2026 also marks the Year of Croeso (welcome) in Wales as we celebrate and encourage visitors from across the world to explore the things that make us uniquely Welsh and find their moment of hwyl (joy and fun) - things that can only be experienced in Wales – from culture and language to our huge range of iconic attractions, accommodation, events and activities.
Wrexham is currently enjoying its increased profile as series 3 of Welcome to Wrexham launched in spring 2024. It follows the third season with Hollywood actors and club chairmen Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney. Follow their story on Disney+ and Hulu and meet some of the characters and discover more about this area of Wales. Wrexham is where the Football Association of Wales was founded in 1876 and a Football Museum for Wales and Wrexham Museum are due to open in 2026.
Following two years of extensive conservation and refurbishment, Caerphilly Castle, the biggest castle in Wales, has reopened the Great Hall and inner castle ward. There are also state-of-the-art digital exhibits, and improved accessibility to enhance the visitor experience. Phase two includes a new visitor centre, catering and toilets – completion date tbc.
Cadw’s Tour Operator Scheme
The Royal Mint Experience has introduced a new tour showcasing their innovative advancements, including pioneering gold recovery technology from old electronics. Your clients will explore Britain’s coinage history, from ancient to modern times, and see unique exhibits like Edward VIII’s coins. The tour also includes a collection of commemorative coins and highlights The Mint’s transformation into an innovation hub after ceasing overseas coin production in December 2024. With over £17 million invested in new ventures such as luxury jewellery and precious metals, the tour offers a glimpse into the exciting future of this iconic institution.
The Royal Mint Experience, A Welsh Coal Mining Experience, and Hensol Castle Distillery form part of the Coin Coal and Cheers Package.
Newport Transporter Bridge will open early 2026 as an innovative attraction experience with a new visitor centre, café and toilets, shop and exhibition space. It is one of the most complete surviving transporter bridges, and only one of 6 remaining in the world.
Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railways have launched guided tours of their 200 year-old Boston Lodge Engineering Works. It is the oldest continually operating railway engineering works in the world. The guided tour is led by a railway volunteer, and it highlights the people involved through the years and the locomotives and carriages that were built there. Also highlighted is the railways’ role in the community and how they have shaped railway developments around the world. The tour begins at Porthmadog’s Harbour Station and includes a short train journey across the Cob embankment to the works. The railway was awarded best attraction at the National Tourism Awards for Wales 2025. Download the free ‘FfWHR Explore’ app.
National Slate Museum is planning a transformation which will revitalise the much-loved museum, ensuring that the historic buildings and globally significant collections are preserved for future generations to enjoy the incredible story of slate. To carry out these important renovations and updates safely, the museum is temporarily closed until 2026 and will reopen with a refreshed and enhanced museum experience.
Elan Valley Lakes Project is a £21.7m investment to strengthen the sustainable tourism offer in Mid Wales, creating a world-class destination and transforming the visitor experience. The investment will enhance biodiversity and minimise environmental impact through low carbon development and the use of renewable energy sources, contributing to Welsh Water’s journey to net zero emissions.
The Elan Valley visitor centre redevelopment will include an exhibition and multimedia experience, including a Planetarium to celebrate the importance of the Elan Valley as an International Dark Skies Park. New facilities include a new café with panoramic views over the dam – with its spectacular waterfall when in full spill.
Celtic Rainforest Walking Trail - a new self-guided Celtic Rainforest walking trail around Cnwch wood with new signage and interpretation guiding visitors around the Celtic Rainforest.
Preseli Venture has undergone a momentous transformation. The launch of their new online booking platform for Pembrokeshire’s best outdoor adventure activities was closely followed by the opening of their first refurbished self-catering holiday rental, the Eco Barn, a spacious luxury 4 bedroom house with wonderful views out over the coast and countryside from the upstairs living room and balcony. New Courtyard Cottages have also been launched - Loom Cottage, a one bedroom cottage named from the sweep light of Strumble Head lighthouse, and the 4 bedroom Penbwchdy cottage. A further 2 cottages are to follow in 2026. The Eco Barn has recently joined the Rarebits Collection, representing a portfolio of top-quality accommodation throughout Wales, and is included in their Rare Hideaways guide.
Zip World Llechwedd has introduced an enhanced Deep Mine Tour that immerses visitors in the rich history of the mine through an interactive journey. Your clients will descend on Europe’s steepest cable railway, explore the mining heritage with a local guide, and experience the history through 10 impressive slate chambers. The tour includes interactive elements, state-of-the-art AV projections, and concludes with a light show over an underground lake.
