalls can take a decent amount of time depending on whom you are walking with and take snacks and drinks.
100% worth doing and we will be back again!
Steve — Google review
Absolutely beautiful place to visit.
Though not an easy or moderate hike particularly trying to get to the Waterfalls.
Worth it
Alan Charlton — Google review
What an excellent trail! It took about 4 hours to complete the trail, with plenty of stops, especially for photos. The last waterfall is the best where you can go literally under the waterfall. Undoubtedly, Ilit was one of the best moments in my life! Parking at Cwm porth was 5 quid, and the lady at the information center was quite helpful who briefly described the trail. Restrooms were available at the parking lot.
Balasubramanya Bhat — Google review
Great hike and beautiful waterfalls.
Can get a bit difficult at times (very high steps leading to the last waterfall) but the experience is more than worth the effort.
Very friendly and helpful staff at the shop in the parking area at the start of the route.
Maria E Krupa — Google review
Brecon Beacons National Park… this place was brilliant, all of these waterfalls are amazing! It took us about 3.5 hours to walk from the car park (Porth Cwn) to the waterfalls and back and would say this is an intermediate to hard trek if you go to all 4 falls. The first one is relatively easy to reach, the 2nd, 3rd and 4th are down steep narrow paths and jagged slopes so would highly advise strong walking shoes but so worth it, especially for the final one where you can actually get behind it… but yes you will get soaked.
Daniel Totterdell — Google review
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United Kingdom
I'll never travel to Chester without this trip planner again
During your journey back to Cardiff, make a pit stop at Penderyn Distillery Visitor Centre where they create award-winning whisky, gin and other spirits and liqueurs using the pristine waters of Brecon Beacons National Park. Take a tour of the distillery and purchase some of their delicious beverages to enjoy at home.
A brilliant little place to learn and jndertsmd about the making and production of Whiskey.
An incredible experience and the staff are very friendly and passionate about what they do. The car park has no height restrictions and easy to park.
The tour lasted for about an hour before you were then able to have 4 small samples. They also have gin to taste as well as Whiskey.
Very educational. Would recommend.
@momentsofoutdoors for more
Moments Of Outdoors — Google review
Heaven for whiskey lovers and not only. Super friendly staff. You can take a tour of the distillery learning how the Welsh single malt is made and have a degustation 😉. They have a fantastic shop there with their own products. Whiskeys, gins, whiskey creams, jams and many other things. Highly recommended place
matheus goodbrass — Google review
It was really neat to visit the very first distillery in Wales. My brother and Dad have loved Penderyn for years, so it was really nice to stop and check it out! We did the tour and learned so much! The lady who gave the tour was really kind and a great guide! We got to walk around the whole distillery as she explained the process. The tour came with 2 complementary tastings at the end and we ended up getting some gifts to take home.
Seth Thomas — Google review
Just had a lovely afternoon at the distillery our tour guide was very friendly and full of knowledge and made the tour come alive. We finished of the tour with a tasting of some of the different finishes of the whisky a lovely and informative visit thank you 😊 totally recommend to all visiting the area 😊
Wendy Hope — Google review
Absolutely fantastic place to visit, I cannot recommend this distillery enough. Went here with my elderly father, we didn't have to pre book just turn up. Cost of tour very good. A nice size group of people were shown around the vats and how the whisky is made, and at the end a delicious tasting of the different types that Penderyn sell.
Of course that then leads you to just purchase some of your favourites, and why not!
A trip I would do again.
Melanie Rae — Google review
Lovely distillery & whiskey but why sell a 4pm-5pm tour if you're going to be chasing us out because you need to shut at 5? Also cash registers had shut before tour had finished so be aware that you may not be able to spend cash (as we were going to). Also shame there was another group in the tasting bar so we couldn't hear everything.
Samantha Leary — Google review
Great little distillery with some excellent whiskeys and very friendly and knowledgeable staff. Loads of interesting history on the terrain and water source. They also do their own gin and other spirits. Highly recommend.
simon martin — Google review
I found this tour very informative. We went at 11a.m on the hour tour and really enjoyed it. We had a couple of taster whiskeys at the end of the tour.Lisa was a fab guide and helped us choose appropriately with our tastes. Would definitely recommend.
jane louise — Google review
Excellent exhibition about whiskey distillery in general, followed by a great guided tour of the distillery finished by tasting of two drinks or one mini sample bottled drink. Shop before exit.
Juliana McNicol — Google review
A lovely experience.
We went on a tour around the distillery and thoroughly enjoyed ourselves.
Alison was our tour guide, she was very knowledgeable and a fantastic voice for Penderyn.
As I live nearish I will be popping in to get some more treats nearer Christmas
Jasmine — Google review
Lovely whiskey distillery. We popped in to pick up something to go. Really nice staff and will be back for a full tour. There are also distillery exclusives available.
Samson Wong — Google review
Took the distillery tour with Lisa the guide whilst visiting the area. Great experience and more than a few laughs with the guide! I am a whisky lover and was fascinated with all the technical details on the tour. The whisky hand sanitiser trick was really great and it was a real talking point when I got home. Well worth a visit if you are near Penderyn
Adrian Tyson — Google review
I had the pleasure of visiting Penderyn Distillery in the beautiful Brecon Beacons on October 10th, 2023. This independent distillery is a hidden gem for whiskey enthusiasts and anyone interested in Welsh history.
The distillery tour provided a fascinating insight into the art of whiskey-making, starting with a warm welcome from our knowledgeable guide. We explored the entire process, from milling and mashing to distillation, even getting a close look at their unique Faraday stills. The educational component was well-structured, offering a glimpse into the history of whiskey-making in Wales and the broader Welsh heritage.
Penderyn's dedication to quality is evident, as they produce small quantities of exceptional malted barley spirit that matures into some of the smoothest malt whiskies worldwide. Not only did we learn about their outstanding single malt whiskies, but also about their other products like Merlyn Cream Liqueur, Brecon Five Vodka, Brecon Gin, and Siddiqui Rums.
The tour concluded with a delightful tasting session, allowing us to sample two of their products or take home a miniature bottle. The gift shop had a variety of offerings for souvenirs and gifts.
One tip for future visitors: It's wise to pre-book your tour online to secure your spot. Also, remember that the production floor is not accessible to under 14s or wheelchair users due to safety reasons. Penderyn Distillery is a must-visit for whiskey lovers and anyone looking to appreciate the craftsmanship and heritage of Welsh whiskey-making.
Lampros Karatasios — Google review
I've been a couple of times on the tour and I have loved it every time. Learning about the process of whisky making is very interesting, and the difference in process using the Faraday Still is fascinating.
The tour is completed with a couple of samples from the wide variety of choice of different whisky created by Penderyn, my personal favourite is the Rich Oak.
After the samples, there is a lovely little factory shop to buy the whisky and there are other local Welsh goods available.
Definitely worth a visit (or 2).
Jasan Ames — Google review
Masterclass birthday gift for a complete novice.
Excellent masterclass with Ray! A great experience for novices and more experienced whisky enthusiasts. Ray was very knowledgeable and gave a great insight to the history of the distillery. 10/10 would highly recommend. Found a new favourite in the Rich oak. 👌
Rhys Power — Google review
Had a great time on the tour today. Our tour guide was fantastic, clearly invested in the process and proud of the whiskey they're creating. Interesting to see their unique Faraday stills too.
Rob Borland — Google review
We had a lovely welcome by Carla and Lisa.
Carla took our group and others on a very informative tour. Carla was very knowledgeable with a good sense of humour. Any questions that we had, Carla was able to answer.
The shop was fresh and well stocked.
We would definitely recommend this tour.
Ann Hyett — Google review
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Pontpren, Pontbren Llwyd, Aberdare CF44 0SX, United Kingdom
Brecon Cathedral, which dates back to a 1093 priory, is an impressive medieval church renowned for its notable stained glass. It serves as the cathedral of the Diocese of Swansea and Brecon and houses the Regimental colours of the South Wales Borderers who fought in the Isandhlwana battle during the Zulu wars. The Harvard Chapel annex is particularly noteworthy. Visitors can enjoy refreshments at the Pilgrim cafe/shop on-site, which will reopen in spring.
It's the first time3I see the dog friendly cathedral. Worth visiting if you go to Brecon. Entrance is free of charge.
Gr3at White — Google review
Really nice visit to this cathedral. The history is really nicely presented on multilingual fact sheets around the cathedral, with lots of really interesting artifacts. Enjoyed learning all this stuff in addition to seeing the inside. The tree ID tags outside were a nice addition and the cafe looks like it would be a nice break (we didn't stop to eat). I don't know if I'd make a visit just for this, but the great grounds and history made for a nice stop.
Shasta Marrero — Google review
Brecon Cathedral is the cathedral of the Diocese of Swansea and Brecon and seat of the Bishop of Swansea and Brecon. It is the most beautiful place and in the Harvard Chapel annex are the Regimental colours of the South Wales Borderers that were present in the famous battle of Isandhlwana during the Zulu wars. The on site Pilgrim cafe/shop is also a lovely place for refreshments but it is closed at the moment (to be opened again in the spring). Simply put it is superb medieval church, one of the finest examples of medieval architecture in Wales.
Free entry with toilets only available in the cafe. Nearby pay and display cafe. Easy walking access from Brecon town.
david howells — Google review
Very interesting cathedral, with a beautiful font one of the oldest in Wales. A very good military chapel dedicated to the South Wales Borderers with some very historic colours. I would visit again and maybe take some more pictures.
Stephen Morris — Google review
Beautiful building & historic grounds. Well worth a visit.
Ian Crump — Google review
Beautiful cathedral. The Pilgrim cafe/shop seems to be closed permanently but it was still nice to look around the Church. Lots of interesting artifacts and history.
Christian Jenkins — Google review
A lovely hour spent with my 6 year old. There was a little scavenger hunt with things to find for the kids as you explored the cathedral. Very friendly volunteers were on hand for any extra information.
Leigh Anne Roberts — Google review
Lovely peaceful Cathedral, well worth a visit if you are in the area. Nice little tea room too.
Kenneth Moyse — Google review
The cathedral is set in its own grounds surrounded by ancient walls. But there is access by foot through the gateways. Entrance to the church is via the door, where the church and old building connect. The church seems well kept and maintained and hosts lots of references to colonial British life and the local army regiments. Not much sense of the current witness or community, apart from choristers. Worth a visit, but left feeling it was a relic of history that has not made the change to represent life changing faith today.
Mark Lees — Google review
Lovely old cathedral with numerous interesting corners and relics - Brecon was a key town in medieval times - 200 archers from here recruited for the battle of Agincourt.
dave chamberlain — Google review
Beautiful cathedral bean here a few times now and it always amazes me
William Murray — Google review
The cafe was great value and the staff are very welcoming. The Sunday lunch options accommodate all the groups dietary requirements and the puddings were amazing. Just sorry we did not have room for cake. A gem and we will re visit when we return
Susan strother — Google review
Stunning Cathedral. Acoustic sound was good for 'The Music of Adele by Candlelight' even though the candles were l.e.d and not true candles. Shame 😪. Very nice building and staff. Keep up the good work.
Ian MOSES — Google review
Wonderful Peaceful Beautiful just some of the words I can think of to describe this place . Oh and Delightful for the lady working here who told me all about it .
It was built on the site of an earlier Celtic Church by Bernard de Neufmarche and rebuilt in the reign of King John in the Gothic style .
It was known as the Church of the Holy Rood and was a major pilgrimage site . In the nave today you can still see two wooden doors opposite each other which in its day had a bridge between them with a great Golden Rood stood on it . Pilgrims would enter one door touch the cross and exit by the other .
The oldest part of the building is said to be a fantastic stone font with depictions of the Green Man and Tree of Life on it . On the day I visited there was a very talented Organist practicing which I enjoyed . The windows are amazing and the atmosphere very homely . I think an hour in here could easily convert the staunchest of non believers .
There is a very interesting Crucifix hanging from the ceiling made by a local lady from drift wood . One of a kind I am sure .
A lovely place and wonderful day out .
Series of artificial lakes with dams, pastoral views for photography & benches for picnicking.
I absolutely love Elan Valley, I just drove or walk around .I always found something to adore and enjoy
Zuza Takavolajaka — Google review
Love the Elan Valley Dams,heartbreaking views all around, at the moment is perfect time to visit them,because no season, and can access parking space.
Marika Majore — Google review
We have been to Wales many times, and even to the first dam of elan valley where two fighter jets flew over very low it was amazing. But never did I realise how big the rest of it was until today. It was absolutely breathtaking!
David Price — Google review
Well worth visiting stunning scenery, and very photogenic. Highly recommended. Make sure to visit Claerwen Dam viewpoint, spectacular.
Rich C — Google review
It's an amazing place to visit... beautiful sceneries...!
Pamoda Kamaladasa — Google review
Lots of dams and reservoirs to see on different levels of the valley. Great for either long walks, or if your lazy like us nice car rides with great views.
Andrew Thomas — Google review
What a spot. We stopped here on our way back to Bristol from Snowdonia. Will definitely be back with the dog and there’s great walks around the reservoirs
Catherine Heather — Google review
Fabulous place to visit, super friendly staff in the cafe and shop and a lovely welcoming atmosphere. The reservoir is outstanding, we were there when there was snow on the ground and it was bone chillingly cold but it was worth navigating the steps for the view from the top. Going down was challenging given the conditions and the crossing the bridge saw my husband and I doing an impression of Torville and Dean given it was thick ice and there was no salt down so care had to be taken. The walks were lovely and well sign posted. We cut our visit short due to the cold but will most certainly be back in the spring to see more of this incredible place.
Alison Usher — Google review
The views are breathtaking! The walks are well signposted and are of varying degrees of difficulty.
We’re already planning returning before the end of summer.
Bolt 7 — Google review
Great views, it would be good to visit after some heavy rain and see the cascading water.
dave fenna — Google review
Amazing scenery, great for hiking, cycling or u can drive them. Visitor centre hs lovely cafe cheep parking
Leonie — Google review
Quite a few reservoirs in a distance of a few miles. Surrounded by the beautiful Welsh nature. A great choice for a day trip driving through the mid Welsh countryside. The forests, the waters, the animals (which you will sometimes literally find walking down the roads) are simply great. Highly recommended. (PS: The dams won't always have the waters running down them, making the view somewhat less spectacular)
G Kom — Google review
parking is easy the elan valley goes on for miles means you have a long walk which ever way you choose to go you can see the dam and the views of the mountains and hills in the distance make it picturesque so bring your camera and spare battery well worth a visit
The Big Pit National Coal Museum is a former colliery that offers interactive displays on mining life and underground tours guided by ex-miners. The museum allows visitors to explore the tunnels and coalfaces of a real coal mine, providing insight into what life was like for miners from 1880 to 1980. Various colliery buildings above ground, including the 1939 pithead baths, are also open for exploration with displays showcasing the history of the industry.
Fascinating insight into the industry that defined South Wales. The mine is in a beautiful area with original buildings and equipment preserved, making for an interesting walk around especially if weather is good to you. However the crown jewel is the underground mine tour which gives you first hand insight into what working in these mines would've been like.
Our tour guide Pete was incredible! He was a retired miner himself, from generations of Welsh miners. He was extremely informative and entertaining, and could give us his own experience of working in a mine.
The tour lasted around 45 minutes and covered a lot of important aspects of the mine. There are very low ceilings at some parts, at nearly 6ft I found myself almost at a right angle at some parts to get through, but the bits where you have to duck are quick and you won't be walking for more than a minute or so in those parts. However due to this, uneven ground, and the dark setting, I don't recommend the tour for those with mobility impairments or those who are claustrophobic.
Parking is £5 which I think is more than fair when the museum is free. Staff are friendly and there's a gift shop with a good mix of tourist novelties, information, and independent artist goods.
If you are able bodied I would definitely recommend going to the Big Pit!
Abi Rayner — Google review
I had a good time here, going down the mine was fun and a real good experience. The miner who gave the tour was very polite and gave plenty of information and did a good job at including the guests in questions and engaging with everyone about the pit. I have been 3 times now and found this to be the best visit due to being included in the tour, I also been during covid and had a good experience then with minimal amount of people. My family enjoyed every time, I will visit again in the future and do recommend. I was happy with the overall experience from start to finish.
Rhian Roberts — Google review
Great time out with the family. We did have to wait for about an hour for the mine tour although it was worth the wait. The staff were very friendly and knowledgeable. Plenty to see and do. This was during the school holidays.
Lianna Jewell — Google review
Well laid out since last time I was there. £5 parking fair price towards upkeep of exhibition . Experience of doing down 90 metres was eerie but fun. The guide was very good and knowledge made for a good experience. Same canteen was shutting as we finished tour. Overall good experience and family enjoyed it worth the drive.
thomas cairns — Google review
Excellent, everyone should pay a visit to see to see the danger miner's faced every day. Their fight for better working conditions and pay fully justified their actions in 1984. The trip underground is amazing with the knowledgeable guides, some ex miners. Museum is informative and interesting. So much history to see and read about. It's free and "a must visit" .
Rob Howells — Google review
Spent a few hours wandering around the preserved working areas on the surface than a guided tour of the working mine underneath, depth of 90m. All free. The staff are friendly and knowledgeable about the history of coal mining, brilliant day out.
That Baratheon Girl — Google review
What a lovely place.
The staff/guides on site are extremely friendly, passionate and informative about the site and the history of the mines.
There is lots of buildings to visit on the site and if you get the chance be sure to go in the cage 90m down into the caves - an amazing experience.
Lots of interesting facts, illustrations, equipment and machinery to learn about.
A great day out.
Would recommend bringing your own food, as canteen on site offers limited food cater to limited tastes (not a hit with the kids).
Would definitely visit again, even if it were to learn more from the staff/guides.
Vikash Gandhi — Google review
This is a great place for all the family. (children less than 1metre tall aren't allowed down the mine for safety reasons). Before we went down the mine we were kitted out with lamps and safety gear. Our guide was an ex-miner who gave an excellent tour. His stories about life below ground for the men, children and animals who worked there really gave us food for thought. The trip down the mine lasts about 50 minutes; you should wear sensible clothing and shoes as it is cold, and slippery in parts. We had to wait a bit for our tour as we went on a Sunday. You can also book a time for your tour online for 5 pounds. Otherwise the whole museum is free. As well as the mine tour, I really enjoyed seeing the baths, canteen and medical centre. Highly recommended!
Penny Southgate — Google review
What a brilliant experience. The tour was excellent. Our guide was very knowledgeable and friendly. Displays were informative and full of historical evidence. High recommend
Sue Fiander — Google review
Well worth going to see. We actually went down into the mine and it was really interesting to see how they got the coal from there. Our guide had worked there so he know all about the day to day life at the pit. We stop for some food at the pot canteen and again the food was very tasty and well priced. The staff at the canteen were really nice and welcoming.
John Harrison — Google review
We had an amazing afternoon here, you pay for parking (£5 contactless) and don't have to pay for anything else, it's suggested £5 at entrance their was 4 of us, we paid more than this, we queued to go down the shaft, it took about an hour (and they are clear about this waiting time) but what an amazing experience! To understand how they worked and the conditions is great and the guide (Em, I think! Was amazing fun) everyone is friendly and great fun too, the other museum areas are great too and keep your interest even if you don't want to go down the mine (and you would not wait for this obviously) . You can't take anything down the mine (phone etc) so no pics of that, but the memory are great.
Craig Walker — Google review
Second time here and enjoyed it as much this time as I did last time. Very knowledgeable tour guide and just a fabulous experience. Tour lasts around 50 mins. Then we went to the pit head baths and other ancillary buildings before having a cup of Welsh tea in the canteen. We finished off by checking out the modern mining experience which was also great. Kids really enjoyed it. Great learning experience. Highly recommended.
Jonathan Davies — Google review
Lovely place to visit, too small to go in the actual mine but the experience up the hill was a great representation. The site itself was lovely to walkabout the bathhouse was fascinating. Had some freshly made Welsh cakes and sat enjoying the view. Highly recommend a visit
£5 to park all day. Short walk and there is more to explore
vikki osborne — Google review
We turned up on a rainy day with no high expectations. But we were wrong. It was a brilliant experience. The tour and exhibits really conveyed the true nature of the hard work, camaraderie, dedication and humbling work that went on here and elsewhere. We stayed for over two hours and could’ve stayed longer. The staff were super friendly and keen to share their knowledge and stories. We loved it, and usually nonplussed about such things. Highly recommended!
