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Experience
Unwind

​Welcome to Mid Wales


​MWT is always receptive to enquiries from journalists, influencers and broadcasters who want to showcase Mid Wales to the world.

On this page you’ll find story ideas, itinerary suggestions, and press trip information to give you a flavour of why Mid Wales is the perfect place to visit, and to help you create some fantastic content. 

How we can help


​Our team at MWT are always happy to help you with story ideas, editorial suggestions, bespoke itineraries, organise interviews with tourism providers, and to make arrangements for press trips. We also have a vast image library for the region, and some great video footage too.

Like Visit Wales, we currently prioritise media enquiries from key markets including the UK, Ireland, Germany and the USA. 

Contact us to see if we can provide you with inspired media opportunities to help you and your audiences get to know Mid Wales.

We love to keep track of all the coverage that is generated for Mid Wales, and we ask you to send us copies of your features post-publication; pdfs or links to online coverage. 

Press Trips

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​To register your interest in taking part in a press trip to Mid Wales, please complete our Media Visit Request Form.

Please note: As a not-for-profit company we are unable to provide direct financial assistance for press trips, but we are supported by our wonderful MWT member businesses, who are often happy to provide complimentary accommodation, attraction entry, etc. in return for coverage. We will organise this and liaise with them on your behalf. Mid Wales Tourism members are a collective of 550+ places to stay, visit and explore, all on www.visitmidwales.co.uk 

​If you would like to arrange a press trip which includes a financial contribution from our members, we ask that you have a confirmed commission from a recognised publication or social media site prior to contacting us. 

If you are looking for further financial assistance for a press trip, may we suggest that you contact Visit Wales (the national tourism team of Welsh Government), and let them know you would like to visit Mid Wales for your press trip. Their website has detailed guidance about what costs may be covered and excluded in a Visit Wales or VisitBritain supported press trip >>See their website here.
Press trips - the small print
Travel Expenses / Rental Cars

All participants on a MWT Cymru (Mid Wales Tourism) supported press trip to Wales are responsible for their own travel expenses. Unfortunately we are unable to arrange hire of rental cars for journalists/influencers, or reimburse you for the costs of rental or petrol. 

​Travel Insurance

All participants on a MWT Cymru (Mid Wales Tourism) supported press trip to Wales are responsible for their own personal travel/car insurance and any other insurances as required.

Other Costs

Unless otherwise stated by MWT, please assume that all costs are to be paid directly by the individual, e.g. personal items, snacks, gratuities. This is not an exhaustive list. Please do check with us if you're unsure, and do not assume expenses will be paid for. 

Film permits may be required at some locations and are the direct responsibility of the visiting journalist (including payment), although we may be able advise who to contact. We may not be able to accommodate spouses, partners or children or pets, but this will depend on the type of coverage expected.
Itineraries

We are happy to put together a bespoke itinerary for your trip. You may wish to take a look at our website, www.visitmidwales.co.uk, for inspiration. If a particular accommodation, attraction, place to visit grabs your attention, please let us know when completing the Media Visit Request Form.

>> A few tours and itineraries are suggested here.

We have also provided story ideas and inspiration by theme and area, below.
Shortlisting Facility

The Visit Mid Wales website has a handy shortlisting facility which you may find helpful. If you press the heart 'Add to Planner' button on a listing (highlighted below) it will save it to your shortlist, which you can save or print for reference.

Key Facts About Mid Wales

Mid Wales - the counties of Powys, Ceredigion and Southern Merionnydd - are distinctive parts of Wales.

From the foothills of Southern Snowdonia, to the western coast of Ceredigion,  the stunning landscapes of the Brecon Beacons and everywhere in between.
  • We have 2 National Parks: Eryri | Snowdonia and Bannau Brycheiniog | the Brecon Beacons.
  • We have 2 National Trails: Offa's Dyke Path that takes you through Mid Wales as part of a 177-mile journey, and Glyndwr's Way, 135 miles long; linking Welshpool, Machynlleth and Knighton (the only town in Wales that’s on two National Trails).
  • The Wales Coast Path is one of the few footpaths in the world to follow a nation's coastline.
  • The Cambrian Mountains comprises 467 square miles of Mid Wales and has some of the darkest skies in Europe. 
  • Mid Wales has the UK's first dedicated mountain bike trail centre at​ Coed Y Brenin.
  • There are over 200 listed buildings in Dolgellau - said to be the highest concentration of listed buildings in all of Wales. 
  • We have three Snowdonia railways named in the top 10 most scenic European rail journeys.

​Story Ideas & Inspiration by Theme

The list below is by no means exhaustive  – please get in touch with us to discuss any story ideas you may wish to explore.
Stargazing in the Brecon Beacons National Park
Dolphin Spotting Boat Trips on the Ceredigion Coast
The Centre for Alternative Technology - a world-renowned eco centre
Mid wales, by trails

​Press trips can vary depending on the request, but may tie in with Visit Wales' latest marketing campaigns (such as their Years of… initiatives). The regional marketing we undertake for Mid Wales always aims to dovetail and support the national campaign. 2023 is the Year of Trails.

Mid Wales is the perfect place to reacquaint yourself with an established trail, or discover a brand new one.
Val Hawkins, chief executive of MWT Cymru (Mid Wales Tourism), believes the theme, which encourages both visitors and residents to explore epic trails, is perfectly suited to Powys, Ceredigion and  Southern Snowdonia.

Visit Wales, the tourism arm of the Welsh Government, wants trails to be the springboard into exciting experiences and new opportunities. The theme aims to encourage visitors and residents to find forgotten treasures, embrace journeys of the senses and make memories along pathways around attractions, activities, landscapes and coastlines...

Mid Wales has many areas with truly Dark Skies protected from light pollution, where people can enjoy the wonders of stargazing. The Elan Valley is an International Dark Sky Park, the Cambrian Mountains has many accessible Dark Sky Discovery Sites and both the Brecon Beacons and Snowdonia National Parks have been designated International Dark Sky Reserves.

