Latest news with #CardiffMuseum
South Wales Argus
4 days ago
- Science
- South Wales Argus
Night Sky: There's still time to spot some noctilucent cloud activity
Nick managed to photograph the event as the Sun's rays reached out from far below the horizon, lighting up tiny frozen water droplets high up in the Earth's atmosphere. The result is this stunning image incorporating long wispy white clouds tinged with blue. Taken from the Latin for 'night-shining', the clouds can be seen a couple of hours after sunset looking to the northwest. One of the richest and most bountiful of the annual meteor displays is underway as the Perseids fire themselves up for another outburst in August. While the shower will be covered in more detail as we head toward the night when maximum activity is expected, meteors from the display have already commenced as the Earth ploughs through a field of rocky debris left by a comet. The densest part of the field will be encountered on the night of August 12 into August 13, when we could witness up to 150 meteors per hour. This is a perfect opportunity to see some celestial fireworks, all of which can be observed with the naked eye. While the position of Mars in the evening sky hasn't made for the best of viewing, there's a chance to spot both the red planet and a crescent Moon on Monday July 28, low above the western horizon at around 10pm. This will be one of the last opportunities to see Mars this year as during August it will slip into the twilight and won't be seen again until 2026. Meanwhile, the morning sky continues to be dominated by Venus. Space news, and the Hubble Space Telescope has caught the first glimpse of 3I/Atlas, just the third object humanity has witnessed entering our solar system from beyond its limits. The 12-mile-wide 'invader', larger than the asteroid that eventually led to the downfall of the dinosaurs, is due to pass Mars in October and Earth in December, both fly-bys posing no threat. Thought to have been formed seven billion years ago, 3I/Atlas is currently speeding through our solar system at 150,000 mph. Tuesday July 22 saw the Earth complete a spin on its axis at 1.34 milliseconds less than the standard 24 hours, making for the second fastest rotation since records began in 1973. For a significant part of Earth's history a day on Earth was approximately 19 hours long, but over time, the day has become constantly longer due to affects such as the relationship with the Moon and the associated tidal forces. However, just to buck the trend! Founded in 1975, Cardiff Astronomical Society currently has an exhibition running at Cardiff Museum. One of the largest and most active astronomical societies in the UK, the event, which showcases the work of the society throughout the decades and its established links to the community, is free to enter, running until October 31. Send your astrophotography pictures to: thenightsky@
The Sun
04-05-2025
- Entertainment
- The Sun
I broke strict protocol on set of new Tom Hardy Netflix movie in bid to meet star… but then I took it even further
AN over-excited extra on Tom Hardy's new Netflix film Havoc risked the wrath of producers by breaching strict protocol to meet the star. Kelvin Dale-Greaves also engineered a way to pinch a prop from the Wales-based production, and has it on display in his house. 9 9 9 The action thriller, released last week on the streaming service, was shot largely around Cardiff. Oscar nominee Hardy, 47, was even snapped in Gavin & Stacey territory enjoying time off at Barry Island Pleasure Park. Kelvin and wife Linda Bailey - also an extra in the film - were signed up for one day and shot at Cardiff Museum, which doubled as a posh hotel reception. Hardy had one of his dogs on set to play with between scenes. 'He was very quietly spoken' Kelvin told The Sun: 'I think I said to him, 'isn't he lovely?' And he said, 'yeah, he's great company'. 'He was very nice, just lovely. Not loud, he was very quietly spoken.' However, he added: 'We were still in the museum and he was focusing on what he needed to do. You shouldn't really talk to anyone.' Referring to speaking to the stars, Linda explained: 'We're told not to do that. There's a code of conduct - they're trying to remember lines and get their movements and they don't want us saying 'oh, can I have a selfie?' 'There's rules and regulations that you sign up to at a supporting artists agency and you have to read these terms and conditions.' She went on to say: 'If they speak to you, that's fine - if they're the first ones to say something to you then you're fine but you can't go up to them and ask for selfies and this that and the other. 