Pandy Farm, nestled in the hills near Bala in North Wales, is offering a new farm experience including a thrilling sheepdog experience, working with both sheep and lively runner ducks. The tour offers a unique and authentic glimpse into the daily life of Erin McNaught, a young fourth-generation hill farmer, a well-respected female figure in the agricultural world and known for her appearances on national TV. One or two hour tours are available and suitable for groups up to 30. Two groups of 30 (60 at once) can be accommodated subject to availability and tours can be tailored to your client’s needs.
Good Day Out offers immersive days out in the Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) National Park including Sheep Dog demonstrations. Now available for both FITs and larger groups, including coach tours. The demonstrations are led by the experienced Sheep Dog trainer, Ross Games, who regularly competes at trials for Wales. For FITs, the demonstrations last between 60-90 minutes, providing ample time for your clients to witness the impressive skills of the working dogs and even interact with them. For larger groups, such as coach tours, the sessions are shorter, lasting about 30-40 minutes, but still offer a comprehensive display of the dogs' training and abilities at various stages. Piggy walks, and Mini donkey walks are also an option.
The British Bird of Prey Centre is moving from the National Botanic Garden Centre of Wales to a new home in Idole, near Carmarthen, accessible to public transport. Opening in October 2025 it will offer a unique opportunity for your clients to get up close and personal with native birds - perfect for bird lovers and nature enthusiasts. This all-weather site features an indoor flying arena, an interactive activity centre, a café offering homemade and locally sourced produce and a play area.
The Vale of Rheidol Railway has been named among the top ten percent of world tourist attractions in the 2025 TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards, based on visitor reviews over the past 12 months. Operating since 1902, the heritage railway offers a scenic 12 mile (19 km) journey from Aberystwyth to Devil’s Bridge, through the dramatic Cambrian Mountains. Groups rates are available and visits can be tailored with additional talks, guided walks and tours by prior arrangement.
Loving Welsh Food now offers fun Welsh cake demonstration and hands-on workshops for groups at Tabernacle, a Grade II* listed Welsh-language Baptist chapel in Cardiff. Led by Nerys Howell (TV chef, broadcaster, and author with over 30 years of experience) your clients will receive an introduction to Welsh food heritage and learn how to make their very own Welsh cakes. Workshops are available for groups from 8 to 40 people and lasts approx. 1 to 1.5 hours - depending on size of the group.
Pure Wales, a new Welsh tour operator launches with Travel Trade rates offering unique local experiences. Their A Taste of Wrexham tour includes a Wrexham Lager tasting paired with a small plates menu at the Bank Bar & Bistro, a visit to St Giles's Church, a cocktail at Vault 33 (owned by ex-Wrexham player Neil Roberts), and a tour of the famous Wrexham Lager Brewery, with a cone of Fish & Chips to end the day. This runs every Thursday for maximum of 12 guests and is now open for Travel Trade bookings. Bespoke and private group options are available. Pure Wales has also launched Wales in a Week, a guaranteed small group departure from Cardiff (maximum 18 people), running every Sunday for 7 nights from May to September. This offers an immersive week-long journey through the best of Wales, ending in Wrexham.
Dylan’s Restaurants are a family of five award winning waterside restaurants, serving locally sourced produce and seafood, in the beautiful coastal towns of Menai Bridge, Criccieth, Llandudno and Conwy in North Wales. Their latest restaurant to open is in Barmouth. They also offer cookery school experiences, including breadmaking, cocktail making, game and fish preparation and cake making - all with a Welsh sense of place. They can offer bespoke evenings for your clients with a menu using local produce and the opportunity to meet local suppliers – all with a story to tell.
Transport for Wales (TfW) has launched unlimited off-peak four or one day travel passes. The Explore Wales, Explore North and Mid Wales and Explore South Wales passes offer 4 days of unlimited rail travel over an 8 day period, while the Explore West Wales and Explore Cambrian offer unlimited travel for one-day. Passes also include travel on selected TrawsCymru bus routes in addition to the rail network and are available on the TfW website or app.
The Celtic Collection has announced a partnership with the Retreats Group to expand their presence across South Wales and enhance the portfolio to include five prestigious properties in Pembrokeshire including Tŷ Milford Waterfront, the newly refurbished St Brides Spa Hotel, Twr y Felin Hotel, Roch Castle and Penrhiw Priory.