Many existing walking, running and cycling trails across Mid Wales offer fantastic opportunities to explore the great outdoors. For example, the region includes sections of Offa’s Dyke Path,  Glyndŵr’s Way, the Cambrian Way and the Wales Coast Path.
 
The region is also perfect for water-based trails including kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, coasteering, surfing, rafting and wild swimming. Mucky trails could include gorge walking, assault courses, paintballing, bog snorkelling and wild running.
 
For those interested in trails on wheels, Mid Wales has ideal locations for mountain biking, cycling, quad biking and guided off-road motorcycling. High and low trails comprise climbing, abseiling,  caving / potholing and zip lining.
 
In addition to walking trails, there is geocaching, orienteering, foraging, birdwatching and running.
 
Wildlife is another big visitor attraction and Mid Wales has many nature reserves, rivers, lakes, two National Parks and the Cambrian Mountains within its catchment. Tourism businesses are being encouraged to create trails celebrating their nearby flora and fauna, which might include the once Red Kite, osprey, bottlenose dolphins and otter.​

Read full press release here
spring in Mid Wales
A round-up of events in Mid Wales to put a spring in your step: 
Visit Mid Wales this Easter (2024)
Visit Mid Wales this Easter | Visit Mid Wales (2023)

A few of the best places to stay and visit in Mid Wales (Spring 2022): Spring Highlights in Mid Wales | Visit Mid Wales

​February Half-term highlights 
​Half term highlights in Mid Wales (2024)
Mid Wales family friendly things to do this half term (2023)

St Dwynwen's Day & Valentine's Day Inspiration: 
Fall in love with Mid Wales on St Dwynwen's Day
​Stay & Dine in Mid Wales (2024)
​Stay & Dine in Mid Wales (2023)

winter in mid wales
Feeling festive at The Lion Art Hotel & Restaurant
Snowfall at Gregynog Hall & Gardens
Hibernation Gin at Dyfi Distillery

Hot tubs, log fires, empty beaches and a warm Welsh welcome; we have a round-up of some of the cosiest places to stay in Mid Wales.
This is Winter in Mid Wales: Cosy Accommodation | Visit Mid Wales

Take a break from your Christmas preparations and treat yourself to a festive afternoon tea in Mid Wales.
This is Winter in Mid Wales: Top Ten Festive Afternoon Teas | Visit Mid Wales

​From the foothills of Southern Snowdonia to the striking landscapes of the Brecon Beacons, Offa’s Dyke to the spectacular Ceredigion coast and everywhere in between, this is Mid Wales at its wintry best.
Cobwebs, what cobwebs? Wintery walks in Mid Wales | Visit Mid Wales
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Year of outdoors
Press trips can vary depending on the request, but may tie in with Visit Wales' latest marketing campaigns (such as their Years of… initiatives). The regional marketing we undertake for Mid Wales always aims to dovetail and support the national campaign. 2021 was the Year of Outdoors.

Mid Wales is the perfect place to try something new, experience rural life and enjoy the great outdoors.

Try your hand at clay pigeon shooting, a falconry experience, or bird watching in one of the region's many nature reserves.  Relax and enjoy our rivers, reservoirs or coast with a day's fishing, or a dolphin spotting boat trip.

Walking, cycling or pony trekking in the hills is a great way to take in the stunning scenery. Walking and hiking trails can be found throughout the region including long distance national trails, the Wales Coast Path, and nature trails in and around one of Mid Wales' forests, lakes, canals or rivers.  
Travel Routes
Take the scenic route. 
Walking in the Cambrian Mountains
Talyllyn Railway
Mountain Bike Wales
Walking

Mid Wales has three official Long Distance Footpaths – The Wales Coast Path, Offa’s Dyke and Glyndwr’s Way. There are also a selection of routes such as the Severn Way that start in the area, and the Cambrian Way that crosses the Cambrian Mountains.
Cycling & Mountain Biking
  • Mid Wales has the UK's first dedicated mountain bike trail centre at Coed Y Brenin, which has gradually evolved from natural forest trails, to the extensive network of all weather routes which you can enjoy today.
  • The Trans Cambrian Way​ is a long distance mountain bike route that snakes its way through the heart of mid Wales, and climbs over the oldest mountain range in Europe, the Cambrian Mountains.
  • Mountain Bike Wales can help you find your way; they have over 20 years guiding experience in both the UK and Europe, and their knowledge and experience of Wales will ensure you have a real mountain biking adventure across one of Britain's last remaining wild landscapes.
  • Mid Wales also has Wheely Wonderful Cycling holidays with Kay and Chris Dartnell. Award winning cycling holidays, excellent accommodation, luggage transported, detailed route guides and a full back up service. This area of Wales offers some of the best cycling holidays in Europe.
  • View Guided Biking options
  • View more Biking and Cycling ideas here
  • (Feb 2021) Research has revealed Britain’s most cycle-friendly areas and Gwynedd has made it into the top ten. Compare the Market looked at the number of cycling routes, road conditions, road traffic and the number of 5* TripAdvisor listings reviews for cycle routes to determine the safest and most challenging areas of the UK. 

Heritage Railways

Climb aboard one of our scenic railways and see Mid Wales from a different perspective. The Cambrian Coast line was named by the Guardian as one of the world's top ten epic train journeys.
​Three Welsh railways in Which? top 10 most scenic European rail journeys - MWT Cymru

Rivers

Visiting the central uplands of Mid Wales - the 'Cambrian Mountains' you'll find one of the great unspoilt landscapes in the UK.  The source of two major rivers -  River Wye and River Severn - are to be found here.

Experience one of Mid Wales' river valley routes - the Wye Valley Walk and the Severn Way. 

Walk to the source of the River Severn in the Hafren Forest, Llanidloes.

Canoe down the River Wye.

