10-Night Best of Wales

Day 2

Accommodation

Award-winning Country House - Menai Bridge, Wales

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 3.00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 11.00am.

Included Unique Activities

Conwy Castle Admission

Thanks to restored spiral staircases in its great towers you can walk a complete circuit around the battlements of Conwy Castle. We highly recommend it. This is one of the most magnificent medieval fortresses in Europe.

In the distance rise the craggy mountains of Snowdonia and spread out below you are the harbor and narrow streets of Conwy – still protected by an unbroken 1,400-yard (1.3km) ring of town walls.
It’s enough to take the breath away. Especially when you consider that King Edward I and his architect Master James of St George built both castle and walls in a barely believable four years between 1283 and 1287.

Conwy takes its place alongside Edward’s other great castles at Beaumaris, Harlech, and Caernarfon as a World Heritage Site.

Beaumaris Castle Admission

Beaumaris on the island of Anglesey is famous as the greatest castle never built. It was the last of the royal strongholds created by Edward I in Wales – and perhaps his masterpiece.

Here Edward and his architect James of St George took full advantage of a blank canvas: the ‘beau mareys’ or ‘beautiful marsh’ beside the Menai Strait. By now they’d already constructed the great castles of Conwy, Caernarfon and Harlech. This was to be their crowning glory, the castle to end all castles.
The result was a fortress of immense size and near-perfect symmetry. No fewer than four concentric rings of formidable defenses included a water-filled moat with its very own dock. The outer walls alone bristled with 300 arrow loops.

But lack of money and trouble brewing in Scotland meant building work had petered out by the 1320s. The south gatehouse and the six great towers in the inner ward never reached their intended height. The Llanfaes gate was barely started before being abandoned.
So the distinctive squat shape of Beaumaris tells of a dream that never quite came true. Still, it takes its rightful place on the global stage as part of the Castles and Town Walls of Edward I World Heritage Site.

Suggested Sightseeing

Menai Suspension Bridge, Wales

On The Map: The Menai Suspension Bridge connects northern mainland Wales with the large western Welsh island of Anglesey.

The Menai Suspension Bridge was completed in 1826. For centuries prior, travel to the island of Anglesey from the mainland was a hazardous proposition. Although ferries traversed the straits, water currents were notoriously strong and unpredictable, and led to many marine tragedies. Valuable livestock were also frequently lost when being transported from Anglesey to the mainland for sale. In 1800, when the Act of Union strengthened ties between England & Ireland, addressing the danger of the journey became even more imperative. Travel to Ireland from London became a very frequent necessity, and Ireland was reached by boat from Holyhead, on Anglesey. Beginning his plans in 1819, Thomas Telford took on the gargantuan task of building a bridge on an uncertain footing, and at a height in excess of 100 feet, to allow ships to pass beneath. Completed in 1826, the bridge was a triumph of ambitious engineering. At the time, it was the longest suspension bridge in the world, and even today, it is an impressive sight to behold. The bridge made Telford's reputation, and reduced the journey time from London to Holyhead from 63 to 27 hours.

Conwy, Wales

Conwy is a true one-off. Well-preserved ancient walls, the most intact in Europe, enclose a town of narrow cobbled streets, nooks and crannies chock-full of historic buildings. And that’s just the half of it. The walls radiate out from a gritty, dark-stoned castle that, even after all these years, still preserves an authentic medieval atmosphere – and still has the power to dominate. Conwy Castle, a World Heritage Site, was a key part of the ‘iron ring’ of fortresses built around Snowdonia in the 13th century by Edward I to contain the Welsh. The views from the battlements, with the mountains of Snowdonia one way, the Conwy Estuary the other, are stunning. And it’s from here that the entire town comes into perspective, ringed by a circuit of walls over three-quarters of a mile long and guarded by no less than 22 towers. A Conwy ‘must-do’ is a walk along these walls, before venturing into the streets below and visiting places like Plas Mawr (the UK’s best-preserved Elizabethan town house) and the dinky Smallest House (see if you can fit inside). There are plenty of other historic sites, little shops, and places to eat all packed inside the ancient walls. 

Beaumaris, Wales

Beaumaris is a captivating seaside town, with its mix of medieval, Georgian, Victorian and Edwardian architecture.  Its name is based on the Norman ‘beau marais’, meaning ‘fair marsh’, a description of the site chosen by Edward 1 for the last of his ‘Iron ring’ of castles, constructed in his bid to control the Welsh.

