Wales - Coast, Castles & Steam Trains with Midi & Netty

Wales - Coast, Castles & Steam Trains

Our first castle visit took us through the Welsh countryside, towards Hay-on-Wye and its famous castle. Hay Castle is a stunning blend of history and modernity, a place where the past meets the present in the most captivating way. Our tour began in the atmospheric Cellar Room, where short animations brought the rich history of the castle to life. It was fascinating to see how this ancient structure has evolved over the centuries. Next, we visited the Lady of Hay exhibit, which celebrates the progressive spirit of the LGBT community. The vibrant colours, intricate costumes, and the sense of inclusiveness were truly inspiring. It was a thought-provoking and beautiful tribute that left a lasting impression on all of us. We then made our way to the castle’s terrace, where we paused to enjoy a drink and some delicious cake. The terrace offered the most stunning views of Hay-on-Wye's charming town centre and the rolling valleys beyond. 

We made a stop at Erwood Station. This charming former railway station has been transformed into an art gallery and craft centre. Sitting outside on deck chairs, we indulged in ice creams, basking in the warmth of what turned out to be the hottest day of the year. 

Spread out between the two minibuses we set off on an adventure like no other, a Welsh Overland Safari led by Richard, our knowledgeable and charismatic guide who was born and bred in Wales. The safari is an authentic guided tour that offers an incredible opportunity to explore the stunning landscapes and hidden treasures of Wales. Richard, with his deep love for the land and a lifetime of stories, took us on a journey through the heart of the Brecon Mountains. Along the way, we encountered some truly unique sights that made this safari a proper adventure. The landscapes were dotted with fascinating wood carvings: a majestic wooden bear with a sore head, otters chasing salmon, a sly fox, rabbits darting about, and even eagles perched high above. These carvings brought the forest to life, blending art with nature in the most delightful way. We even came across a rock that, from a certain angle, looked just like an ape—a quirky surprise that added to the fun. Richard’s knowledge of the area was unmatched. He guided us through the rugged beauty of the Brecon Mountains, pointing out hidden valleys, ancient forests, and panoramic views that took our breath away. We passed by Devil’s Bridge, a curious landmark where water flows on one side but not the other, disappearing into a drop beneath the bridge—a natural mystery that left us all intrigued. 

Our second castle visit was at Bronllys Castle, a medieval gem nestled in the heart of the countryside dating back to the 12th century. As we climbed the narrow, winding stairs to the top, we couldn’t help but imagine what life was like here centuries ago. Who might have called this place home? What stories do these ancient stones hold? Reaching the top was worth every step—the views were simply majestic, with panoramic vistas of the Welsh landscape stretching out in every direction. 

A wonderful morning was spent at the Butterfly House, a hidden gem that left us all in awe. As we stepped inside, we were greeted by Neil, the founder, who gave us a warm welcome and guided tour. The Butterfly House is a tropical paradise, home to a vibrant array of butterfly species in all shapes, sizes, and colours. It was incredible to see these delicate creatures up close, and we were lucky enough to have butterflies land on our heads, shoulders, and even our hands after dipping our fingers in sugar water. The moment was so magical that we couldn't resist snapping a few photos, capturing some great photos. 

A highlight of our trip was getting the chance to drive a steam engine. We loved going back and forth on the tracks, at times reaching a max speed of 15miles per hour. It was a once in a lifetime experience and we loved it! 

At the Brecon Canal Basin, we hopped onto a narrowboat for a gentle two-hour cruise with Dragonfly Cruises. These cruises are a fantastic way to experience the tranquillity of the Welsh countryside. The canal, framed by lush greenery, offered a peaceful retreat as we glided along the water. We were surrounded by nature, with various species of trees providing a leafy canopy and the occasional glimpse of wildlife with kingfishers darting by.