Roads

Scenic drives to enjoy when visiting Mid Wales
environment, wildlife & NATURE
>> See MWT article: Mid Wales is a haven for rare wildlife in springtime
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​>> See press release: Connecting with the beautiful blue and green spaces of Mid Wales

The UNESCO DYFI Biosphere
One of the finest landscapes and wildlife areas in the whole of Europe, and the only internationally recognised UNESCO Biosphere in Wales.  
  • The Centre for Alternative Technology (CAT) is a world-renowned eco centre that demonstrates practical solutions for a sustainable future. The BBC team brought a much-needed dose of nature into our living rooms with Autumnwatch and Winterwatch programmes in 2020 and 2021, helping us to celebrate the magic of wildlife on our doorsteps.

  • ​RSPB Ynys-hir 
    ​The RSPB Ynys-Hir nature reserve is wildlife haven in the heart of Mid Wales. Located within the UNESCO Dyfi Biosphere, Ynys-hir has miles of trails, 7 view hides and has been awarded Ramsar, Natura 2000 and SSSI status.
  • Dyfi Wildlife Centre
    The 360 Observatory is the centrepiece of the reserve. At just 190m from the Osprey nest, it provides superb viewing opportunities and is a wonderful place to soak up the 360° panoramic views of the Dyfi Valley.

  • Bwlch Nant yr Arian 
    The Bwlch Nant yr Arian Visitor Centre is the starting point for a range of waymarked trails for walkers, mountain bikers, runners and horse riders. It is well-known for its long established tradition of daily feeding of red kites, Wales’ National Bird of Prey.
Ceredigion Coast & Countryside

​​From New Quay harbour, you can see the famous Cardigan Bay dolphins most days in the summer. Other important wildlife of the area includes rare chough, red kite, seabirds and grey seals. There are many unique wild flowers along the coastal path and a great diversity of marine life in the rock pools along the coast.
  • Mwnt Beach is a haven for wildlife, one of the best places in Ceredigion to spot dolphins and always popular for days out on the beach. 
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  • Devil's Bridge Falls  is a spectacular waterfall attraction at Devils Bridge in the heart of the Cambrian Mountains. It is one of the 'Must See' natural features in Wales, located 12 miles inland from the coastal town of Aberystwyth.

  • Denmark Farm Conservation Centre
    The Denmark Farm Conservation Trust is a unique conservation centre pioneering the restoration of biodiversity to Britain's farmed countryside.
    Wildlife & Nature Trails are located within the 40 acres of nature reserve, with amazing biodiversity and range of habitats.
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North Powys & Severn Valley
  • Lake Vyrnwy  
    The RSPB, in partnership with Hafren Dyfrdwy, manages part of the reserve as the largest organic farm in England and Wales and the Lake Vyrnwy Reservoir and surrounding estate is great for bird-watching. Lake Vyrnwy has been designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) as well as a Natura 2000 site.
    ​
  • Pistyll Rhaeadr Waterfalls 
    Pistyll Rhaeadr is often referred to as one of the Seven Wonders of Wales. The waterfall is formed by the Afon Disgynfa falling in three stages over a 240-foot cliff-face, into the Afon Rhaeadr below. The tallest stage is estimated at about 40 metres.
    ​
  • Llyn Clywedog Reservoir & Dam
    Llyn Clywedog provides a perfect habitat for wildlife. Buzzards and Red Kite are now a common sight, and there have even been occasional sightings of Ospreys. Mallard are attracted to the lake, while Tawney Owls, Pied Flycatchers and a whole host of Tits have established themselves in the woods bordering the shore.

  • Hafren Forest & Source of the Severn 
    On the edge of the Cambrian Mountains, 7 miles west of the market town of Llanidloes, Hafren Forest takes its name from Afon Hafren which is the Welsh name for the River Severn. A haven for wildlife, including rare birds ' buzzards, goshawks, red kites, merlins, sparrowhawk, jays, crossbills and nightjars ' and aquatic life ' nearly every native species of freshwater fish can be found in the waterways.​ Walking Trails in the forest include the 7 mile long Source of the Severn Trail that leads through the forest to the Severn's source on Pumlumon, the highest mountain in Mid Wales.
ESCAPE, REJUVENATION & WELLBEING
Relax in Mid Wales, a haven for wellbeing breaks.

Lake Vyrnwy Hotel and Spa in Powys has fantastic views across the lake. In Llandrindod Wells they have coined the phrase 'Llandrindod Wellness.' See their wellness films here. The Metropole Hotel & Spa in Llandrindod Wells has an 18m heated swimming pool with whirlpool spa and luxurious sauna and steamroom. View spas in Mid Wales here.

​Visit Denmark Farm Conservation Centre in Ceredigion and stay at Denmark Farm Eco Lodge. The Centre provides a base for exploring the wide variety of Mid & West Wales wildlife and countryside or simply as a rural retreat to rejuvenate mind, body and spirit.

Over the Rainbow, also in Ceredigion, is a vegetarian and vegan country house retreat in Cardigan Bay. The seclusion and peace of the house lends itself well to retreats, courses and workshops. An inspiring and creative space, practical for movement workshops.

Forest bathing was developed in Japan in the 1980s and the concept is simple: just by visiting a natural area and taking a leisurely walk, the Japanese believes that 'Shinrin Yoku' (forest bathing) has a wide array of health benefits. Mid Wales is full of open spaces, forests and nature so you can have a relaxing visit. 
adventure & activities
Corris Mine Explorers - ​award winning underground trips.
Coed - y - Brenin Mountain Bike Trails, Dolgellau
Yamaha off Road - Llanidloes
Discover adventures and activities in Mid Wales.

Mid Wales has an abundance of exciting things to do. Experience everything from kayaking to rock climbing, motor sports to high wire ropes courses.

Corris Mine Explorers, located in the foothills of Southern Snowdonia in Mid Wales, run underground trips that take you into parts of the old Braich Goch slate mine, hand-dug and worked by Victorian miners.

