Travel Feature: Wales's Hidden Gems

This secluded bay near Penarth in Glamorgan is definitely one of Wales’s most beautiful hidden gems. The majority of tourists heading to Barry will opt for the more popular, touristy Barry Island Pleasure Park and beach, which is also worth a visit if you have children as there’s lots to do. In addition to the beach, there are a number of rides and slot machines to keep children entertained.

Jacksons Bay, however, offers something a little quieter, a lit bit more relaxing and also a bit more serene.

Jacksons Bay is quite hidden away and therefore a little quieter, although as more and more people discover it, the busier it seems to be getting! Before heading here it’s important to check the tide times as the path which descends to the foot of the cliffs to reach the beach can disappear pretty quickly and therefore become dangerous.

The bay itself is pretty small, but the sandy beach and surrounding coastal walks makes it the perfect spot to spend a hot summers day. It’s also backed by cliffs which makes it feel quite secluded.

Facilities include public toilets and a shower block. The water is safe for swimming if you fancy a dip.

It’s worth bearing in mind that there aren’t any shops nearby so it’s probably best to arrive prepared and bring a picnic!

Where to stay: Gail’s Guest House is a 10 minute walk from the beach and is very reasonable priced. If you prefer more well known hotel chains, there is a Premier Inn five minute drive away.

Tenby


Tenby is probably the most well known, most British, seaside holiday resort ever in Wales! It’s just as popular now as it was when I was a child. I remember going on caravan holidays there with my parents and I absolutely loved it!

My sister and I would bring our tennis rackets and balls with us, and we’d spend most of the day playing tennis on the courts at the caravan park! On the days that we didn’t fancy tennis, we’d build sandcastles on the beach which was usually, always followed up by a bag of chips on the seafront!

Tenby really is a quaint and pretty little harbour town and seaside resort. The beaches are clean and the town is full of shops, cafes and restaurants.

Where to stay: Haven have lots of different parks dotted all around South Wales, including Tenby. Kiln Park is a favourite of mine as it’s the park where I used to go with my parents!

Cardiff


I can’t not mention Cardiff in this guide! Whether you decide to visit the city centre itself or the quiet suburbs, there are plenty of things to see and do.

For children there’s Cefn Mably Farm Parc which offers children the chance to pet rabbits and guinea pigs, ride a horse, feed the animals and play in the soft play area. There’s plenty of green space for children to run around and picnic benches are dotted all around too. There are also two outdoor parks for children to play on too.

Cardiff also boasts some of the most beautiful, historic castles. In the city centre, you’ll find Cardiff Castle, but venture further afield and you can also explore Castell Coch, which is a popular venue for weddings. Castell Coch is more commonly known amongst locals as the fairytale castle and rightly so as you can just about see it poking out of the top of the trees and it really does look magical. My sister got married here and her wedding photos (including the one below) and simply stunning!

Castell Coch. Photo courtesy of Joshua Lynam

If you’re looking for something slightly more grown up then Cardiff Bay offers a range of bars and restaurants, as well as the chance to do some shopping, go to the cinema or simply sit back, relax and enjoy an ice cream whilst looking out across the barrage. You could even catch a show in the Wales Millennium Centre.

Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay. Photo courtesy of Cardiff Mummy

Cardiff Bay. Photo courtesy of Yummy Blogger

Cardiff Bay. Photo courtesy of Yummy Blogger

You might also find my 10 things to do in and around Cardiff for under £30 guide worth a read too!

Where to stay: In the city centre, depending on your budget I’d either opt for the Park Plaza Hotel or for a Travelodge room. Both these hotels would be a good base to explore the city and surrounding area, including Cardiff Bay.

Pembrokeshire

Although I’ve mentioned Tenby above which is in Pembrokeshire, there are lots of other things to do here. Pembrokeshire is in South West Wales and is quite well known for it’s beaches. The golden sands and towering cliffs, along with the wildlife make for a pretty awesome day out or short break.

It’s ideal for families as children can explore the rock pools, adventure parks and beaches, but if you want something a bit more adventurous for the adults then you can try your hand at kayaking, diving or climbing.

Bluestone Wales

Where to stay: Without a doubt I have to suggest Bluestone Wales. The lodges are spacious, comfortable and blend in with the surrounding woodland. There’s a spa in the village for those adult getaways, but also plenty on offer for children too.

Devon


Devon is an idyllic seaside resort perfect for a short break for the family. Whether that be in a caravan, hotel or cottage. Devon has beaches, amusements and plenty of attractions to keep children entertained including farms and a zoo!

Where to stay: Skyes Cottages have some lovely cottages at great prices.

Have you been to any of the places mentioned above? I’d love to hear from you!