Wales is known for its beautiful flowers in the summer and fun Christmas traditions in the winter. Here are few things you can do while visiting during the holiday.

Wales is a country filled with quiet beauty that is cultural with a rich history. Their Christmas celebrations are some of the best and you can find plenty of events and activities located throughout the country in unusual places such as medieval castles among the rolling hills. Let’s take a look at what Wales has to offer you at Christmastime.

Start in Cardiff for culture, sports and history

Cardiff is the capital of Wales and even though it tends to be cold in the winter, this doesn’t seem to affect the residents as they get into the Christmas spirit. The center of their Christmas celebration is the Bmibaby Winter Wonderland which they started in 2001. It has an ice skating rink large enough to accommodate over 300,000 people at one time, an ice café bar, heated terrace, carousels, children’s rides and all forms of entertainment.

Why not take a walk through the Cardiff Castle?

Cardiff Castle is decked out in Victorian ambiance during this time of year and visitors who tour the castle will learn how the Bute household, the family that has occupied the castle during the Victorian era, got ready for and celebrated Christmas back then. You will also find Santa Claus hanging out at the castle ready to greet the children and you can enjoy mince pies, mulled wine, and plenty of Christmas music. The tours usually run until about a week before Christmas and it is advised that you book the tour in advance.

Cardiff indoor Christmas market

Cardiff Market is an indoor Christmas market that offers visitors plenty of food, fresh vegetables, exotic dishes, fruits, poultry and more. There are also handmade crafts, household goods, jewelry, pets, and other gifts and goodies that make perfect Christmas gifts and souvenirs of your trip to Wales.

Take a train ride with Santa Claus

Children of all ages will enjoy the Christmas train ride that takes you and your family to Santa’s Grotto. There are also dinner train rides, Christmas party rides, and special holiday rides available. The trains run on scenic and heritage railways throughout the country and reservations are advised. The trains run out of the following stations:

• Barry Island Railway – Vale of Glamorgan
• Gwili Steam Railway – Rheilffordd Afer y Gwili – Carmarthen, Carmarthenshire
• Pontypool & Blaenavon – Blaenavon, Torfaen
• Welshpool & Llanfair Light Railway – Caereinion, Montgomeryshire

Posted by admin on November 15th, 2008
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