​At King Arthur's Labyrinth, aboard an underground boat, you can sail through the magical veil of a waterfall into a legendary world awash with stories of old; dragons, giants, fierce battles and the legendary King Arthur.
landscapes
Discover the landscapes of Mid Wales: nature reserves, RSPB sanctuaries, National Parks and Walking Trails, ancient woodlands, lakes, rivers and wide open spaces.

We have 2 National Parks - Snowdonia National Park and the Brecon Beacons National Park. 

Visiting the central uplands of Mid Wales - the 'Cambrian Mountains' you'll find one of the great unspoilt landscapes in the UK.  The source of two major rivers -  River Wye and River Severn - are to be found here.

Abergwesyn Commons, on the southern edge of the Mid Wales Cambrian Mountains, is a wild and ancient landscape with far-reaching views.

Try forest-bathing walks in Mid Wales forests, canoeing in the inland waterways, reservoirs and canals or mountain-biking through unspoilt landscapes.

The quiet Shropshire-Powys borderlands are famed for the quality of their local produce, castles, country houses and garden attractions, attractive market towns and excellent walking and cycling routes.
food & drink

Mid Wales has fabulous places to eat and drink, and award-winning restaurants.

Visit a Mid Wales vineyard, brewery and even a gin distillery.

Explore Mid Wales market towns with their traditional market halls, small independent shops, and sample local produce at one of the many farmers' markets across the region.

Eat, drink and shop in Mid Wales.
culture  & the arts
  • The National Library of Wales, Aberystwyth, is the biggest library in Wales, holding over 6.5 million books and periodicals, and the largest collections of archives, portraits, maps and photographic images in Wales.
  • ​MOMA WALES (Museum Of Modern Art, Wales) in Machynlleth, flourishes in four beautiful galleries alongside The Tabernacle, a former Wesleyan chapel which opened as a centre for the performing arts in 1986.

  • Gregynog Hall & Gardens, Tregynon, near Newtown, is a historic house with Grade 1 listed gardens. One of Wales’ premier country estates, and the former home of art collectors and public benefactors Gwendoline and Margaret Davies.

  • Andrew Logan Museum of Sculpture, Berriew - described as "The nicest and friendliest Museum in the UK". The Andrew Logan Museum of Sculpture was the first museum in Europe dedicated to a living artist. Andrew had always dreamed of opening a museum to share with the world his unique approach to life and art. 

  • Oriel Davies Gallery, Newtown - presenting world-class, thought-provoking and challenging art by national and international artists in an environment that is welcoming, engaging, informative and free.

  • At Newtown Textile Museum you can see how the handloom weavers of the mid-19th century lived and worked. The Robert Owen Memorial Museum, also in Newtown, tells the story of the man who inspired the Co-operative movement. 
    ​
  • Brecon Poetry Trail ​invites everyone to explore the streets, rivers and landmarks of the ancient Welsh town of Brecon and its connection to the myths and legends of the magical, mystical land of Wales.
walking
Aberystwyth, on the Wales Coast Path
Dragon Walking Holidays

​Mid Wales has three official Long Distance Footpaths – The Wales Coast Path, Offa’s Dyke and Glyndwr’s Way. There are also a selection of routes such as the Severn Way that start in the area, and the Cambrian Way that crosses the Cambrian Mountains.

The area around Knighton in Powys is perfect walking country. Knighton is unique in Wales in that two National Trails meet - Offa's Dyke Path and Glyndwr's Way. 

Visit The Offa's Dyke Centre in Knighton;  home of the Offa's Dyke Association. The Centre is your first port of call to find out about King Offa, his Dyke, the National Trail and the wider Welsh border region. Browse interpretive displays, visit the book and souvenir shop and then enjoy a tea or coffee with one of their famous cakes.

Glyndwr's Way is a 135 mile (217 Km) long National Trail through that takes you to some of the finest landscape features in Mid Wales including the Radnorshire Hills, the shores of the Clywedog Reservoir near Llanidloes and heather clad Pumlumon, which is the highest peak in the Cambrian Mountains.
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​Dragon Trails has been running fully catered guided walking holidays on the West Wales coast since 1999, based at a beautiful Georgian dower-house near Cardigan. 

For a walk with a difference, try animal trekking in Mid Wales.​
events & festivals
Royal Welsh Show
​The Royal Welsh Show in Mid Wales is one of the most prestigious events of its type in Europe, bringing together the farming industry and rural community in a 4-day celebration of the best of British Agriculture with a unique and very special ‘Welsh' flavour.

Numerous other events are also held at the Showground throughout the year, including The Smallholding and Countryside Festival, Royal Welsh Winter Fair, and Wonderwool Wales; the premier Wool & Natural Fibre Festival in Wales, held annually on the last weekend in April. First held in 2006 to promote the market for Welsh wool and add value to product for small wool & fibre producers in Wales, the festival celebrates the green credentials of Welsh wool and its versatility as a material for creative crafts, designer clothes, home furnishings and more. 

Llanwrtyd Wells is well known for holding really quirky events including the World Bog Snorkelling Championships and Man v Horse Competition. The Real Ale Wobble in November is a non-competitive event marking the beginning of the 10-day Mid Wales Beer Festival.​

If you would like to visit Mid Wales and experience an event for yourself, please contact us.
myths & legends
Near Dinas Mawddy, just south of Dolgellau, is a field known as Camlan. In this field, according to legend, King Arthur fought his final battle. At King Arthur's Labyrinth in nearby Corris you can climb board an underground boat and sail through the magical veil of a waterfall into a legendary world awash with stories of old; dragons, giants, fierce battles and the legendary King Arthur.

Located right next to King Arthur's Labyrinth, you can explore the outdoor attraction, Lost legends of the Stone Circle, where you'll find eight mythical stories hidden amongst the snaking paths of a simple maze.

Brecon's poetry trail invites everyone to explore the streets, rivers and landmarks of the ancient Welsh town of Brecon and its connection to the myths and legends of the magical, mystical land of Wales.