A ‘must’ is to take a walk through the town, starting with a stroll along the seafront, taking in the pier and the views over the Menai Strait and Snowdonia then continuing through the charming streets with their picturesque cottages, many painted in soft pastel colours.

Llanfairpwllgwyngyll, Wales

On The Map: Llanfairpwllgwyngyll is a village on the island of Anglesey in northwest Wales, situated next to the Britannia Bridge.

Llanfairpwllgwyngyll is alternatively known as Llanfairpwll, Llanfair PG, or Llanfair­pwllgwyngyll­gogery­chwyrn­drobwll­llan­tysilio­gogo­goch! The long form of the name contains 58 characters, and was invented for promotional purposes in the 1860s. This is an early example of what has since become a very common practice - a publicity stunt! It is the longest place name in Europe, and the second longest in the entire world, after an 85 character New Zealand place name. 70% of the town's population speak fluent Welch, and the lengthy name translates to: 'St Mary's church in the hollow of the white hazel near to the rapid whirlpool of Llantysilio of the red cave'!

Overnight Location

Anglesey, Wales

On the map: The Isle of Anglesey is the largest island in England and Wales, with an area of 261 square miles, separated from the North Wales mainland by the Menai Strait.

Anglesey island is known for its ancient history and prehistoric and Celtic remains, as well as stunning landscapes, unspoilt coastlines and picturesque towns and villages. Miles of scenic walks on the Isle of Anglesey Coastal Path and cycle paths await the active traveler, and much of the coastline has been declared an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, boasting beaches that offer vast stretches of sand, safe swimming, and windswept bays.

Day 3

Accommodation

Beautiful Stylish 4-Star Hotel - Portmeirion, Wales

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 3.30pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 11.00am.

Resident guests of the Hotel Portmeirion do not pay for admission to the village. All rooms and cottages in The Village have a designated parking space as close as possible to the accommodation.

Included Unique Activities

Snowdon Mountain Railway - Heritage Steam Train

Pushed by an original Swiss steam locomotive from 1896, our heritage carriages are accurate re-constructions of the Snowdon Mountain Tramroad & Hotels Co Ltd observation carriages. The Snowdon Lily and The Snowdon Mountain Goat are built on the original chassis and bogies from the carriages of 1896, meaning that today’s visitor can enjoy the same experience our ancestors did, as they journey through the clouds up Yr Wyddfa, Snowdon.

Seating only 34 passengers with a central aisle, we urge passengers who prefer a little more room to book their trip on the Heritage Steam Experience. There are three Steam departures a day from 10:30am, June through September (weather conditions permitting). The journey time to Clogwyn is approximately 45 minutes and passengers have a 30-minute stop-over at this unsheltered station before returning on the same train. Please be aware that there are no facilities at Clogwyn, or on-board the trains. The service represents approximately 2-hour experience overall.

Caernarfon Castle Admission

Caernarfon Castle is recognized around the world as one of the greatest buildings of the Middle Ages.

This fortress-palace on the banks of the River Seiont is grouped with Edward I’s other castles at Conwy, Beaumaris and Harlech as a World Heritage Site. But for sheer scale and architectural drama, Caernarfon stands alone.

Here Edward and his military architect Master James of St George erected a castle, town walls and a quay all at the same time. This gigantic building project eventually took 47 years and cost a staggering £25,000.

Suggested Sightseeing

Snowdonia National Park, Wales

Snowdonia is a region in northwest Wales concentrated around the mountains and glaciers of massive Snowdonia National Park. The park's historic Snowdon Mountain Railway climbs to the summit of Wales's highest mountain, Mount Snowdon, offering views across the sea to Ireland. The park is also home to an extensive network of trails, over 100 lakes and craggy peaks like Cedar Idris and Tryfan.

Caernarfon, Wales

On The Map: Caernarfon is a coastal town, located on the sheltered Menai Strait, in the northwest corner of Wales.

Caernarfon has an exceptionally rich history, with the town's location being continually inhabited since Roman times. Caernarfon is rightly proud of its heritage and boasts the higest proportion of native Welsh speakers in the country. Today, Caernarfon is a bustling market town, thriving harbour and major tourist centre. The focal point of the town is undoubtedly the medieval fortress - Caernarfon Castle - a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Construction of the castle began in 1283 at the behest of King Edward I of England, to assert English power in Wales. It is arguably the most imposing fortress built in Wales by the English. The unique polygonal towers and intimidating battlements were modelled on the walls of Constantinople, and centuries later, its commanding presence is no less impressive.