DD DDD — Google review
Very informative and engaging experience, spread over several sites and exhibits over the area. Make sure you visit the key sites of the Big Pit - which involves a 45 min guided tour underground, all walking with some steps. Get your timed visit from reception to save lining up. And King Cole, with a virtual guide, both excellent. The Baths is also very interesting, which includes a social history section. Overall a 5 star visit.
Mark P — Google review
What an amazing place, it has changed so much since I went there over 35 years ago, the tour guides where amazing, they made it so much fun as well as a history lesson, plus they knew more or less everything. Very enjoyable, glad we went.
They rely heavily on donations so dig deep for this brilliant place.
Lovely little cafe, with one of the best Welsh cakes i have had.
The shop is great, you can purchase some memorabilia.
kristy — Google review
Great day out with Grandchildren, very educational for children and adults! The underground exploration of the mine with our very talented young Lady guide was wonderful, the children were enthralled and have been excited to talk about what they saw. A repeat visit is most definitely needed as we still have much more to experience, the time passed so quickly and we are already looking forward to being able to visit again.
Granduca — Google review
Had an absolutely wonderful time down the mines with Ian, who was a great and very funny guide.
I hadn't been since primary school, and it's wonderful to see how many extra exhibits have been developed since then.
Excellent value with only £5 for parking, and £20 for food and drink for three people in the cafe.
Bets Edwards — Google review
Absolutely brilliant! It's all I've thought about since going. The tour underground was incredible. Ian, our tour guide was funny, knowledgeable and just a pure delight. I highly recommend this place to anyone. We had 4 children ranging from 6 - 17 and they really enjoyed it to. We can't wait to go again.
Maria Savage — Google review
It is a fascinating and fabulous way to get children to experience living history in a fun way.
Our guide, Mike, was funny and very informative as well as engaging the children on our tour fully.
There is a 1m height restriction, but no age restriction.
We had an elderly but sprightly 77 yr old with us, and he managed the underground tour very well in spite of it being uneven to walk in places.
A short wait for the next tour to begin, roughly 10 minutes first thing in the morning on a Saturday.
Outdoors, there are further attractions all to fo with mining, fabulous views, and a great little coffee shop and gift shop.
It even snowed as we came out of the underground tour!
Parking is £5 for the day, free for disabled users.
There is no entrance fee, but you can give donations.
5* experience
Daisy Dink — Google review
Was I incredible tour Today.
It’s really amazing.
You need to get here to understand how hard was to leave just couple hundreds years ago.
Make sure you will be not so tired,you’ll need a bit of rest before going in.
Eugen Bogza — Google review
Lovely educational experience. Great galleries and underground experience. Super enthusiastic guide lady from east London 😘 made our experience wonderful.
Modern kids learning about kids life and conditions just over 100years ago give them some thinking... and questioning. Mind opener. Must visit
TiC — Google review
Super interesting and cool museum to visit in Wales. Just the surroundings are amazing and the museum is an old coal mine were they show you around and explain how mining was done in the old days. The staff were incredibly friendly and nice. 100% recommended!
Cristian Ponce — Google review
This is an experience of a lifetime. My friends recommended we stop in and go here because when else am I ever going to be able to go down into a coal mine? We arrived as the second to last tour of the day, and it was absolutely wonderful, because we basically had our own private tour with a miner. Just a fantastic time learning all about coal mines and the history of the region, I found it absolutely fascinating. If visiting Wales, add this to your list!
Remains of an 18th-century industrial complex, with a blast furnace & furnished workers’ cottages.
Love day out with the boyfriend, really enjoyed our day out. Never been before but can say it was really worth it. Very friendly staff in the gift shop/entrance. Very informative and interesting to learn all about the steal works and how people lived. Great parking and toilets available. Would highly recommend to any family or people interested in local history. Also saw some picnic benches which would be lovely to use in the summer months. 10 out of 10 for me !!
liam rowe (liam0699) — Google review
We visited the site for a little family day out and it was definitely worth the trip. There was a very friendly gentleman where we purchased our tickets who enthusiastically told us all about the history of the area and showed us around the site.
Everything was well maintained and we were very impressed with the little houses the workers would have lived in while working. The staff in the shop were also very accommodating and welcoming.
Stephanie-Jayne — Google review
A seminal site of the industrial revolution and another Welsh UNESCO World Heritage complex, Blaenavon Ironworks is not as large as I thought it would be,but I've nevertheless spent over two hours here exploring. It really is quite amazing, covering not just the industrial process itself but also the housing conditions of the workers.
As at Morwellham Quay in Devon and other places around the UK, there's living actors here playing parts. I also briefly overcame my fear of heights to walk a wire floor high above the balance tower, and the presentation of tapping the furnace to reveal the molten iron ore was impressive.
Now I'm going to explore the town itself, as recommended by the excellent guidebook.
Nicholas Casley — Google review
Great place to learn how the ironworkers lived 200 years ago. The exhibition sites are very informative, the view from the top of the balance tower is breathtaking. Even though it was raining when we visited Blaenavon I honestly enjoyed the tour.
t?nde kalocsai (elf11) — Google review
Great historical museum dedicated to the history of Blaenavon. I would suggest they add information in the beginning about the process of iron making since I had to look it up afterwards. Informational signs are placed around the property but don't give a full picture of what happened here. Great info about daily life and the structures still in place, however. The World Heritage center also has informative displays.
Jordan Stock — Google review
Had a great time exploring. Load to see and some great information to be learnt about the works and the area
Ian Crates — Google review
Brilliant. Should be completely open again now I think. The old houses made up with furniture and decor, plus toys etc. from 1790 to 1967 are really fascinating.
Alison Dite — Google review
Excellent piece of Welsh industrial history exhibition. Remains of iron smelting kilns and its collateral buildings including workers' houses from early 19th century. It is very educational, there are few audio posts all around the site. I really enjoyed my visit. Friendly staff too.
T Sultis — Google review
A very interesting look at one of the biggest parts of Welsh history. There are plenty of things to see and great interaction. Nestled in the rolling hills, the view from the top is stunning.
Rich Urban-Marks — Google review
Went on a break en route to Cardiff. Short detour. Drive is beautiful. Takes us to mountain summit. Take a break if you have time. Parking is across the road. Friendly staff. Had a special Halloween event when we went. Cadw members have discounted entry. Mostly outdoor. Not recommended if weather is bad
sreejith venugopal — Google review
Loads of exhibits and history to see and view, workers cottages set out as they would have been when ironworks running. Also cottages set up from 1930's, '40's etc. Difficult to access with wheelchair as slope up to cottages is pretty steep, I wouldn't attempt it in inclement weather.
Bill Dear — Google review
Far more than expected 😁😁
Learnt more about ironwork in a few hours than entire life. Also people standard of life and house interiors change over last 150 years were shocking. Must visit for every human big or small. Tickets about £8 adult or free Cadw members (ca £80year/family) free car park
TiC — Google review
My kids love it but to walk on the top you have to be quite fit
Anna Bajor — Google review
Thoroughly interesting historical location to visit. Absolutely friendly welcome at ticket office and highly informative knowledgeable guide onsite. Lots to see and read. The little houses through time were fantastic too. Information posts in either Welsh or English. Well worth a visit
Corinne Dyer — Google review
Lovely day out for the family and very interactive. The member of staff that was there to answer questions was very knowledgeable and really seemed to love his job
Tracey R — Google review
what a wonderful visit we had today, we absolutely loved it , the guide was fantastic ,very knowledgeable and informative in fact we believe he made the visit extra special and was very attentive when we asked questions and answered without hesitation, he truly is an asset to the establishment such an amazing guy !!
The whole experience was one of enjoyment pleasure and a lot of thinking of those days gone by and the work and lifestyle they must of endured in fact the whole day and thoughts are still running through our minds long after we have left so I will say it certainly had a massive impact on us today and made us realise how lucky we are to live in this world today rather in those days .
An amazing experience and a must see for anyone visiting the area absolutely well worth the visit!
Thank you all for making it special today .
David Hind — Google review
We loved visiting here, its a great experience.
A lot to learn about the history and how it all worked. The old workers cottages are really good to get to see how the people lived in different times.
Great view from the viewing area at the top, its very high up so not for people scared of heights.
Theres free parking across the road.
Visitors can observe daily wild red kite feedings from an open field or viewing hides on a farm.
One of the best afternoons out ever! Booked a photographers hide and managed to get some epic shots of the red kites. You get to see hundreds of red kites metres away from you. Everyone is so welcoming and accommodating at the farm. Its well kept and the cafe is wonderful. I spent almost 2 hours in the hide enjoying all the birds. Worth every penny! I hope to be back again in the future
Samuel Higgins — Google review
Excellent experience, we went in hide 1 and was great to see the red kites feeding. Need to have some patience to wait but once the crows come down then the red kites will swoop in for the food. Lovely site with very friendly staff. Gift shop was lovely with beautiful items and pictures. You can also have a cup of tea and cake and sit outside. Kids loved also seeing the donkey, the cats and the dog on site also.
S Evans (Sevs) — Google review
Magnificent. Stunning. Mind-blowing.
Book a place in a hide, and make sure you have plenty of battery and storage space in your phone or camera.
You'll never have another experience like this. Believe the hype.
Blue badge holders are allowed to drive right up to the hides. Staff are all friendly, helpful and welcoming, especially the blue-haired young lady who sold us cake.
Well worth the money, and the time.
Fox Vicsson — Google review
Staff are very friendly and welcoming. Lovely coffee shop and gift shop.
The hides were great, not over crowded and really close to the action!
The Red Kites were fed at 3 o'clock but were circling hours before and the trees were full of them. When the food was driven in literally hundreds of Kites were dropping out of the air, it was just awesome.
We used canon R6 and R7 with 200-500 lens and took an 800 but I found the crop was tight as they were much closer than expected! They drop in so fast and don't really land so you have to be quick. I gave up and just watched the aerial acrobatics instead. They hung around even after the food was gone so plenty of time to watch and take photos.
The farm is in a beautiful setting with limited parking so it's best to book in advance. They have toilet facilities and picnic benches and also a viewing field.
An all round amazing experience for birders and nature lovers! We are definitely going back in the spring/summer as although it was dry it was very grey and chilly and a bit of sun would make for better photos. A really wonderful day!
Sallyanne Redden — Google review
A wonderful experience. You get up close to these versatile birds and see them in large numbers coming to feed. You are courteously greeted at the entrance. Well stocked gift shop. Cafe too. Take your time. Arrive around 2pm, relax and watch the kites reeling around waiting for their 3pm feed. The hides are good and they have a strict maximum number policy so no crowds.
Anthony Langrish — Google review
Brilliant experience, well worth the very cheap entry fee. All the staff were welcoming and knowledgeable. The hides were well maintained and they made sure to not overcrowd them.
Unfortunately someone walked off the trail straight into the feeding area, it was reported and staff dealt with it immediately. This did scare off the kites for a while, but patience paid off and we witnessed the remarkable!
Just visit, if you’re reading you’re already interested. You wont need binoculars they get that close!
Laurie Simmonds — Google review
We had such a great time watching the red kites feeding. It is 100% worth the journey and the money. The shop is expensive but the business is completely reliant on the money it receives from entrance and souvenir fees. Will definitely return and bring more people next time, the birds are beautiful ❤️
L HC — Google review
A ‘must-do’ if you are in the area with an afternoon spare. It is quite an incredible sight to witness as the daily feeding starts and these magnificent birds gradually circle in from all directions.
We were fascinated watching their caution and their social rules they seemed to follow as the birds grew in number circling in the air. We paid to sit in one of the hides but the experience would have been equally amazing just sitting on the hill watching the birds fly in.
The tea shop offered Red Kite and nature themed collections as well as ice creams and delicious cakes.
We booked ahead the morning we visited and arrived at around 2pm and had tea and cake. Feeding is at 3pm daily during summer time or 2pm winter time. We watched the birds for well over an hour from the hide then took advantage of a way-marked 1.5 mile walk up the hill for fabulous views of Rhyader and the surrounding countryside, then back down through a lovely wooded area alongside a small brook.
Many birds were still circling at 5pm when we left.
Paul Williams — Google review
If your a nature Lover, this is a wonderful opportunity to get close to hundreds of Red Kites and two Donkeys.
The Farm is easily accessible and there is a coffee shop there to. We took a Picknick that didn't seem to be a problem. The staff are also very helpful.
It is a very uplifting experience being able to witness these majestic Birds.
Bagpuss — Google review
We enjoyed our visit to see the Kites yesterday. It was dull but the rain held off. It took the Kites around an hour to start feeding and they seemed very watchful but we were told they’d been buzzed by a helicopter the previous day and it may have upset them. Definitely worth a visit to see these magnificent birds!
Jane Palma — Google review
The whole family loved it, unbelievable just how many wild red kites came once the feeding commenced, plenty of room and the coffee shop is amazing with gifts, delicious coffee, their are toilets on site along with a campsite. Fun for all the family whatever ages. We ranged from 7 to 78 years young.
Daniel Acton — Google review
Absolutely incredible. This has to be one of our favourite afternoons out ever. To be able to have seen one red kite close up would have been incredible but to see hundreds of them and so close up feeding from one of the hides was such a special experience and made us pretty emotional. We were even allowed to take our dog with us which was even better. The owner and staff are so friendly also and there is a lovely cafe, gift shop, picnic benches and toilets also. There are other animals around including the lovely couple of donkeys. Plus there is a lovely walk there to do which has fabulous scenery. The only thing we wish was that it was open for longer as we would have liked to spend longer there chilling out and taking in the gorgeous scenery. Absolutely fantastic place.
Kathy, Mark & Trigger (the greyhound)
Just come back from a terrific weekend here. The activities on offer are varied and really well equipped. The facilities are really clean, the food is really good and there's plenty of it! The best part of the place has to be the staff though. they go above and beyond to make the stay memorable. Fred and Vicky were particularly welcoming and warm in their efforts.
Tom Harte — Google review
We had a Stag Do with Mountain Mayhem in Oct 2023. The whole experience was fantastic. The surroundings were beautiful and the whole place was very clean and well maintained. We stayed in the sharing bunk room with ensuite toilets, the facilities were fantastic. Food and drinks were provided for breakfast and 2 course lunch. The food was delicious and large portions. We had evening meal with them on the Friday which again, was great. The staff were friendly and helpful and made the activities fun and relaxed. We did Quad bikes and Hover crafts. Both were enormous fun enjoyed by all, but we highly recommend the quad bikes. I can't find any fault with Mountain Mayhem we had a fantastic time.
James Lewis — Google review
Our group’s second stag weekend at Mountain Mayhem and it was just as fantastic as the first. The activities are excellent - professionally organised but exhilarating and brilliant fun. Hosted by Vicky, Fred and their wonderful team, every aspect of our experience at Mountain Mayhem was five stars. Fun and lovely hosts, brilliant food, a very clean environment, great accommodation, and a little too much beer thrown in for good measure.
Highly recommended and provides excellent value for money.
Alex C — Google review
I would HIGHLY recommend Mountain Mayhem.
It's run by Vicki and Fred who with their decades of experience and knowledge provided us with an awesome stag weekend.
Upon Vicki's recommendation we went with the assault course, quad bikes and indoor shooting. (All of which are on site) Our who group thoroughly enjoyed the acitities and are really looking forwards to one day returning.
During the weekend, we felt that all of our needs were met and couldn't fault any part.
If you are still undecided at the end of this review, I implore you to go with Mountain Mayhem, you will not be disappointed!
Nic Milligan — Google review
What a fantastic place. Just back from a great stag weekend. The views over beautiful scenery are amazing. All the staff including Fred and Vicky are first class. Could'nt do enough to make our stay perfect. Events are well organised and great fun. Would highly recommend to anyone looking to book a Stag weekend.
Leighton Nicholas — Google review
"We had an amazing time during our stag weekend led by Vicki! Our group was anything but typical, with 80% of us having profound deafness or hearing difficulties. Despite this, Vicki made exceptional efforts to ensure everyone felt included. She even mentioned at the end of the day that she had taken the initiative to watch YouTube videos and read online about effective communication with deaf individuals beforehand.
During the weekend, we enjoyed rally karts and paintballing, with ample time for each activity. The equipment provided was top-notch, with spotless overalls that seemed fresh out of the laundry."
Cannot recommend Mountain Mayhem enough!
Luke Mercier — Google review
Stayed in one of the individual single bed "pods" . Everything about this place is exceptional. The hospitality and friendliness, the attention to detail and thoughtfulness evident in the design of the rooms, the spaces for eating and sitting, the well-kept outdoor spaces. Wonderful homemade food and gorgeous friendly dogs. Perfect for a group, a wedding or a base for exploring the local area
Andrew MacLaren — Google review
Cannot recommend Mountain Mayhem highly enough! The activities are great fun, well organised. The food is amazing! All home cooked. Bar is fairly priced with plenty of choice. Beds a comfortable and great for a large group. Take footballs or rugby balls, frisbee etc. Plenty of room!
Ben Rotherham — Google review
A good venue for a stag do. The activities were very well organised and the spread of puddings was particularly good!
Ryan Pepper — Google review
Fantastic, thoroughly recommend. Vicki and Fred's team put on a great Stag do for us, coping with 22 with no problems. Rally karting was brilliant, and they set it up so that no-one was hanging around too long. Clay shooting also great given we were a large group of first timers! Food was great throughout, really hit the spot, especially the midday banoffee pie! Would definitely go again 👍👍👍
Alec Gibson — Google review
Absolutely brilliant. Vicki, Fred and the team were excellent. They clearly enjoy what they do and are very good at it. Organised a stag do and they took the hassle out of it all. The activities are loads of fun and longer than you might get elsewhere. The food was delicious and they had great recommendations for pubs and walks. I highly recommend.
Mark Goodchild — Google review
I highly recommend Mountain Mayhem! The whole team are super friendly and go out of their way to make sure everyone has a great time. The activities were amazing and the food was incredible too. Everyone on our stag trip walked away saying they would love to do it all again so couldn't ask for more. Thanks for the great memories!
The Small Breeds Farm Park is an incredibly enjoyable destination with ample parking space and minimal wait time to enter. Despite it being a busy day on Good Friday, the clean and accessible toilets with available hand washing facilities were a convenience. The cafe, although initially crowded, provided an opportunity to relax later in the day. Interacting with the animals was a delightful experience as visitors could feed goats and sheep while exploring certain areas.
Such an incredible place!
The staff were lovely and clearly take such great care of the animals. The animals were lovely, friendly, and great fun to interact with! Getting to go into the pens with them was such an amazing experience - would highly recommend to everyone and anyone! The cafe and facilities were lovely too and all very reasonable priced! Would pay twice the price to do it again!
Jacjac — Google review
Amazing family day out.
What a place! Took my wife and two daughters (ages 6 and 2). Loved every second. Spent 4 enthralling hours there, petting & feeding countless animals. You can get into the pens to have hands on contact with lambs & sheep, goats & kids, which the girls loved.
The whole place is clean & well laid out. The animals look really well cared for and the staff are all very friendly & knowledgeable.
The cafe offers very nice coffee and excellent cakes.
The owls were impressive too - we got to stroke one called Damien.
I highly recommend.
Ben Merritt — Google review
Absolutely brilliant. We’ve been coming here since our children were very small and we still come back. The animals are well looked after. The staff are always friendly and it’s just a great place to stop off for a few hours or a day trip. I can’t recommend this place highly enough. Just go. The kids will love being able to wander with the animals and you’ll love seeing them have a great time. One of those secret places that once you go once. You’ll be going back again and again.
SAB photography — Google review
We absolutely loved our visit - we visited with a 6 year old and a baby. The staff were incredibly friendly. I can honestly say I have never seen so many owls! The farm animals were very tame - we fed the sheep and goats and stroked the horse and donkeys. The food in the cafe was good and reasonably priced. Would 100% visit again!
Joel Harley — Google review
Fantastic park with a great selection of animals, including the best owls I’ve ever seen, staff on hand to assist and pet animals, plenty of outdoor seating with covered seating in the cafe and at the front, nice coffee (in actual mugs) and good pricing. Pay on arrival and bring a pair of wellies - there are tarmac surfaces so it is accessible, but I found myself going on the grass when the paths were busy (which I was fine with). Would recommend and visit here with others or again as a family!
Kerry — Google review
Lovely little place to see lots of animals. Spent about two hours here as a nice place to stop over for lunch and it was great. Saw one day old baby goat twins soo cute, and our kids got to feed and interact with lots of different sheep and goats. Plus so many other animals and all the owls to see and learn about. Little shop and cafe too.
