Cardiff: Welsh Castles, Mountains & Steam Railway Day Tour
Active
8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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About this experience
Step into the heart of Wales on our Welsh Castles, Mountains and Steam Railway day tour — a carefully curated journey through some of Wales’ most striking landscapes and historic landmarks.
Departing from Cardiff, this tour travels into South and Mid Wales, passing the iconic Cardiff Castle before exploring the impressive Caerphilly Castle, one of the largest and best-preserved medieval fortresses in Europe.
From here, the journey continues into the open countryside, with a nostalgic steam train ride on the Brecon Mountain Railway winding through the stunning scenery of Bannau Brycheiniog National Park.
Enjoy free time in the historic market town of Brecon, beautifully set on the River Usk. Take a peaceful walk along the canal, visit the atmospheric cathedral, or relax over lunch in one of the town’s cafés.
The day concludes with a visit to Cyfarthfa Castle, a grand 19th-century mansion that tells the story of Wales’ industrial heritage and the ironmasters who helped shape Wales.
Available options
Cardiff: Welsh Castles, Mountains & Steam Railway Day Tour
What's included
Transport
Driver and Guide
Brecon Mountain Railway fare
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Pass by
We start our journey with a view of Cardiff’s most iconic landmark. Steeped in over 2,000 years of history, Cardiff Castle is a striking fusion of Roman foundations and medieval architecture, all within the heart of the city.
2
Stop 2
Discover the grandeur of Wales’ largest fortress, Caerphilly Castle, surrounded by beautiful lakes and boasting the famous leaning tower. Here, you'll have time to explore its rich history and enjoy lunch amid this breathtaking medieval setting.
3
Enjoy a scenic steam train journey on the Brecon Mountain Railway, travelling through the foothills of Bannau Brycheiniog National Park. Sit back and take in sweeping mountain views, open moorland, and classic Welsh countryside as the locomotive winds its way along the line.
4
Arrive in the historic market town of Brecon, beautifully situated on the River Usk. Enjoy free time for lunch, take a peaceful walk along the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal, or visit Brecon Cathedral, one of Wales’ most tranquil and atmospheric religious sites.
5
Uncover the legacy of the Welsh industrial age at Cyfarthfa Castle, once home to the powerful ironmasters of the world-famous Merthyr ironworks. Set in 160 acres of beautiful parkland, Cyfarthfa Castle also houses a museum of local history, art, and craftsmanship – all with panoramic views towards Bannau Brycheiniog National Park.
What's not included
Refreshments
Gratuities
Caerphilly Castle entry
Cyfarthfa Castle entry
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.8
12 reviews
5★
10
4★
2
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
4.6
13 reviews
5★
11
4★
1
3★
0
2★
0
1★
1
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
Meet your driver guide outside the the front of Eglwys Dewi Sant.
About Cardiff
Cardiff, the vibrant capital of Wales, is a city rich in history and culture. Known for its stunning medieval castles, lively waterfront, and thriving arts scene, it offers a unique blend of ancient and modern attractions. The city's friendly atmosphere and diverse culinary scene make it an appealing destination for travelers.
Top Attractions
Cardiff Castle
A stunning medieval castle in the heart of the city, offering guided tours and historical exhibitions.
Historical
2-3 hours
£15-£25
Cardiff Bay
A vibrant waterfront area with restaurants, bars, and cultural attractions.
Entertainment
Half day
Free to explore
National Museum Cardiff
A museum showcasing Welsh art, geology, and natural history.
Museum
2-3 hours
Free entry
Must-Try Local Dishes
Welsh Rarebit
A savory dish made with a hot cheese-based sauce served over toasted bread.
Dinner
Contains gluten and dairy
Welsh Cakes
Sweet griddle cakes made with flour, butter, eggs, and currants.
Dessert
Contains gluten and dairy
Popular Activities
Hiking in the nearby countryside
Surfing at Bartholomew's Beach
Picnicking in Bute Park
Spa treatments at luxury hotels
Visiting museums and galleries
Attending performances at the Wales Millennium Centre
Boat tours in Cardiff Bay
Kayaking in the Taff River
Best Time to Visit
June to August
Summer is the peak tourist season with warm weather and numerous festivals. Expect crowded attractions and higher prices.
15-22°C
59-72°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English, Welsh
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
Pound Sterling (GBP)
Time Zone
GMT (UTC+0) or BST (UTC+1) during daylight saving time
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Cardiff is generally safe, but visitors should be aware of pickpockets in crowded areas.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure in crowded areas.
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps.
Getting there
By air
- Cardiff Airport • 14 km (9 miles) from city center
By train
Cardiff Central
By bus
Cardiff Central Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Affordable and covers most of the city. The network includes frequent services to major attractions.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Bolt
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Cardiff Bay
Cathays
Day trips
Caerphilly Castle
12 km (7.5 miles) • Half day
A well-preserved medieval castle with a moat and drawbridge.
Bartholomew's Beach
15 km (9.3 miles) • Full day
A popular beach with golden sands and clear waters.
Festivals
Cardiff International Food and Drink Festival • July
Cardiff Festival of Walling • September
Pro tips
- Visit Cardiff Castle early in the morning to avoid crowds.
- Explore the city's vibrant street art scene in the city center.
- Take a boat tour of Cardiff Bay for a unique perspective of the city.
- Try local Welsh dishes at traditional pubs and markets.
- Use the Cardiff Bus app for real-time updates and ticket purchases.
Get Price
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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