'If there's 50 SAs (supporting artists) and they all want a picture, they'll never get any filming done.' But Kelvin wasn't done there. The museum was dressed up as a posh hotel at Christmas-time, despite the summer shoot, and extras were required to act as well-dressed guests as Hardy's character Patrick Walker 'eyeballed' a couple of arrivals. Kelvin and Linda had to walk up to the reception desk and then take their seats. Kelvin came up with the idea of pretending to speak to the receptionist, who would hand him a menu. Linda recalled: 'It was Kelvin's idea, 'can I have a menu?' But I knew what he had in his head, 'I can take that as a little memento off set'. 'That menu is now framed on our bedroom wall,' she added, laughing. She described a 'beautiful lamp' at the end of the reception desk. 'I joked about that lamp, because I told people 'look out for that lamp because me and him are stood by that lamp. 9 9 9 ''So you'll either see us or we'll be on the cutting room floor.' We haven't watched the film yet, so I don't know if it made it or not.' Linda has previously appeared in a number of shows, including as a dogger in an episode of Being Human and was on set for the first day of the recent Gavin & Stacey finale shoot, rubbing shoulders with James Corden. But Havoc - described as 'one of the biggest films ever to be produced in Wales' - was on another scale. 'Is it ever going to come out?' Principal photography took place in summer 2021, but delays, including due to strikes and scheduling issues, meant much-needed re-shoots didn't take place until last year. Linda said: 'It was so long ago, we were thinking 'what are they going to do with this film? Is it ever going to come out?' Everybody went off the boil a bit.' The shoot took place during the Covid pandemic and it meant regular testing was needed. However, it also led to Kelvin and Linda's paypacket swelling to around £400 each for the day. EXCLUSIVE by Stephen Moyes SCREEN tough guy Tom Hardy insists on having a lavender diffuser in his movie trailer to help him relax. Other 'must haves' include strawberry ice cream vapes, M&S low alcohol Czech lager and Molton Brown peppercorn shower gel. He also insists on a weekly IV treatment with a mixture of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. The 47-year-old Brit — who has played Mad Max, a Spitfire pilot, a Peaky Blinders gangster and Batman baddie Bane — is equally adamant that his French bulldog Blue has a range of treats, a bed and 'duck dishes'. In all, his backstage 'rider' lists 27 demands. It was meant to be sent to producer Peter Heslop ahead of a new movie. But instead the email went to namesake Pete Heslop, a 31-year-old IT worker from London. Pete said that, despite repeatedly pointing out the errors, he has received 50 over five years — one about actor Idris Elba, and even messages from the producer's wife. Recalling being on set, Linda said: 'I remember thinking they must have a budget. Normally we get paid £110 - then commission taken off, you might get £90. 'I think we had £400 each. That was with all the Covid tests the week before, then the day before, then on the day and they paid you £50 a time.' Producers even decided Kelvin needed a haircut so paid for him to go get one done. Linda said: 'Every SA had their own clothes. They didn't spare any cash on this one.' She recalled the biggest highlight being the catering which was 'off the charts'. 'They didn't stop feeding us. They were making sure you were fed. You had your meal, then later on there was cake and tea and coffee again. 'You didn't starve and you never felt neglected.' 9 9 9
Wales Online
26-04-2025
- Wales Online
The ultimate Welsh road trip that beats any holiday abroad