Ben Davies — Google review
Absolutely fantastic place to visit, it was a bit busy when we got there, but it was Good Friday, so we did anticipate it likely would be busy. Plenty of space for parking and only queued for a minute to pay to enter. Small cafe and outside seating area, cafe was incredibly busy, so we visited later in the day. Toilets were clean and accessible, hand washing facilities available too. We purchased food for the goats and sheep, and fed them as we passed them. Lovely to be able to mix in with the animals in certain areas. We were there for a few hours, and had a pit stop for a toasted sandwich and a drink at the cafe. All in all, family friendly, not too pricey and the sun was shining.
KS — Google review
Very pleasantly surprised. Very well maintained and clean. Lots of very well looked after animals, with the largest amount of owls I've ever seen in one place. Goats and sheep Very gentle when you feed them and all look very healthy and happy. Highly recommend a visit 🙂
Julie-ann Binmore — Google review
Had a wonderful visit with the family on what ended up being a beautiful sunny day. My little girl had so much fun petting the goats and the other small animals and she loved looking at all the different breeds of owls. The food options were fab and the entire day was just really lovely. Would highly recommend to any families looking for something to do that doesn’t cost the earth.
Nicola Guy — Google review
Absolutely loved this. Such a great place for a date day. Such cute animals and lovely to walk around 🥰♥️
Nicky Brown — Google review
So many different owls! A lovely place, well laid out, lots of different animals to see and feed. It's even possible to go in a couple of fields with sheep and pygmy goats and stroke them. Amazing chickens with beautiful feathers, birds, alpacas, piggies. A fabulous time was had by all. There's also a cafe with scrummy cake. All the staff are lovely too. We saw them take an owl for a walk, chase some chickens (to check them) let the alpacas run and divert a running goat.
Hayley Chalmers — Google review
Fantastic day out. Went for my granddaughters birthday. Staff were all extremely friendly and helpful. Animals all looked happy and well fed. Extremely lucky to see 2 lambs moments after they were born. Plenty of areas to walk around. Good selection of areas to eat. Would recommend to everyone to visit and support this family run business.
Val Jones — Google review
Great place! Lots to see and extras are allowed. We went as 3 adults which was still brilliant for. Owls and the animals came with a description and information about them.
We also purchased a bucket of sheep and goat food.
Chick's and young owls were great to see. Some great personalities to see in the animals!
Daisy Attley — Google review
I love visiting this place. I’d buy a year pass if I didn’t live so many winding roads away. I’ve been twice and I’ll be going again soon. I think the miniature goats are my favourite. They’re so friendly. The farm is set out in an easy way to view everything. There are lots of interesting owls. You could visit in the rain when all the animals are in the undercover area. All of the animals are so friendly, even the noisy goose, which was a lovely surprise for me.
Experience the captivating allure of Weir Garden, a remarkable riverside sanctuary graced by the majestic River Wye. This cherished site has long served as a recreational haven for angling, boating, and swimming, prioritizing an eco-conscious approach to foster a diverse wildlife habitat. Affiliated with the National Trust and nestled west of Hereford in Herefordshire, this idyllic ten-acre garden promises tranquility and respite from the demands of daily life.
Beautiful gardens in any weather, the area down by the river is stunning, also from the top of the hill, the veiw of the river is great for any photographer, snowdrops everywhere also lots of Birds to be seen. I would definitely recommend a visit, free carpark and a £7:50 entrance fee per adult.
Ian Leverton — Google review
This garden has wonderful views of the River Wye. It is also interesting to walk around too. It is not a formal garden but has a rockery and delightful walks through the woods.
Away from the main gardens there is a walled garden which is currently undergoing refurbishment but still worth a visit
Visitor facilities are a little basic. There is just a ticket office and toilets but no café.
Paul Hallgarth — Google review
A quiet walk round the gardens for a moment of reflection. Lovely views from the top of the gardens, looking down to the river Wye. Quite a few families with their children and people with their dogs, which was lovely to see. Don't forget to look round the beautiful walled gardens which are on the left of the grassed car park and well worth a visit.
Sara Darby — Google review
Lovely small garden to visit. £6 entry to non members. Parking is free. Small play area with ropes and rope swing.
Details about various plants and trees.
Interesting find of some Roman building
There is a small bird hide.
Walk across the carpark to the walled garden. We visited in August and it was in bloom. Apple tree, pear tree and grape vines in the greenhouse.
Not a large area to visit but nice for a picnic as there are lots of spots to sit and eat.
Annette Castle — Google review
A lovely place near the river wye to look around. Worth going if you are an NT member and you're in the area. Very small grounds. Interesting plants and great trees. There is a green area with deckchairs to relax and activities for kids. The walled garden accross from the car park is very pretty in spring /summer.
Toby robson — Google review
We really enjoyed our visit. The Weir Gardens are on the River Wye and the easy to follow walk gives plenty of lovely views of the River. There are several seats around the walk to sit and enjoy the view and a picnic if you wish. The toilets are clean but there was no food or drink available (14/06/21) hence 4 stars rather than 5. There's also a walled kitchen garden to wander around.
Clive T — Google review
Had a lovely walk here last weekend, really beautiful views of the river and the gardens. I also really loved the walled garden here too, lots of plants and vegetables being grown that you can look at as well as a greenhouse you can go in.
There are toilets here but no cafe or shop which we knew about before we arrived.
Charlotte Reese — Google review
Always a tranquil and beautiful place to visit. The greenhouse has had a wonderful restoration project. The daffodils were so pretty.
Debra Jones — Google review
Just outside Hereford sits this wonderful little National trust garden and walk.
The Weir Garden is a beautiful walk alongside the river Wye that meanders along the bankside and past the old Manor house, now a nursing home, but beautiful all the same.
At the entrance is a sizable carpark and a wonderful little picnic area. There is also a small welcome center, and the lady on duty when we visited was very enthusiastic about the area and very polite and helpful.
Along the walk we came across mini hidden gardens, a Nymphorium, a bird watch, an old boathouse, ( now an Otters home) and some ancient trees. There is even a play area for the kids.
Weekend Wildness — Google review
A lovely place to walk and picnic with the lovely surroundings of Herefordshire and the river Wye. A few Roman remains scatter the walkways throughout the 40 min stroll. Not suitable for anyone with mobility issues are there are steep slopes with tree roots slicing throughout the paths. Steep steps add to the many problems. There is an area for those less mobile, stated it is an easy pace but I took this route and found that this was not really that easy, although possible with a mobility aid it still comprised a few steep slopes.
The walled garden,which was accessable through old wooden doors and on flatter ground was in the opposite direction consisted of a large old greenhouse with selections of fruits and vegetables and the outside walls had wire fed fruit trees which surrounded a large plot of seasonal vegetables. A few flowers were also scattered around.
Three stars were given due to the name Wier Garden as maybe giving a bit of a misconception of actually having gardens with flowers, bushes etc but these were not present as the name suggests. Saying that a lovely place to picnic and have a stroll.
Adam Moriarty — Google review
A nice place to visit for a peaceful river walk. There are some great old trees and well-described small garden features like the Japanese spot. You can get down to the river side in good conditions. Good views from the higher part. You can see most of it in an hour and could take a picnic to eat on the grass or benches. There is a lovely walled garden which was full of wild flowers during our August visit.
Tom Dupplaw — Google review
A nice walk around. Can be a little hilly, so probably not wheelchair accessible. It isn't a long visit. 30 minutes for most people I guess, but why not bring a picnic. There's a kids play area at one end
Paul Henshaw — Google review
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The Weir Garden, Swainshill, Hereford HR4 7QF, United Kingdom
These castle ruins, built by the Normans on the English/Welsh border, date from the 11th century.
An absolutely wonderful castle ruin. Impressive and incredibly atmospheric, I loved every second. There's plenty of well written information boards providing great background and fascinating stories. The views are wonderful over the very cute town of Montgomery. A great place for kids to run around and explore too - brilliant fuel for the imagination.
Gregory Smith — Google review
Beautiful castle.
Free car parking at the bottom of the castle so easy to get to.
Beautiful views, dog friendly, good for kids etc.
Took around 1 hour with taking our time. Local public toilets in the town hall, Spar shop local and fish and chip shop.
Worth the visit if your local or passing, beautiful photo opportunities.
Holly Preece — Google review
Well worth a visit. Interesting history with excellent story boards explaining the role the castle played in the middle ages. Grounds are very well maintained. Quite a steep walk up the well surfaced path from the town but worth it for the wonderful views over Montgomery and the surrounding countryside.
DP — Google review
These castle ruins are quite interesting to see. Information and brief history is provided throughout the castle grounds also. There is a small car park at the entrance with signs leading to the bridge of the castle. It is a lovely walk around the grounds, with benches available for you to sit and take in the beautiful Shropshire scenery.
Gemma S — Google review
Great heritage preserved, with boards that explains it's fabulous history. Fantastic views from here too. Free to enter.
J P — Google review
Interesting 🧐 place to visit with a great views , castle itself is almost destroyed.
Place is very clean. Average spending time is around 45 min.
Ilya — Google review
Just amazing views, nice little walk on a very sunny day , a wonderful start of our holiday in the area! The entry is a free. The ruin has a double moat ( dry now) a good educational place for anyone of school age or interest in history or defence tactics for that era. Nice , tidy , well maintained grounds. Thank you for making our day magical
Anca Neacsu — Google review
Visited in summer 2020, when I had my Shropshire vacation. We can park near the castle, but we have to find the narrow road lead up to the hill. Because I didn't find it, I parked in the village at the bottom of the hill and walked up, it wasn't the easiest. At the ruins there is no toilet or cafe, so please be prepared for this, however, there are plenty cafes, restaurant, tea room in the village. Nice history of ruins, easy to walk around, few information plate and 1 bench. Nice view and beauty spot, but not recommended to wheelchair users or baby buggies.
Evalynn B. — Google review
Extensive remains from a medieval castle that was built to protect the surrounding area for the English, lots of area for a good walk around and explore. Gives great views of the surrounding countryside. Small car park next to it and a 100 meter walk to the castle, it is accessed from a steep country lane.
Darren Barton — Google review
Lovely place to visit for Free.
Great views over Shropshire.
Information boards.
Castle car park instructions vague, and up narrow streets, but its perfect parking for those who cant walk up a steep hill from the town.
Samantha Kettle — Google review
Interesting ruin doesn’t take to long to walk round. No entrance or parking fee just drive up the hill and park. Short walk from the small car park.
Denise Beddoe — Google review
Castle ruins with great views. There’s enough of the ruins left that you can get a feel for what it was like, while still keeping the magical castle ruins feel. I wish the signs had given a bit more detail on how the castle was built, but they did provide some interesting stories, including one about how a former owner gave the most outrageous and clearly untrue excuse for how he ‘accidentally’ sent a chunk of rock flying into the head of someone when he was putting on a cloak.
Sam Rice-Wright — Google review
I'm terrified of heights so I found everything about this a challenge! Once I was in the castle though it was beautiful and so peaceful too!
If you are afraid of heights please be aware it's very steep roads to get upto the carpark. The path to the castle one side is a really high drop and their are a couple of bridges to get across to the castle too... you can see through the bridges and although not as high as other parts you are still quite high!
A historic castle located in Powis, Wales, now under the care of National Trust offers visitors a glimpse into early modern architecture and art. Built by Welsh prince Gruffydd ap Gwenwynwyn in the 13th century, the castle underwent a major renovation into Renaissance style during the 17th century. Visitors can explore an impressive collection of artworks and artefacts that include Italian busts from the Seventeenth Century and a Bellotto masterpiece.
One of my favourite National Trust properties. The gardens are amazing, the views are incredible and the castle history is fascinating. It is nice to go again and again and watch how the gardens change over the seasons. Had a lovely jam and cream scone sat in the sunny courtyard. I always find that the staff are very friendly and helpful. Definitely worth a visit.
Mark Robert — Google review
Brilliant Day out with lots to see. This is especially good if you are a National Trust member otherwise you will have to pay the entry costs. The Gardens are the main attraction especially on a dry day. However there are lots more to see in the castle so also a good day out if it's raining
Joe Upsall — Google review
I just loved this place. It's beautiful and large area if you like walks. Castle looks stunning when you get down on the grounds. Well view from castle is equally gorgeous too.
May need more benches added as it's such a huge area that people do get tired and keep looking to seat somewhere. I saw many elderly people at some places waiting to seat.
I saw people eating picnics so I think its allowed to have a picnic. Specially on the bigger ground you can just seat and relax and have your time. There are picnic benches before entering the castle. Pictures are added.
S S — Google review
If you are in Central Wales then I would recommend a visit. The castle is historically interesting with some superb views across the valley. However, the icing on the cake is the garden which is magnificent. If you like topiary then the main hedges are something to behold and the rose gardens are glorious. Thoroughly recommended.
Robert Kitt — Google review
Picked the perfect day weather-wise, a beautifully crisp winter’s day which made for the perfect photo opportunities for such a lovely National Trust site.
The tour guides were great and very knowledgeable taking us around the house pointing out fascinating little details in every room and hall.
Highly recommended for the house and for its beautiful grounds 😊
Marcus Dalton — Google review
Lovely grounds. Walking through the garden was nice and cool for such a warm day. The castle was outstanding. Lots of painted walls, beautiful state rooms and a very impressive bird collection. What a gem. Be aware dogs are very limited to where they can go. Might be best to do this one without them. Gardens are wheelchair accessible.
Marie Brown — Google review
Fantastic castle and grounds. Great place to spend a few hours. Came for Easter egg-hunt and trail. Volunteers very helpful and informative. Loved the gardens , beautiful flowers and sculpted hedges and trees. Lots of different areas to explore.
Hemant Mistry — Google review
Visited here during half term, they had a pumpkin trail around the garden. Plenty of fun/scary Halloween surprises around the trail. Went in the castle which was very nice. Yes,it is kept quite dark but that's to protect all the wonderful fabrics/tapestries and artwork. So many rooms you can go in really gives a scale of the building. Enjoyed our visit.
Philippa Millard — Google review
The most beautiful well cared for garden we have see in Wales. Highly unusual mix of specimen plants. Fabulous borders. Important plants labeled. The living quarter murals everywhere were stunning. Loved Mary Queen of Scott's rosary and the carriage.
Robin Fischer — Google review
Magnificent! Such a great experience visiting Powis Castle. We went there in the afternoon, so we missed the last entry to the castle itself as it closed at 15:30. But the staff were so kind and helpful to allow us to visit the Museum.
The garden is so beautiful and well maintained.
They have EV and accessible parking areas. Whilst wheelchair users are not able to access the castle due to its steps, they can definitely access the whole garden. If you're lucky, you can also see deers and lambs.
Definitely recommend this to all our families and friends.
Erny Feberina — Google review
Just wow! The gardens are immaculate! One of the best we've seen. We arrived at 10am Saturday, spent over two hours here exploring. We spent 15mins in the castle, far too crowded and dark. There's plenty of parking at the rear of the castle, it's a one way in and out of the estate and very helpful parking staff to ensure spaces maximised. You show your membership card or pay at the welcome 'hut' by the car park then just show receipts to enter. There are quite a few slopes and steps to contend with so bear that in mind. There are two cafes, one just inside the castle courtyard on the left with some outdoor seating. Or head down to the very bottom of the garden and find another there, with toilets. You're likely to be joined by one of the resident peacocks on the lookout for crumbs! There's also a really well equipped playing field at the bottom right of the gardens, with various sports equipment for kids to play with their families. It was very well used and ensures kids had something to do while adults could enjoy the gardens.
H W — Google review
Cool! nice castle, a very well-kept garden that takes you back to times that rejuvenate your spirit and body, the location in the nature center makes this place simply great. Underneath the castle is a place where you can play various games with your family. 16:30 closing time, I recommend it
Jakub Olszewski — Google review
Superb castle set in glorious countryside.
Fantastic well kept gardens to have a picnic. You can spend hours here.
The only gripe is no access to the old kitchens since COVID, I think due to the lack of volunteers to manage the area.
The cafe is about right for prices of coffee etc but nearly £4.00 for a slice of cake is a bit naughty - just like any coffee house - I won't pay it. The cream tea was lovely and priced about right.
antony owen — Google review
Excellent place to visit with large gardens, a castle and museum to enjoy. The views over the valley are stunning (we were very lucky with some brilliant weather) and the plants that were starting to bloom were excellent (if you are interested in gardens). The route to the fountain at the lower tier of the garden is via steps or a flat path, so accessible for all. Seeing everything definitely got our 10k steps in.
Mark Oliver — Google review
This is an absolutely fantastic place, The architecture, the beauty of the place and the gardens are absolutely stunning. The size of the place! It's huge and the grounds are extensive! We had an amazing day at a very reasonable price. The only downside was that we ate in the main cafe which was a very big disappointment. The food had to be sent back several times and they'd even missed bringing us another dish. (That wasn't to dampen the beauty of the place though.
John Redhead — Google review
Fabulous castle with stunning gardens. Spent a lovely few sunny hours strolling around the gardens before enetering the castle. Was impressed with how much of the castle there is to see. The volunteers were friendly with lots of interesting nuggets of information also. Would highly recommend a visit here.
Hannah Shackleton — Google review
Amazing paints and a marble table I'd loved to have grabbed back home.
The car park, free, is big but could be more effective if monitored as most of guests would park either in the middle or too far from other cars.
2 museums and 1 amazing garden, if lucky, guided by talkative peacocks.
Mathieu Choux — Google review
What a beautiful place to come and see. Although it was quite cloudy and drizzly, the views were still stunning. The gardens are the best kept I have ever seen at a NT property. Faultless, beautiful, lush, colourful, clean, and weed free. Total respect and thanks for the team of gardeners that must work tirelessly to keep the gardens in such outstanding conditions.
Inside the castle, you are not permitted to take photos. The rooms are quite dark, but there is so much to protect from the sunlight. The painted walls and ceilings are breathtaking. There was so much to look at, and the volunteers were very knowledgeable when questions were asked.
I could write so much more, but honestly, you just need to visit to see for yourself!
Lisa Langton — Google review
Beautiful castle and Stunning gardens set within a magnificent landscape. The gardens I found particularly impressive,especially the yew topiary. The guides and staff were great-friendly,approachable and helpful.Plenty of parking with an uphill walk to get to the property.Many thanks for a lovely day.
Phil Hughes — Google review
One of the best, if not the best National Trust gardens we have visited. We had a glorious day, weather was great and we could take our dogs around the extensive gardens on leads which was great. Plenty of parking and picnic areas plus good facilities and café. The castle visit was interesting however the gardens and landscape was simply the best. So impressive and only 7 full time gardeners, amazing job.
Lisa Rollins — Google review
Another lovely National Trust site, with the most amazing gardens!
The work that must go into the garden maintenance is amazing, they are absolutely stunning.
We visited in the autumn, just as the trees were changing colour - would highly recommend this time of year for those interested in photography.
Very clearly signposted, and ample parking available. All the staff we spoke to were helpful and happy.
Dog friendly site, which is always a bonus! Just be mindful that there are peacocks and peahens wandering around the grounds and courtyard areas.
Lovely cafe on site, with a smaller tearoom available on the walk around the garden.
Will definitely be returning!
Niki Culkin — Google review
Beautiful setting. The weather helped. Guides I room very engaging if you take time to talk to them. Makes visit so much more enjoyable when you know the history. Hopeful we will go back again someday. We were told May is a good time to go as flower displays in gardens at their best.
Kathryn Hamling — Google review
Majestic castle and gardens. Well worth a visit on a sunny day, to enjoy the grounds and woodland walks.
The rooms inside the castle are decorated and furnished as if time stood still and give a good idea of how the gentry lived.
A must for anyone interested in history.
Free parking, plus a cafe, even if you just want a relaxing break.
Roger Handcock — Google review
National Trust Castle with a fabulous house with ornate carpentry and pictures everywhere.
We went in mid January so not many flowers in the huge grounds so we will have to return in the summer.
Nice cafe reasonably priced and knowledgeable guides in most rooms that shared interesting facts about the history of the artifacts in each room.
John Levell — Google review
Absolutely outstanding they must visit in the summer days. The gardens are amazing. The views and history is out of this world and it’s definitely one of the best castles to visit in the country. Highly recommended.
Liam Butt — Google review
A truly amazing day out, you could spend hours here, from the lovely kept gardens to the internal tour of the castle. You can't take photos on the inside tour but some of the rooms are really amazing the intricate details of the art and rooms is just truly amazing. The museum at the end showing all the armaments and memorial items is awesome. The roaming peacocks were brill. A brilliant piece of national trust land. The volunteers were so polite and knowledgeable on the tour
Tom Jackson — Google review
This is a super place for a visit. The gardens are extensive and well managed with far-reaching views in places.