Overnight Location

Portmeirion, Wales

Portmeirion is a tourist village in Gwynedd, North Wales. It was designed and built by Sir Clough Williams-Ellis between 1925 and 1975 in the style of an Italian village, and is now owned by a charitable trust. His creative vision for an Italianate-style, private peninsula village on the Snowdonia coast resulted in a charming tourist destination with a Mediterranean feel.

The village is located in the community of Penrhyndeudraeth, on the estuary of the River Dwyryd, 2 miles (3.2 km) south east of Porthmadog, and 1 mile (1.6 km) from the railway station at Minffordd, which is served by both the narrow gauge Ffestiniog Railway and Arriva Trains Wales (Cambrian Line).

Portmeirion is open to day visitors every day of the year except Christmas Day. Hours of opening: 09:30 - 17.30  Shops close at 17.30. Cafes are open 10.00 - 17.00. 

Portmeirion has a admission charge for adults, concessions and children aged 5 - 15 years.  Children under 5 do not pay an admission charge. Resident guests of the Hotel Portmeirion, Castell Deudraeth and Portmeirion's Self-catering cottages do not pay for admission to the village.

Day 4

Accommodation

Beautiful Stylish 4-Star Hotel - Portmeirion, Wales

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 3.30pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 11.00am.

Resident guests of the Hotel Portmeirion do not pay for admission to the village. All rooms and cottages in The Village have a designated parking space as close as possible to the accommodation.

Included Unique Activities

Harlech Castle Admission

Harlech Castle crowns a sheer rocky crag overlooking the dunes far below – waiting in vain for the tide to turn and the distant sea to lap at its feet once again.

No further drama is really required but, just in case, the rugged peaks of Snowdonia rise as a backdrop. Against fierce competition from Conwy, Caernarfon and Beaumaris, this is probably the most spectacular setting for any of Edward I’s castles in North Wales. All four are designated as a World Heritage Site.

Suggested Sightseeing

Portmeirion, Wales

Portmeirion is a tourist village in Gwynedd, North Wales. It was designed and built by Sir Clough Williams-Ellis between 1925 and 1975 in the style of an Italian village, and is now owned by a charitable trust. His creative vision for an Italianate-style, private peninsula village on the Snowdonia coast resulted in a charming tourist destination with a Mediterranean feel.

The village is located in the community of Penrhyndeudraeth, on the estuary of the River Dwyryd, 2 miles (3.2 km) south east of Porthmadog, and 1 mile (1.6 km) from the railway station at Minffordd, which is served by both the narrow gauge Ffestiniog Railway and Arriva Trains Wales (Cambrian Line).

Portmeirion is open to day visitors every day of the year except Christmas Day. Hours of opening: 09:30 - 17.30  Shops close at 17.30. Cafes are open 10.00 - 17.00. 

Portmeirion has a admission charge for adults, concessions and children aged 5 - 15 years.  Children under 5 do not pay an admission charge. Resident guests of the Hotel Portmeirion, Castell Deudraeth and Portmeirion's Self-catering cottages do not pay for admission to the village.

Harlech, Wales

Harlech is a very attractive seaside town that boasts award-winning beaches, many interesting shops, and a vibrant arts and crafts scene but it is chiefly known for its castle. Harlech Castle is the towering medieval fortification which rises from the cliff face and affords visitors breathtaking views over the sea and Snowdonia.

Day 5

Accommodation

Magnificent Castle Hotel - Haverfordwest, Wales

Check in policies:

Check-in time is between 4:00pm and 7:00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 11:00am.
Roch Castle has a gated entrance. To enter, press the button on the silver post outside the entrance to the right-hand side, and the gates will open for you. When leaving the property via car, the gates' sensor open the gates for you. If you are walking, there will be a silver box located on the wall on the left-hand side of the gate.
If you need any assistance with your arrival, please contact the castle directly at +44 1437 725 566.

Suggested Sightseeing

Aberystwyth, Wales

 Aberystwyth is the principal holiday resort and administrative centre of the west coast of Wales. It is also home to the University of Wales Aberystwyth and the National Library. The town is nestled between three hills and two beaches, and hosts some castle ruins, a pier and a harbour. The surrounding hills hold the visible remains of an iron age fort and also a monument to Wellington that offers stunning views of Cardigan Bay once climbed.

