Wales links
CASTLES
If you are even remotely interested in the subject of Welsh castles, you should visit Jeffrey L. Thomas's website Castle Wales. It's a fantastic educational resource with plenty of photos and history.
Northern Wales
Cadw (pronounced cad-oo, meaning "to keep" in Welsh) is an historic environment service of the Welsh Assembly Government, which means it's a government organization that oversees the historic buildings and park, ancient monuments, and underwater archaeological sites of Wales. You may buy a Explorer Pass or a World Heritage Explorer Pass through them to save money if you plan on visiting several sites. The site also has information for hiring a property for a wedding or private event. Lots of photos and visitor information on this easy to use site. Among its properties in Northern Wales are:
Harlech Castle, Caernarfon Castle, Beaumaris Castle, Conwy Castle, and Plas Mawr
The National Trust oversees more than 300 historic buildings and gardens in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. Their site is filled with inspiration and ideas for a grand day out. Properties in Northern Wales include: Chirk Castle, Powis Castle, Plas Newydd, and Bodnant Garden.
Lots of useful information on hiking, cycling, and relaxing in beautiful Snowdonia National Park's website. Check out the gorgeous photos in the image library.
Although a member of the National Trust, Bodnant Garden maintains its own website with visiting information.
A step above the usual tourist office puffery, Portmeirion's website delivers in what makes the town unique: its visionary architect Sir Clough Williams-Ellis and lots of trivia (and even a quiz) for fans of the cult TV series The Prisoner.
Southern Wales
Properties in Southern Wales overseen by Cadw (see above) are: Castell Coch, Caerphilly Castle, Chepstow Castle, and St. David's.
Take a virtual tour through Pembroke Castle on its website. Here you'll find visitor information and a schedule for summer events, such as Shakespeare productions and falconry displays, held at the castle.
Everything you need to know about visiting Cardiff Castle is on its website, including booking a Welsh banquet at the castle.
The National Museum and Gallery of Wales has an excellent website that also covers St. Fagans: National History Museum, Big Pit: National Coal Museum, the National Waterfront Museum, and the National Wool Museum. Check out the online collection to see if your favorite artist's work is on display or not.
St. David's Cathedral hosts a very nice website with lots of information if you want to tour the cathedral, worship, attend a concert during its summer music festival, or just learn more about its history.
The website for Brecon Beacons National Park has good links to connect you to your favorite activity, whether it's cycling, horseback riding, or hiking. Guided walks for all levels are offered. You can also find out about park attractions with easy access and even the weather.
If you would like to attend the Hay Festival (held from the 3rd week of May until the first week of June), check out this website first. Audio archives of past festivals available.
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