Brecon Railway & National Botanic Gardens - 5 Days
- Duration: 5 days
- Board Basis: Half Board
- Tour Ref: D2TALF5388EC
Holiday Summary
- Travel Type: Coach
Located between Swansea and Cardiff, Porthcawl was originally a port for the iron and steel industries and still has some interesting features from that period, including the oldest maritime warehouse in Wales, an attractive harbour and the last coal and gas powered lighthouse in the country. It developed as a seaside resort after the Great War and the splendid Grand Pavilion dates from 1932. Nearby is Kenfig Nature Reserve, a site of national importance. This attractive seaside resort offers numerous facilities, including the world famous Porthcawl golf course, the finest course in Wales and one of several in the area, an expansive sandy beach and Coney Beach, a fairground with a variety of rides and amusements which was named after the famous New York venue. To the East of the town lies the River Ogmore and the beautiful Glamorgan Heritage Coast.
PLEASE NOTE: Price is per person and based on two people sharing a twin/double room. Single room supplements and upgrades are not included.
Itinerary
Day 1 - Outward Travel
Day 2 - National Botanic Gardens of Wales & Carmarthen
Carmarthen is one of the oldest settlements in Wales and is believed by some to be the birthplace of King Arthur and Merlin./nCarmarthen Castle (free entry) dates back to the 12th century. There are information boards detailing the castle's history. /nSt Peter's Church in Carmarthen dates from at least the 14th century (present building). It is the largest church in the Diocese of St David's./nThe National Botanic Garden of Wales houses a range of themed gardens, the world’s largest single-span glasshouse, play areas and a national nature reserve./nTo date the National Botanic Garden has been voted ‘No 1 Garden to Visit in Wales’ by BBC Gardeners’ World and is the most visited garden in Wales./nThe National Botanic Garden boasts an amazing collection of over 8000 different plant varieties, spread across 560 acres of beautiful countryside./n
Day 3 - Day at Leisure
Day 4 - Brecon Mountain Railway & Cyfarthfa Castle
Today we take a trip on the newly extended Brecon Mountain Railway, which winds its way high into the Beacons National Park (return fare included in tour cost)./nThe Brecon Mountain Railway was conceived over 40 years ago with construction starting in the late 1970s./nThe railway opened to passengers in June 1980 using the engine 'Sybil' and one carriage./nCyfarthfa Castle was a pivotal location in the industrial revolution./nToday it is a fascinating museum and park with narrow gauge railway and glass house. /n
Day 5 - Return Travel
Seabank Hotel
Porthcawl’s most prominent building is situated on a headland, a short walk from the Grand Pavilion and John Street shops. There are spectacular views of the Bristol Channel and South Wales coast from the bar, restaurant and most bedrooms, making it an iconic destination for coach holidays to Porthcawl. At the Seabank Hotel in Porthcawl, all 91 bedrooms are centrally heated and have bath or shower and WC, hair dryer, TV, internal telephone and tea/coffee making facilities. Extensive public areas include the Smuggler’s Bar, Garden Restaurant and large function room with entertainment most evenings.