Holidays in Wales

The market in Pwllheli, the main town of the Llŷn peninsula, was established over 600 years ago under a charter granted by Edward III in the 14^th century. Today, organisers claim it to be one of the largest markets in the country. Held every Wednesday, rain or shine, this outdoor market sells everything from local produce to cheap clothes, cleaning products to plants. If you’re on a self-catering holiday, this is the place to come to stock up your larder (and your cleaning cupboard) at reasonable prices. During the summer, between May and September, there is a smaller market on Sundays, with more of an emphasis on crafts and local produce. On the first Saturday of the month there is a produce market at Sarn Village Hall. 

CAT is an internationally renowned visitor centre, research and residential centre, entirely powered solely by wind, solar and hydro technology. Covering all aspects of green living - from woodland management to renewal energy and environmental building - the centre runs courses on sustainable living, as well as educational programmes for schools and graduate training programmes. There are seven acres of interactive displays, and a shop and vegetarian restaurant on site. There are also two eco cabins on site – hot water is heated by the woodstove or solar panels, and wind and water turbines provide electricity.

Llŷn is an area rich not only natural beauty but in culture and history, too, and the National Trust has created an interactive learning centre for those wanting to learn more about the area and get the most out of their visit. There's stacks on information on the peninsula and activity ideas for all ages. The centre is in the Aberdaron fishing village so there's plenty right here to explore, too, including the church that was the last stopping off point for pilgrims on the way to Bardsey Island. Porth y Swnt translates as the 'gateway to the sound'.

Black Mountains Smokery Shop is Jo and Jonathan Carthew’s gourmet food and hamper business. Based in Crickhowell in the Brecon Beacons, they offer a UK wide mail order and gift service online or over the phone, as well as a lovely shop. Their award-winning smoked fish, meat and cheese, produced at the smokehouse, sourced with care from British suppliers are traditionally cured and naturally oak smoked. Delicious food delivered with friendly, reliable service. Don't miss a weekly Wednesday tour and tasting; an informative guided walk around the smokery including slicing demos, serving suggestions, sampling and a free product. Booking is essential to avoid disappointment on 01873 811566

Anna’s Welsh Zoo is set within 52 organic acres of Pembrokeshire Parkland and supports endangered species from all over the world, along with all the variety of British native wildlife. They specialise in close-up, immersive animal experiences and all the animals are maintained in spacious, natural enclosures. There are five unique animal walkthroughs where the visitor can get up close to many species. Open 10am – 6pm, 363 days a year. (winter opening hours vary - see website for details)

Season tickets are great value at just twice the price of standard entry!! Under 4’s go free…