Go on a wildlife adventure, see how coins are made and go behind the scenes at the BBC, here's our top picks for the best things to do across South Wales this summer.
Adrenaline-fuelled fun Zip World Tower in Aberdare is the ultimate destination for adrenaline junkies and thrill-seekers who are looking for an unforgettable day of fun. This iconic attraction features several heart-pumping activites that you won't forget in a hurry. Brave the Tower Coaster, which combines the speed of a zipline with the twists and turns of a rollercoaster, with tunnels, banked corners, dips and peaks. The newest attraction is Tower Climber, an adventure activity course set high above the ground. The biggest of its kind in the UK with 3 storeys, a viewing deck and 55 different elements and obstacles for you to tackle. It's a must-try for anyone who wants to push themselves to the limit. The main atttraction is the world's fastest seated zip line, that will send you flying through the air at breakneck speeds, taking in breathtaking views of the Welsh countryside as you go. There's also a mini zip line for kids or adults who are not quite ready to take on the adrenaline rush of Phoenix. Don't miss out on the action-packed excitement of Zip World Tower this summer, an incredible day out guaranteed. www.zipworld.co.uk A Sterling Day Out
Head to Llantrisant for a behind the scenes look at how coins are made at The Royal Mint Experience. It’s a fascinating day out for the whole family and visitors can explore the history of the Royal Mint through interactive exhibits, demonstrations and guided tours. See some of the rarest coins and medals created by the Royal Mint, learn about the coin-making process, and even have a go at striking your own coin. The tour takes approximately 90 minutes and is suitable for all ages. The Royal Mint Experience is undoubtedly one of the UK’s most unique days out and coin buffs will find lots of collectables in the gift shop.
www.royalmint.com/experience
Cultural Cardiff
Located in the heart of the Welsh capital, visitors to The National Museum Cardiff can explore exhibits on Welsh natural history, archaeology, and geology, as well as peruse the museum’s collection of fine art, featuring works by renowned Welsh artists such as Richard Wilson and Gwen John. With plenty of interactive exhibits and guided tours available, the National Museum Cardiff is an educational and enriching place to spend a day out.
www.museum.wales/cardiff
A Wildlife Adventure
The Llanelli Wetland Centre is a premier destination for people seeking an immersive outdoor experience. The expansive site spans an impressive 450 acres and boasts a wide array of indoor and outdoor exhibits and activities. Visitors can enjoy birdwatching, walking trails and boat rides. Children will be delighted by interactive displays and the opportunity to get up close and personal with a variety of animals. The Wetland Centre hosts numerous educational events throughout the year, including guided tours, bird watching walks and pond dipping sessions. This renowned nature reserve is a must-visit for anyone looking to enjoy a day out in the natural beauty of Wales.
www.wwt.org.uk/llanelli
Ocean Extravaganza
Deep dive into science this summer holiday with an Ocean Extravaganza at Techniquest. Discover all about the ocean, the creatures that live there and what we can do to protect the marine world for future generations. As well as all of the usual hands-on exhibits to get stuck into, the science discovery centre will be awash with ocean-themed activities including a brand new Live Science Show, workshops in the KLA Lab: Is Water Wet? and an immersive family film experience in our 360° dome – plus regular Star Tours in the Planetarium. So if you want to enjoy the sea this summer without getting sand in your sandwiches, head to Techniquest from Friday 21 July. Book ahead online. www.techniquest.org Discover Cardiff The Museum of Cardiff is the perfect place to start your visit to the capital. Visitors will discover the story of the city through the eyes of those who know it best – its people. The museum tells the tale of how Cardiff was transformed from a small market town in the 1300s, to one of the world’s biggest ports in the 1900s, to the cool, cosmopolitan capital we know today. With activities for all ages, it is housed in one of Cardiff’s most historic buildings, the Old Library, in the heart of the city centre, and entry is free. www.cardiffmuseum.com Breathing Space
The sliver lining to a busy weekend is a trip to Cardiff Bay Wetland Reserve, the perfect place to soak up some sun and enjoy a leisurely few hours away from the hustle and bustle of the city. When the Bay was flooded as part of the regeneration of the docklands, this amazing space for nature was created on the site of a former salt marsh. The sprawling reserve offers an array of relaxing activities from bird-watching to a stroll along the picturesque Barrage embankment over to Penarth Marina. There’s a playground for the kids and taxi boats run at least hourly back to Mermaid Quay.
www.cardiffharbour.com
A Tropical Paradise Plantasia Swansea is an exciting and educational attraction for plant and animal lovers of all ages. This botanical garden and animal exhibit boasts an extensive collection of exotic plants, from carnivorous to tropical and is home to a variety of exotic creatures, including meerkats, monkeys and reptiles. Visitors can wander along winding paths, crawl through the undergrowth or come face to face with pythons and tarantulas. With hands-on experiences like animal encounters and feedings, all geared towards educating visitors about the importance of conservation and the role plants play in sustaining our ecosystem. A great day out with the kids featuring Wales’ only Crocodile Feeding experience. www.plantasiaswansea.co.uk Get Fit & Have Fun The Wales National Pool in Swansea is a top-class aquatic sports facility offering an exceptional experience for anyone looking for an affordable summer activity. With a state of the art 50m pool, the venue caters for all ages and levels of expertise. There's lane swimming if you want to get fit with great value membership offers. Family Splash is perfect for summer with aqua toys and music, under 16's go free. So pack your swimming gear and head to Wales National Pool for lots of family fun. www.swanseabaysportspark.wales How Wales was Made
A must-visit attraction for all history enthusiasts. The National Waterfront Museum is located in the heart of Swansea and offers visitors an excellent opportunity to explore our industrial heritage. The museum boasts a vast collection of exhibits, interactive displays and hands-on activities showcasing the history, heritage and culture of Wales. From the ships of the past to the artillery of the Second World War, the museum offers a unique insight into the innovation of Wales over the last 300 years. The National Waterfront Museum is an ideal place for a fun-filled and educational day out for the whole family and best of all it’s completely free.
www.museum.wales/swansea
Go Behind the Scenes
The BBC Wales Studio Tours offer visitors a unique behind-the-scenes experience where you can explore the inner workings of the UK’s most iconic broadcaster. The 90 minute tour provides a fascinating insight into the art of television production and you’ll even get the chance to try your hand at presenting the news or weather in front of a live camera. See one of the largest BBC newsrooms, packed with cutting-edge technology including augmented and virtual reality and robotic cameras. Follow in the footsteps of Wales’ most famous faces and take a sneak peek at TV galleries and other broadcast facilities. What are you waiting for, book your tickets today.
www.bbc.co.uk/tours
History Brought to Life
Llancaiach Fawr Manor, located in the heart of the Welsh countryside, is a fascinating destination for a day out. This 16th-century manor house has been meticulously restored to its former glory and provides visitors with a rare glimpse into life during the Tudor era. Explore the beautifully furnished rooms and meet costumed guides who will bring the history of the house to life. Outside, the stunning gardens and grounds provide a perfect setting for a leisurely stroll. A visit to Llancaiach Fawr Manor is an experience not to be missed.
www.llancaiachfawr.co.uk
Step Back in Time
St Fagans National Museum of History is a one-of-a-kind attraction that offers visitors a glimpse into Wales’ past. This open-air museum is situated in stunning countryside and features 40 original, dismantled buildings that were reconstructed on the grounds. The buildings are from different time periods and regions across Wales, including farms, chapels and a pub.
Visitors will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in traditional Welsh culture by watching live demonstrations of blacksmithing, weaving, and baking. The museum also features exhibitions, walking trails and events throughout the year.
www.museum.wales/stfagans