Devil's Bridge Falls, Wales

Discover the world-famous Devils Bridge Falls in the heart of the Cambrian Mountains. These unique falls have attracted thousands of visitors since the 18th century, including William Wordsworth. Choose from two different scenic walks - the Nature Trail, Waterfalls & 3 Bridges or the Punchbowl & 3 bridges - each offering their own stunning scenery. 

Overnight Location

Haverfordwest, Wales

Known for being Pembrokeshire County’s central town, Haverfordwest is an attractive and ancient county town. In Elizabethan times, the town was the second-largest port in Wales and remained the main port in West Wales until the coming of the railway in 1853. The center of the town is dominated by the Western Cleddau and the castle that towers above it, and features a variety of shops and attractions.   

Day 6

Accommodation

Magnificent Castle Hotel - Haverfordwest, Wales

Check in policies:

Check-in time is between 4:00pm and 7:00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 11:00am.
Roch Castle has a gated entrance. To enter, press the button on the silver post outside the entrance to the right-hand side, and the gates will open for you. When leaving the property via car, the gates' sensor open the gates for you. If you are walking, there will be a silver box located on the wall on the left-hand side of the gate.
If you need any assistance with your arrival, please contact the castle directly at +44 1437 725 566.

Included Unique Activities

Pembrokeshire Coastal Walk (Half Day)

Enjoy a half-day walk along the world-renowned Pembrokeshire Coast Path located within the spectacular Pembrokeshire Coast National Park.

With an expert local guide to lead the way, you’ll discover some of Pembrokeshire’s best-kept secrets.

Your walk can be tailored to suit your abilities and interests whether you seek adventure, prefer a leisurely pace, want to discover a hidden beach, the perfect picnic location, or sunset viewing spot.

Suggested Sightseeing

St David's Cathedral , Wales

St David's is one of the great historic shrines of Christendom. Nowhere in Britain is there a more ancient cathedral settlement, for it reaches back fourteen centuries and survived the plunder of the Norsemen in the 'Dark Ages'. St David chose this wild, beautiful region as the site of his monastery in the 6th century and you will find his shrine in the purple-stoned cathedral, which nestles inconspicuously in a grassy hollow beneath the rooftops of the tiny city.

The Gatehouse contains an exhibition designed to introduce the pilgrim/visitor to the history and life of the Cathedral today including its daily worship. There is information about St David himself, about the medieval pilgrimage to St Davids (two trips to St David's was equal to one to Rome itself), and the importance of St Davids. In medieval times St Davids occupied a strategic position at the junction of major land and sea routes between England, Wales and Ireland and therefore the monarch took an interest in St Davids, William the Conqueror visiting in 1081.

Pembrokeshire Coast, Wales

On the map: Pembrokeshire is a county in the south-west of Wales. It is bordered by Carmarthenshire to the east, Ceredigion to the northeast, and is otherwise surrounded by the sea.

Known across the world for its awesome coastal scenery, protected by Britain’s only coastal National Park, Pembrokeshire is the perfect holiday destination; golden sands backed by towering cliffs teeming with wildlife and covered in a riot of flowers, especially in spring.

Day 7

Accommodation

Luxury Landmark Lodging - Cardiff, Wales

Check in policies:

Check-in time starts at 2 PM

Check-out time is 12 PM

Included Unique Activities

Cardiff Castle Admission

Guarantee your entry to a site with more than 2,000 years of history by buying an admission ticket to Cardiff Castle in advance. Ideal for families and independent travelers, your entrance pass takes you on a self-guided tour of the castle’s historic chambers such as the Banqueting Hall and Library. Additional tours, including in-depth looks at the Clock Tower and House, are available at your own expense.

-Entrance ticket to Cardiff Castle including audio guide 
-Ideal for families, history buffs, and independent travelers 
-Take a self-guided tour of the 2,000-year-old fortress 
-See highlights such as the Library, the Banqueting Hall, and the Victorian apartments 
-Valid between 10am and 4pm in winter, 5pm in summer

Suggested Sightseeing

Tenby, Wales

Tenby is a walled seaside town in Pembrokeshire, South Wales, on the western side of Carmarthen Bay. Tenby is one stunning, and historic fishing village that you have to see in Wales. Perched within the beautiful region of Pembrokeshire, it’s probably one of the nicest seaside towns in all of West Wales. It’s got a little something for everyone, from; historic castles, sandy beaches and plenty of tasty restaurants, too. You’ll be spoilt for choice when looking for the best things to do in Tenby during your trip. 

