Portmeirion fountain by William Warby

Twenty-five miles further north is Llanberis, home to the Snowdon Mountain Railway. Four miles of track wends its way from the station to the summit allowing for breath taking views of the scenery. The journey stops along the way so visitors can dismount and walk up to the peak or descend the gentler slopes. In high season the train completes the whole journey in two and half hours, in winter it only goes three quarters of the way up to Clogwyn. The visitor centre, Hafod Eryri offers passengers the opportunity to view a free film about the mountain and the history of the railway as well as refreshments and souvenirs.

Fantastic feats of engineering

Pontcysyllte Aqueduct was built in the early 19th century to carry the Llangollen canal across the Valley of the River Dee. It was opened in 1805 at a cost of £42,000, which would equate to just under £3,000,000 in today’s money. Visitors can marvel at the aqueduct by either walking the span of the bridge along the towpath or travelling in style in a narrow boat. Young visitors can explore The Darkie, which is a tunnel under the bridge that lives up to its name and a torch is essential. It is no wonder that the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct was given World Heritage Site by UNESCO, as it is a truly fantastic example of engineering from the Industrial Revolution.

Caernarfon Castle by Jandy Stone

Caernarfon Castle is a must see for young and old alike. Construction was started in the 13th Century by Edward I and is one of the most impressive medieval castles in the world. This is recognised by UNESCO that conferred World Heritage Status on it in 1986. Though never finished the construction is truly impressive. The castle has many towers and the most impressive of these has to be the Eagle Tower. It is hexagonal in shape and constructed with differing coloured stones to produce bands of decoration.

Fun for young and old

A fantastic place to visit for younger visitors is Anglesey Sea Zoo. It is privately owned and puts a great emphasis on conversation. The exhibits are divided into specialist areas such as the Kelp Forest that is teaming with sea life from around the coastal waters of Great Britain. After exploring the wonders of marine life, youngsters can expel their youthful energy outside. There is an enormous bouncy castle and a Pirates Playground. Adults and kids can compete to master Captain Jack’s Crazy Golf course or enjoy local ice cream from the area whilst admiring the views.

This guest post has been provided by Saul Malpass on behalf of the world heritage site, Pontycysyllte-aqueduct.

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Castle Coch

Located in the village of Tongwynlais just north of Cardiff, Coch Castle is favoured for its ideal fairy tale resemblance. Visitors are attracted right away by the fluted towers and charming drawbridge. Built upon the ruins of a former keep, the castle represents more of an impressive work of art than a military fortress. Designed in a Gothic Victorian style, the castle also features a beautiful ornate interior. The Lady Butte’s room is well worth checking out with its mirrored ceilings. From the top of the battlements, visitors can get splendid views across the Cardiff area. Surrounded by lush woodland, the castle grounds offer several walking and cycling trails and picnic spots.

Photo released under public domain. Source: wikipedia

Carreg Cennen Castle

Located in the village of Trapp, a few miles south of Llandeilo is the spectacular castle of Carreg Cenne. The castle is well noted for its strategic defence position atop a steep limestone cliff. Human remains found at the castle area have presented evidence of people living at the site as far back as prehistoric times. Rich in history, the castle has seen its share of sieges and battles and even being damaged during the War of the Roses. Visitors can tour the square court surrounded by high towers, the drawbridge and even explore a cave tunnel beneath the castle. Stunning views of the area can be seen from the tower and battlement tops.

Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by zingyyellow…wish I could bend space/time

Caernarfon Castle

Built in 1284, this Norman castle is one of the most popular attractions in Wales. The architectural beauty, hexagonal towers and imposing presence set it apart from other castles. It was here that the fourth son of Edward I was born and crowned as Prince of Wales. The castle was used in 1969 for the investiture of Charles, Prince of Wales. The castle features everything one expects in a castle from its lovely turrets, towers, interesting passageways and murder holes. From the tower top, visitors can see across the Menai Strait with its elegant suspension bridge and lovely countryside.

Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by Bladeflyer

Pembroke Castle

Located in the west of Wales, the castle is well noted for its significance in Britain’s history as the birthplace of Henry VII. Founded in 1093 by Roger of Montgomery, it was also the residence of the Earl of Pembroke. The castle is so huge that it can take up to a half of a day to tour it. Here, visitors can explore corridors and rooms featuring tables that depict the history of the castle. Wander the outside grounds and feed swans at a nearby pond.

Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by Wendy Mann

Conwy Castle

Located on the north coast of Wales, this beautiful castle was originally a stronghold built by Henry III and later replaced by King Edward I. Built on a high rock precipice, the castle is said to be haunted by an earlier resident. Featuring high curtain walls and eight round towers, the castle presents a dominating presence. Climb to the top for incredible views of the area. Children can learn about the castle’s history through a children’s trail and interactive displays.

Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by Phillip Capper

Written by www.worldwidetravelguide.co.uk

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