Britain’s smallest country packs a mighty punch with ancient castles, world-class beaches and Victorian seaside towns

It may be small in size, but Wales packs a mighty punch when it comes to looks, attractions and family-friendly appeal.

Expect everything from ancient castles and market towns to rugged world-class coastlines and gorgeous green valleys.

Most residents live in the southern quarter of the country, where you’ll find the seaport cities of Cardiff and Swansea, as well as the dramatically beautiful Pembrokeshire and Glamorgan coasts.

Meanwhile, North Wales boasts Snowdonia as its crowning glory, plus plunging waterfalls (try Swallow, Aber and Conwy Falls) and the Victorian seaside resort of Llandudno. 

With more than 150 miles of coastline, you’ll be spoilt for choice for everything from pebbly bays with a secret feel, to vast swathes of sand that are dog-walking heaven.

The quality of the beaches are excellent, with 21 super clean Blue Flag beaches, including Prestatyn in North Wales, Borth in Mid Wales and Trecco Bay Porthcawl in South Wales – all right by our £9.50 Holiday parks.

For families, Wales has ample safe, sheltered beaches for rock pooling and sandcastle building, while adrenaline-seekers can try a host of activities, from stand-up paddleboarding to kitesurfing. 

Anyone keen to explore Wales’ rich history should make a beeline for a museum like St Fagans, where you can step back in time in the traditional village, and get hands-on with artisanal crafts like breadmaking.

Alternatively, there are some 600 castles to choose from including Castell Conwy, which was used as a hideout for King Richard II before his execution.

Or perhaps you’re keen to peep inside a castle you recognise from the TV, like Gwrych Castle where I’m A Celeb was filmed.

As well as historic attractions, you’ll want to check out Wales’ natural attractions, whether that’s the sheer force of waterfalls or the submerged forest dating back to the Bronze Age at Borth Beach. 

For a family-friendly day out that’s not too far from your £9.50 Holiday base, you could spark your kids’ curiosity at an engaging museum like Techniquest in Cardiff.

Or how about letting them up the ante nearby at the Aqua Park? This water park is perfect for older kids needing to burn off energy, but you’ll also find options for younger ones, from zoos to adventure parks. 

Of course, all this activity will require some serious refuelling – and if you’re away from your holiday park for the day, there are fantastic food and drink options.

From cheap eats and local pubs, to sea view restaurants and ice cream parlours, there’s plenty to tuck into.

Don’t leave Wales without sampling some of its most famous dishes, like rarebit (“posh cheese on toast”), Bara brith (fruit loaf, a tea-time treat) and traditional Welsh cakes (best sampled straight from the griddle).