>> History, Heritage and Legends of Mid Wales
film & tv locations
If you are looking for film and TV locations in Mid Wales, please contact us.

In 2021 the Centre for Alternative Technology welcomed the BBC team for Winterwatch, following a fantastic fortnight of Autumnwatch in 2020.

Just some of the following films and TV dramas filmed in Mid Wales:
  • Llanrhaeadr y Mochnant was the base for ‘The Englishman who Went up a Hill but Came down a Mountain’ in 1995. Hugh Grant famously stayed at Lake Vyrnwy Hotel.
  • ITV's 'The Widow' starring Kate Beckinsale was partly filmed in the Brecon Beacons.
  • 'On Dangerous Ground' starring Rob Lowe, filmed in the Lake Vyrnwy area in 1995.
  • Kevin Bacon filmed ‘You Should Have Left’ in a holiday house near Llanbister.
  • Action scenes for ‘The Man From U.N.C.L.E’ were filmed near Dyffryn Castell pub, near Ponterwyd.
  • ‘The Dark Knight Rises’ used the Henrhyd Falls, Coelbren in the Brecon Beacons National Park as the entrance to the Batcave.
  • The Libertine: Johnny Depp starred opposite John Malkovich and Samantha Morton. The film was made at restored courtyard house Tretower Court near Crickhowell, which has origins in the 14th century.
  • Stardust, starring Michelle Pfeiffer, filmed scenes at  Llyn Fan y Fach, Brecon Beacons.
  • ‘American Werewolf in London’ used a pub in the village of Crickadarn, near Builth Wells as The Slaughtered Lamb in this famous film.
  • First Knight: The 1995 Camelot film starred Richard Gere and Sean Connery as Lancelot and King Arthur. Filming took place at Llanfair slate mines in Harlech, Trawsfynydd, and Gloddfa Ganol in Blaenau Ffestiniog.
  • Die Another Day: Penbryn Beach, Cardigan serves as a stand-in for North Korea in the 20th Bond film, directed by Lee Tamahori and starring Pierce Brosnan.
 
TV dramas
  • His Dark Materials: scenes filmed in a recreated a town at Llangynidr Quarry in Crickhowell
  • The Crown: scenes filmed in Aberystwyth
  • Da Vinci's Demons: scenes filmed at Abbey-Cwm-Hir Hall near Llandrindod Wells.
  • Hinterland: based in Aberystwyth, Devils Bridge and other parts of Ceredigion
  • A Discovery of Witches: scenes filmed at Llyn Fan y Fach, Brecon Beacons
  • Britannia, Britain's answer to Game of Thrones, scenes filmed at various locations including Coelbren, Henrhyd and Llyn Fan Fach.
  • The Widow, starring Kate Beckinsale, scenes filmed in the Brecon Beacons
  • Portmeirion Village provided the backdrop for the 1960's cult classic series, The Prisoner, starring Patrick McGoohan.
    In 2020, Portmeirion was featured in ITV series 'The Village,' celebrating the work of the men and women helping to run Portmeirion.
stargazing
Image credit: Dafydd Wyn Morgan, Cambrian Mountains Initiative

The first International Dark Sky reserve in Wales is situated in the Brecon Beacons. On a clear night, you can see the Milky Way, major constellations, bright nebulas and even meteor showers.

The Cambrian Mountains comprises 467 square miles of Mid Wales and boasts some of the darkest skies in Europe. The Elan Valley Reserve achieved International Dark Sky Park status (silver tier) in 2015 and became the first privately owned but publicly accessible park in the world to do so.

>> View the Cambrian Mountains Dark Sky Guide

Story Ideas & Inspiration by Area

Snowdonia National Park
UNESCO Dyfi Biosphere
Mwnt Beach, Ceredigion
southern snowdonia
Snowdonia National Park is the largest National Park in Wales, with the highest mountain in England and Wales, and the largest natural lake in Wales.

Must See Attractions

  • Coed y Brenin
    The gateway to Coed y Brenin Forest Park. This site was Britain's first purpose-built mountain bike centre and it is still one of the sport's top destinations featuring work-class mountain bike trails, family walks, a cafe, cycle shop, all-ability play area and an easy access trail.

  • Portmeirion 
    Situated on a private peninsula overlooking stunning coastal scenery, the Italian Riviera meets rural Wales with a riot of colour and architectural styles at Portmeirion Village. Built by Sir Clough Williams-Ellis, Portmeirion is now one of Wales’ most popular tourist destinations.

  • Harlech Castle
    Harlech Castle crowns a sheer rocky crag overlooking the dunes far below, the peaks of Snowdonia rising as a backdrop.

  • Centre for Alternative Technology 
    In the stunning UNESCO Dyfi Biosphere in Mid Wales, The Centre for Alternative Technology (CAT) is a world-renowned eco centre that demonstrates practical solutions for a sustainable future.

  • Heritage Railways – Tal-y-llyn Railway & Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railway 
    The Ffestiniog Railway is the oldest independent railway company in the world, established in 1832.

Coed y Brenin
Portmeirion
Centre for Alternative Technology
Featured Places to Visit
  • Barmouth
    Barmouth is southern Snowdonia's most popular seaside resort with breathtaking views of Cardigan Bay and the picturesque harbour.

  • Dolgellau 
    Dolgellau has more listed buildings than any other town in Wales - more than 200 of them. Some of the most elegant date back to Dolgellau's time as a regional centre for the Welsh woollen industry.

