What to see at Cadw sites this winter

We know that engaging with our history and heritage can really boost our wellbeing and mental health, helping us get a sense of our place in the world. 

In Wales we’re spoilt with dozens of heritage sites, often in tranquil locations surrounded by nature. Being present in these green spaces can help us decompress and escape the stresses of modern life.

Whether you want to sit quietly and contemplate, walk, run, cycle or explore from home, you can connect with the wide and varied historic landscape of Wales through Cadw’s heritage trails and itineraries.

Here’s how you can get involved.

Off the beaten track

North Wales

• St Cybi's Well

  Nestled in a secluded spot at the base of Garn Bentyrch in Gwynedd, this ancient holy site possesses an unmistakeable air of magic. Dedicated to Cybi, a 6th-century saint, the well’s waters have long been believed to hold healing properties. Ideal for those who don’t mind a bit of cross-country walking.

Mid Wales

• Strata Florida Abbey

  The peaceful remnants of the Cistercian Abbey lie at the heart of the country’s most magical and unknown landscapes, dubbed ‘Wild Wales’ after a famous 19th-century travel book. Soak up the atmosphere before taking in the expansive Tregaron Bog where you can spot shimmering dragonflies from a network of raised wooden walkways. Then pack a picnic and head to the Teifi Pools, set in a dramatic, untamed stretch of high country dotted with scenic lakes and reservoirs.

South Wales

• Castell Carreg Cennen

  Officially the most romantic ruin in Wales – as voted by readers of Countryfile magazine. Perched on a great limestone crag nearly 90-metres above the River Cennen, the dramatic silhouette of Carreg Cennen dominates the skyline for miles around and commands stunning views over the Carmarthenshire countryside.

Trails

Self-led trails and itineraries allow visitors to explore historic landscapes, medieval abbeys and castles, which can be both inspiring and tranquil.

North Wales

• Castell Harlech

  Check out the Sky High Itinerary for a day of exploring epic, historic landscapes, from the towering battlements of a medieval castle to the ancient peak of Yr Wyddfa.

• Flint to Holywell

  From a meeting place for kings, through a medieval monastery to an ancient healing well, the Wales Coast Path can take you there.

• Pentraeth to Beaumaris

  A stunning beach, a lighthouse, an ancient church, a Norman castle and the last of Edward’s castles in Wales. A beautiful sandy beach, tranquil coastal scenery, the chance of seeing some fabulous wildlife, and historical sites by the bucket-load. This is a route which incorporates a little bit of everything that’s great about Anglesey.

Mid Wales

• Furnace to Borth - Industrial and natural heritage

  Starting with a well-preserved example of industrial heritage, this route moves upland through woodland, farmland and forestry to the special natural spaces of a raised bog, sand dunes and a beautiful estuary.

South Wales

• Tintern Abbey

  A 5km stroll along the western bank of the River Wye with a visit to a majestic Cistercian Abbey. Nestled in the heart of the Wye Valley is Tintern Abbey, the best preserved medieval abbey in Wales, famed for offering visitors an oasis of serenity. Begin your day with a visit to the site, followed by a leisurely 90-minute stroll along the western bank of the Wye and through woodland to reach the Devil’s Pulpit.

• Chepstow Castle / Tintern Abbey

  A gentle walk to pair the medieval with the modern, complete with a visit to the market town of Chepstow and its medieval fortress.

• Llansteffan circular walks

  A massive sandy estuary, woodlands, local history and culture, countryside lanes and a pleasant little village make up this 3-6km walk.

• St David’s and St Non’s loop

  In the footsteps of saints, princes and bishops, this walk follows some fabulous clifftop sections and quiet country lanes in the footsteps of Dark Age saints who came here as pilgrims, and passes the turbulent and dangerous waters of Ramsey Sound. A wealth of wildlife can be seen, from dolphins and porpoise to peregrines and chough. And once on the coast, just keep the sea on your right.

Feeling inspired?

Find out how just 20 minutes a day outside can boost your wellbeing. Or head to our biodiversity and nature section for more nature stories.