Wales: Kings and Clashes

Highlights

The Welsh and English have had an often-rocky relationship, starting with the Edwardian conquest of Wales in the 13th century. Journey around northern Wales and see traces of Roman occupation, castles built by Edward I, and hear the stories that will deepen your understanding of this historical time period and relationship. You’ll meet locals and have authentic experiences throughout your journey.

Here’s an itinerary for a customized trip of seven days, but we will tailor a travel plan specifically for your desires and timeframe. Contact us for specific pricing and details.

Day 1

Arriving in Chester, gateway to Wales, you’ll enjoy a guided walking historical tour along this old Roman city’s defensive walls, learning about the often-rocky relationship between Wales and England. Then, ride in comfort to your 4-star accommodation within Conwy’s medieval walls. Enjoy the remainder of the day acclimating: take a walk around the town or rest, and dine on your own.

Day 2

After breakfast, explore Conwy more intimately, including Conwy Castle, built by Edward I during his campaign to conquer Wales; Plas Mawr, the finest example of Elizabethan/Tudor gentry townhouse in the UK; and the Smallest House in the UK. Pop into Aberconwy House, one of the oldest dateable houses in Wales. In the late afternoon, enjoy a walk along the ancient walls of the town, then savor a farewell dinner and prepare for tomorrow’s adventure.

Day 3

Bid the ancient town of Conwy farewell, pick up your rental car, and drive south to Bodnant Garden, a  Victorian collecting garden – you’ll see a California sequoia tree on one of the paths if you search. Next, drive on to the market town of Llanrwst. There, you’ll have a tour of Gwydir Castle, with lunch/afternoon tea at the scenic and historic Tu Hwnt i’r Bont. Tour St. Grwst’s Church, site of Llewellyn the Great’s coffin. Next, walk around pretty Betws-y-Coed as you head to Anglesey (Mother of Wales, or Mam Môn), and check in to your accommodation in Beaumaris.

Day 4

Today you’ll thoroughly explore the castle that bankrupted Edward I’s treasury – Beaumaris Castle – as well as other attractions like the old Beaumaris Gaol (Jail) and the courthouse. Take the time to unwind walking around this quaint town, before dinner at your accommodation.

Day 5

With an early start, you’ll drive to magnificent Harlech Castle, another of Edward I’s fortifications in his quest to conquer Wales and its ruler Llewellyn ap Gruffudd, the last Prince of independent Wales. After thoroughly exploring its confines, you’ll visit the pretty Italianate-style town of Portmerion as you head to your next lodging in Caernarfon, where you can enjoy a pint in the pub that evening.

Day 6

Explore the Royal town of Caernarfon, the former Roman outpost Segontium, walk the town walls, tour the castle, and visit Roman ruins. Enjoy the final evening with a meal at your pub lodging.

Day 7

Say “hwyl fawr” – which means both “big fun” and “goodbye”- as you drive away from Caernarfon, return your rental car, and transfer back to Manchester.

Price

From $2,699 for a solo traveler, not including airfare, but we’re happy to book that as well!

As always, Dragon in Your Pocket’s pricing is transparent, with no hidden fees. As such, pricing is based on one person per room. Pricing is typically less with 2 or more persons per room.