Literary Journey through Wales

Arrive in Wales via a direct flight into Cardiff Airport, or opt for a train or private transfer from London—your literary journey begins in the vibrant Welsh capital. Start at the National Museum of Wales, home to rare manuscripts and literary treasures reflecting centuries of Welsh storytelling. Wander Roald Dahl Plass, a waterfront tribute to Cardiff’s most famous literary son, then explore Llandaff, where Dahl spent his childhood. Visit Llandaff Cathedral, featured in his memoir Boy. Continue to Cardiff Castle, a story-rich site steeped in history and legend. End your evening at Chapter Arts Centre, a creative hub for live poetry, talks, and art.

Head west to Swansea, birthplace of legendary poet Dylan Thomas. Begin at 5 Cwmdonkin Drive, his childhood home, and stroll through Cwmdonkin Park, featured in many early poems. Visit the Dylan Thomas Centre, a museum dedicated to his life and literary works. Continue to Laugharne, a town that deeply inspired Thomas—especially his radio play Under Milk Wood. Explore the iconic Dylan Thomas Boathouse, perched on the Taf Estuary. Walk to Laugharne Castle, where he often wrote, then enjoy a drink or poetry reading at Browns Hotel, his favorite haunt.

Travel north to Aberystwyth, home of the National Library of Wales, where you can view ancient Welsh texts like The Mabinogion, a cornerstone of Celtic mythology. Tour Aberystwyth University, alma mater to many celebrated Welsh poets. Walk the Aberystwyth Promenade, a muse for poets such as R.S. Thomas. Ride the Vale of Rheidol Railway to the hauntingly beautiful Devil’s Bridge, a place steeped in legend. Surrounded by waterfalls and woodlands, it’s the perfect setting to reflect on Wales’ mythic heritage.

Begin your day in Llanystumdwy, birthplace of David Lloyd George. Visit his memorial museum, which features personal writings and political speeches. Next, tour Caernarfon Castle, a medieval fortress tied to both Arthurian legend and Welsh poetic tradition. Continue to Portmeirion, a dreamlike coastal village with surreal architecture that inspired Clough Williams-Ellis and many creative works. Conclude the day in Beddgelert, a charming village linked to the legend of Gelert, a poignant tale embedded in Welsh folklore and literature.

Make your way to Hay-on-Wye, the internationally renowned “Town of Books.” With over 30 independent bookstores, it’s a paradise for bibliophiles. Visit Richard Booth’s Bookshop, the largest second-hand bookshop in Europe, and browse The Poetry Bookshop, a haven for verse lovers. If visiting in late May or June, experience the world-famous Hay Festival, where authors, thinkers, and poets gather. Tour Hay Castle, now a cultural center housing literary exhibitions and medieval manuscripts. Then take a riverside literary walk along the River Wye, a muse to poets for generations.

Enjoy a relaxed final morning in Cardiff. Take a stroll through Bute Park, browse the Victorian shopping arcades, or visit any missed literary highlights such as Cardiff Market or the Museum of Welsh Life. Shop for unique Welsh gifts—perhaps a signed first edition, traditional Welsh love spoon, or artisan keepsake. When ready, make your way back to London by train or private car, or head to Cardiff Airport for your onward journey. Depart with a suitcase full of books and a heart full of stories, having followed in the footsteps of Wales’ greatest writers and poets.