The house is magnificent but there a limited number of rooms open.
I would imagine that this is a difficult place to negotiate in a wheelchair as there are many levels. We did see wheelchair users so it is possible.
The usual NT facilities on-site, the cafe got very busy.
You cannot book a time slot at this site and on bank holidays/weekends/fine days it fills very early. We arrived at 1230 the day previous to our visit and it was closed! The car park was full and there was a 30 car queue inside the gates. The moral being, get there early!
Ian Coghlan — Google review
A castle with a great amount of history and stories from the owners connection with India!!! There are a lot of things on display and very informative volunteers!! We will like to visit again. The gardens are amazing 😍especially the peacock 🦚
Yamini Limaye — Google review
Absolutely beautiful location, peacocks in the courtyard that were happy for you to get close to take photographs. We counted about 6 or 7 of them, male and female. The castle gardens were absolutely stunning! There were red deer roaming the grounds. We had the guided tour of the building itself. The guides were very well presented with great people skills and were extremely knowledgeable about the history of powys Castle. Incredible paintings in most of the rooms and the grand staircase (not able to climb the stairs for safety reasons). But we visited both the bottom and the top of the stairway. Back to the paintings, each room tells a story, lots and lots of paintings of God's and legends. Very very interesting place with stunning artwork and craftsmanship everywhere you look. Highly recommended place to visit
Andrew Walker — Google review
This is a stately home with a difference. Parts of it are 'castley', parts Elizabeth's bling, parts Grand Tour and the final ingredient Edwardian comfort. It was a castle and still looks like one. It is quite small but choc full of treasures. It also holds the Clive of India museum and marvellous Gardens in a semi modern style. On top are the compulsory NT cafe, shop and second hand books. If you are a NT member it's a good deal, despite at least £10 for a sandwich lunch. If not, it's a costly day out for a family.
Mike Sweeting — Google review
Lovely castle lot's of rooms to see all well furnished, some a little dim but you have to understand that it's to preserve the fabrics from sunlight, beautiful gardens to walk around with lovely views
Kathy Walsh. — Google review
Another fantastic National Trust site worth visiting, especially if you are in central Wales. The castle and gardens are well maintained with beautiful topiary and hedges. We visited on a moderately sunny day, which certainly helps in appreciating the beauty of the site a little more.
The Castle itself has a lot of artifacts and the tour is worth your time, however you cannot take pictures inside the castle.
naina pemmaiah — Google review
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4.5
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Powis Castle and Garden, Welshpool, SY21 8RF, United Kingdom
Croft Castle and Parkland, a renowned 11th-century fortress belonging to the esteemed Croft family, provides visitors with an opportunity to explore its remarkable interior and grounds. The castle's history dates back to 1086 when Bernard de Croft was first recorded in the Domesday Book.
It's a really amazing ground to visit. There's a lot of history to the place. Castle is huge with a lot of rooms open for roaming across all floors, a lot of hidden gems and artifacts across the castle there's a virtual tour available in one of the rooms to give you and overall view and history of the castle. There's a church right next door to the castle, and there's so much there. This was basically the crofts' personal church, but it was used by the public surrounding croft as well. Really amazing views of the castle. The walled gardens are massive spanning around 12 acres and multiple ponds for wildlife and fish there. And even they're own vineyard. Recommended a good day out.
Tom Jackson — Google review
Visited in September 2019 after my Wales holiday. It is a National Trust site, so free for members. It has a lovely garden where I started, then walked out to the surrounding fields, within grazing sheep. Very calm and quiet place to spend some relaxing hours. The house itself is a usual rich National Trust country house with some very nice arts, and with a little church near the house on the ground.
Evalynn B. — Google review
Extensive grounds with excellent waymarked walks varying from 1 hrs to 3 hours. Attractive walled garden with a variety of plants, fruit and vegetables. Didn't go indoors on this occasion. Simple but pleasant stable coffee shop with coffee, cakes and light lunches.
Paul Swann — Google review
Absolutely lovely place so clean and tidy. The staff in the castle were so friendly and helpful and very friendly to the kids. If you like a walk there are plenty of options here there's 5 walks you can do all very well signposted. A lovely day out for the family.
Sam — Google review
Wonderful day exploring Croft, did the Ancient tree walk in a mixture of weather, it was a nice distance and walking through the ancient trees was majestic with great views across the valley. It was muddy but to be expected in the parkland and with recent rain levels, was prepared with boots so all good. Liked the natural play area, will certainly bring the children back and for the castle playarea near the cafe. Nice open space in the cafe and plenty of options. Enjoyed the house and ability to relax on the sofa and take in each room, great virtual tour 😀 Overall a lovely visit.
Aimee Monk — Google review
An amazing walled garden, probably one of the most heavily planted and used, with an area for vines too!! We were u able to do any of the many longer walks in the surrounding parkland. But we do hope to return. We loved it.
Nicola Hones — Google review
We visited Croft Castle last week on a free day out. It's certainly a fantastic place to be. Lots of different walks and dog friendly. Lots of parking. A great cafe on site. Lovely gardens and fruit and veg areas.
One of the best looked after properties I've ever visited in Britain.
It's not really a castle anymore, more of a stately home. But what a place to visit.
Ryan Withey-Julian — Google review
Stunning house and gardens with a rich history. Fantastic walled garden .There's lots of woodland walks and a walk up to a Iron Age Hill Fort, which we didn't do unfortunately. But maybe next time. But the staff are friendly, the normal good tea room.There is some plants to buy on occasions in the walled garden. This is potentially one of our favourite National Trust places. Well worth a visit
Dez Hatton — Google review
Interesting but you do not get to see very much upstairs. However, the grounds & the walks made up for that. We saw so many birds in the walled garden that we do not see in our own garden. We got some great ideas too for our new garden. Thumbs up for the woods walk from us 👍
Kim — Google review
Went to the illumination at croft Castle this evening, open from 5:30pm. Selected parts of the grounds and inside the castle.
It is an old fashion Christmas in the castle and the outside is illuminated walkways and the castle lit up. We are national trust members and it is a nice evening out. Would recommend for non-members as well.
David Steer — Google review
Another gorgeous national trust property and gardens. Lots of accessible walks around the well maintained grounds and walled gardens, dogs welcome on leads. Stunning views across the country.
victoria jones — Google review
Could spend a full day here as a family. Definitely recommend bringing a picnic. Large easy to use car park, cafe, toilets. Dog friendly (on lead due to sheep and cattle in certain areas) mostly pram friendly other than the further parkland walks. Nature play area and kids castle. Beautiful views.
Kate — Google review
Due to bringing a toddler, we only explored the immediate grounds of this property, not the wider grounds or inside the castle. However, we had a great time playing the games on the lawn as part of the NT's Summer of Fun. The play ground is fantastic... it has a wooden castle for children to play on. The cafe is consistent with other NT properties. Would like to come back and explore further!
Hannah Forshaw — Google review
Lovely walk along the ghost trees, if a bit muddy! Beautiful settings, lots of fresh air completed by sitting in the garden with delicious tea and cake.
Lindsey Healey — Google review
We might visit again. The tea room was certainty very crowded. Could be more interactive towards children. But apart from that very good. Free books were for sale there. Nature was not forgotten here. I would say better to visit with your n. trust pass. Lots to see.
Felicity J — Google review
This is a huge site but unfortunately we only had to.e to walk the grounds of the castle and complete a short walk. Not a great day weather wise but nice walled garden and OK trail around the fish lakes but not sure it would be one to take on if very wet as there were some steep slopes.
Big Jim G — Google review
Beautiful walk, views amazing. Park for kids. Tearoom served lovely food. Castle was fun to look around. Amazing place to meet up with friends and family for a walk. We had ages from 10 to 50 and all had a great time.
Cath Marlow — Google review
I visited Croft Castle today in my mobility scooter, and was delighted to be able to navigate the Castle grounds, Tea Room and ground floor of the Castle itself, which I would highly recommend to others, especially others with disabilities, as the experience was so delightful, as were the staff. I had a delicious breakfast in the tea room, and enjoyed hours exploring the walled garden, grounds, and breathtaking views. The splendour of the castle was stunning, and I am honoured to have been able to visit the Croft family home.
Robert Sheppard — Google review
Nice house and grounds to wander around for an hour. House public areas were quite limited compared to other properties we have visited, so we found ourselves having seen everything pretty quickly. We had travelled a fair way to visit way so were a little disappointed to be back on the road so soon. Staff were fantastic and the gardens were very well maintained.
Rebecca Thomas — Google review
Walks are great house is great walled garden wonderful.
Downside tearoom far to expensive 21 pounds for two toasties and two teas. Ordinary folk can't afford such prices. Take a picnic.
Terry Hepworth — Google review
Interesting house and little church.
Would've been nice to have explored the grounds further but it was a bit soggy under foot.
Nice enough cafe. Loos clean.
Large play area near the cafe with a big play fort. Also signs to "natural" play area but we didn't venture there.
We were there maybe 90 minutes. Good place to visit as a member.
Sue Steadman — Google review
I love this place. Whenever I visit I head straight to the numerous woodland walks. There's an iron age hillfort and the views from there are very much worth the effort. The house is interesting, and I love the walled garden also. Try the powerhouse wood walk if you want a long stroll with the chance of a quick pint if you go off piste.
Mark Rollason — Google review
The rooms looked so beautiful yesterday, and the bonus of the Ludlow Male Voice Choir singing carols was a real bonus.
We solved the mystery of the missing necklace, and then had a fab hot festive drink in the cafe with a slice of parsnip and ginger cake!
Anne Hanslip — Google review
Croft Castle was a great national trust property. The gardens are huge and fantastic. There are a number of trail walks which we did not do. We completed the Easter trail which was great fun and each activity was very interactive and great fun for all the family. We especially liked the eggs and spoon race. The house was also great lots to see.
Will visit again.
Minesh Solanki — Google review
What more can I say than we loved Croft Castle and its Parkland!
We seem to have a penchant for these old buildings and getting the chance to see and read about how people lived way back when? I blame my wife she loves her history and it seems I am converted now!??!
Honestly, on a nice sunny day, a walk around the gardens is fascinating, but, when you go inside the buildings it can be a bit of an eye opener!
The rich, truly were rich, to have afforded these houses etc, the local community, to some extent, worked in the big houses and and the fields as farm hands. Poorly paid in many cases but better than the alternative!
Sadly eventually, even the rich could no longer afford there homes and many were sold off, sadly only a few were saved.
Well worth a visit....
Nick Walton — Google review
All nice and clean and maintained properly.
A lovely place to visit on a sunny day.
The only downside is that the prices at the tea room felt a bit high
Alexandru Patrunjel — Google review
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B4362, Yarpole, Leominster HR6 9PW, United Kingdom
Oaker Wood Leisure is an exceptional outdoor paintball venue that offers a thrilling experience with various exciting games and ample space. The location provides the opportunity to arrive by helicopter or land rovers, adding to the adventure. With a well-designed fort and plenty of room to run around in woodland, participants can enjoy hiding and strategizing. The staff are knowledgeable, friendly, and always ready to assist.
One of the best outdoor paintball venues I have visited with a helicopter and land rovers to shoot around plus a fort and plenty of space. We played 4 games in 3 different zones. Games included plant the bomb, get the General to safety, attack the fort and raise the flags. We also did both defending and attacking games to mix it up a little. Lots of woodland to run around and hide in. Plenty of barricades and good parking and friendly knowledgeable staff. My son even booked again the following week. I would recommend it.
Matt Keeling — Google review
Amazing service. Went here for a hen do for the code breaker activity. Amazing communication with David (manager) about whether the activity would be going ahead due to weather and he greeted us on arrival and took time to ask about us and the hen. Phoebe and Heather were great at leading our activity and make it fun for all involved. Would definitely recommend!
Kathryn Kearns — Google review
Have just come home from my hen weekend here. This place is incredible. Having our own personal campsite was so special, the facilities are perfect, surroundings are beautiful and the staff just lovely. We done the clay pigeon shooting and quad biking and it was way better than I could have imagined.
Absolutely gutted it's over but would recommend to anybody!! Thankyou so much!!
Lara Mcinnes — Google review
Sam and George did a great job today with us on the clay shooting. It's an interesting place to shoot and a well thought out challenge. It was really novel to shoot over the lake. The lads were really good instructors and we thoroughly enjoyed the morning there. I got the impression they both really enjoy their work, the experience was relaxing, pleasant and everyone was super welcoming. We will be back again, of that I am sure.
JAMEs Peer — Google review
14 lads enjoying a stag weekend of Clay Pigeon shooting and quad bike.
We self catered.
Pods were warm and beds surprisingly comfy as remarked by many.
The team on site were welcoming and gave us a great induction.
Banter during activities was on point and both activities thoroughly enjoyed.
We all left Oakerwood buzzing.
Graeme Lewis — Google review
My first ever glamping experience back in September 2021, the team were so awesome and tailored a suitable package for our group, lead us in fantastic activities such as laser clay plate shooting, rafting, and an obstacle course. We had a part of the site to ourselves with cabins, complete with outdoor private shower/ wc facilities, an open kitchen and fire pit area. The forest area felt like you were outside of the UK, the walking trails were great.
Yasmin — Google review
Great place with very friendly and helpful staff. The glamping facilities are perfect for groups. Would happily visit again
Andrew Mackay — Google review
What fun!! Definitely took nanny out of her comfort zone but worth every penny. Fabulous instructors (see photo), professional and very patient. The quad biking experience is a must for anyone in the area. Would definitely recommend 👌 My teenage granddaughters loved it too!
Jane — Google review
My boyfriend and I went clay pigeon shooting yesterday and thoroughly enjoyed our experience at Oaker Wood Leisure. We were met upon arrival by Sam and Doug and throughout our visit they were very friendly and welcoming. We were given full instructions and safety measures and felt very comfortable and safe during the shooting. It was obvious I was nervous and unsure but Sam and Doug made sure I was happy and comfortable with everything before we started shooting. It was a unique and wonderful experience and we couldn't recommend Oaker Wood Leisure more! The site is beautiful, with so much to do and Sam and Doug were very informative and helpful. Thank you so much! :)
Samantha Dyer — Google review
We hired one of the glamping villages to celebrate my daughters 21st birthday. It was an epic weekend. Everything we needed was available and the staff were so friendly but we literally had the place to ourselves and it was wonderful- thank you!
Tracy Higgs — Google review
I had the best time doing quad biking and codebreaker with a group of mates for my birthday celebration. The venue is amazing with beautiful woodland to quad through. Codebreaker was ran really well. It got us all working as a team and pissing ourselves laughing at each other. I would 100% recommend this as an activity for a big group of friends looking to try something different
Eleanor Pawley — Google review
We visited on a chilly weekend at the start of December for our football team to play junior Paintball for their Christmas party. They had a great time, friendly and fun staff and the whole process of booking to arrival was easy. Would recommend and will be back in the summer for a different activity.
Emma Davies — Google review
Visited with about 15 of us and split into 3 groups. We did the high ropes (quick jump and gladiator challenge), Borneo low ropes assault course, and the Compromised escape room, and they were all really fun! Lottie, Phoebe, Tori, Noah, and David were all incredibly friendly and helpful, and we all had a lovely day!
James C. — Google review
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Lugg Green Rd, Kingsland, Leominster HR6 9PT, United Kingdom
The Carding Mill Valley is a large heath area located in the Shropshire Hills. The Long Mynd is a similar heath area located in the same national park, but it is much longer than the Carding Mill Valley.
It's truly beautiful here, one of my favourite places to walk. The scenery is beautiful, from the waterfall to the reservoir. The cafe is spacious and does great cakes, food, drinks and ice cream. I've been here several times and would highly recommend visiting.
Becky P — Google review
Absolutely beautiful countryside with plenty to see. Walks are well sign posted. The cafe is a welcome resting place with good staff, enjoyable food & clean facilities. Car park when we went was ample but I would imagine in the Spring and Summer spaces will go quickly. £5 all day for parking very reasonable these days. A very enjoyable days walking.
Paul Smith — Google review
First time here was early summers evening, perfect atmosphere, a few people enjoying the stream with a drink or two. Spot on.
Decided to return a week later for an afternoon picnic. Oh dear, multiple coaches, jammed with cars, school trips, etc bah!
There are some great walking trails, some of it challenging, some very challenging but all enjoyable. Parking £5.50.
Tony Gallagher — Google review
I visited today for a nice walk and a swim in the reservoir.
I had to wait a short while to enter the car park but that was to be expected as it was a sunny day and lots of visitors.
I am a national trust member so I did not have to pay for parking, and there was a member of staff at the parking meter at the entry helping everyone which was appreciated.
The reservoir is beautiful, one side in the sun and the other more secluded and shaded.
The water was fresh, and easy to access, but I would recommend swim shoes to make it easier to walk on the stones as you enter and exit.
Stopped for a coffee at the tea room on the way out, sat on the roof terrace to drink it which was a nice little treat.
Claire Holden — Google review
To travel and enjoy such places in the UK one needs a heavy duty stroller, I regret not purchasing one at the onset.
We went on a sunny Saturday, hence the ground was dry. Parking was filling up. We did a lot of timepass in the stream. Lambs were grazing around fun to watch.
As we hiked up, the pushchair became useless. He walked a lot but eventually the toddler had to be carried to the waterfall.
We had a picnic atop the hill with great views and wind. During descent we took a wrong turn and came down a difficult descent.
Played near the reservoir a bit, as the sun had gone down did not swim in the cold water.
Toddler back to parking and home. Overall not too tiring and the toddler enjoyed as well.
shaunak samvatsar — Google review
From the youngest to the oldest; the casual and more serious walkers, one will find something here at Long Mynd. On the Queen's Jubilee holiday, the weather was dry, with bursts of glorious sunshine.
We enjoyed the hilly views, the children the streams, and the resident sheep made the hills very close and accessible indeed. The varied paths showed different facets of the hills, the faces of brown and green, rugged and smooth. You feel like you can touch the clouds (but not quite).
Highly recommended.
CD CD — Google review
Beautiful site with a selection of walks and lots of parking. Free if you are a national trust member and a lovely cafe with a selection of fantastic cakes and meals. Lots of ice cream choice too. The walks to the waterfall and reservoir is very accessible and enjoyable with great views
Katherine Wilkins — Google review
This valley is a real gem which we have visited a number of times. A short drive or walk from Church Stratton. Large car park free to National Trust members. Nice cafe serving coffee and snacks. We had a cream tea before our recent walk. There are a number of short easy and longer more challenging walks. We walked to the waterfall then up to the top of Long Mynd. Dogs safe off lead but owners need to be considerate and control them especially when sheep are around. Beautiful views.
Christopher ?Chris? Woodward — Google review
Stunning area! This is a National Trust place free for members or £7.50 parking for non members. We walked to the Waterfall then on to the Long Mynd and back on a circular route. As it is national trust the pathways are well marked so easy to follow. The views are stunning. It can get very busy so would recommend and early start. Lovely cafe for when you have finished your walk.
Liz Wilson — Google review
One of the beautiful place of National Trust.
Magnificent scenery across the whole area.
Friendly staffs guide you with parking.
Parking charges £7.50 also can pay through card.
Cafe at the start of your journey also toilets available.
Cinematic scenery when walking / tracking / hiking.
Quite uneven surface not suitable for buggies.
But worth getting at the end when you see the Waterfall around 30 minutes walk depending how fast you are walking can take longer.
Walk to reservoir around 10 minutes beautiful rock stairs to go up to reservoir.
M Khan — Google review
This is one of England's most beautiful spots for a hike. Stunning valley with differing length and complexity of walks and very helpful National Trust staff on hand for advice. Lovely tea room at the end.
Best of all it had snowed but the sun was out and we hiked for an hour in snow at the top of the valley. Absolutely stunning views!
Rachel Foster — Google review
Beautiful little find. £5 entry fee for parking only take contactless payment (no cash). Lovely valleys with the sheep and baby lambs wondering freely about the valleys. The scenery is great when you climb further up the valleys. The waterfall was a beautiful scene. Great trekking for all. Quite a few school trips were present on the day. Spent about 3-4 hours here. There is a public toilet and cafe on site, serving cakes, crisps, ice lollies, hot drinks etc. Would definitely recommend a visit and will be returning back. Appropriate footwear recommended if climbing the limestone rocks and steep valleys.
Ce Ce — Google review
Great walks here and a very scenic spout waterfall walk. The waterfall walk is rocky so not accessible for all and the main footpaths walk through Fords and streams so make sure to bring good and ideally waterproof footwear.