The ultimate Welsh road trip that beats any holiday abroad Experience the very best of Wales with this epic seven-day circular road trip that starts and ends in Cardiff This road trip is around 500 miles of pure adventure, with hotel tips, foodie spots and Wales' must-see sights. (Image: Portia Jones ) There are arguably few things better to do anywhere than embark on an epic road trip across Wales when the sun is shining. So to help you on your way, we've mapped out a seven-day circular route from Cardiff that packs in mountains, lakes, coastlines and quirky stops. Expect epic views, charming towns, and plenty of places to pull over for a cuppa or a pint. It's around 500 miles of pure adventure, with hotel tips, foodie spots and Wales' must-see sights. Go for a week, or take your time, either way, this is Wales like you've never seen it, with your favourite person riding shotgun or even as a solo adventure. Leg 1: Cardiff to Bala Begin your road trip in the Welsh capital, Cardiff, a compact Welsh city with a long timeline stretching back to the Roman era. (Image: Portia Jones ) Begin your road trip in the Welsh capital, Cardiff, a compact Welsh city with a long timeline stretching back to the Roman era. Article continues below The city and its docklands grew exponentially during the peak development of coal and iron ore mines around Merthyr Tydfil in the second half of the 18th century. As a port city, Cardiff exported Welsh coal from the south Wales valleys worldwide and made a small fortune. With a history that features Romans, Normans, bloody battles, and a coal mining heritage that later declined, Cardiff is the UK's youngest capital and has continually reinvented itself many times over while still developing today. Alongside swanky shopping centres, edgy restaurants and the impressive Principality Stadium, you'll find several historic features and buildings, including Victorian Shopping arcades and the grand Civic Centre, containing the Portland stone-built City Hall, as well as the Cardiff Museum and the waterfront Cardiff Bay area, that's worth visiting for marina pubs and water sports. From superstar gigs to cosy pubs, find out What's On in Wales by signing up to our newsletter here . If you have time, why not see what watersports you can do in Cardiff Bay? (Image: Portia Jones ) While in Cardiff, you can shop in independent boutiques, stock up on your road trip supplies, and get fuel. Head into the city centre to pick up foodie treats from Cardiff's Victorian market. Browse the huge collection of stalls for road trip treats such as Welsh cakes, bread and cheeses, fresh wood-fired pizza and even a pot of cockles. Stock up on road trip snacks at Cardiff Market (Image: Portia Jones ) Once you have all your supplies, leave Cardiff on the A470 and start heading north through some superb scenery. On this leg of the journey, you'll pass through Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons National Park) and Pen y Fan, the highest peak in south Wales, There are a few scenic spots where you can pull over and take some snaps of the impressive ridges and the weathered slopes of the peaks carved out in the Ice Age. The Elan Valley is a good place to stop (Image: Portia Jones ) Head towards the Elan Valley in the Cambrian Mountains, where you'll find Victorian reservoirs including Claerwen , Caban Coch and Llyn Clywedog. Continue onwards onto the B4518 and then follow A470 and A494 to reach the historic market town of Bala, in the Eryri National Park, where you'll stop for the night. Where to eat and stay For lunch, you have several options on this journey. You pass through villages and towns, including Builth Wells and Brecon and one of Wales' best restaurants, the Felin Fach Griffin. The market town of Rhayader is a great place to stop for lunch as it is the gateway to the Elan Valley and is roughly halfway on your journey north. A proper pub meal Here, you'll find several options for lunch, including cafes and pubs. The usual pub fare can be found in venues across town, with fish and chips, pies and burgers gracing most of the menus. Check out the Lamb and Flag or the Crown Inn for a proper pub lunch and a pint. There's also a handful of independent cafes in the town, including the quirky Lost Arc Cafe and the old Swan Tea Rooms, for coffee, cakes and lunch. Once you arrive in Bala, you have a few options for spending the night depending on your travel style and budget. The White Lion Royal Hotel offers a reasonably priced stay in a half-timbered hotel with modest rooms and a complimentary breakfast. Pale Hall If you have a big budget for this trip, I highly recommend staying at Pale Hall Hotel, a historic country home near Bala that has been expertly transformed into a luxury destination hotel with fine dining. Eighteen guest bedrooms and suites have been carefully renovated and individually designed with a unique style and personal identity. Leg 2: Bala to Llandudno Llyn Tegid (Bala Lake) at sunset (Image: Visit Wales ) Begin your day by visiting the glacial lake Llyn Tegid, Wales' largest natural lake, over four miles long and a mile wide. Full of local legends, it's located