Historic Wales
Learn About the Wonderful History of Wales
Wales has a great and proud history and the nation’s multitude of preserved historical sites, natural features and museums are just waiting to be discovered by holidaymakers. If you love absorbing history, learning new things and visiting locations that you’ve perhaps never heard of, then read on for more information about some of Wales’ most interesting historic sites.
Constitution Hill, Aberystwyth
Constitution Hill is the UK’s longest funicular railway and has been running since 1896. A hit with tourists year after year, the cliffside railway is one of the best ways to enjoy panoramic views of the breath-taking Welsh coastline. Locals insist that on a clear day you can see all the way to Snowdonia, so why not take a look for yourself? Just a little way down the coastline lies the Aberystwyth Castle ruins once owned by Owain Glyndwr, leader of the war of independence, before being seized by the English. If Aberystwyth seems like your kind of place, check out our properties in the area.
Caerphilly Castle
This castle is the largest in Wales and is surrounded by a beautiful lake that encloses it like a fort. The castle was built in 1268 for Prince Llewellyn and is still mightily impressive, weighing in at three times the size of the Principality Stadium. The castle is protected by the Welsh history society Cadw and is a great day out for holidaymakers of all ages.
Henrhyd Waterfalls, Neath
This waterfall is truly a sight to behold: tonnes of white water crashing down at a rate of knots, surrounded by green, luscious woodland with the sun peeking through the top - lovely. But why is this historic? Well, the waterfall doesn’t have any sort of ancient connections or significance, but it did double as the bat cave in the 2021 blockbuster film The Dark Knight Rises. A piece of modern history, particularly for fans of the franchise.
The Skirrid Mountain Inn, Abergavenny
A slightly unusual choice for you is The Skirrid Mountain Inn, a pub rumoured to be one of the oldest in Wales. The Inn is over 900 years old and has a fascinating, and ghostly, history. Once used as a courthouse and execution room, the souls that are said to walk the halls are thought to be the victims of capital punishment. Aside from spooky spectacles, the pub sells a great selection of beer and food.
St Fagans National Museum of History, Cardiff
St Fagans is a living museum that is a great hit with everyone aged 9 to 99. The site sees many re-erected buildings house different examples of Welsh history, including a resurrected school where you can learn about the Welsh Knot, a fundamental part of the Welsh language. You can buy fresh bread on-site and watch live demonstrations of various ancient crafts. And the best part? It is totally free to enter.