The carpark is pretty large and it pay and display and free for National trust members.
There is also a National trust coffee shop with great coffee and cakes to either sit in or take away.
Andrew Yardley — Google review
This is an amazing place with hiking routes wherever you look. There is something to see at all levels. From waterfalls, reservoirs, beautiful trees to a golf course on the top of a group of hills. There are plenty of places for paid and unpaid car parking with information centres, cafes, etc. This is a great place for family/group and individual hiking with an appropriate level of challenge. I have personally had picnics with a group of friends both in the valleys under the shade of trees with a cool breeze and hill tops with unbelievable views as far as the eye can see. You could spend days here exploring different areas. If you like hiking, you must try this place at least once.
Arshad Mohammed — Google review
Absolutely amazing! We stayed @sycamoreschristianretreat which is a Manor house on national trust land. There's a brook which runs in front of the house... it's so peaceful. The sound of birdsong is so clear. Whatever time of year I go it's always breathtaking, food for my soul. I highly recommend visiting.
olutola gisanrin — Google review
Nice place to go out with the family, the pictures don't do it justice. You can walk easily from the centre of Church Stretton or if you are a National Trust member you can park your car in the valley.
There is a coffee shop and toilets about half way up the valley and it's a nice but steep walk up to the reservoir.
All in all a nice day out for the family that does not cost anything if you like the outdoors and walking.
G Moss — Google review
A beautiful place to walk and explore. Toilets and cafe serving food, drinks and ice-cream is located in the valley before the hill climb.
There is also a lake for paddling/swimming on hot weather.
Dog friendly.
Sascha Hosler — Google review
We travelled from Birmingham to visit the area; a beautiful National Trust Park with lovely views. Well kept and maintained and very enjoyable to walk around and explore. Would definitely recommend to anyone wanting a day out surrounded by beautiful nature and green scenery.
Amrit Nahl — Google review
Beautiful landscape and wildlife, Carding Mill Valley was amazing to visit. It's kept incredibly clean and the miniature waterfalls sound so peaceful. It was great for having a long walk across adventurous terrain. Thanks to the hard work of The National Trust, this beauty remains in good hands and protected. 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Arjun Bali — Google review
Beautiful area - have been here with DofE groups several times and always amazed by the scale of the place.
If you are heading up to the top, make sure you have the right kit! Conditions change quickly and there is very little in the way of shelter...
Always nice to get back down into the valley for a coffee...
Hannah Kershaw — Google review
Lovely walk at Carding Mill Valley. We've completed the waterfall walk, and it was very and slippery due to yesterday's rainfall. We had to cross the stream at multiple locations. It was adventurous and would recommend suitable footwear. We also did the Reservoir walk on the way back. Nice tea room with toilet facilities near the car park. £5.50 for full day and friendly staffs to guide.
Kris Muru — Google review
Great place for a walk.. National Trust members park for free. There is also an on site cafe and toilets. There are spectacular views throughout and challenging walks for hikers of all ages.
Richard Smallman — Google review
What an amazing hiking trail for hikers or beginners or for those who just want a family day out and picnic.
A variety of beautiful scenes, lovely wild life, birds, cattles and horses are there to meet and greet you 😊
So many choices of smooth tracks as well as challenging and tough routes towards summit.
Best is you have plenty of National Trust paid parking and their well managed cafeteria, tearooms and toilets.
What else you just need is the WILL to treat yourself and your loved ones with love of nature, one of the best places to get rid of stress and leave the anxieties of life for a day behind you. The end result is you will receive a peace of mind and guaranteed enjoyment ❤️
Kind regards
Zubair Malik from Luton
(Beginner in hiking)
Z Malik — Google review
What an outstanding landscape of natural beauty this place is! Very fortunate to be recommended this place for a beautiful Sunday morning adventure! The pictures simply don’t do it justice! A must-see if you’re in the area!
Nick Jones — Google review
We travelled 4 hours to get there, but it was so worth it. Large parking, decent price. Very nice cafe with amazing food ( a lot for vegans too!). Beautiful, at times breathtaking views. Few trails to choose from, from 20 minutes, to 3 hours. Managed to climb up the waterfall trail and onwards with my dodgy knee and the descent was quite steady and pleasant, with just amazing sights in front. On top of Long Mynd before you know it. Back down just as easily. Who would have thought, Shropshire Hills are so beautiful.
Przemyslaw “Iron” Boron — Google review
Great place for all types of walks with different areas to park if you're looking to start higher up without the steep climbs (check the map board). Some amazing views to be had for sure 😁, then a break in the tea room for a cake and drink.
Robert Carmichael — Google review
Whether you enjoy a gentle walk or a serious hike, this is a great place to go. Parking, tearoom & toilets available at Carding Mill Valley.
Great place for young and old. I'm 71 and had no problem getting to the reservoir and waterfall. I would always recommend good boots and a hiking pole especially if going up on the Long Mynd: but others seem to manage with a great assortment of footwear. It is a favourite place for dog walkers.
The Carding Mill Valley is a large heath area located in the Shropshire Hills. The Long Mynd is a similar heath area located in the same national park, but it is much longer than the Carding Mill Valley.
It's truly beautiful here, one of my favourite places to walk. The scenery is beautiful, from the waterfall to the reservoir. The cafe is spacious and does great cakes, food, drinks and ice cream. I've been here several times and would highly recommend visiting.
Becky P — Google review
Absolutely beautiful countryside with plenty to see. Walks are well sign posted. The cafe is a welcome resting place with good staff, enjoyable food & clean facilities. Car park when we went was ample but I would imagine in the Spring and Summer spaces will go quickly. £5 all day for parking very reasonable these days. A very enjoyable days walking.
Paul Smith — Google review
First time here was early summers evening, perfect atmosphere, a few people enjoying the stream with a drink or two. Spot on.
Decided to return a week later for an afternoon picnic. Oh dear, multiple coaches, jammed with cars, school trips, etc bah!
There are some great walking trails, some of it challenging, some very challenging but all enjoyable. Parking £5.50.
Tony Gallagher — Google review
I visited today for a nice walk and a swim in the reservoir.
I had to wait a short while to enter the car park but that was to be expected as it was a sunny day and lots of visitors.
I am a national trust member so I did not have to pay for parking, and there was a member of staff at the parking meter at the entry helping everyone which was appreciated.
The reservoir is beautiful, one side in the sun and the other more secluded and shaded.
The water was fresh, and easy to access, but I would recommend swim shoes to make it easier to walk on the stones as you enter and exit.
Stopped for a coffee at the tea room on the way out, sat on the roof terrace to drink it which was a nice little treat.
Claire Holden — Google review
To travel and enjoy such places in the UK one needs a heavy duty stroller, I regret not purchasing one at the onset.
We went on a sunny Saturday, hence the ground was dry. Parking was filling up. We did a lot of timepass in the stream. Lambs were grazing around fun to watch.
As we hiked up, the pushchair became useless. He walked a lot but eventually the toddler had to be carried to the waterfall.
We had a picnic atop the hill with great views and wind. During descent we took a wrong turn and came down a difficult descent.
Played near the reservoir a bit, as the sun had gone down did not swim in the cold water.
Toddler back to parking and home. Overall not too tiring and the toddler enjoyed as well.
shaunak samvatsar — Google review
From the youngest to the oldest; the casual and more serious walkers, one will find something here at Long Mynd. On the Queen's Jubilee holiday, the weather was dry, with bursts of glorious sunshine.
We enjoyed the hilly views, the children the streams, and the resident sheep made the hills very close and accessible indeed. The varied paths showed different facets of the hills, the faces of brown and green, rugged and smooth. You feel like you can touch the clouds (but not quite).
Highly recommended.
CD CD — Google review
Beautiful site with a selection of walks and lots of parking. Free if you are a national trust member and a lovely cafe with a selection of fantastic cakes and meals. Lots of ice cream choice too. The walks to the waterfall and reservoir is very accessible and enjoyable with great views
Katherine Wilkins — Google review
This valley is a real gem which we have visited a number of times. A short drive or walk from Church Stratton. Large car park free to National Trust members. Nice cafe serving coffee and snacks. We had a cream tea before our recent walk. There are a number of short easy and longer more challenging walks. We walked to the waterfall then up to the top of Long Mynd. Dogs safe off lead but owners need to be considerate and control them especially when sheep are around. Beautiful views.
Christopher ?Chris? Woodward — Google review
Stunning area! This is a National Trust place free for members or £7.50 parking for non members. We walked to the Waterfall then on to the Long Mynd and back on a circular route. As it is national trust the pathways are well marked so easy to follow. The views are stunning. It can get very busy so would recommend and early start. Lovely cafe for when you have finished your walk.
Liz Wilson — Google review
One of the beautiful place of National Trust.
Magnificent scenery across the whole area.
Friendly staffs guide you with parking.
Parking charges £7.50 also can pay through card.
Cafe at the start of your journey also toilets available.
Cinematic scenery when walking / tracking / hiking.
Quite uneven surface not suitable for buggies.
But worth getting at the end when you see the Waterfall around 30 minutes walk depending how fast you are walking can take longer.
Walk to reservoir around 10 minutes beautiful rock stairs to go up to reservoir.
M Khan — Google review
This is one of England's most beautiful spots for a hike. Stunning valley with differing length and complexity of walks and very helpful National Trust staff on hand for advice. Lovely tea room at the end.
Best of all it had snowed but the sun was out and we hiked for an hour in snow at the top of the valley. Absolutely stunning views!
Rachel Foster — Google review
Beautiful little find. £5 entry fee for parking only take contactless payment (no cash). Lovely valleys with the sheep and baby lambs wondering freely about the valleys. The scenery is great when you climb further up the valleys. The waterfall was a beautiful scene. Great trekking for all. Quite a few school trips were present on the day. Spent about 3-4 hours here. There is a public toilet and cafe on site, serving cakes, crisps, ice lollies, hot drinks etc. Would definitely recommend a visit and will be returning back. Appropriate footwear recommended if climbing the limestone rocks and steep valleys.
Ce Ce — Google review
Great walks here and a very scenic spout waterfall walk. The waterfall walk is rocky so not accessible for all and the main footpaths walk through Fords and streams so make sure to bring good and ideally waterproof footwear.
The carpark is pretty large and it pay and display and free for National trust members.
There is also a National trust coffee shop with great coffee and cakes to either sit in or take away.
Andrew Yardley — Google review
This is an amazing place with hiking routes wherever you look. There is something to see at all levels. From waterfalls, reservoirs, beautiful trees to a golf course on the top of a group of hills. There are plenty of places for paid and unpaid car parking with information centres, cafes, etc. This is a great place for family/group and individual hiking with an appropriate level of challenge. I have personally had picnics with a group of friends both in the valleys under the shade of trees with a cool breeze and hill tops with unbelievable views as far as the eye can see. You could spend days here exploring different areas. If you like hiking, you must try this place at least once.
Arshad Mohammed — Google review
Absolutely amazing! We stayed @sycamoreschristianretreat which is a Manor house on national trust land. There's a brook which runs in front of the house... it's so peaceful. The sound of birdsong is so clear. Whatever time of year I go it's always breathtaking, food for my soul. I highly recommend visiting.
olutola gisanrin — Google review
Nice place to go out with the family, the pictures don't do it justice. You can walk easily from the centre of Church Stretton or if you are a National Trust member you can park your car in the valley.
There is a coffee shop and toilets about half way up the valley and it's a nice but steep walk up to the reservoir.
All in all a nice day out for the family that does not cost anything if you like the outdoors and walking.
G Moss — Google review
A beautiful place to walk and explore. Toilets and cafe serving food, drinks and ice-cream is located in the valley before the hill climb.
There is also a lake for paddling/swimming on hot weather.
Dog friendly.
Sascha Hosler — Google review
We travelled from Birmingham to visit the area; a beautiful National Trust Park with lovely views. Well kept and maintained and very enjoyable to walk around and explore. Would definitely recommend to anyone wanting a day out surrounded by beautiful nature and green scenery.
Amrit Nahl — Google review
Beautiful landscape and wildlife, Carding Mill Valley was amazing to visit. It's kept incredibly clean and the miniature waterfalls sound so peaceful. It was great for having a long walk across adventurous terrain. Thanks to the hard work of The National Trust, this beauty remains in good hands and protected. 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Arjun Bali — Google review
Beautiful area - have been here with DofE groups several times and always amazed by the scale of the place.
If you are heading up to the top, make sure you have the right kit! Conditions change quickly and there is very little in the way of shelter...
Always nice to get back down into the valley for a coffee...
Hannah Kershaw — Google review
Lovely walk at Carding Mill Valley. We've completed the waterfall walk, and it was very and slippery due to yesterday's rainfall. We had to cross the stream at multiple locations. It was adventurous and would recommend suitable footwear. We also did the Reservoir walk on the way back. Nice tea room with toilet facilities near the car park. £5.50 for full day and friendly staffs to guide.
Kris Muru — Google review
Great place for a walk.. National Trust members park for free. There is also an on site cafe and toilets. There are spectacular views throughout and challenging walks for hikers of all ages.
Richard Smallman — Google review
What an amazing hiking trail for hikers or beginners or for those who just want a family day out and picnic.
A variety of beautiful scenes, lovely wild life, birds, cattles and horses are there to meet and greet you 😊
So many choices of smooth tracks as well as challenging and tough routes towards summit.
Best is you have plenty of National Trust paid parking and their well managed cafeteria, tearooms and toilets.
What else you just need is the WILL to treat yourself and your loved ones with love of nature, one of the best places to get rid of stress and leave the anxieties of life for a day behind you. The end result is you will receive a peace of mind and guaranteed enjoyment ❤️
Kind regards
Zubair Malik from Luton
(Beginner in hiking)
Z Malik — Google review
What an outstanding landscape of natural beauty this place is! Very fortunate to be recommended this place for a beautiful Sunday morning adventure! The pictures simply don’t do it justice! A must-see if you’re in the area!
Nick Jones — Google review
We travelled 4 hours to get there, but it was so worth it. Large parking, decent price. Very nice cafe with amazing food ( a lot for vegans too!). Beautiful, at times breathtaking views. Few trails to choose from, from 20 minutes, to 3 hours. Managed to climb up the waterfall trail and onwards with my dodgy knee and the descent was quite steady and pleasant, with just amazing sights in front. On top of Long Mynd before you know it. Back down just as easily. Who would have thought, Shropshire Hills are so beautiful.
Przemyslaw “Iron” Boron — Google review
Great place for all types of walks with different areas to park if you're looking to start higher up without the steep climbs (check the map board). Some amazing views to be had for sure 😁, then a break in the tea room for a cake and drink.
Robert Carmichael — Google review
Whether you enjoy a gentle walk or a serious hike, this is a great place to go. Parking, tearoom & toilets available at Carding Mill Valley.
Great place for young and old. I'm 71 and had no problem getting to the reservoir and waterfall. I would always recommend good boots and a hiking pole especially if going up on the Long Mynd: but others seem to manage with a great assortment of footwear. It is a favourite place for dog walkers.
Love shopping here, various clothing brand's under one roof. Lovely butchers here and a coffee shop. Plenty of parking space outside, there is a lift inside to get to the upper floor if you can't manage the stairs.
sara jones — Google review
50,000 square feet with a great selection of clothing and home goods.
The items on sale were good quality and pricing was on par to similar stores
Tested both the cafe and downstairs restaurant the food was good and the staff polite and helpful.
There's a small farm shop which is more of a deli but sells a wide variety of items from tea and coffee confectionery as well as alcohol and baked goods.
Toilets were very clean.
The car park had plenty of spaces.
No it isn't just for the over 80s so ignore the daft reviews my daughter 30 was very happy with the choices on offer.
Yes there was tweed on sale 😆
David Pimborough — Google review
Visited the Tweedmill, welcoming staff at the door. Lovely clean shopping experience. Popped In to see if I liked anything, but not for me today. Treated myself to coffee and panini. Generous amount of gooey cheese with a decent slice of ham. The staff was very helpful.
Helen — Google review
Couldn't believe we hadn't gone before as we have passed the signs for it many times. Found quite a few things we have been chasing for a long time. For wife things like various cardigans - more places opting for pullovers.
For myself, reasonably priced suits and jackets. It was good to have such a variety of items literally under the same roof over two floors. Different brands and store names. Restaurant was a bit pricey. However, loved the farm shop
David Riley — Google review
A really successful visit. A very helpful assistant. Managed to find three suits and a dress shirt in about fifteen minutes, but when we got to the checkout there were problems with the tills and cash machines which doubled our time there. They need some better IT support.
Stephen Studdart — Google review
Good staff.
Clothes a little expensive.
Food lovely.
Needs to be a little more modern in their fashion.
Feels like all the companies send stock out of date are sent there. But not at lower prices.
The staff are lovely.
Needs huge modernisation in both what they sell and pricing.
Still go again.
Gwyn Penny — Google review
Tweedmill itself and the concession in it cannot be faulted - Pavers, Cotton Traders, etc. are all good.
My main issue is with the Café. Paid £13.95 each for 2 plates of Scampi and chips. In return got 7 (count 'em - SEVEN) pieces of Scampi, a portion (whatever that is!!) of chips and enough peas to sink a battleship...... peas must be cheap! The overall quality wasn't the best either.
Will not be going again.
ian jones — Google review
For those living in North West England, Tweedmill Shopping Outlet in North Wales is similar (but smaller) to the North West England Boundary Mill Outlet at Colne. It has all the usual designer gear at slightly reduced prices which are usually still cheaper than you can buy from discount stores, but cheaper than you can buy from designer stores. So, if you are traveling from North West England into North Wales, it is well worth a visit on the way.
The food in the restaurant is not bad, but the service is not so good. The image of the breakfast shows an extra black pudding. The image of the spoon shows a large clump of old food still attached to it. The spoon was delivered to our table with our drinks, so whoever served us didn't check it. When our breakfasts came, I pointed out the dirt on the teaspoon to the waitress who delivered our meal to the table, and gave it to her. She just took it away without a word. Not an apology. Not an, I'll get you another one. Nothing. Not a word.
Richard Underwood — Google review
Great shopping experience. Plenty of choice whatsoever you need all under one roof. Nice hot coffee and good choice of food.
Cotton traders staff I must mention went out of there way to help. Plenty of car parking spaces and a welcome at the door.
PETER HUGHES — Google review
Visited on the 9th of April, a Saturday, to have a wee browse. Whilst the cafe was nothing to write home about, I'm giving a 5 star based entirely on my suit shopping experience.
The lady who assisted me with all my choices must have the patience of a saint, going above and beyond to make sure I was fully kitted out. Really helpful, friendly and knowledgeable, customer service you just don't see very often. Wish I could name them directly but don't think that's permitted. But anyway, in short, would recommend a visit, great selection of suits, covering all age ranges and styles. Thank you.
Will Stephens — Google review
A really nice place to shop.
Unlike shopping in town the atmosphere here sends much more relaxed so I feel that I can take my time and enjoy the experience.
Easy parking and pleasant staff.
Definately make time to stop by at the restaurant for coffee and a cream cake.
Alan J Roberts — Google review
Very good selection in all departments. Lots of choice, especially in clothing. Bought a couple of early Xmas presents for pet owners. Shame it's all about dogs with very little for cat lovers ( they are missing a trick there ). Cafe nice if a little on the expensive side. Very rarely visit without buying something. Plenty of parking.
Barbara Buckle — Google review
Nice to have all the different shopping outlets all under one roof.
Great cafe but it did get really busy.
Lots of free parking but we struggled to get a disabled parking bay at 11am on the Bank Holiday Monday.
Great for a rainy day visit!
Judith Cookson — Google review
Good place to visit with a variety of different brands under one roof. Recommend the tower coffee shop - good selection of coffees and food.
Lots of different clothes and homewares. Onside garden centre & farm shop! Definitely worth a visit. Just wish they had late night opening!
Wise Owl — Google review
Lovely shopping place good selection of clothing from posh to everyday. Spent a long time here browsing, staff friendly and obliging. Bought 4 tops + 2 pairs of trousers, reasonably prices.
Ann Ingham — Google review
Went yesterday and it was very busy as expected,staff in the restaurant were amazing and there was a 30 minute wait( who doesn't like freshly cooked food)but we were happy to wait and very well looked after , gave us chance to chat whilst we waited. Staff very friendly and helpful, taking my son there for food and to do some shopping as there are so many lovely Christmas gifts
Enjoyed our shopping experience
Alison Garnett — Google review
Never been before but WOW what a lovely place plenty of parking (free) spotlessly clean fantastic range of products staff wonderful very helpful 21/2 hours to get there can't wait to go again
George Beech — Google review
The shop and staff were lovely.