in the 'lake district' of southern Eryri and has the most inviting, clear water to swim in or paddle on. The lake is famed for its impressive mountain scenery, rare wildlife and excellent fishing opportunities. As well as being a SUP hub, the lake offers outdoor lovers plenty of sailing, canoeing and wild swimming. Looking to hire a SUP board while you're in Bala? Bala Watersports provide SUP equipment hire for pros and instruction for aspiring paddlers so that you can explore the lake on a paddleboard. Once you have explored the lake, head north to Llandudno via the A5 and A470, where you'll spend your second night. The drive to Llandudno is around an hour and 15 minutes, and you can also make a short detour to visit the village of Betws y Coed for lunch. This charming village is surrounded by forest and hills and has an 'alpine town' feel. It's packed with places for lunch or a coffee, and nearby you'll find Swallow Falls, a pretty waterfall you can reach only on foot. Betws-y-Coed is a small village in the heart of the Snowdonia National Park Wales that is a popular base for hikers. (Image: Getty Images ) Minutes to the north is Llanrwst, where you can stop to grab some snaps and have a brew at one of Wales' most photographed buildings, the Tu Hwnt i'r Bont tearoom. Llandudno and Conwy both have plenty to offer visitors looking for history, heritage and culture and are packed with indie cafes and restaurants where you can grab a bite to eat. Conwy Castle (Image: Portia Jones ) Get your history fix over in Conwy, where the town's imposing and well-preserved castle is one of the finest examples of Edward I's fortifications. You'll also find the smallest house in Britain in Conwy, it's just 72 inches wide and was lived in until 1900. It's worth swinging by for a fun snap of this tiny property. One of the best things to do here is to take a historic tram trip up the Great Orme. (Image: Portia Jones ) Make sure to to carve out some time to explore seaside town of Llandudno, where you'll find a historic promenade and pier. One of the best things to do here is to take a historic tram trip up the Great Orme. This scenic headland is a massive chunk of limestone that rises 207m/679ft straight out of the sea. Once you're at the top, head to The Captain's Table Cafe for coffee and cake. Where to eat and stay (Image: Dianne Bourne ) Spoil yourself with a stay at Bodysgallen Hall, where history surrounds you, from the imposing building to the manicured gardens and the extravagantly decorated bedrooms and drawing room, where 17th-century coats of arms loom above you. The panelled, candle-lit dining room is also an experience - a venue to consider if you fancy a special treat. For dinner options, many of Llandudno's hotels have really good restaurants open to non-residents, and several indie venues serve Welsh and international cuisine. For a lovely pub tea, try The Kings Head Pub, the oldest pub in Llandudno that serves real ales and home-cooked food. For dinner with a view, the Alpine Bar & Kitchen provides panoramic views of the main ski slope at the Llandudno Ski and Snowboard Centre, located on the Great Orme. Leg 3: Llandudno to Eryri National Park A view over Llanberis pass, with Yr Wyddfa in the distance (Image: Neil Mark Thomas ) Drive from Llandudno to one of the most famous landmarks in Wales, which stands tall over the village of Llanberis – Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) in the Eryri National Park (Snowdonia). This is the highest mountain in Wales, towering at 1,085 metres [3,560 ft] above sea level and is a challenging hike and bucket list activity for your Wales road trip. There are six main paths to the summit of Yr Wyddfa: Llanberis Path, Pyg Track, Miners' Track, Watkin Path, Rhyd-Ddu Path and the Snowdon Ranger Path. A view from Yr Wyddfa Your chosen path will determine your starting point in Eryri and where you will park for the day. Since April 5 this year, motorists must pre-book parking for Pen y Pass car park, which serves Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon). The minimum pricing is £20 for up to eight hours or £30 for eight to 12 hours. Pen-y-Pass is the access point to both the Miners' and Pyg Track trailheads leading to Yr Wyddfa's summit, and the pre-booking system, which lasts until November, comes after parking issues previously caused chaos at the hotspot with people parking illegally facing fines and causing emergency vehicles to become blocked. Along with parking booking, make sure also