  • Bala 
    Bala and Penllyn has dramatic scenery with mountains almost touching 3,000 ft high, deep valleys, fast flowing streams, rivers, waterfalls, forests and many lakes. 
    ​
  • Aberdyfi 
    Quaint old streets rise up to spectacular viewpoints whilst in the heart of the village you can enjoy browsing in specialist boutiques and art galleries or dine in exceptional inns and restaurants. Or you can simply sit in this idyllic setting and relax.
    ​​
Barmouth
Bala and Penllyn
Aberdyfi / Aberdovey
Featured Scenic Places
Getting Here & Around / Travel Options: 
Cambrian Coast Line: Machynlleth - Porthmadog 
Mid Wales by Bus:  
  • T3: Wrexham to Barmouth 
  • T2 Bangor – Porthmadog – Dolgellau -Machynlleth 
  • T12: Wrexham – Newtown – Barmouth 
Nearest Airports: Manchester, Liverpool, Birmingham 

Nearby Areas:
UNESCO Dyfi Biosphere, North Powys – Lake Vyrnwy - Berwyn Mountains, Severn Valley ​​​
 aberystwyth & Unesco dyfi biosphere 
Aberystwyth
The Centre of Alternative Technology

​Stroll along the Victorian seafront promenade in Aberystwyth, one of the principal towns along the West Wales coast.

Visit The UNESCO Dyfi Biosphere Reserve, one of the finest landscapes and wildlife areas in the whole of Europe, and the only internationally recognised UNESCO Biosphere in Wales.  The Reserve cradles the west of Powys, Ceredigion north of Aberystwyth, and the southern edge of Snowdonia National Park.

​Must See Attractions
​
  • Centre for Alternative Technology
    In the stunning UNESCO Dyfi Biosphere in Mid Wales, The Centre for Alternative Technology (CAT) is a world-renowned eco centre that demonstrates practical solutions for a sustainable future.

  • National Library of Wales 
    The biggest library in Wales, holding over 6.5 million books and periodicals, and the largest collections of archives, portraits, maps and photographic images in Wales.
    ​
  • ​RSPB Ynys-hir
    A wildlife haven in the heart of Wales, awarded Ramsar, Natura 2000 and SSSI status. 

  • Dyfi Wildlife Centre
    The 360 Observatory is the centrepiece of the reserve. At just 190m from the Osprey nest, it provides superb viewing opportunities and is a wonderful place to soak up the 360° panoramic views of the Dyfi Valley.

  • Bwlch Nant yr Arian 
The Bwlch Nant yr Arian Visitor Centre is the starting point for a range of waymarked trails for walkers, mountain bikers, runners and horse riders. It is well-known for its long established tradition of daily feeding of red kites, Wales’ National Bird of Prey.

National Library of Wales, Aberystwyth
Idris & Chicks 2020
Image Credit: Dyfi Wildlife Centre
Bwlch Nant-yr-Arian
Featured Places to Visit
  • Aberystwyth 
    Aberystwyth is a University town and the largest town in Mid Wales, home to the National Library of Wales. For the best view of the town climb the steep Constitution Hill, either on foot or aboard the Aberystwyth Cliff Railway; the longest funicular electric railway in Britain.

  • Borth & Ynyslas 
    Located 7 miles north of Aberystwyth, Borth  boasts a Blue Flag Beach with over two miles of golden sand as it stretches northwards to Ynyslas. The Wales Coast Path passes through Borth village. Ynyslas sand dunes are located slightly north of Borth and reach onto the Dyfi Estuary, part of the Dyfi National Nature Reserve and home to many rare plants and animals.

  • Machynlleth 
    A  market town with a quirky, eco-friendly vibe nestled within the UNESCO Dyfi Biosphere.

  • Aberdyfi 
    Quaint old streets rise up to spectacular viewpoints whilst in the heart of the village you can enjoy browsing in specialist boutiques and art galleries or dine in exceptional inns and restaurants. Or you can simply sit in this idyllic setting and relax.
    ​​​
Barmouth
Machynlleth
Aberdyfi / Aberdovey
Featured Scenic Places
Getting Here & Around / Travel Options
​Cambrian Coast Line: Aberystwyth - Machynlleth 
Mid Wales by Bus:  
Nearest Airports: Birmingham, Manchester 

Nearby Areas
Southern Snowdonia, Ceredigion Countryside & Coast
ceredigion countryside & coast
​Great for walking, wildlife and dolphin spotting.
Llanerchaeron
Dolphin Spotting Boat Trips
Devil's Bridge

Must See Attractions:  
  • Llanerchaeron Estate 
    The Llanerchaeron Estate near the coastal town of Aberaeron is managed by the National Trust. It is a traditional welsh estate with a villa, servants' quarters, stables, farm buildings and walled garden.

  • The Rhiannon Welsh Gold Centre 
    Welsh gold, the gold of royalty, is no longer mined and is therefore considered some of the most valuable gold in the world. 

  • Cardigan Castle
    Cardigan Castle has been lived in for 900 years and bears the marks of many ages ranging from medieval to Civil War, Georgian to Victorian right up to the present day with the 21st century glass and slate restaurant.

  • New Quay Dolphin Spotting Boat Trips 
    New Quay is situated at the heart of Cardigan Bay where hundreds of bottlenose dolphins are resident in the waters along the Ceredigion Marine Heritage Coast between April and October and to a lesser degree all year round. 

  • Devil's Bridge Falls 
    Devil's Bridge Falls is a spectacular waterfall attraction at Devils Bridge in the heart of the Cambrian Mountains. It is one of the 'Must See' natural features in Wales, located 12 miles inland from the coastal town of Aberystwyth.
    ​
  • Bwlch Nant yr Arian 
    The Bwlch Nant yr Arian Visitor Centre is the starting point for a range of waymarked trails for walkers, mountain bikers, runners and horse riders. It is well-known for its long established tradition of daily feeding of red kites, Wales’ National Bird of Prey.​​
Aberystwyth
​
Featured Places to Visit: 
  • Aberystwyth 
    Aberystwyth is a University town and the largest town in Mid Wales, home to the National Library of Wales. For the best view of the town climb the steep Constitution Hill, either on foot or aboard the Aberystwyth Cliff Railway; the longest funicular electric railway in Britain.