Notable features of Tenby include 2.5 miles (4.0 km) of sandy beaches; the 13th-century medieval town walls, including the Five Arches barbican gatehouse; the 15th century St. Mary's Church; the Tudor Merchant's House (National Trust); Tenby Museum and Art Gallery; and the Pembrokeshire Coast Path, part of Britain's only coastal National Park. Boats sail from Tenby's harbor to the offshore monastic Caldey Island, while St Catherine's Island is a tidal island. The town is served by Tenby railway station.

Cardiff Bay, Wales

Cardiff Bay is Widely regarded as the most successful in Britain, the superb Cardiff Bay redevelopment covers nearly 2,700 acres of former dockland and is home to high-end housing, offices, hotels, restaurants, theaters, sports grounds and numerous parks. Highlights of a visit include the redbrick Pierhead Building, built in 1897 and now home to displays relating to the history of Wales, and Mermaid Quay with its trendy restaurants, cafés and boutiques. It's also where you'll find the Senedd, the architecturally pleasing new home of the National Assembly for Wales, as well as the wonderful Norwegian Church, an arts center and concert venue in a former church often visited by Roald Dahl. (The writer's importance to the city is widely recognized, and includes Roald Dahl Plass, a large public plaza notable for its summer concerts.) Cardiff Bay is also where you'll find Techniquest, a fun hands-on science center featuring a planetarium and theatre.

Overnight Location

Cardiff, Wales

On The Map: The City of Cardiff is the Capital of Wales, and is located in a sheltered location on its southern coast. Cardiff is 150 miles / 2.5 hours drive directly west of London on the M4 Motorway.

Cardiff boasts a rich, almost 2000 year history. The first recorded settlers in 55 A.D. were pioneers of the Roman Empire, who constructed a fort on the current site of Cardiff Castle, taking advantage of the city's strategic position at the center of three river systems. The Roman Fort protected local inhabitants for 300 years, before being abandoned as Roman power and influence rapidly declined. Impressive Cardiff Castle (pictured), dating from the 11th century, now occupies the site. Most of the original Roman construction is long since buried beneath the castle, though a portion of the old Roman walls are still visible at the Castle's Interpretative Centre. Visitors can learn more about Cardiff's long & interesting history at The Cardiff Story - a free museum. Cardiff boasts a vibrant arts and entertainment scene, featuring opera, ballet, musicals, and very high quality live music to suit all tastes, not to mention a diverse range of theatres, galleries & museums.

Day 8

Accommodation

Charming Coach Inn - Crickhowell, Wales

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 3.00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 11.30am.

Included Unique Activities

Cardiff Tasting Tour

The best way to get a taste of Cardiff! Enjoy some delicious tastings of Welsh food on a relaxed stroll around the Welsh capital. Find out about the country's cuisine and life in Wales today and yesterday.

Enjoy a mixture of food, culture and history while admiring the city's majestic buildings including Cardiff Castle and Principality Stadium - the home of Welsh rugby! Enjoy our local guides' superb stories and learn a few words of Welsh. Tuck into warm Welshcakes, crumbly, buttery pies, award winning Welsh Whisky and a few other local delicacies.

Suggested Sightseeing

Castell Coch - The Red Castle, Wales

 This enchanting mixture of Victorian Gothic fantasy and fairytale castle features many lovely rounded towers and turrets. Another of Britain's famous "sham" castles, this attractive medieval castle was actually constructed near the end of the 19th century. A tremendous amount of detail was put into it by its creators, the third Marquess of Bute and an eccentric genius called William Burges. Rich decorations house the interior, including details of the saints, Aesop's fables and many animals. Informative interactive displays and touch screens offer fun facts as guests explore the castle and its lovely grounds.

Overnight Location

Crickhowell, Wales

On the map: Crickhowell is a picturesque town nestled in the beautiful Usk Valley, to the south of the Black Mountains, the eastern range of the Brecon Beacons National Park. The town and its surrounding villages have attractions that are enticements for all visitors to this wonderful corner of Wales.

A settlement has existed here at least since iron-age settlers built a fort on the top of Crug Hywel, also called Table Mountain after its flat top. In the town, a motte and bailey castle, the remains of which still exist, were built by the Normans.

Day 9

Accommodation

Charming Coach Inn - Crickhowell, Wales

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 3.00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 11.30am.