However, couldn't get in the entrance to the toilets with wheelchair. Needed help from strangers to open the door. This is a serious problem. In a fire I wouldn't have got out on my own.
Elizabeth Barron — Google review
Visited the Tweedmill today, first time in quite a while but nothing has changed except that everything has been moved around and everything sells at inflated prices. Also stopped for coffee and sad to say just like many other establishments the coffee is tasteless, more like milky water. Is it really impossible to make a decent cup of coffee at £3.35 a cup. Won,t be back any5ime soon.
Peter Kitchen — Google review
It's the usual generic shopping arcade filled with the sort of things you look at but never really buy. If you want some shortbread or some new pillows or a bedset, with a place to have a coffee afterwards this has it. Parking is plentiful. Not a place to go out of your way for, but maybe worth stopping if you happen to pass. The pet centre is distinctly underwhelming. Lots of staff twiddling there thumbs bless em
Dark Poet HD — Google review
4.1
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3.5
(603)
Llannerch Park, St Asaph Rd, Saint Asaph LL17 0UY, United Kingdom
The Ruthin Craft Centre, also known as the Centre for the Applied Arts, is a purpose-built gallery that showcases a variety of exhibits and offers workshops and family-friendly activities. From the moment you step inside, you'll be surrounded by imaginative design and boundless creativity. Although there may have been some closures during our visit, there was still plenty to see and enjoy within this vibrant space. Overall, we highly recommend visiting this art gallery for a unique and inspiring experience.
I had wanted to visit for years then found myself in the area and had such a wonderful time looking at the exhibitions, browsing the shop and also enjoying the cafe too!
Sam Brundish — Google review
Enjoyed a leisurely stroll around the museum, all the wonderful art on display. I will defo gone back to explore it again. Called into the cafe whilst there and enjoyed a latte before heading home.
Catherine Dodds — Google review
Ruthin is one of these towns often overlooked or driven through but not often a stopping point. Whenever we do stop the craft centre is always a go-to place because of the easy parking and cafe, and of course the gallery there.
With artwork on display, from a few points to many thousands, it’s great to see the creativity of local artists.
Well worth a stop if your passing through or spend a few hours there having a walk around the town too.
Steve Jones — Google review
A welcoming, well curated and beautifully place to visit. The building allows for a handful of different exhibitions, definitely worth a visit. The smaller studios are home to local, independent businesses and artists. There is also a Costa coffee located inside if you need a coffee and cake fix
Holly Pearson — Google review
Great workshop with Juliet, lovely exhibition too, check the website for activities and exhibitions, shop lovely too and cafe
Sonia Hawes — Google review
This is a very high quality craft centre with regular exhibitions of amazing creative work.
The staff were brilliant, with a staff member taking the silver beaker out of a cabinet so that I could get a picture.
I didn't buy it, but wish I could.
Dave Thomas — Google review
The Craft Centre itself is a great place but the reception area is a misery with no smiles or hellos from the two guys there!
My 2nd visit from 2yrs previous and it was the same then.
Coffee shop has good food but again the staff were not very welcoming and were too busy cleaning up at 2.45pm to close at 3.30.
Attitudes to their public visitors need to change.
S — Google review
Great visit, always changing exhibitions. Cafe is always included in our visit, varied menu. Other unit shops (not always onen) information desk in main shop.
Michael Harland — Google review
Tickets to the exhibition are free, and it's interesting art and nice shop, best during normal working hours, as the artists aren't always in
Elizabeth Barnes — Google review
Brilliant experience. Both of us are gluten-free, and the choice was excellent. I had fish and chips (the tartar sauce was gorgeous!). Dad had the ham egg and chips. Lovely taste to the ham, he said. Good size portions.
I checked with the waiter, and their Sunday lunches are also gf!! Will be back. Thanks xx
sarah smith — Google review
From the time you enter its gates, the craft centre lives up to its name. Imaginative design and creativity can be found at every turn.
The restaurant was closed for refurbishment at our visit, and one or two units, due to mid-week maybe, but still we spent over an hour with things to see and enjoy.
Highly recommend.
Prestatyn Shopping Park, located in Prestatyn, Wales, is a retail destination that offers a wide variety of shopping options. This commercial hub features numerous stores and outlets where shoppers can find an extensive range of products and merchandise. Visitors to the park can explore an array of shops selling clothing, electronics, home goods, and more. Additionally, there are various dining establishments to satisfy hunger or provide a spot for relaxation.
The National Trust is a UK-based charitable organisation that preserves historic buildings and landscapes. Erddig, which is located in Rhostyllen, Wales, is a historically significant 18th century manor that offers tours of the family house and its ornate 12,000-acre garden.
Erddig is an amazing place full of wildlife. In Easter they have an amazing Easter egg hunt that makes you trail all around the property. There are many places where you can sit and have your lunch. If you have children there is an amazing play area full of things to climb on. At the heart of the play area there is a rope swing. This rope swing can go high and is fun as you feel the wind through your hair. It is very safe. I hope you like waiting because there is a very long line. Worth it though! On your way to the car park you can see fields of grass. And tons of trees. I 💯 recommend as it is fun for all!
Jack Murray — Google review
Beautiful place with plenty to do, friendly and informative staff, and great walks.
Highly recommend getting the full ticket that gives you access to the house too - it’s really interesting and plenty of staff on hand to ask questions, as well as books and information stands/plaques.
There are frequent guided tours of the gardens which are stunning, plus longer unguided walks around the grounds outside that you don’t need to pay for. I went for a walk to the “cup and saucer”, the paths are well maintained and walks clearly signposted.
Clare B — Google review
A great place to visit. I went in May and then again in September. The house was interesting and had a lot to see. The gardens were colourful, and planting for the beds is seasonal, so different each time. The road in and out is narrow but has plenty of passing places.
Elaine Lacey — Google review
One of the most beautiful national trust sites in country.
Huge car park, good facilities and interesting house.
Best to avoid public holidays and weekends as there will be many noisy and out of control kids running around.
Esmaeil Sadeghi Taghiabad — Google review
Visited in August 2019, on the first day of my Wales holiday. Lovely National Trust house with the usual style, nice collection of arts, and the estate is very pretty. I had a lovely weather to enjoy and especially liked to walk around the garden and ground. It can be a good day out for everyone. Usual facilities are available, such as tea-room, shop, toilets, cafe.
Evalynn B. — Google review
Visited after doing the parkrun. I went back to the car, changed and re-entered with our NT cards. The house didn't open till 12.30 so we couldn't visit but we did see the the superb gardens and lakes then took a walk around the wider estate. Lovely views.
Jean Dalby — Google review
We had a lovely day, the guys and staff when out of their way to be helpful. They were very knowledgeable. A particular outstanding guide was Pat who helped us together with Paul, Helen and not forgetting Gareth in the shop.
One of the best national trust we have been to.
There's a lot to see and do.
malcolm cheshire — Google review
Another historical beauty with lots to see in the house with a lot dedicated to the servants. Absolutely beautiful garden and plenty of open space and tables for picnics. Not on a grand scale, although well worth visiting. An upstairs restaurant, and, unfortunately, at the moment, the lift is currently out of use, but hopefully, that won't be for long.
Phyllis Hartshorne — Google review
This is a brilliant day out for both children and adults alike. We started off with lunch in the cafe. The food was delicious and a good size portion. Then a walk through the house and finally into the gardens. We clocked up nearly 5000 steps so enjoyment and fitness combined.
Richard Thornton — Google review
Had a fabulous welcome from an assistant named Oliver on arrival. Thoroughly enjoyed walking our dog through the woods - currently thronged with wild garlic and bluebells, followed by a peaceful stroll along the stream through the French Meadow. The formal gardens are spectacular with vibrant tulips, and there is blossom aplenty on the fruit trees. Beautiful!
Sue Taylor — Google review
One of the best trust properties I have visited.
The house is spectacular and is so original. When you look at pictures from over 100 years ago the rooms have barely changed.
Woodland walks are beautiful and lots of different options for those wanting a gentle stroll are a longer ramble.
Gardens are beautiful and well kept.
Highly recommend and last of all the staff were friendly and very knowledgeable.
Ben Stuart — Google review
I had acquired a free day family pass to a National Trust place of interest so whilst we were camping near Chester we decided on this one as we were close by that day. Absolutely lovely place. The gardens were beautifully kept.
The house itself was amazing as everything in there belonged to the house and not brought in for authenticity.
The staff were wonderfully helpful and knowledgeable.
I thoroughly enjoyed a couple of hrs here.
I even took away some tulip bulbs for a small donation.
Cheryl Cooper — Google review
The extensive 18th century walled gardens are the highlight of a visit to Erddig. It features a canal, pond, orchard and formal garden. Lots of nice seating areas to enjoy the view back to the mansion house. Tour of the house was interesting and good coffee shop. Nice place to spend a few hours.
Cymru Jon — Google review
This is a fantastic house with beautiful gardens with lovely walks all round the Erddig estate. Restaurant was very good with a decent menu. The staff have great knowledge and stories about the house. Well worth the visit. Highly recommended.
Garry Howell — Google review
We are NT members and decided to try Erddig. We love it there. The gardens are so lovely. A big lake with the well kept gardens around it. There is a wooded area to explore with children and quiet corners to sit in and relax.
The house is so nice to explore and the Chapel is our favourite part.the volunteers are all lovely and knowledgeable.
elizabeth clark — Google review
One of the better National Trust properties. I love seeing how the downstairs operated as well as the normal upstairs rooms. The gardens are also kept nice although on this last visit we couldn't take advantage of them because of adverse weather.
russell barton — Google review
A good day out. A very large house, and extensive gardens, plus a bookshop, and large gift shop.
The house and furnishings are impressive. Beginning with a bakery, laundry room, kitchen with excellent kitchen range, food prep rooms, and moving on to a grand dining room, and reception rooms, even a music room (!), The silk bed curtains are masterpieces, and currently can be seen very close up. The walk through the house also visits the family chapel which is colourful and very fine, albeit a trifle restricted in terms of viewing it.
Be sure to have a good few hours, as you will easily be able to spend them in a most enjoyable way.
Peter Cloherty — Google review
Lovely place in a lovely setting the house is huge and worth a visit but no dogs in the house or formal garden. Food and drink available but VERY VERY pricey e.g. can of pop £2.30 and a sausage roll £4.70 and that is a small ish one so be warned. The grounds are huge and you can pass a day easily with your dog on the many trails and if your dog is like mine then it will be in the water. The trails are mostly dry but if you venture on to the small trails it can be muddy so decent footwear needed.plenty of parking but like all NT places it fills up quickly so get there handy.
Make sure to go in every doorway you see to take a step back in time in the workshops.
All in all a stunning setting with stunning views and every staff member we spoke with are lovely friendly and helpfull.
O. K. — Google review
We were so excited to be returning here after 25 years. We were also disappointed, there wasn't a notification to inform us that access to many of the rooms were very limited. The rooms were incredibly dark so made reading about pictures etc difficult.
The volunteers were very plentiful, knowledgeable and friendly.
Ali M — Google review
A great place for a trip with family and friends. You need to check to see which parts of the house are open. Staff are friendly with lots of interesting facts to share. The gardens are great for a wonder. Lots of parking, cafe food nice.
malcolm watson — Google review
Absolute treasure of a place! A really interesting place to visit with a beautiful house & gardens to explore. The Yorke family who owned the estate for genetations before donating it to the National Trust were unusual for two reasons, one most were vegetarians & two there are a number of servant portraits displayed in the servant quarters & even poems about them. We found the ladies of Erddig in each room extremely friendly & knowledgeable about the artifacts in each room, as I homeschool my son it was a very educational day trip. I would definitely recommend it is well worth a visit.
Paulette Galbraith — Google review
The Erddig manor and national trust is a must see if you're in Wrexham. The estate is enormous and you could easily spend all day walking the grounds. It is stunning and beautiful and the manor and garden tour are well worth it. The grounds have a restaurant as well.
Matthew Piccirilli — Google review
Visited 13/11/2023 with family, utilising the family membership (great value for money!)
This was the only national trust site open in North Wales 🏴 due to high winds closing the other sites. There was plenty of parking available, and all areas were accessible with a child buggy.
A great start was the free apples 🍏 🍎 available both eating/cooking to take away 👌🏽
Then to visit the ‘parlour’ can grab a great drink, pastie & brownie 👍🏽near to the gift shop and first floor restaurant (lift not working) all in same courtyard area.
The main house is great to look around as the pictures show, plus great areas to walk around the lovely grounds.
Worth visiting ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The abbey at Buildwas is a 12th century Cistercian site that contains a church and ornately carved chapter house. It is well worth a visit, as the architecture is very impressive.
This is a large and interesting ruin to explore, and costs nothing to see (except parking). We happened to go on a day when there were actors doing live recreations. A nun told us of reading/writing and a doctor told us of the humours. There were several others we didn't talk to. Well worth going on a day they're there.
Andrew Rubotham — Google review
I have been here before, so wanted to go back and take some photos this time as it rained the first time. Unfortunately there are major renovations going on so several areas are fenced off. It is still a lovely place, and worth a visit, especially as it is free at the moment. Hopefully they will be able to complete the renovations quickly, and able keep the ruins safe for generations to come.
Andy Matthews — Google review
Such a beautiful place to visit. Entry is free, parking is only £2 if you are not a national trust member. Reading the history of this place on the boards
L L — Google review
Nice little ruin.
Its free to park and enter.
Its worth a look but will not take anymore than 20 minutes up of your time.
High Miler — Google review
Really beautiful and peaceful spot for a quiet stroll. The grounds are not huge and do not take long to explore however there are some details worth going to see such as the medieval tiles which are all unique and beautiful still preserving vibrant colours. There is ample infomation on on signs as you walk around with fantastic illustrations to help you imagine it's former glory. There are picnic benches where you can enjoy a picnic with beautiful views. We attended in winter, it was free! We are not sure if it's always free in winter but gates were wide open and nobody was there. Definitely worth a stop if you like historical points of interest.
Blue — Google review
One of many UK abbeys one can visit. Definitely worth to stop and pop in especially as the Entry cost were only £2 for parking fee. The site/buildings are quite well described by boards around the place but should you be interested you can also buy very nicely set guide for i think £3.50. The only downside was, during our visit, the fencing around part of the main nave where there were either some restoration works in progress or possibly exclude visitors from a place of danger (ruined my photos a bit)
Jaksemnatom — Google review
A nice stop off, a decent wander around the ruins with information boards dotted around. A section is fenced off for safety reasons, but still plenty to see. The Chapter House ceiling is incredibly well preserved. Small car park.
Jonathan Ward — Google review
Really nice looking architecture, the arches where you can see the floors above are amazing, and the tiles on the floors amazing, definitely worth a visit
Pete / Hel Havard — Google review
History that's worth just to stop by.
Ruins are well kept and parking is 2 pounds.
Nice 2 ladies that were there on a Sunday watching over the place.
It's a short look around but the ruins are a sight to behold.
James Ross — Google review
Buildwas abbey, is an English heritage property and is free to enter. I did try to visit once before but it was flooded from the nearby river Severn. There are a large amount of above ground ruins and although you won't spend a long time here it is worth a visit. There was an EH hut here which I presume is a little shop but it wasn't open. There is enough parking on site but no toilets or cafe.
kevin mills — Google review
One of English Heritages free sites, although there is a charge for non-members to park. There is a second-hand book shop with staff on hand. A fair bit to explore with information boards dotted around. A guidebook is avadible from Wenlock Priory or online through English Heritage. Few steps and there is a part with a drop on either side. Most of it is grass, and the entrance off the main road is a bit blind and steep. Good stop if you plan to do a few things in the area
Ashley Lightfoot — Google review
Such a beautiful place to visit. Entry is free, parking is only £2 if you are not a national trust member. Reading the history of this place on the boards dotted around was so interesting and to walk inside the rooms that monks once resided in hundreds of years ago, was such a surreal experience. If you are nearby, it is a must see.
Carolanne — Google review
One of the best we've been to and it was free. Just 2quid for parking. Very knowledgeable lady gave us intro. The detail on building is astonishing for saying how old it is. Definitely don't miss the tiles they've found or the info boards. Amazing facts especially about the books the monks wrote.
Sally Pittaway — Google review
Very impressive building. Travelled to here by bike but most travel by car to here. Had a chat with a volunteer here whose job is to clean and maintain the beautiful mosaics in the cloisters. The mosaics are the highlights of this abbey
Anthony Chan — Google review
Lovely ruin. Very tranquil and surrounded by beautiful trees. Theres a decent amount of ruin left and the information there is very interesting. Popped by as it's in our local area and was very impressed. Was free to enter and just parking to be paid. Lovely!
Elektra — Google review
Free to visit,splendid historical ruin,close to Ironbridge.
Ivy Cookson — Google review
This is one of English heritage free places to visit, parking is £2 for the day. Closed during the dissolution. There is quite a lot of the original buildings remaining so it's well worth visiting alongside a visit to much wenlock priory which is down the road . Lovely spot to have a picnic, 2nd hand bookshop inside the old kiosk. Some fine examples of tiles on display.
hayley Easthope — Google review
It's free and as much to see as Wenlock down the road. There is some building work in progress. The main meeting chamber is delightful and wonderful part tile floor
Gav Riddleston — Google review
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Much Wenlock Rd, Buildwas, Telford TF8 7BW, United Kingdom
Hawkstone Park is a stunning tourist attraction located in the heart of the beautiful Shropshire countryside. With two golf courses, a tearoom and services, Hawkstone Park Follies is perfect for visitors looking to relax and enjoy the surrounds.
A fantastic place for young and old to enjoy! Found this place whilst searching for something for the family to do and was not disappointed. If anything I was sad that I had never been before! The park is vast with all sorts of trails to do and sights to see. Upon arrival you are given a map of everything to see and you have the choice of choosing which path you want to take and how long the total time will be. There are wonderful sites from various towers, caves, underground caverns, bridges and the list goes on. There is a shop offering drinks and ice creams at the end of the trail which is a great treat for the kids after the hard work. Lovely views once you reach the top! Friendly staff and people on the way. A great day out for the family. We spent 3-4 hours here and had plenty to do.
Dave Savage — Google review
Fantastic day out. Plenty of parking and well worth the admission price. Being able to take dogs is a welcome change from most places like this that you can visit.
Friendly staff in the main reception / shop who are more than happy to take the time to explain the activities to you on arrival.
Walks are excellent and the whole area is amazing. Well laid out paths and signs will take you on the route you choose. So nice to be able to do things like climb the tower when most would have closed this off to the public.
100% would recommend it to families / couples / groups or anyone wanting a walk around some nice grounds.
Wayne — Google review
We had a lovely afternoon with a guided tour. 100% worth booking, as it’s £50 for up to six people and you get a landrover journey up through the hardest parts of the trail. The follies themselves are magnificent and mysterious in their own right. The walk is worth it just for the views at the top. It’s muddy and wet and sloppy in places so not an easy route by any means but a great place to introduce kids to hiking as there’s so many places to encounter and explore on the route.
The Amazing Adventures of Me — Google review
Amazing walk, lots to do for young children from the play area to activities and stuff to look out for.
We spent around 3 hours completing the full route including the strenuous lower path which was good fun.
The dog loved all the caves, he led most the way, apart from over the rope bridge where he let us walk first.
Would recommend it to anyone who loves adventure.
Laura Henn — Google review
We've been here a lot, it's a stunning location with some history behind it.
There's a few walks through the stunning landscape. You'll be walking through rhododendron jungles, amongst huge fir trees and along gorgeous sandstone cliffs. There are caves, gulley's and bridges.
Small children will cope but there are some steeper climbs with steps to get up.
There a cafe at the start and halfway through.
Dog friendly, I think they need to be on leads.
Tom Elner — Google review
The first thing that we encountered on our trip here was very friendly and informative staff.
We visited the whole area and completed all the routes in approximately 3 hours, including going up the 150 steps to the top of the Monument, well worth it!
A lot of effort must go into maintaining the park as we were the first ones there on opening and all of the paths had been cleared.
Hawkstone Follies has to be one of the best places to visit in Shropshire. There is so much to see along the trails.
There are lots of steps and rugged steep parts but this makes it more fun. There are also areas suitable for children.
Suitable footwear is advised !
After our walk we had a coffee and a delicious slice of fresh cake at The glass house tearoom. Very reasonably priced.