to research and plan your hiking route before you set off to the mountain, and dress appropriately for the weather and terrain. Each mountain route has unique, natural features and challenges, and it's important to be properly prepared for each path as you attempt the summit. Wild swimming has become very popular in Wales (Image: Portia Jones ) The Watkin Path is probably one of the most scenic routes to the summit. The route has a unique, wild swim feature, located at a series of waterfalls just off the main track. Take a refreshing dip in the clear, deep pools and soak up the incredible scenery. It's the perfect way to cool down after a long walk. Depending on your fitness levels and the route you choose, climbing Snowdon will take up a big chunk of the day, so it's best not to plan much more than a mountain climb and then dinner out in the evening. Where to eat and stay The Rocks at Plas Curig Hostel (Image: Portia Jones ) There are plenty of accommodation choices in this popular area, from historic inns and unique Airbnbs to hostels and campsites. The Rocks at Plas Curig Hostel is a great budget stay in the heart of the National Park, where you'll find a family-run, five-star and dog-friendly mountain hostel with serious flashpacker vibes. Over in Llanberis, the Royal Victoria Hotel offers a moderately priced stay with unfussy rooms and scenic views. In Dinorwig, the Lodge Dinorwig Hostel has snug beds, mountain views and lush home-cooked food if you're looking for an Eryri stay without breaking the bank. Dining-wise, the area has plenty of pubs and cafes to fuel up for mountain adventures. Caffi Gwynant is a great option for lunch and light bites and is located near the base of the Watkin Path route. This converted chapel serves a filling breakfast, brunch, homemade cakes, and locally roasted coffee. Leg 4: Eryri (Snowdonia) to Aberdaron Blaenau Ffestiniog (Image: Portia Jones ) On the next part of your road trip, you're heading to the north-western tip of Wales, but only after you've experienced some of the adventures that epic Eryri offers. If you're prepared to do a little driving around the National Park, there are plenty of adventure and adrenaline activities, as well as hiking and biking routes that are quite spaced out. Thrill-seekers should head straight to the Zip World site at Blaenau Ffestiniog to ride Titan 2, a zip line and heritage experience that will get your heart racing. Combine adventure and history on an exhilarating four-person parallel zip line, with a unique tour of the Llechwedd slate quarry. Their robust, former army truck will take you to a 1,400 ft height that overlooks the captivating manmade, industrial mountains, while a guide explains the history and significance of the mining community. Combine adventure and history at Zip World (Image: Zip World ) You'll then travel back down via 1 kilometre of zip line, providing thrilling views of the quarry below and a panorama of Blaenau Ffestiniog. On the same site, you'll find the unique Bounce Below attraction. Here, giant trampolines and nets are suspended across two levels in atmospheric caverns illuminated by neon lights. Looking for more hiking options in the National Park? Cwm Idwal is a brilliant alternative to Yr Wyddfa if you want a more straightforward and family-friendly walk in the National Park. The Cwm Idwal walk is a brilliant alternative to Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) if you want a more straightforward, family-friendly day walk in the National Park. (Image: Portia Jones ) Here you'll find mountainous scenery at the ice-carved Cwm Idwal, which has a bowl-shaped hollow filled with the deep, clear waters of Llyn Idwal. When you have had your fill of adventure, head west as far as you can go until you reach the fishing village of Aberdaron on the very tip of the Llŷn Peninsula via the A499. Surrounded by the sparkling clear waters of the Irish Sea on one side and Cardigan Bay on the other, this dreamy peninsula is packed with natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and sandy beaches. The Llyn is home to some of Wales' most picturesque beaches, from family—and dog-friendly coves to surfing hotspots. The Llŷn Peninsula, or Pen Llŷn, is located in northwest Wales and is packed with natural beauty (Image: Portia Jones ) Llanbedrog beach, which stretches for over a mile, is now owned by the National Trust, while Porth Neigwl beach, also known as Hell's Mouth, is very popular with surfers and water sports fans. Porthor, known