Welcome to Wales

Nature enthusiasts have long touted the appeal of Wales, a geological gift wrapped up in a tidy package. There are walking paths, cycling paths and scenic drives created for the sole purpose of showcasing the country’s mountains, river valleys, cliffs and rolling hillsides.

There are stories as old as time here as well – from the hundreds of castles that dot the landscape to the mysterious stone circles and dolmens you may see. And that’s not all … there are beaches, which while not necessarily tropical, have a rugged, bracing magnetism for ocean lovers. You’ll soon be feeling “hiraeth,” Welsh for feeling homesick for the green grass of home.

Unique Facts

• There are more than 600 castles in Wales, including the largest – Caerphilly – and the picturesque Conwy Castle.
• The highest mountain in Wales is Mount Snowdon at 3,540 feet tall. Going in the opposite direction, Wales’ Ogof Ffynnon Dddu cave is 1,010 feet deep, the deepest in Great Britain.
• Rugby is the most popular sport in Wales, with the first international match ever taking place between Wales and England in 1881. The Principality Stadium has the largest retractable roof of any sports stadium in the world.
• Three national parks make up 20 percent of the landmass of Wales. There are also five areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
• The British royal family has always used and continues to use Welsh gold for their wedding rings.

Language

Wales’ official languages are Welsh and English.

When To Go

The best time to go to Wales is in April and May before the busy, more expensive summer season.

Airports

Cardiff Airport

Passport Validity

Passport must be valid for six months beyond entry date.

Visa Required By US Citizen?

None for stays of less than six months

Vaccinations

The CDC recommends the following vaccine for all travelers when visiting Wales: Measles and routine vaccinations. Most travelers should receive Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B and Rabies vaccines.

Electrical Outlets

Power plugs and sockets: type G. Standard voltage: 230V. Frequency: 50Hz.

Currency

Official local currency: Pound Sterling

Getting Around

A railway in South and West Wales runs along the south coast, connecting communities along the way. Branch lines serve The Valleys, the Wye Valley and the Vale of Usk. North Wales is serviced by a railway that follows the north coast communities. A branch line connects to Wrexham and Shotton. There are a variety of scenic railways as well.

Long-distance, inter-city bus service operates along the south, west and north coasts. Cardiff has a public bus network.

There are several scenic byways and cycling trails throughout Wales. Consider renting a car or bicycle.

Driver’s License

A valid US driver’s license is required.

US Embassy Info

U.S. Embassy London
33 Nine Elms Lane
London, SW11 7US
United Kingdom
Telephone: +(44)(20) 7499-9000
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(44)(20) 7499-9000
Fax: +(44) (20) 7891-3845
SCSLondon@state.gov

Local Visitor Info

Cardiff Tourist Information Centre
Cardiff Castle
Castle Street
Cardiff CF10 3RB
Tel: 029-2087-2167
visitor@cardiff.gov.uk

Local Emergency Phone Numbers

General Emergency: 112

Safety and Security

The crime rate is low in Wales. However, use standard safety precautions in isolated areas and after dark. Do not leave personal belongings unattended.