Once an industrial region specialising in coal mining, Wales has evolved into a successful tourist destination, known for its pristine golf courses, scenic landscapes and such protected areas as the Brecon Beacons National Park, which is a mountainous region dotted with numerous castles; the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, located along the coast and offering spectacular views of the sea and rugged rocks of the shore; and the Snowdonia National Park, where the highest mountains are situated at 1,000 metres.

The small island of Anglesey, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is an island of unique beauty which features such other World Heritage sites as the Beaumaris Castle and the butterfly farm of Pili Palace. The isle is characterised by rocky seashore, sandy beaches, heaths and meadows, mixed on an area of only 715 square kilometres. The island is also home to a village with one of the world’s longest names, Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch.

The northern part of Wales is well known for its castles dating from the early Middle Ages, including the Conwy and Harlech Castles, known for their impressive architecture which distinguishes them from similar structures of the era. The Blaenavon Industrial Landscape, with its coal mining museum and iron works, is also a UNESCO World Heritage. The modern capital of Wales, Cardiff, is a tourist attraction as well, with a castle dating from Norman times, City Hall, the Pierhead Building and Llandaff Cathedral. A number of museums and galleries are also located in the city, as well as an array of bars and pubs.

Unlike other regions of Great Britain where original Celtic languages are rare, the Welsh language is widely taught and spoken in Wales. The locals are also careful to maintain their traditions and culture, under the national symbols of the leek and daffodil. Famous Welsh figures include the poet Dylan Thomas and actor Richard Burton, while Welsh whiskey, produced in Penderyn, is widely recognised for its fine quality and taste. Wales’ castles, mountains, rocky coastlines, islands and headlands are all easily accessible by nearby London.