  • New Quay  
     A picturesque town on the Mid Wales coast. From the harbour, you can see the famous Cardigan Bay dolphins most days in the summer. 
    ​
  • Aberaeron 
    Aberaeron's Georgian architecture was deemed so picturesque that it was featured on postage stamps. This fishing village is world famous for the quality of its honey (plus honey ice-cream and honey mustard produced locally) and also features prominently on the Dylan Thomas trail.

  • Cardigan 
    The town's buildings are predominately Georgian and Victorian in style, many of which are in use as boutiques, traditional shops, inns and places to eat and drink. There is a wealth of local food producers in the surrounding area, and their produce is found on many menus throughout the town. 

Mwnt Beach
New Quay
Tresaith Beach, Cardigan

Featured Scenic Places: 
  • Cenarth Falls 
​Getting Here & Around / Travel Options:
Cambrian Coast Line: Aberystwyth - Machynlleth 
Mid Wales by Bus:  
Nearest Airports: Cardiff, Birmingham 

Nearby Areas:
Central Powys – Cambrian Mountains
south powys & brecon beacons
Brecon Beacons National Park lies on the border between Mid Wales and South Wales & covers an area of 520 square miles. The area includes the Fforest Fawr UNESCO Global Geopark and is an International Dark Sky Reserve

Must See Attractions:  
  • Dan yr Ogof National Showcaves of Wales
    The 3 different caves Dan-yr-Ogof, Cathedral Cave and Bone Cave each offer a unique underground experience. Come face to face with over 200 life-sized dinosaur models, and visit the gentle giants at the Shire Horse Centre. 1 ticket, 10 attractions!

  • Llangorse Multi Activity Centre
    Llangorse Multi Activity Cerntre is Wales’ multi-award-winning Indoor and Outdoor activity centre. Experience Pony Trekking to Rock Climbing.
    ​
  • Brecon Beacons Visitor Centre 
    ​    You’ll always find a warm welcome at the National Park Visitor Centre, often referred to locally as the Mountain Centre. A team of friendly and knowledgeable Information Officers are on hand all year round to help you make the most of your visit to the National Park.

Dan yr Ogof National Showcaves of Wales
Crickhowell

Featured Places to Visit: 
  • Brecon
    With two National Trails and a National Park, this is fabulous walking country.

  • Crickhowell 
    Crickhowell is a picturesque town in the beautiful Usk Valley and lying to the south of the Black Mountains, the eastern range of the Brecon Beacons National Park.

  • Hay-on-Wye 
    Hay-on-Wye - in Welsh 'Y Gelli Gandryll' or just 'Y Gelli' is well known as 'the town of books'. It is home to the Hay Literature Festival which brings some 80,000 writers, publishers and literature fans from all across the world to this small market town in south-east Powys in late May each year.

  • Llanwrtyd Wells 
    Llanwrtyd Wells is well known for holding really quirky events including World Alternate Games, Bog Snorkelling and Man v Horse Marathon.
Featured Scenic Places: 
Getting Here & Around / Travel Options: 
Mid Wales by Bus:  
T4: Cardiff - Newtown 
Nearest Airports: Cardiff, Birmingham. Bristol 

Nearby Areas: 
​Central Powys – Cambrian Mountains ​
central powys & cambrian mountains
Great for walking and wildlife.  ​
Elan Valley Estate
Hergest Croft Gardens
The Judge's Lodging


Must See Attractions:  
  • Elan Valley Estate & Visitor Centre 
    Elan Valley is just 3 miles from Rhayader on the southern edge of the Cambrian Mountains in Mid Wales. The area is famous for its spectacular dams and Victorian architecture and it is also a designated International Dark Skies Park, perfect for stargazing. There is a large Visitor Centre at Elan Valley which is a good starting point for your visit.
  • Hergest Croft Gardens 
    Created over 100 years by three generations of the Banks family, there are hidden valleys, woodland glades, open parkland, gloreous flower borders and striking autumn colour.

  • The Judge's Lodging, Presteigne
    Wander through the stunningly restored judge's apartments, study the books, sit in the judge's chair, even pump water in the kitchen, for this is an historic house with a difference - you can touch! 

  • Want to Canoe? 
    River Wye Canoe Hire and Guided Adventure Tours.
    ​
Featured Places to Visit: 
  • Rhayader 
    First town on the River Wye, Rhayader is home to the spectacular dams and reservoirs of the Elan and Claerwen Valleys. Rhayader is said to be the oldest market town in Mid Wales. It is named after 'Rhayadr Gwy' a Welsh name for a local waterfall on the Wye. 
  • Llandrindod Wells 
    Llandrindod Wells, or 'Llandod' as it is known to locals, is Wales' most central town. It is one of the largest market towns in the area, holding an open-air market once a week on a Friday. The bandstand in Temple Gardens and several of the local hotels stand as testament to the identity of Llandrindod Wells as a typical Victorian Spa Town. This heritage is paid tribute to by the annual Victorian Festival. The National Cycle Museum is also in Llandod.

  • Knighton
    The area around Knighton in Powys is perfect walking country. Knighton is unique in Wales in that two National Trails meet - Offa's Dyke Path and Glyndwr's Way. A visit to the Offa's Dyke Visitor Centre on West Street is a must.  Knighton is also home to the Spaceguard Centre, an independent observatory which monitors the potential threat to our planet posed by near earth objects.

  • Presteigne
    Presteigne, (Llanandras in Welsh), was once the county town of Radnorshire and is at the heart of the Marches on the border of Wales and England. The surrounding countryside is breathtaking, and the drive from Presteigne to Aberystwyth was voted one of the ten most beautiful drives in the world by the AA. Just to the west are Radnor Forest and Offa's Dyke. Go slightly south west and you can browse the book shops of Hay on Wye. 

