Cardiff, Tenby and beyond for a super summer in South Wales

Home to some of the finest beaches around, South Wales is the perfect destination for a staycation. There is loads to see and do in this picturesque part of the country, just pick one of the GWR destinations as your base and explore…

When it comes to summer holidays, there are certain requirements that we simply can’t do without: beautiful beaches, delicious ice cream, stunning landscapes and fun activities. Finding all these things together may seem impossible, but it’s easier than you think – just take a GWR train to one of the many destinations in South Wales.

Here you can find Blue Flag award-winning beaches, miles of stunning coastal paths and cute seaside towns and villages. Using the GWR network, you can travel to destinations, such as Swansea, Tenby and Port Talbot, that will be your springboard to exploring further afield.

Best beach

Take a GWR train to Tenby in Pembrokeshire and you’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to beaches. North Beach, Harbour Beach and Castle Beach all have a lot going for them and are easily accessed from the town centre, but when it comes to impressive views and acres of golden sand, Tenby’s South Beach really takes the biscuit. This Blue Flag award-winning stretch of coast has everything you need for a fun day at the seaside, including deck chairs and ice-cream vans, and boasts fantastic views of Caldey Island.
visitpembrokeshire.com

Top ice cream

If you’re looking to cool off, then a trip to an ice-cream parlour is a must. Head to Swansea to enjoy a cone at legendary Welsh-Italian company Joe’s. There you’ll find loads of the standard fare, including 99 cones, alongside sundaes and the parlour’s specialities, such as the mammoth knickerbocker glory, served with strawberries and mixed fruit.
joes-icecream.com

If you like water sports…

Remember to stay active, even when the sunshine is telling you otherwise. Visit Cardiff International White Water and try out some exciting aqua sports, including white water rafting, stand up paddleboarding, indoor surfing and more. It’s a fun and safe way to experience the thrill of the rapids.
ciww.com

Spot of hiking?

The Wales Coast Path is a continuous walking route that covers all 870 miles of the country’s coastline. Starting in Swansea, walk west, keeping Swansea Bay to your left, and follow the arching seafront towards Mumbles. You’ll not regret visiting this picturesque part of the country, with its Victorian pier, delicious seafood and world-class ice cream.
walescoastpath.gov.uk

Finest fish and chips

Summer by the seaside wouldn’t be complete without a helping of good old fish and chips. For some of the finest around, make your way via Great Western Railway to Port Talbot (between Cardiff and Swansea) and visit Franco’s on Aberavon Beach, which has been serving top-notch grub since the 1970s. It has a lovely outdoor seating area, perfect for enjoying the sea air while getting stuck in.
francochips.com