Wales things to see and do

Investigate this area with a boat trip from Mermaid Quay to the impressive Barrage - a barrier which cuts off the bay from the sea and so creating a freshwater lake. As well as watery activities, the area offers many onshore leisure activities including great kids entertainment at the Techniquest Science Discovery Centre (www.techniquest.org), which is great for the kids.

Located in the Wye Valley in picturesque South Wales, the Chepstow Castle occupies a commanding position on the banks of the River Wye guarding what was once a strategically important crossing point on the river. Construction of the castle began in 1066 just after the Battle of Hastings for William the Conqueror, and was the first castle in Britain to be built entirely of stone. The two towers were later added by the Earl of Pembroke around 1200 and his sons added a gatehouse and barbican. During the 16th century, Richard Bigod III added more comfortable living quarters and the place became more like a palace than a castle. It was to later serve as a prison for Henry Marten, a signatory to the death warrant of King Charles I, following the Restoration of Charles II in 1660. The castle opened its doors to tourists for the first time in 1953 and today welcomes guests with life-size models of its former inhabitants and rulers. The award-winning Chepstow Museum is in the 18th-centurey Town House located opposite the castle car park and tells the long history of the region.

Constructed by the English monarch Edward I between 1283 and 1289, the fortress of Conwy Castle was one of a number of castles built in North Wales to subdue the Welsh Princes after a hard fought campaign lasting years and costing thousands of pounds. The castle dominates the town sitting high on a rocky plateau above the Conwy Estuary surrounded by the dramatic scenery of Snowdonia National Park. It was designed by the master mason of Savoy, James of St George, who was regarded as one of the greatest military architects of his time. It took five years to complete and is remarkable in that it only required a garrison of just 30 men to defend it. It proved to be an indomitable fortress. Visitors can ascend the battlements which offer stunning views of the surrounding area. The town itself is protected by a circuit of walls and 22 towers that add to the medieval feel of this incredible castle.

This breathtaking stretch of land is one of Wales' most prominent natural treasures. Stretching out next to less-than-pretty Swansea, the Gower Peninsula is a bevvy of pretty coves, crashing waves and jagged cliffs. Head to enchanting Rhossili beach for a vast sandy stretch, glistening waters, and surfing lessons.

Enjoy this popular seaside resort's 19th century charms, while Great Orme and Little Orme rise in the back ground.

Get to grips with the roots of Welsh culture at St Fagans' popular open-air National History Museum (www.museumwales.ac.uk/en/stfagans).