as Whistling Sands, is one of the more unique spots to visit. The sands here produce a distinctive whistling sound when walked upon, a rare phenomenon caused by the specific shape and size of the sand grains. It also features crystal-clear waters ideal for swimming and snorkelling. Where to eat and stay Gwesty Tŷ Newydd is a lovely seaside hotel overlooking the bay and beach. You can watch the sun go down from their terrace whilst enjoying a drink or two. The hotel also serves dinner, has delicious Aberdaron lobster and crab on the menu, and afternoon teas with home-baked cakes if you're looking for high tea with a view. Sblash Caban Pysgod/Fish Bar is a great shout for fresh fish and chips that don't cost the earth. Feast on soft white buttery cod in crispy batter with piping hot chips and have a chippy tea by the sea. While traversing the Llyn, have a pint in one of Wales's most famous seaside pubs, the Ty Coch Inn. This historic pub is located in Porthdinllaen, a tiny village on the peninsula's northern coast, and offers glorious views of the turbulent Irish Sea. Named one of the world's top ten beach bars, owner Stuart Webley attributes the pub's success to "location, location, location" and "a slightly eccentric landlord." Leg 5: Aberdaron to Aberaeron (Image: Morgan & Davies, Aberaeron / rightmove ) On the next section of your road trip, you'll be driving on a series of B roads and the A487 and A470 as you pass through the Llŷn Peninsula, Eryri and the Cardigan Bay coastline. As you head to the harbour village of Aberaeron, one of the prettiest villages in Wales, you will also pass by the towns of Criccieth and Porthmadog, where you can stop for a coffee, browse the selection of shops, or visit one of the many historical sites in the area. If you have time, visit the magical ruin of Criccieth Castle, which stands proud on top of a rocky headland overlooking the village and beach. The spectacular coastal castle was built—and destroyed—by powerful Welsh princes and is a poignant reminder of Wales's complex and turbulent history. This spectacular coastal castle was built – and destroyed – by powerful Welsh princes and still stands today awaiting your visit. (Image: Cadw ) Drive a little further south down the coast, and Harlech Castle is waiting to impress you. This handsome castle has arguably one of the most dramatic settings, crowning a rocky crag with a sheer drop down to the flat plains below. Designated a World Heritage Site, Harlech Castle has experienced many sieges and battles and was once the centre of power of Owain Glyndwr. The drive towards Aberaeron also takes you near the Italianate-style village of Portmeirion, one of Wales's most popular tourist attractions. You might recognise this colourful and distinctive village from the popular cult classic 1960s television programme The Prisoner (Image: Portia Jones ) You might recognise this colourful and distinctive village from the popular cult classic 1960s television programme The Prisoner, starring Patrick McGoohan, as Portmeirion was used extensively as the location backdrop for the 17-episode series. Alongside its unique architectural heritage, the private, ticketed site features two swanky hotels, self-catering cottages, an indulgent spa, gift shops, cafés, restaurants and an authentic Italian-style gelateria. After stopping for lunch or to visit Portmeirion, continue south to Aberaeron, where you'll be spending the night. Where to eat and stay The Harbourmaster Hotel (Image: ANY-CHITTOCK ) Crowned Wales hotel of the year 2025 by the Sunday Times for its 'old splash of style and substance,' the Harbourmaster Hotel overlooks the Georgian quayside in Aberaeron. The deep blue landmark hotel is no stranger to accolades. It has won several awards, including the Good Hotel Guide's César Award for Best Hotel in Wales in 2024. First opened as a hotel in 2002, the independently owned hotel features 13 maritime-themed rooms spread over three historic harbour-side buildings, which were originally used as a home and office for the Harbourmaster. Seven original rooms in the former Harbourmaster's residence are accessed via a spiral staircase and command spectacular sea or harbour views with features including rolltop tubs or balconies. The top-floor suite is particularly sought after. Situated right on the edge of Aberaeron's idyllic harbour, you could spend a few hours drinking in the sunshine and enjoying the sight of boats bobbing around in the adjacent waters and the town's famous coloured