Wales Holidays with Children - Things to do with Kids this Summer
Summer in Wales is simply magical for families! With its stunning coastline, ancient castles, majestic mountains, and a plethora of engaging attractions, it’s the perfect destination for unforgettable family holidays with children. Whether your kids are budding adventurers, mini historians, or simply love building sandcastles, Wales has something to delight every age.
Here are some of the best family-friendly activities in Wales for the summer, ensuring your holiday is packed with fun, laughter, and lasting memories:
1. Hit the Beaches & Explore the Coast
Wales boasts some of the UK’s most beautiful beaches, perfect for sunny summer days.
Pembrokeshire’s Golden Sands: Head to Tenby’s award-winning beaches (North, South, Castle) for classic seaside fun, or discover hidden gems like Barafundle Bay (a short walk to paradise!) for pristine sands and clear waters. Whitesands Bay near St. Davids is great for surfing lessons.
Gower Peninsula’s Wonders: Rhossili Bay offers three miles of stunning sand perfect for running and kite flying, while Three Cliffs Bay provides dramatic scenery and fascinating rock formations to explore.
Anglesey’s Charm: Newborough Beach (Llanddwyn) combines a vast sandy expanse with a beautiful forest, ideal for walks and leading to the enchanting Llanddwyn Island with its lighthouse.
- Top 5 Beaches to visit in Wales: Learn More Click Here
Why kids love it: Sandcastle building, splashing in the waves, rock pooling, space to run free!
2. Dive into History at Wales’ Mighty Castles
Wales is famously the “Land of Castles,” and many offer fantastic summer activities for families.
Caerphilly Castle (South Wales): Wales’ largest castle, complete with leaning tower, vast grounds, and often summer events like re-enactments and dragon experiences. Kids can run, explore nooks, and imagine medieval life.
Conwy Castle (North Wales): A UNESCO World Heritage site, its towering walls and turrets are incredible to explore. You can also walk along the town walls for amazing views.
Cardiff Castle (South Wales): Blends Roman history with a Victorian gothic palace. Often has family-friendly tours, interactive displays, and outdoor events during summer.
Pembroke Castle (West Wales): The birthplace of Henry VII, this impressive castle has a huge circular keep and frequently hosts fun events like knight schools and falconry displays in summer.
Why kids love it: Feeling like knights and princesses, exploring dungeons, climbing towers, and imagining epic battles.
3. Thrills & Adventure Parks
For families seeking a bit more adrenaline and organised fun, Wales delivers!
Folly Farm Adventure Park & Zoo (Pembrokeshire): Consistently voted a top attraction, Folly Farm combines a fantastic zoo (with lions, giraffes, and penguins!), a vintage funfair, and indoor/outdoor adventure play.
Zip World (Various Locations, North Wales): For older kids and brave parents, Zip World offers incredible adventures. Try Velocity 2 (the fastest zip line in the world) at Penrhyn Quarry, Bounce Below (underground trampolines) at Blaenau Ffestiniog, or the Fforest Coaster at Betws-y-Coed.
Techniquest (Cardiff Bay): An interactive science discovery centre packed with hands-on exhibits that make learning fun for all ages, perfect for a rainy day or curious minds. Learn More Click Here
GreenWood Family Park (Snowdonia): An eco-friendly adventure park with unique rides like the human-powered Green Dragon Roller Coaster, giant slides, and a barefoot trail. Great for younger children and active families.
Why kids love it: Rollercoasters, animals, bouncing underground, zip-lining, and hands-on discovery.
4. Scenic Journeys & Nature Escapes
Experience Wales’ stunning landscapes in a relaxed way, perfect for all ages.
Snowdon Mountain Railway (Eryri/Snowdonia): Take a historic train journey up Wales’ highest peak, Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon), enjoying breathtaking views without the challenging hike.
Big Pit National Coal Museum (Blaenavon, South Wales): A UNESCO World Heritage site where you can go 300 feet underground with a former miner as your guide – an incredibly educational and moving experience for older children.
Brecon Mountain Railway (Brecon Beacons): Enjoy a scenic steam train journey through the beautiful Brecon Beacons National Park, a perfect way to see the landscapes.
Coastal Boat Trips (Various Locations): From Tenby to Cardigan Bay, many operators offer boat trips to spot wildlife like dolphins, seals, and puffins, or simply enjoy the dramatic coastline from the water.
Explore National Trust & Cadw Sites: Many properties like Plas Newydd (Anglesey) or Chirk Castle (Wrexham) offer beautiful gardens, outdoor play areas, and specific family trails or events during the summer.
Why kids love it: Train rides, spotting wildlife, exploring gardens, and learning about history in an immersive way.
5. Unique & Quirky Welsh Experiences
Discover some of Wales’ more distinct and memorable family activities.
St Fagans National Museum of History (Cardiff): This award-winning open-air museum is a fantastic way to experience Welsh history. Wander through reconstructed buildings from different eras, from farms to chapels, and see traditional crafts. It’s free entry too!
Go Chasing Waterfalls: Visit the famous “Waterfall Country” in the Brecon Beacons. Sgwd yr Eira allows you to walk behind the waterfall, an unforgettable sensory experience. Henrhyd Falls also offers this opportunity. Learn More Click Here
Bike or Walk the Taff Trail (South Wales): A mostly flat, scenic route stretching from Cardiff Bay into the Brecon Beacons, perfect for family bike rides or walks alongside the river.
Visit the National Botanic Garden of Wales (Carmarthenshire): Explore themed gardens, the Great Glasshouse, and often have specific family activities and trails during the summer holidays.
Enjoy a Parkrun: Join a free, weekly 5k run (or walk!) in a scenic location. It’s a great way to start a Saturday, with a welcoming community feel, and suitable for all ages and abilities. Learn More Click Here
Top Tips for Family Summer Holidays in Wales:
Book Ahead: Popular attractions, especially during school holidays, can get busy. Book tickets, time slots, or accommodation in advance to avoid disappointment.
Pack for All Weathers: Even in summer, Welsh weather can be unpredictable. Layers, waterproofs, and sun cream are essential!
Comfortable Footwear: You’ll be doing a lot of exploring, so comfortable shoes for walking and hiking are a must.
Snacks & Drinks: Keep little (and big!) adventurers fueled with plenty of snacks and water.
Check Local Listings: Local tourist information centres and websites often have details on special summer events, festivals, and activities specific to each region.
Wales in the summer is an adventure waiting to happen. Get ready for incredible landscapes, fascinating history, and endless fun with your family!