This trip is worth every penny and we will be returning
G.M_ Unplugged — Google review
Second time visit with 2 teenagers in tow (16 & 14) and they loved it too. They are happy walkers anyway but the trails, caves etc gave them opportunity to revert to their younger selves and it was lovely to see them acting a bit daft and exploring again. When you consider the amount of paths etc to maintain and the amount of time you can spend there, the price (online cheaper) is reasonable. Plenty of picnicing benches available throughout the estate so take your lunch and enjoy the views. Great that it's dog friendly too. Great family day out and will be back 😍
Emma Mellor — Google review
What an adventure we had here! 3 hours walk with lots of steps and climbing, beautiful scenery, dark caves and fun games for the kids. (The Monument has 150 steps up- we counted them! 😅) Entrance fee is a bit pricey, but the whole park is kept clean and in good condition. Definitely will return, thank you 😊
Borb?la Glover — Google review
Beautiful place to explore, adventure around every corner or rather up and down every step. Perfect place for a few hours of exploring caves, monuments, trees etc. Thoroughly enjoyed it!
Paul Forster — Google review
Fantastic place to visit... wet and windy day but didn't spoil the trip ... got everything you'd want to see and do on a walk .. tunnels,caves,towers ravines and bridges to name a few .. Will definitely visit again in the summer...
Gungho Gungho — Google review
It's a really magical and enchanting trail through carefully managed woodland. Every twist and turn surprises and delights. There are nooks and crannies with views, which are great for resting with a cake and a tea from our picnic bag, a big tower to climb up with amazing views, spooky paths underneath twisted ancient rhododendrons, unexpected tunnels, a massive cavern with cliff top view points, an exciting bridge across a magical gulley and an interesting and demanding walk along a sandstone ridge. We spent 4.5 hrs there and we were knackered by the end of it. But very happy. Such a great day out and excellent value. Walking boots are a good idea and there are plenty of places for picnics and stopping for a tea from our flasks. Bring plenty of water and be aware that the cafe closes before the park. We got back to the cafe at 4:30pm but it was closed, so it probably closed at 4pm. We were ready for tea and cake so we went to the Bear Inn in the local village which was very pleasant and did hot drinks. You must visit if you haven't been before.
Tom Grimmett — Google review
Absolutely amazing place! The full 2-3 hour trail requires a fair level of fitness or a slow pace as there are a lot of steps and some steep inclines. Definitely takes longer than 2-3 hours if you have kids or want to stop for photos as often as we did! Also, a phone torch for some of the passages won't be strong enough - would recommend a proper torch or head torch. Had a great day out and will definitely return!
A Gunnell — Google review
What a lovely place to visit. Certainly tested out fitness as a family but the area was just beautiful. Lots of walking so make sure you wear appropriate footwear. Different roots you can take, we mainly followed the enchanted trail (although we did detour a bit at times). The children could explore the area, search for fairies, trolls and dragons and also build dens. The kids loved the caves, make sure you bring a torch as they are pitch black but the kids found this very exciting!! We went up to the top of the monument, the view was amazing!! The stairs are a little steep and felt a bit dizzy going round and round to get to the top but was worth it! Lovely little cafe and toilets there and the man who served us on admission was very friendly and helpful! Dog friendly also. Free parking. Plenty of picnic areas throughout also. A lovely hidden gem!!
S Evans (Sevs) — Google review
This is a must visit. We absolutely loved it. You do need some sort of fitness level. Some of it it steep when you climb some steps and the goes going down. There is also narrow gorges and dark tunnels and caves to explore.
Angela Joesbury — Google review
Had a lovely walk although the rhododendron Forrest was really muddy. Some great views and would definitely return
mike wilkins — Google review
Great place, rocks, caves, beautyful views. Picnic areas, several walking trails. Bring walking shoed and a torch.
Chester Cathedral is an imposing Gothic cathedral built on the site of a much older church and abbey dating back to the 9th century. The structure was extensively remodeled following the Dissolution of the Monasteries in 1541, with Late Gothic features such as a stunning tower and west front added. It's located in Chester, one of England's historic cities and well worth a visit for its breathtaking architecture.
We did the volunteer guided tour of the cathedral and it was brilliant. Our guide, David, who has known this building from childhood, was so knowledgeable about the history of the building and answered all our questions. He brought the history of the cathedral alive with his descriptions and stories, giving us a real sense of the social history of Chester through art, architecture, religion & politics. There are three of Robert Thompson's "mice" in the cathedral. We saw one; we're coming back for a "mouse hunt" to find the other two!
The refectory appropriately houses the café, and is in itself spectacular with the most fabulous modern stained glass window set at one end, and walls full of generations of chiselled graffiti. Great selection of food and beverages, all very reasonably priced, with pleasant staff.
I highly recommend this place, even if you're not the slightest bit religious like me. You shouldn't really visit Chester and miss out on going to the cathedral. You'd do yourself an injustice.
Sophia Bee — Google review
We were pleasantly surprised by the cathedral and volunteers. Entry is by donation only, though at Christmas it is £2.50 for the Christmas trees.
There are beautiful ceilings, floors, mosaics, stained glass windows, woodwork, and more to see inside.
They are also building a Lego model of the cathedral, with people able to pay £1 per brick then actually contribute it to the sculpture. (Very innovative fundraising idea!)
Make sure to check out the cafe - it’s an amazing atmosphere.
Toilets, gift shop, and tours also available.
Becky T — Google review
Hate religion but love religious architecture. This cathedral is absolutely stunning, and the staff are lovely too. Nothing was too much trouble.
Definitely make sure you visit the cloisters and the lovely garden.
Mike Bishop — Google review
Absolutely stunning cathedral and it’s free entry. Lots of details about the history of the region and the importance of this cathedral. Nice posh cafe inside woth seasonal menus. The best highlight is the eagle wooden stand in front of the church speaker which looks like the owl one in the harry potter films.
Anthony Chan — Google review
This is the best cathedral I have seen in England. It is very large and beautiful both outside and inside. It is like a museum and quite inexpensive. We spent about one hour on the inspection. Here you can see a rare picture on a web, an old organ, silent bells as an exhibition, etc. Admission is just £3.
????????? ?????????? — Google review
The most beautiful cathedral we visited on our tour of the UK. It was magnificent! A history dating back to 1092 with amazing architecture and woodwork. A must see if you are in Chester.
Shondra J — Google review
This Cathedral is wonderful and must be visited! The star of our visit was Emma who took us on the tour of the tower. Don't be put off by the number of stairs and narrow passages, the tour is broken by visits to balconies with views into the cathedral. Emma gave a concise, informative and clear history of all we saw. We loved Chester but the tower tour topped everything!
Terry Ridley-Ellis — Google review
A very interesting cathedral to visit. The cafe is great in a large adjoining hall. The staff were very friendly and the quality of the food was excellent, plus it was very busy even at 3pm. At the moment they have a curious array of glass oddities from a local shop. Great to look at but not cheap.
malcolm watson — Google review
It's a beautiful building and entrance is free.
(Donations welcomed.)
But inside is amazing. Ended up buying a book for more information (at the gift shop inside.)
Theres a lot to see inside and it's so fascinating!
Was snapping pictures like crazy as it's just so beautiful.
Well worth going to see!
ENJOY!
G. ?WiseFool? Koner — Google review
What a stunning cathedral! I've been there twice, it is worth the effort to see it. Really intricate design inside. Our group enjoyed seeing this amazing place. Even if you have visited many old cathedrals, you'll love this one.
Ilene Hacker — Google review
It's just a lovely place to spend a few hours in no matter what your religion. I think what took me a bit off guard being from the States was how there were gardens around the main cathedral filled with children and couples just enjoying the sunlight!!! Didn't take any photos to not indrude!!📸
claudia — Google review
A beautiful cathedral that’s free to enter situated in the centre of Chester town centre. It’s a lovely little excursion for those that like to wander around historical religious buildings. The huge ornate pipe organ and stained glass windows are gorgeous, with the walk around the inner garden which is beautiful in the sunshine.
Well worth a visit for those visiting Chester.
Chris C317 — Google review
What an amazing place to visit. So much history and so well presented, with brilliant staff on hand. Everything is explained and there is a lot to learn. Highly recommended for anyone interested in religious history, social history or architecture.
Gareth Stringer — Google review
Beautiful place to walk through. It’s a donation of £5 to enter. There’s a cafe, toilets, garden and Lego area. They offer tours too. The architecture is stunning on the inside.
Shenny Penny — Google review
Well worth a visit. An interesting mix of modern stained glass windows and original medieval. Quite a bit bigger than it looks externally. Definitely something yo visit if you happen to be in Chester.
Robin Marshall — Google review
A beautiful cathedral with plenty of history and tales. I was fortunate to have a solo tower tour - simply because no one else had booked. If your budget allows it, go up to the tower via the spiral staircases, belfry and galleries not normally open to the public. My tour guide, Matt, was knowledgeable and engaging. Highly recommended.
i Weasel — Google review
We can say its an archaeological treasure. A different experience of ancient cathedral.Recently experienced when i got an invitation to attend the graduation ceremony of one of my friend. Truly amazing and picture arts in the side walls are very fascinating.
Amigo Raaza — Google review
Spent a great couple of hours looking around this beautiful cathedral, but it was made so much more interesting by our tour guide Howard. His interest for the long history of this past monastery and it’s change to a cathedral was evident, and they way he described the long construction of this amazing place and tried to involve us in its history was very enjoyable.
Martin Wragg — Google review
Really interesting history and incredible architecture. Everyone inside was very knowledgeable and happy to tell you all about the cathedral. Definitely a go to visit if you're in the city
Josie Mellor — Google review
Amazing cathedral! It is extremely well preserved, the garden is wonderfully coloured in the spring season and all the small details that compose it creates an amazing place to walk and relax. You have very old manufacts and modern ones, such as the LEGO (yes, LEGO!) model of the whole building. Something you think to be in another epoch while you walk among the beautiful columns of some of its rooms... absolutely recommended!
RS — Google review
Beautiful cathedral with very friendly and welcoming staff. On the day of my visit, the Dean actually walked around, talking to many visitors, wished them a good day. Ideal place for sitting/slowing down away from the bustling town outside. There are guided tours that I missed but will take them on the next visit.
Thang To — Google review
Excellent cathedral, with stunning architecture and details. Highly recommended the Tower tour for detailed information on the cathedrals history, plus the stunning views from the top of the tower.
Abra Cadabra — Google review
If you want to visit one of Britain's grandest cathedrals this is the place to go. Majestic on the outside and beautiful on the inside, whether your religious or not this building will leave you in a state of wonder. You can admire the majestic interior of the building or just sit in a quiet alcove and let your thoughts drift back into history to the times of the previous Bishops or even your loved ones of the past. It even has things for the children to see, including a duplicate copy of the cathedral which they are currently constructing in Lego. There is a shop where you can purchase religious artifacts and local jewelry and there is a cafe where you can get very good food at a reasonable price. You can also purchase a sandwich, drink or a meal to be given to the homeless, an excellent idea in which I participated. A visit not to be missed and if you can stay a few days you can explore the beautiful city of Chester.
Terry Dargue — Google review
Amazing visit to a jewel in the Northwest area! Fantastic building on its own, but with the added plus of a model railway setup to drool over. Had a great day with great mates and heartily reccomended a visit to this wonderful cathedral!
Baz Smith — Google review
Went to Chester to walk the town walls and saw the beautiful cathedral and thought would pop in to see the Xmas trees on display, it was stunning and so was the garden. Exceeded my expectations. Impressed with the array of goods for sale in the Gift shop, would have liked to use the cafe but just missed it, heard an amazing choir singing/rehearsing too, added to the atmosphere. We used the, out of town, park and ride service. Free parking and 2. 50 an adult bus fare.
Jo anna — Google review
My wife and I enjoyed exploring Chester Cathedral during our stay in the historic city. Even from outside on the main shopping streets, the tall spires caught our eye and attracted us to pay a visit.
Pre-Christmas, the visit was not free and required modest fee for the tree exhibit.
Stepping inside was like going back in time. Tall stone arches rose high above us and it was remarkably quiet (maybe the entry fee or the cold day).
The sunlight streaming through colorful stained glass windows was beautiful.
Few friendly volunteers were there to help us learn more.
The special exhibits for Christmas added holiday cheer, like a hallway filled with decorated trees.
It was fascinating to learn about the building's 900 year history. Everything was well taken care of so visitors could appreciate the architecture and art up close.
Whether interested in history, art or just looking for a peaceful place, the cathedral is worth a stop.
Even without being religious, this place gave a sense of the past. The friendly staff made our visit more interesting too.
Chester Cathedral should be on any visitor's list while exploring this historic town.
Sam Aberman — Google review
I went there last year to see Pete Waterman's railway layout. It was amazing to watch it all in action. While I was there I wandered around the cathedral and it was astounding to look at all the intricate woodwork and masonry. I never knew it was a Benedictine Abbey. Well worth going along.
Andy Roberts — Google review
It was a great opportunity to visit the amazing and eye-charming architecture of Chester Cathedral, surprisingly it was free for all visitors.
The staff was kind and helpful, it was huge and had a lot of religious and historical inscriptions, and also rich in archaeological writings and symbols. It impressed me and I recommend visiting it to all those coming to the city of Chester.
Ibrahim Wesabi — Google review
This is such a beautiful building and quite rightly The locals are very proud of it. I was lucky enough to see it over the Christmas. and it was so beautifully decorated with an exhibition of Christmas trees from the local schools. It was just a beautiful sight thank, you Chester.
Donna Williams — Google review
Finding Ones Inner Peace
Our first stop in Chester was the Cathedral Church of Christ & the Blessed Virgin Mary with roots dating back to 1100.
As we took a stroll through the sacred premises, a sense of peace and tranquility washed through us as we admired the washed out cobble stone floors and walls.
What caught our attention the most was the beautiful stainless glass which glimmered as it caught the random rays of sun.
Keep your eyes peeled as portions of the Cathedral have inscriptions dedicated to various individuals of significance. Some might even consider just relaxing in the garden of remembrance as you soak in the warm sun rays and lush greenery.
More photos & videos are available on IG & Youtube ( monk3yseendo )
MONK3YSEENDO — Google review
Wow what an amazing Cathedral! It is absolutely beautiful and steeped in history. You could spend half a day in here. History related to maritime, world wars, local history, wellbeing. The choir were rehearsing, what an absolute joy and pleasure, angelic. Lovely cafe and toilet facilities. There is even a bookstore and gift shop.
Tina Stanier — Google review
As Cathedrals go, as one would expect, vast and impressive. With some delightful embellishments of a non- religious nature.Not least the cafe . Austere, impersonal, and ,as a feat of engineering, remarkable. But I prefer the intimacy of the original cathedral, the church of St. John ,which I recommend
Chester's city walls date back to the Roman era and are a significant historical landmark. The three-kilometre walkway that overlooks the wall protects visitors from seeing the defences in their entirety, as only Chester has maintained these walls throughout the centuries.
Really nice walk that takes you round all of Chester. We really enjoyed seeing all the sites and reading about the history. Definitely a recommendation if you visit the city
Josie Mellor — Google review
We did the walls in about 45-50 minutes, taking a more leisurely pace as we read all the signs along the way and stopped for pictures a few times.
The walk is well paved, though there are stairs in places, and it's a pretty easy walk compared to other city wall walks we've done.
It's extremely picturesque to do the whole loop as it passes the cathedral, racecourse, main shopping area, and more historic sites along the way. Highly recommend if in Chester as it's free and you get to see a good amount of the town.
Becky T — Google review
The walk round the city wall is a great way to introduce yourself to Chester. Great views over the River Dee, the shopping centre (get off by the amazing clock tower), the Cathedral, the castle and the Racetrack. Chester is rightly famous for its wonderful black and white buildings, great shops and pubs some of which have a lot of history themselves. It's about 2 miles round, so not too strenuous. After doing it, you probably won't get lost anywhere in the city.
Michael Spring (Jez) — Google review
Roman walls around Chester City Centre.
In all about 5,000 steps, (approx 2 miles) ancient built Roman wall, restored to make a fabulous and interesting walk round Chester city Center.
Starts by the river and Chester castle, takes in the city Center, the Roman Amphitheatre, Chester cathedral, the canal, and Chester race horse track.
Lots of places to stop, eat & drink, walking tours available if you want.
A walk and wander along the City Walls is one of the best ways to discover and experience the magnificent history of Chester.
All in all great couple of hours walk taking in all the history and sights of Chester.
Highly recommended!
Simon Stepsys — Google review
Great views from the city walls. Steep steps in places but worth it. Nice stroll with a different view of the city.
Mark Gregory — Google review
Chester city walls consist of a defensive structure built to protect the city of Chester in Cheshire, England. Their construction was started by the Romans when they established the fortress of Deva Victrix between 70 and 80 CE. It originated with a rampart of earth and turf surmounted by a wooden palisade. From about 100 CE they were reconstructed using sandstone, but were not completed until over 100 years later. The walls are now the one of the most tourist attractions in Chester City.
Abu Talha — Google review
A 2 mile walk around Chester city walls. The walls are almost complete. Start at the Roman gardens & follow the walls past the cathedral, Charles I tower, the race course, castle & back to the Roman gardens. Wonderful Victorian clock tower.
hayley Easthope — Google review
been chester many times abd never bothered to walk around the walls ....quite interesting place and a good walk with good views ....reminds me of Exeter ....lots of drunk homeless tho 🤷♂️
Chester Zoo is a large and popular zoo located in the city of Chester, England. The zoo has an impressive array of animals from all around the world, including some rare and endangered species. There are also extensive gardens with beautiful waterways and landscaping, making it an amazing place to visit whether you're a animal lover or just looking for a relaxing day out.
I mean whats not to like about a zoo right?!?!? kids loved it, I loved it, was a real fun day. Saw plenty of animals, the best ones for me always has to be the elephants and giraffes. such majestic animals. Was lovely and clean and kept tidy. My only complaint with zoos is the amount of walking you have to do, but again its all part of the experience!!
Martin Clarke — Google review
Amazing for the people and the animals! Such a great day out! So many animals there and you can tell what great lives they have. Such an amazing conservation zoo - some of the purchases can be pricey but the proceeds go towards the conversation and the animals. Always developing the area to change it and make it new. The volunteers are super helpful and knowledgeable. Pretty accessible for wheelchairs and mobility scooters. If you go regularly I would 100% recommend getting a membership - it makes it such better value. If you can I would also recommend getting there earlier as it is quieter and also bringing your own lunch - takes a big expense out of your day. But make sure to get an ice cream from Junes Pavilion!
Natasha Keeling — Google review
First time at the zoo. Got there for opening time 10am, they pen you in near the elephants which becomes overcrowded very quickly. You’d think they’d just line people up at the main gates and then filter people in.
So wandering around, the vast majority of the animals are still asleep at this time of morning. The suns hot, the animals have more sense than to come out and play in the hot morning sun. So the vast majority of the animals from lions, monkeys, and leopards, were all still tucked up in bed. Was a shame we didn’t get to see them. Maybe they should entice them out with some food?
But there’s so much more to see and do. There’s loads of other pens that you can actually go inside. Such as the bat cave, where huge bats are flying about above your head and past your face.
There’s loads of places for food and drink, loads of places to picnic which is probably the best thing to do.
We spent a good 4hrs in the zoo. Definitely visit again in a few years, and highly recommended.
Chris C317 — Google review
Our second visit here we came from Suffolk to visit and it was well worth the 5 hour drive !! It is a incredible zoo ! Easy to get lost in also but I'd recommend buying a map!! The bat cave is probably the most incredible experience out of the whole day for us it was amazing ! We all had such a incredible day !
Robyn Young — Google review
Very busy zoo ,plenty of parking ,push chairs to hire ,lots of places to sit and bring your own packed lunch ,which is a must as its expensive ,1 sausage roll cost £8.00 !!! Well kept helpful staff ,face painting lots of thing for children to do .bring sensible foot wear as its very big park
Ashley Cunliffe — Google review
Chester Zoo is an absolute delight! My visit last year was nothing short of amazing. The sheer diversity of animals and their well-maintained habitats left me in awe. The zoo’s commitment to conservation and education is truly inspiring. The layout is user-friendly, and the signage is informative, making it an enriching experience for all ages. The staff were courteous and helpful, adding to the overall enjoyment. I look forward to revisiting this incredible place in the future!
rajkk77 (rajkk77) — Google review
Wonderful zoo, lots of accessibility information around. Only problem is that it is SO BIG that you need more than one day. Opening times either need to be longer or weekend tickets available
Racheal Winson — Google review
Just been to the festive lights at the zoo. Had a brilliant time. Well organised plenty of parking and staff. Lights are great for all ages. Even have interactive characters. Food available (not cheap). Highly recommend
David Wilson — Google review
The best Zoo in the UK! Visited with my family. Tickets are bought in advance. Parking is free. Well-organized and friendly staff members! If you want to book a buggy, there are single and double buggy available. Only, there is an age and weight limit. 45kg and up to 7 years old. Book VR for kids. Face paint is available all around the zoo, 10-15£. They will love it! Moreover, you can book a family photo option which is an amazing experience. On your way back home you can get them printed. Decent price to be honest. Rhino is outside of the Zoo territory even before you enter so don't forget to see Rhinos! African Quarter is underway and expected to open Summer of 2025. Waiting!