terraces. The 4-star Castle Hotel is situated in a Grade II Listed Building and is another good accommodation option in the town. It has simply furnished rooms with traditional Welsh textiles and en suite bathrooms. Leg 6: Aberaeron to Tenby Tenby (Image: Beata Mitrega ) Try to squeeze in some time to visit the hugely underrated Cardigan Bay area and book a budget-friendly Bay Explorer boat trip with local pros, ' A Bay to Remember'. Departing from St Dogmaels, this hour-long trip wizzes you around the shore on high-speed RHIBs, where your knowledgeable skipper will keep their eyes peeled for wildlife and point out dolphins and secluded, pebbled bays where Atlantic grey seals lounge on the rocks. Pebbled bays where Atlantic grey seals lounged lazily on the rocks (Image: Portia Jones ) On the next leg, it's time to head to the seaside town of Tenby via the A487, with plenty of scenic stops. This route passes through small villages, towns and even a tiny city as you navigate some superb scenery in Pembrokeshire. There's also plenty to see and do in Pembrokeshire, from hiking and kayaking to shopping and more dolphin spotting. Head west along the A487 on the North Pembrokeshire coast towards the historic city of St Davids, the smallest city in the UK. En route, you will pass through Fishguard, the location of the last invasion of Great Britain in 1797. Visit the Last Invasion Tapestry in Fishguard. Situated in the town hall, it is well worth a visit before taking photos of the Royal Oak (opposite), where the surrender by the invading French force was signed. Fishguard is also a surprising foodie hot spot, with local seafood, artisan cafés, old-school pubs, and an upscale hotel restaurant to discover. Before diving into Fishguard's culinary offerings, it's worth building up an appetite with a bracing coastal hike. (Image: Portia Jones ) If you want a quick but high-quality breakfast, head to The Gourmet Pig. This award-winning deli stocks artisan Welsh cheeses, fresh pastries and local produce. Their sausage rolls and Pembrokeshire butter croissants are dangerously good, making it hard to choose just one item. Grab a freshly made baguette with local cheese and chutney for a top-tier picnic if you're going on a long coastal walk. St David's Cathedral (Image: MEDIA WALES ) From Fishguard, head onwards to the Cathedral city of St Davids, where you'll find plenty of dining options, including cafes and fancy dining. There's also a small selection of shops here if you fancy a browse in boutique stores by the sea. From St Davids, you can continue on the A487 towards the small harbour village of Solva, where you can grab a coffee and freshly baked Welsh cakes from MamGu Welshcakes to perk you up on your long drive today. The drive towards Tenby also takes you near Newgale Beach, famous for its two-mile stretch of gloriously golden sand and surfing. Hop out of the car, stretch your legs and grab a brew at Sands Cafe. From Newgale, continue towards Haverfordwest and follow the A40 to A4075, then continue south towards Tenby, passing through Crosshands and Moreton. Where to eat and stay Meaning 'Taste' in Welsh, Blas is the upmarket and award-winning restaurant offering from contemporary art hotel, Twr Y Felin. (Image: Blas Restaurant ) Stop for lunch in St Davids and dine in the stylish surroundings of a former windmill with a menu influenced by season and local surroundings at Blas Restaurant in the Twr Y Felin Hotel. Development chef Gareth Evans delivers largely experimental dishes featuring the best of Pembrokeshire produce with a modern twist. Expect beautifully plated and locally sourced lobster, crab, mussels and clams, and Welsh beef, duck and fowl. Chef's coastal foraging exploits may also add the likes of samphire and monk's beard to the menu if you're lucky. You're a little spoilt for choice with accommodation in Tenby, and there's something for all types of road trip getaways, whether you want something luxurious or just a guesthouse by the beach for your last night. Many hotels on the seafront look out over the beach, but the Panorama Hotel is a great choice for an overnight stay in Tenby. In Tenby you'll find a picturesque harbour, Victorian houses, sandy beaches, independent cafes and coastal walks (Image: Portia Jones ) A small family-run hotel on Tenby's South Beach, the eight spacious bedrooms are individually designed. Most enjoy panoramic sea views across Carmarthen Bay towards Caldey Island and the Devon coastline. For a budget stay in a