Mid Wales is what many people think of as the beautiful green heart of Wales. It has bright harbours, hidden coves of the Ceredigion coastline, and clear seas. The busy market towns and dramatic hill walks make it a beautiful and exciting place for just about anybody to visit. Below, you’ll find some examples of the adventures available in mid wales for your next weekend trip:
1.Marvel At the Magic Of Life Butterfly House
In this incredible butterfly house, there are hundreds upon hundreds of exotic butterflies of all sizes. They fly freely around the facility, but you’ll also spot giant caterpillars and exciting plant life. It’s a fully immersive, relaxing environment, and people of all ages enjoy it here. If you want the butterflies to land on you, then make sure you wear bright clothes and stand still!
There’s plenty of information too, so by the time you leave you’ll be fully knowledgeable on each stage of the butterfly’s life. It’s fascinating and educational, so a wonderful family day out or even for a date day out. While you’re there, you may choose to visit Rheidol Valley and take the adventure a little further. The woodland walks and waterfalls here are sublime and perfect for a ramble.
2.Do The Silver Mountain Experience
This place is tucked away in the ancient Cambrian mountains, and is the stuff of myths and legends. This experience features rolling streams, mysterious forests, and abandoned mine workings. As you journey through you’ll enjoy the atmospheric experience and feel like you are travelling through the mists of time. Kids you are with may wish to enjoy the magic of Woo Hoo Wood and the tunnels, where they can enjoy dens in the trees and building dams over the trees. The Miner’s trail is also great, but don’t forget to have a go at gem panning once you’re there. There’s even a scary experience for those aged twelve and above – The Black Chasm. It’s just not for those with a jumpy disposition.
3.Enjoy Fantasy Farm Park
At this place, there’s a nice little heated play area for toddlers, as well as inflatable slides and ride on equipment. There’s a soft play area with a ball park, and your kids will love burning off some of that excess energy. It’s a great place for under 7s, but outside there’s a petting zoo that older kids may also enjoy. If you like, you may also head around the kart track, or have a go on the rodeo bull.
In the lake, you’ll see those colourful peddle boats. Go out with the kids and take your time, enjoying the water and the scenery. A nature trail can also be enjoyed around the lake. Don’t worry about food, either, as there’s a restaurant on site with a kid’s menu.
4.See Gilfach Nature Discovery Centre
This nature centre is set in the heart of the Marteg Valley in the Cambrian Mountains, which is about 4 miles North of Rhayader. Go with your family for a wet ramble in the rainy weather – some of the trails are even suitable for buggies and wheelchairs, so nobody has to miss out on the fun. On the 200 acre site you’ll enjoy many beautiful birds, so make sure you take a bird book to see what you can find, and mark it down on a piece of paper. Of course, the adventure doesn’t have to stop here, either. The place is surrounded by incredible scenery, so there’s plenty of opportunities for you to take a ramble around the place when you’ve marked all the birds off your list.
5.Get Creative At Blue Island Ceramics
Ever thought about painting your own pottery? This can be a lot of fun for children and adults, whether you’re into pretty florals or fantasy. Paint a fairy castle, your new favourite mug, or a plate for your supper. You can paint here all year round, and there are usually events depending on the season.
6.Visit Borth Beach
Borth Beach is free and open all year round, so make sure you head over if you want to build sandcastles and laze in the surf. You can take the kids down to this brilliant sandy beach, as it’s family friendly and perfect for people of all ages. During summer there’s a lifeguarding service and the water is low, so there’s no need to worry about splashing in the shallow end. Even dogs are allowed during off peak season, so you don’t need to leave a single member of the family behind.
7.Have A Laugh (And Then Some) In Machynlleth
The Machynlleth Comedy Festival has grown over 10 years and is one of the best kept secrets in comedy without a question. It’s a wonderful alternative comedy festival in the UK, and many acts try new ideas and experiment – which sets it apart. Thousands of people attend, and many of them are from outside of Wales.
There’s plenty of natural beauty and scenery to see here, so don’t think that you’re just going to come and drink and laugh. Nestled at the head of the Dyfi Estuary, surrounded by mountains, you’ll be able to climb a hill and take a wonderful walk, or even just stick to the banks of the river. The Roman Steps at the rear of Y plas are also a great climbing spot that will give you incredible views.
This place is a market town, and there’s so much to see that you could never get bored. One stop out of Machynlleth sits what many believe to be the best railway stations in the UK, so jump on the train to Dyfi Junction and take a look at it. It’s even a great place to sit and enjoy a hot drink and a sandwich while you wait for your next train, or just watch the world pass you by. Many believe this should be compulsory for visitors, but then it wouldn’t be so quiet and private, so it’s probably best that not many people know about it at present!
As you make your way back into town, you’ll be able to enjoy a plethora of independent shops so you can find some amazing souvenirs and keepsakes. Shopping small is so important in this economy, so forget the high street stores and fast fashion for a while. This place has done one of the best jobs at staying independent over the years, so it still has the energy and vibrancy that many small towns have lost. Antique and junk shops are aplenty, and they are always packed with cool things to tickle just about anybody’s fancy. There are also some incredible bookshops for the readers out there, along with fabric ships, decor shops, and more. On Wednesday, the local market takes place. It’s well worth making sure you’re there for that, and you’ll love the atmosphere.
8.Visit Powis Castle and Gardens
Powis Castle is a medieval castle, fortress and grand country mansion near Welshpool, in Powys, Wales. This castle has been given many names over the years, including Castell Pola and The Red Castle. The spelling of Powis is correct, with an ‘i’ instead of a ‘y’ as in the county spelling. This derives from the Herbert family’s title as Lord, and later Earl of Powis. If you decide to stay somewhere like the Presteigne caravan park in Powys, make sure you drop by the castle for a visit and enjoy a gentle walk and some fabulous scenery.
9.Stay Active With Canoeing, Kayaking, and Paddle Boarding With Adventure Britain
Adventure Britain runs some amazing kayaking sessions for those who want a fun day out, as well as training and assessment days for those who actually want to improve their skills and get some coaching awards. This is a fantastic group activity, so could be one for a group of friends or a larger family. There’s Stand Up Paddle Boarding at Cardigan Bay active, which is a sport originating in Hawaii. It’s also worth trying your hand at canoeing, as you will be able to enjoy one of the most varied aquatic landscapes in the country.
10.See The National Showcaves Centre For Wales
Dan yr Ogof, located at the National Showcaves Centre for Wales, is a 17-kilometre long cave system in south Wales. Many claim it to be the largest in the UK, and it’s a great tourist attraction for Wales. The first section of the cave system is open for the public to enjoy, but the extensive system is a national reserve, so only those who are experienced cavers can visit. The bones of around 42 humans can be found here, amongst other eerie things.