The Angel Hotel Abergavenny has been named best Foodie Hotel 2025 by The Times (4 star hotel, 31 rooms). It was recognised for its exceptional culinary offerings and commitment to providing guests with an unforgettable dining experience. The hotel is proud to be part of a family of local businesses ‘House of Caradog’ that share a passion for outstanding hospitality, sourcing and providing a range of exceptional products, unique and interesting events and memorable experiences. They also own The Angel Bakery, The Walnut Tree Inn (Michelin-starred restaurant), The Arts Shop & Chapel and Abergavenny Hotel (4 star, 20 rooms). They have teamed up with local businesses to offer special packages such as foraging breaks and White Castle Vineyard break.
Llandudno Bay Hotel (4-star, 61 rooms), an eco-friendly hotel where innovative technology drastically help reduce carbon emissions and energy costs. They are close to off-grid' during the summer months. As well as achieving a massive reduction in carbon emissions, the energy bills have been slashed by £90,000 in a year. The project has been such a big hit that it’s now going to be rolled out to the other hotels in the Everbright Group, including the Belmont Hotel (Llandudno), the Wild Pheasant Hotel and Spa (Llangollen) and Rossett Hall Hotel (near Wrexham).
The Royal George, Tintern, opened summer 2025 - a refurbished historic village pub with rooms, blends old-world charm and modern comfort. With original wood beams, signature rooms, and authentic cuisine, it offers a cosy retreat. Guests can relax by the fireplace, enjoy local brews, and explore nearby ruins, creating a welcoming, community-driven experience (20 rooms and 4 F&B outlets, awaiting grading).
The Imperial Hotel in Tenby has reopened following an extensive refurbishment by Crest Hotels Group. The Grade II-listed property now features redesigned rooms with views of South Beach, a new dining experience called Essence, and modern amenities. The hotel maintains its historic charm while offering contemporary comforts, making it a standout destination on the Pembrokeshire coast. The hotel currently has 52 rooms. Work on a new spa and additional family rooms will start this winter. Available for groups autumn and winter (Sunday – Thursday and Monday – Thursday including Christmas). Awaiting grading.
The Vale Resort has completed a £100,000 refurbishment of the Vale Spa, introducing new luxury relaxation zones including The Silent Cwtch, Chromatherapy Suite, Aromatherapy Cube, and a sociable lounge area overlooking the swimming pool. The spa now features Elemis products across its treatment menu and has launched an online booking system for treatments and half-day spa visits. Guests can also enjoy a refreshed food offering at the Vale Grill Restaurant and Spa Chai Cafe. (143 rooms, 4-star).
The historic Castle of Brecon Hotel built within the remains of Brecon Castle has opened after a £3m refurbishment. It is part of the Coaching Inn group. (40 rooms, awaiting grading).
Tŷ Glyn in Ciliau Aeron, near Aberaeron re-opened in April 2025 after a full refurbishment. The family-owned 19th century country hotel is 200 years old this year and offers a peaceful retreat surrounded by countryside with 13 rooms (including 2 family rooms and a king size suite), restaurant and 1876 Bar & Lounge. An additional 8-10 rooms and a spa is hopefully planned for phase two. The hotel has had numerous famous guests including Sir Hans Sloane, T. S. Eliot, Geoffrey Faber (Faber and Faber publishing company) and Gillian ("Bobby") Wilton-Clarke – one of 12 women to win the George Cross and then went on to compete at four Monte Carlo Rallies.
Old College Aberystwyth plans to open in spring 2026 as a mixed-use experience, culture & creative centre and attraction. This includes a 4-star hotel with 31 bedrooms and up to 200 capacity function space. Situated on the promenade this will be a significant addition to Aberystwyth as a destination resort.
Penmaenuchaf Hotel, Dolgellau which is now part of the Seren Collection has undergone refurbishment of its bedrooms, restaurant, bar and lounge spaces. The owners have retained the historic character of the property whilst building on its sense of place in the Eryri (Snowdonia) mountain landscape. Penmaenuchaf and its sister hotel the Grove of Narberth have been awarded a Michelin Key award. Great hotels to include in your luxury itineraries.
The 5-star Plas Pantyderi Manor joins the Rarebits Collection providing luxury self-catering accommodation with an option for a private chef in North Pembrokeshire.