friendly hostel, check out YHA Manorbier, a large ex-MOD building that offers private rooms, camping and even an airstream. The onsite cafe has a reasonably priced all-you-can-eat breakfast, setting you up for the day with a full cooked breakfast, continental options and unlimited tea and coffee. If you fancy spoiling yourself with a swish spa stay, St Brides Hotel & Spa in nearby Saundersfoot is a popular, modern spa hotel looking out over beautiful Saundersfoot Bay from its position on the hill up towards Tenby. Room with a view at St Bride's Hotel (Image: St Bride's Hotel ) Facilities here are top-notch and include a full thermal suite with salt infusion room, sensation shower, aroma steam room, herbal rock sauna, ice fountain and marine hydro pool. St Brides' star feature, of course, is its incredible infinity pool with beautiful ocean views. There really is nowhere quite like it in Wales. Leg 7: Tenby to Cardiff Cardiff Bay (Image: Portia Joenes ) The 'jewel in the crown' of the 'Welsh Riviera', beautiful Tenby, has long been a tourist hotspot. Here, you'll find a picturesque harbour, Victorian houses, sandy beaches, cafes and coastal walks along the charming shoreline to explore on the last day of your road trip. Plenty of independent shops keep you occupied here- it's worth looking around Tenby High Street and St Julian's Street to find a decent selection of indie stores and bucket-and-spade shops. You'll also find plenty of local walks, sandy beaches and many foodie options featuring the best Pembrokeshire produce. Elsewhere in Tenby, there's South Beach, a long sandy stretch, a favourite beach spot for families. You can also take a ferry to the historic Caldey Island or go paddleboarding at North Beach. If you want fancy dining during your Tenby stop, Links restaurant is located on the ground floor of Tenby Golf Club and is a great Michelin-star dining choice. Led by a talented local chef, the menu is about simple yet incredibly tasty dishes made with the best Welsh produce. Start your meal with their freshly baked ale bread served with whipped marmite butter—trust us, it's the perfect opener. The atmosphere is relaxed but refined, with a menu that strikes the perfect balance between unpretentious and exciting. From hot smoked salmon with cucumber and buttermilk to heritage tomatoes paired with buffalo mozzarella, there's something to tempt every palate. Brecon Beacons (Bannau Brycheiniog) (Image: Portia Jones ) After a busy morning exploring Tenby, it's time to head back to Cardiff, the endpoint of this circular road trip. There are two options for the drive back. You can drive the more direct way back to Cardiff via the A48 and M4, or via the A470/A40 where you can drive through Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons). If you choose the M4 route, you can stop for lunch in Carmarthen or take a detour to the coastal city of Swansea. If you take the A470/A40 route, you can call in for lunch in the market town of Llandovery, as the A40 passes through it. Both options include stops for petrol and food, so it depends on how leisurely you want the final leg of your journey to be. Arrive back in Cardiff and rest after your epic road trip around Wales. Road trip essentials A couple in a car Now you've seen the route, it's time to think about what you might need for a Wales Road trip. The first thing you'll need to do is check whether your car, or the car you hired, is roadworthy and check things like tire pressure and tread, windshield washer, and fluid and oil levels. Ensure you are also properly insured and have a good road map or GPS device to help you navigate the roads here. A banging playlist is also an excellent idea for long drives. Another of the main things to consider in Wales is the weather, which can be wildly unpredictable. You'll need to pack for various weather conditions and bring a decent waterproof jacket, as it is known to rain here. This trip contains a fair amount of activities, so pack appropriate footwear and clothing for the week, especially if you plan to do things like hiking, biking, swimming, etc. While each person's packing list might differ slightly, here are some road trip essentials we think you might need. Article continues below Coins for parking Small first aid kit Jump cables Rubbish/dog poo bags Mobile phone mount Extra USB cables for phones, etc Power bank Seatback organiser Laundry bag sunglasses Sun cream Re-uesable water bottles Selection of clothes and footwear for the week Toiletries Snacks