Included Unique Activities

Welsh Vineyard Tour & Tasting

Led by the owners of the vineyard, this tour is a wonderful opportunity to experience first hand an award-winning Welsh Vineyard and to meet the passionate pair who tend to the vines.

Lasting approx. 1.5 hours, the vineyard tour will take you through from early beginnings to the present day, and the story of how a dream became a reality.

On return to the Cellar Door, you will have the opportunity to sample four of their great wines.

Suggested Sightseeing

Brecon Beacons National Park, Wales

On the map: Brecon Beacons National Park encompasses one of the most beautiful parts of Wales. This hiker's paradise is bordered by two quite different sets of Black Mountains. The first, to the west, is the source of the River Usk, while to the east is the range famous for its wild ponies. Most of the mountains in this 520-square-mile park are higher than 1,000 feet, many in excess of 2,000 feet, and are named after the red sandstone that causes them to resemble the beacons of light once used to warn of invaders. Be sure to explore the park's many caves and waterfalls, especially Henrhyd Falls at Coelbren. Just outside the park, near Abergavenny, you can tour a coal mine at Big Pit National Coal Museum.

Tintern Abbey/ Abaty Tyndyrn, Wales

Tintern Abbey was founded by Walter de Clare, Lord of Chepstow, on 9 May 1131. It is situated adjacent to the village of Tintern in Monmouthshire, on the Welsh bank of the River Wye, which at this point forms the border between Monmouthshire in Wales and Gloucestershire in England.

Shrewsbury, West Midlands Region

Shrewsbury, the county town of Shropshire is almost islanded by the River Severn. Nestling inside the loop of the river is a charming town with an abundance of striking timber-framed buildings which house some of the best independent shops you’ll find anywhere. 

The town was the birthplace of world-renowned naturalist, Charles Darwin. There is an imposing red sandstone castle – now a regimental museum – as well as a beautiful park known as the Quarry which every summer hosts the world-famous Shrewsbury Flower Show.

Abergavenny, Wales

Discover locally-produced food and fantastic scenery – the beautiful Black Mountains are the backdrop to Abergavenny in the southeast corner of the Brecon Beacons National Park. The town is a great base for walking, cycling, and just enjoying the great outdoors.

With its annual Abergavenny Food Festival, the town is also a mecca for foodies – and there are plenty of gorgeous gastro pubs, ancient inns, and restaurants to try in the surrounding countryside too. The town has regular markets where you can buy quality local produce.

Day 10

Accommodation

4-Star Georgian Manor - Nantwich, North West Region

Check in policies:

Check in 3pm, check out 11am

Suggested Sightseeing

Pontcysyllte Aqueduct, Wales

The Pontcysyllte Aqueduct is a navigable aqueduct that carries the Llangollen Canal across the River Dee in the Vale of Llangollen in north east Wales. The 18-arched stone and cast iron structure is for use by narrowboats and was completed in 1805 having taken ten years to design and build.

Overnight Location

Nantwich, North West Region

On the Map: Nantwich is a market town and civil parish in the unitary authority of Cheshire East in Cheshire, England. 

The vibrant and bustling market town of Nantwich, located on the southern edge of the Cheshire Plain, really is one of the shining lights in the region. With its origins dating back to Roman times and its significance founded in the salt and, later, tannery trades, Nantwich lays claim to being one of the earliest settlements in Cheshire.

The pretty town square, in the summer festooned with bunting and adorned with stunning floral displays, serves as the perfect starting point and a great place to watch the world go by before disappearing down any one of the meandering shopping streets. Take a seat in the shadows of the imposing St Mary’s Church to enjoy an ice cream from Vitaliano’s trike or a coffee outside at the impressive Nantwich Bookshop while soaking up the atmosphere and enjoying the thriving street scene. Be sure to visit the neighbouring Chatwins Bakery, established in the town over one hundred years ago, and still serving the locals. From here follow the signs towards the traditional indoor market hall – open three times a week – which showcases an array of regional suppliers and produce, including the famous ‘Nantwich Blue’ cheese. A walk along the quaint Monks Lane will take you past the oldest building in Nantwich, Churches Mansion, which remains as one of the only properties to escape the Great Fire of 1583 that destroyed much of the town.

Day 11

Depart From

Depart from Manchester Airport, North West Region

Return to Manchester Airport at least 3 hours prior to your flight's scheduled departure. This will allow ample time to check in for your flight home.