Doniyorbek Muminov (Daniel) — Google review
The best zoo in UK I suppose! And it’s the top 3 in the world too! I walked all day long in the zoo from 10 am to 3 pm and it was amazing, so many places and animals you could see, and indeed they put a much effort caring the animals.
Dolly천유 — Google review
One of the best zoos I have been to. There is a LOT of walking and it will take all day to get round. The animals look very well cared for. Their enclosures seem spacious and there are plenty of places for the animals to find shelter, if us visitors annoy them too much.
Most of the animals were easy to spot, I think the tiger was the only one we didn't manage to see. Definitely worth the visit. Baby orangutans are adorable to watch.
Becca W — Google review
We visited today due to the teachers strike and bats off to Chester Zoo for allowing kids to go free, it was a big saving and allowed us to do something exciting. We booked in advance so gaining entry was very straight forward, parking was also plenty and well organised.
To start with the place is massive, so please plan to be doing a lot of walking. This said it's all super accessible, a few small inclines but nothing too bad, we managed with a pushchair and five year old.
There is some construction going on for new areas but it certainly didn't detract from the visit. The whole place was really clean and tidy, each exhibit looked fresh and not tired.
There are so many animals to say and you can easily spend a full day here, I would certainly download the app and plan the visit.
One area that pleasantly surprised me was the range of eating establishments. From quick tuck shops to a couple of really nice coffee houses. We are in the food hall, which wasn't too busy when we dined but I imagine it could be really busy during peak times. There were three food vendors, fresh pizza, fish and chips and burgers. The quality was really good, gone are the days of cheap fast food, this was fresh and good quality. We finished off with an ice cream Cheshire Farms.
In conclusion I would recommend a visit, the whole place has grown and evolved so much over the years, so if you have never been or haven't been in a few years it is worth a day out!
Leigh Cartwright — Google review
So impressed. Best zoo I've ever visited. Keepers were amazing. Helpful, accommodating, happy to answer questions even when just walking around doing their jobs, not just when doing a talk. The food outlets were plenty and first class.
Gillian Hemphill — Google review
Fantastic day out! We arrived when the zoo opened and were one of the last cars to leave after it closed. The keepers and staff are all extremely friendly and look after the animals incredibly well. The zoo is absolutely massive so be prepared for a day of walking. There are however multiple food and drink outlets located across the zoo to give you that energy boost. The best zoo experience we have ever had, will certainly be returning.
Ruby Grant — Google review
A brilliant zoo with so much to see, impressive large enclosures for most of the animals add to the spectacle - except when the animals sometimes decide to hide! You need a good 6 hours minimum to see everything and enjoy what this wonderful zoo has to offer.
Jaykayar 666 — Google review
Visited yesterday in the rain. And it did rain. Fantastic day, everywhere clean and tidy, food halls offered a lot of choice. Enjoyed it that much we bought a season ticket.
Neil B — Google review
Absolutely fabulous day out, this is definitely one of the best zoos in the country.
What makes it so good is down to the quality of everything on offer.
First and foremost is the well-being of the animals, which are housed in large habitats that are well maintained and balanced to meet the needs of the inhabitants whilst still providing a close-up view for visitors.
There's a very strong focus on conservation and education and a variety of displays and activities to reinforce the importance of caring for our environment.
There's really so much here for the whole family that a short review cannot do the zoo justice.
Go and find out for yourself, you won't be disappointed.
Michael Lees — Google review
We went to the lanterns and lights show that they have on in November and December it was fantastic we enjoyed this very much. I would definitely recommend going seeing this stunning event. Be prepared to walk so wear comfy shoes and wrap up.
The only downside was the extortionate price of food and drinks in the food village.
Karen Dickinson — Google review
We attended the Chester Zoo Lanterns and Lights event and it was absolutely amazing.
We've attended a few light shows before but this was by the far the best one we have attended due to how interactive it was.
Our kids aged 7 & 4 absolutely loved it!
. Ahmed — Google review
This has to be one of the biggest zoos I have been to!
I even heard a lion roar for the first time. Pretty much ever enclosures we were able to see the animals, unlike some other places I have been to where most the animals are hidden.
You can really tell the animals have the care and space they need!
Amy louise Bradford — Google review
Chester Zoo is a great family day out for young and old.
Its constantly changing and growing, its built on an ethos of conservation and protecting the animals.
Its a huge place and takes all day to get around and look at the species that are there.
We took our own picnic as I always conscious of the captive audience prices. Indeed it cost £3.50 for a bottle of water.
My Granddaughter had her face painted and the signage outside said this would cost £13 with a tail or ears. She chose a Tiger tail. My daughter was charged £17.50 for this.. this is shocking. I volunteered to go and bring this up with the face painting team, however my daughter didn't want a fuss making. So just be careful. £17.50 for a three year olds face painted and a tail. It is great to see the animals, however the feeling of being exploited in monetary terms is there throughout the day as everything has a hefty price tag to it.
Angel — Google review
Visited Chester Zoo this weekend, family of four, including two children aged 11 and 13. We loved seeing the big cats and orangutan’s in particular close up. Animals are so well maintained, lots of space for them and viewing areas too. Could do with water fountains throughout, save spending a small fortune on water. Well worth a visit.
James Maxwell — Google review
Wow, an amazing zoo! It has been on my bucket list for a few years now, but I live 4 1/2 hours away. Weekend in Chester to accommodate.
Fantastic enclosures. Amazing displays and so much to see and do. Just about got round once in 7.5 hours.
Jim Dazley — Google review
We had the most amazing time at Chester zoo yesterday! It was lovely to see all the staff there helping the animals and being so attentive. I would suggest getting there after dinner, as we got there around 10:30am and a lot of the animals were still asleep and hiding. I would also suggest bringing your own food, as the queues and service in the food court was quite slow.
Overall, the experience was incredible and we cannot wait to go again!
Georgia Christine — Google review
Amazing place. Clean, spacious enclosures, animals seemed really happy and well cared for. Pricey when buying food and drink inside so would recommend taking a picnic, but what place isn't pricey on food and drink nowadays. The zoo was clean throughout, staff lovely and helpful. Boat ride down the lazy river is free. Flat ground to walk round, signage could be better. Can hire buggies for children and for those with mobility issues. A great day out.
Kerry Jeffcoate — Google review
Great visit, the kids loved it, spent about 6 hours here. Big area to cover with little legs so I would recommend having a list of favourite animals you want to see first and get them ticked off.
Would recommend taking a packed lunch, you could leave it in the car and fetch it at lunchtime, there are plenty of places to eat at a picnic, saying that there is a food court with a variety of food on offer, burgers, fish and chips, pizza etc.
They are always adding new attractions and we
will definitely be going back!
Dave Shields Fitness (DSHFitness) — Google review
Fantastic zoo, large enclosures well looked after animals 😀. Plenty of walking to do could easily spend all day there.
Food and drinks are expensive, but they always are in a zoo. There is plenty of space to sit if you take a picnic
carrie murphy — Google review
Love Chester Zoo and on this visit was lucky enough to see Inka and managed to get some pictures. The 4D Gorilla experience is absolutely fantastic and well worth the £10 extra for the 2 of us. Like a couple of other reviews, only marked down because of the food. Very expensive and not very good quality which is a shame because when we first visited in 2019 the food was fantastic but since the food area reopened the quality is awful. Next time we will bring our own food.
Vikki W — Google review
We went to the lanterns and lights show that they have on in November and December it was fantastic the adults enjoyed it more then the children. The shop at the entrance was really well priced. I would definitely recommend going seeing. You can’t see the animals they were in bed 😁
carla ravey — Google review
An Unforgettable Wildlife Adventure at Chester Zoo
I recently had the pleasure of visiting Chester Zoo, and I must say, it was an experience I won't forget! The moment I stepped through the gates, I was immersed in a world of wonder and amazement.
The variety and beauty of the wildlife here are simply breathtaking. From the majestic elephants to the playful monkeys swinging through the trees, every exhibit was a treat for the senses. The zoo's commitment to conservation and animal welfare shines through in every corner.
What impressed me the most was the educational aspect. The informative talks and interactive displays added depth to the experience, allowing visitors to learn while having fun. The staff's dedication and passion for wildlife conservation were evident throughout the park.
The layout is fantastic, offering a well-thought-out path that allowed me to explore comfortably without missing anything. The facilities were clean and well-maintained, and there were ample spots to take a break, relax, and enjoy the surroundings.
The zoo's commitment to sustainability and the environment is admirable. It's evident they're not just a place for entertainment but a force for positive change in the world.
Overall, my visit to Chester Zoo was an absolute delight! It's a must-visit for nature enthusiasts, families, and anyone seeking a fantastic day surrounded by beautiful animals and a welcoming atmosphere. A big thumbs up to Chester Zoo for their incredible efforts in wildlife preservation and for providing such an unforgettable experience."
G_A_B OFFICIAL — Google review
A great zoo, much larger than we expected, with some stunning animals - you'll want a full day here. They also have 26 EV charge points available for guests, which is great! They're at a reasonable cost (40p/kWh at the time of posting), although are rather slow at about 3.7kW unfortunately, even when not shared. Great to see tourist places starting to add chargers though!
Craig MacGillivray-Peake — Google review
Yes it's a zoo and ultimately I'd much rather the animals live in the wild but as zoos go this is as good as it gets.
Great place to visit, staff are generally very friendly and happy. Prices for food and drinks is bonkers but that's pretty standard for any UK attraction
G Wood — Google review
Wonderful day as always!
We love Chester Zoo so much; it's always changing and improving. There's so much to see and you can tell the animals are extremely well cared for.
Amy Elizabeth — Google review
We’ve just been to Chester Zoo - what a fabulous attraction. Be warned, this place is huge - you will need comfortable shoes but there are plenty of places to stop and have a drink. The animals are fantastic, although it was a cold day when we were there so a lot of them preferred to stay in their dens, rather than come out to see us. But we got to see the snow leopards (wonderful), and lots of other wildlife.
Linda A — Google review
We arrived upon opening time and were surprised at how busy it was on a week day with the kids still at school.
We were lucky enough to meet the 2 week old giraffe and witness a gorilla eating it's own feces, which was definitely an experience!
We did take our own picnic, like many others, which I imagine saved us a small fortune. There are plenty seating areas, shaded and otherwise.
Would love to revisit!
Laura Penman — Google review
It’s a great zoo with plenty to keep you going all day. The staff are very approachable and friendly and were fantastic with my daughter who has additional needs.
While it has to be understood that animals are not there to entertain it was frustrating that several of them were in an unsociable mood.
The only criticism I’d level is that it’s very expensive, and once your in there’s a lot of opportunity to be further mined for coin. Also the layout has random sections and paths fenced off and it doesn’t flow well for seeing everything.
John Davies — Google review
Great experience, free car park. I would recommend allowing all day for this park, it is huge, so many animals to see. We enjoyed our day out, clean area, helpful staff
Irina Palamari — Google review
A great day out, well organised and amazing for all the family. We found the phone app was really useful looking at what you wanted to see and it helps with directions (especially if you have kids and need a toilet trip). The staff were brilliant, service throughout very good with little waiting times.Will 100% return!
Matthew Dowley — Google review
Amazing zoo for anyone interested in conservation and seeing animals in spacious, naturalistic habitats. Educational exhibits make it a great place to learn about wildlife. Highly recommend!
Jay Cork — Google review
What an amazing day out. Arrived at 10 am and left at closing time. Beautifully laid out. Some of the animals were hiding. The bat cave was impressive. We loved everything, including the boat trip.
Julie Whitten — Google review
Great day. Saw the newest baby when he/ she was just 7 days old. No queuing for anything. Had buttermilk chicken burger and chips.which was lovely. All the animals were well looked after and had lots of room.
Karen Goodwin — Google review
Loved the zoo! Very large so was a struggle to get round in a day but thats a great thing as the animals had space! Looking forward to seeing the new enclosure with zebras etc. They had an egg hunt for the children going on and that was a lovely touch...even got a chocolate treat for completing it at the end.
Hack Green Secret Nuclear Bunker is a historical site and defense complex that offers tours and exhibitions showcasing 20th-century military history. Visitors can explore the underground bunker, read declassified files, and learn about the Cold War. The bunker features a nuclear weapons display and various exhibits including civil defense equipment, emergency response gear, a radio studio, press briefing room, sleeping quarters, Soviet military uniforms, and memorabilia.
This place is a 'must see', especially for those of us who lived through the whole 'Protect and Survive' era. It's absolutely crammed with artefacts relating to the Cold War, and includes such things as the original telephone that was reserved for calling HM the Queen in the event of a nuclear attack to obtain consent to enact emergency powers.
They're displaying the film 'The War Game', which was banned by the BBC. It made 'Threads' look like children's television. I felt physically sick after watching it and it's hard to believe that anybody ever conceived of creating these weapons of horror.
I felt genuinely chilled by my experience of visiting here, but at the same time I definitely want to return. It's a truly important place and it's vital we never lose sight of the devastation that nuclear weapons cause.
Jane B — Google review
Amazing place, packed full of exhibits and displays. Fascinating and sobering displays, makes you thankful it was never needed, although it brings current events into a very sharp focus. Recommended.
Pete Smith — Google review
Very good place to visit for a few hours and local.
Pity some parts were not accessible, some due to covid also but really enjoyed our visit. The staff member was very welcoming and the cat is an added bonus, very friendly.
Boof Edge — Google review
LOVED IT!! There is so much to see and take in here! The theming of the cafe as you enter is fab, and the story told through the rooms is both poignant and interesting. We spent a good two hours taking it all in, but certainly could've spent longer! The staff were super friendly, and the little gift shop is reasonably priced. I almost wish we could've spent a whole day here!
Flora S — Google review
Dog friendly cold war era bunker with cafe on site. Interesting venue, but a lot of reading, with little exhibit interaction. A self led tour takes around 60-90 mins. Entrance fee is an annual pass, so the c.£15 price is worth it in that respect. Easy to find, but via some narrow country lanes. Worth a visit on a rainy day.
Brian Swann — Google review
This place is awesome! If you are considering visiting, I would definitely recommend. The staff here are super friendly and informative, especially Goulash the cat! We have learnt lots on our trip today about nuclear warfare and military operations, and the self guided tour was very easy to follow and well laid out. It is extremely cold so I would definitely recommend putting on a few more layers. Despite the temperature the place does have a warm, homely feel as soon as you enter, as the staff are so lovely and friendly. The canteen offers lots of options for food and drinks and I definitely recommend the homemade cakes!
Rachel S — Google review
Surprisingly good day out, particularly if you were around in the cold war era. Lots of detail about the threat of nuclear war and the preparations we took as a country to survive it. If you were born or around in the 70's you will be very familiar with the technology! Trying to explain to my son what a switchboard is and that yes we used to have 5 1/4" flopppy disc drives was interesting!
Probably about 1.5 - 2hrs worth of stuff to look around. Some nice pubs in the area too so definitely a worthwhile trip.
Kev Sutton — Google review
Really great place for kids and adults. It has been curated very well. Lots of content and items, far more than I was expecting. Prepare yourself to spend 1.5hrs to go through all the rooms. The cold war years is told really cleverly through out the different rooms of the bunker.
It has also got a little shop with some very quirky souvenirs.
maria gonzalez — Google review
What an amazing place. Forget the York Bunker. Thats just a tiddler compared with this place. Its huge! I absolutely loved how they got alot of the old machines to light up again with the sounds of stuff beeping or buzzing away. Lots of stuff for kids to twiddle and play with too. We spent over hours on a self guided tour covering 29 or so different rooms on two levels. All in all we thoroughly enjoyed our visit and would deffo visit again in future.
Martin Goodman — Google review
This is a really interesting place, but quite harrowing at times (to be expected given the subject). There are lots of great exhibits ... not just the bombs but also all of the civil defence and emergency response equipment, even a radio studio, press briefing room, sleeping quarters and displays of Soviet military uniform and military memorabilia. (including a mock up ICBM launch room). It is suitable for kids of a certain age, and plenty of them were enjoying it. Prepare to be surprised and fascinated ! A unique insight into the thinking of the time and the detailed plans in place to try and recover society in some way after the unthinkable. Takes a good 2 hours to explore ... recommended
Mike Simms — Google review
What a fascinating day out! My 10 year old daughter is really interested in history. We really enjoyed it. We didn't let her watch the film in the cinema room as it was too graphic but loved learning about everything
Hannah Taylor — Google review
Very interesting place could do with better manaquines some looked dead and others where just freaky but really interesting place spent a good few hrs there
Marcos Crook Art — Google review
This place is amazing! If you are into war history, apocalypse stuff, British military history or prepping, this is the place for you. 27 rooms of intriguing and well presented authentic kit, things to do for the kids and a cinema where you can watch The War Game. Can't wait to go back!
Colin Harris — Google review
Really interesting visit. So big inside you can't believe how extensive this building is. Staff was great and very welcoming
Michael Collins — Google review
Such a great experience. My boys(age 10&12) are totally obsessed with all things nuclear and military so it was really something they enjoyd with lots of different rooms to visit and exhibitions to see.
Wouldn't recommend for little ones.
It was all inside but it was absolutely freezing so wrap up.
There is a small cafe serving soup, toasties, cakes and hot drinks and a small selection of gift shop items.
Ticket is a anual pass so of you can visit again for free within the year. Bonus!
Sian Parker-Perry — Google review
This bunker offers a fascinating glimpse into what life would be like in a bunker during a nuclear war. The bunker is full of interactive displays and scenarios that explore the challenges and choices of living underground. There is also a canteen that serves simple but tasty food and drinks. For a fun and educational activity, take the kids to the spy mouse game, where they can learn about espionage and code-breaking.
Jack Clement — Google review
Fantastic experience visiting Hack Green secret bunker. Informative and atmospheric with plenty go view. There are stairs to the lower levels. My daughter had the kids booklet to find the spy mice, which kept her engaged throughout. There are puzzles and facts in it, too. The café had a limited menu of excellent locally sourced food like cheese and sausage toasties. You could get Bovril and Horlicks! Your ticket buys you a years' access, so we'll go back soon.
Kay Ryder — Google review
A totally absorbing visit and view into cold war life. Some of this was utterly terrifying in its chillingess. The objects on display are many and varied from bombs to lifelike sleeping arrangements to films from the era.
I love travel kids love Disney — Google review
This is a fascinating place to visit. There is so much to see here and brings recent history very much to life.
It was also very thought provoking when it showed what was involved in protecting us from a possible nuclear crisis and what a complete lack of protection available to citizens should it happen.
Paul Hallgarth — Google review
Very interesting and engaging museum, well worth travelling to and entrance admission. Activity book for children kept 5 year old engaged even if some of the material is unsuitable. Will return in the future.
Dan Earl — Google review
Regardless of the subject matter, this is a great place to visit. Built and operational when the whole world was paranoid about nuclear war, it now shows how prepared the UK was for nuclear attack. Not exactly NORAD, but full of curing edge old tech, mostly analogue with some digital terminals on display. Good selection of information cards and a 45 minute film show called "the war game" that was previously banned by the BBC, depicting the UKs reaction to an atomic bomb. An audio tour is also available while there or from the web site.
Pay once, visit for a while year with the same ticket, so there is no need to rush to see everything, keep going back and discover new things every time. For the kids there is a 'count the spy mice' game. Spoiler: the number changes on a regular basis so you can't cheat!! 😁
N.A.A.F.I canteen is well presented, offering tasty food and drinks, including Bovril and Horlicks, in proper enamel cups!
Give this place a search online and either pre book your tickets during school hols, or do like we did, turn up and hope for space. I can imagine it gets quite busy!
All in all, we had a great time.
Mike Halliday — Google review
Very nice but very cold inside hot chocolate is a must afterwards
Steve Tinsley — Google review
Absolutely loved it, so many interesting artefacts along with the facility itself. Kids loved it. Staff very friendly and informative. 👍