  • Builth Wells 
    Builth Wells, on the banks of the River Wye. The Royal Welsh Showground plays host to Wales's Royal Agricultural Show in July each year and any number of smaller shows and fairs throughout the year.
Featured Scenic Places: 
Getting Here & Around / Travel Options:
Heart of Wales Line: Shrewsbury - Swansea 
Mid Wales by Bus:  
T4: Cardiff - Newtown 
Nearest Airports: Cardiff, Birmingham.

Nearby Areas:
North Powys & Severn Valley,  South Powys & Brecon Beacons ​​
north powys & severn valley
Great for walking and wildlife.
Must See Attractions:  
  • Powis Castle and Gardens 
    Perched high on a rock above the world-famous garden terraces, Powis Castle, originally built circa 1200, began life as the medieval fortress of the Welsh Princes of Powys.
    ​
  • Gregynog Hall and Gardens
    Renowned Grade 1 listed formal gardens. Gregynog Hall houses a magnificent library. Courtyard cafe, situated in historic courtyard.
  • Montgomery Castle
    Situated above the town of Montgomery, the building of Montgomery Castle on a commanding hilltop position started in 1223. While much of the castle was destroyed following the Civil War, significant ruins remain. The site is managed by CADW.

  • Small Museums & Galleries 
    Andrew Logan Museum of Sculpture, Berriew - described as "The nicest and friendliest Museum in the UK". The Andrew Logan Museum of Sculpture was the first museum in Europe dedicated to a living artist. Andrew had always dreamed of opening a museum to share with the world his unique approach to life and art. 

    Oriel Davies Gallery, Newtown - presenting world-class, thought-provoking and challenging art by national and international artists in an environment that is welcoming, engaging, informative and free.

    Newtown Textile Museum and Robert Owen Memorial Museum.

  • Welshpool and Llanfair Railway 
    16 mile return journey by narrow gauge steam train through beautiful Mid Wales countryside
Featured Places to Visit: 
  • Montgomery
    Although Montgomery has a small population of around 1300 you won't find a livelier community; with cafes, inns and restaurants, 2 castles, numerous attractions, and the award-wining Monty's Brewery. It even has its own town crier.

  • Newtown
    The largest town in Powys. Newtown lies on the upper reaches of the River Severn, with hills visible in every direction. The town centre is a conservation area because of the rich variety of historic buildings, including the renovated Victorian Market Hall, the picturesque ruins of St Mary’s Church and the mysterious remains of a medieval motte and bailey. 
    ​
  • Machynlleth 
    A  market town with a quirky, eco-friendly vibe nestled within the UNESCO Dyfi Biosphere.

  • Welshpool
    An ancient market town, the gateway to Mid Wales and the Cambrian Coast. Home to Powis Castle and Gardens.

  • Llanidloes
    Llanidloes is the first town on the River Severn. You can walk to the source of the river from the Hafren Forest. The area is perfect for visitors that enjoy the great outdoors, wildlife enthusiasts, walkers and hikers, mountain-biking, cycling, and the surrounding Cambrian Mountains are perfect for stargazing with a number of locations designated Dark Sky Discovery sites. Nearby is the Clywedog Reservoir and Dam which is well-known for its excellent fishing, Glyndwr's Way National Trail, Hafren Forest and many stunning drives across the Cambrian Mountains.
    ​
Featured Scenic Places: 
  • Lake Vyrnwy  
    The RSPB, in partnership with Hafren Dyfrdwy, manages part of the reserve as the largest organic farm in England and Wales and the Lake Vyrnwy Reservoir and surrounding estate is great for bird-watching. Lake Vyrnwy has been designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) as well as a Natura 2000 site.

  • Montgomery Canal
    The Montgomery Canal, or ‘The Monty’ as it’s fondly referred to, stretches from Newtown to Llanymynech in Wales and continues over the border into England to Frankton Locks where it joins the Llangollen Canal.

  • Pistyll Rhaeadr Waterfalls 
    Pistyll Rhaeadr is often referred to as one of the Seven Wonders of Wales. The waterfall is formed by the Afon Disgynfa falling in three stages over a 240-foot cliff-face, into the Afon Rhaeadr below. The tallest stage is estimated at about 40 metres.
    ​
  • Llyn Clywedog Reservoir & Dam
    The lake has a surface area of 615 acres (230 football pitches), is 216 ft deep at its maximum depth and stretches in all a distance of some six miles.
    ​
  • Hafren Forest & Source of the Severn 
    Hafren Forest is a great place to experience the great outdoors.  On the edge of the Cambrian Mountains, 7 miles west of the market town of Llanidloes, Hafren Forest takes its name from Afon Hafren which is the Welsh name for the River Severn. Walking Trails in the forest include the 7 mile long Source of the Severn Trail that leads through the forest to the Severn's source on Pumlumon, the highest mountain in Mid Wales.

  • Glyndwr's Way National Trail
    Glyndwr's Way is an 135 mile (217 Km) long National Trail through that takes you to some of the finest landscape features in Mid Wales.

Getting Here & Around / Travel Options: 
Mid Wales by Bus:  
T4: Cardiff - Newtown 
Nearest Airports: Cardiff, Birmingham, Manchester 

Nearby Areas: 
​Central Powys & Cambrian Mountains, Southern Snowdonia, Aberystwyth & UNESCO Dyfi Biosphere

Photography & Film


​MWT has undertaken photoshoots around the region and we have a library of Mid Wales images, and some video footage for use as B-roll. Both are available without fee for non-commercial usage. Please contact us with what you're looking for. 

You can also register for access to search and download photography at assets.wales.com (Visit Wales' national image library - images from the whole of Wales).

CymruStock is also a great website for photography and footage.

If you are interested in filming at locations in Mid Wales, please contact us.
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Press Releases

Please contact us if you would like to receive press releases about Mid Wales from our Press Officer. We will be pleased to add you to our distribution list.

>>Press releases can be found here, in our Visit Mid Wales Blog.

Mid Wales Brand 

The essence of #RealMidWales is the truly unbranded travel destination for escapist dreamers and independent explorers. ​Real, authentic experiences. The ‘conscious traveller’ is at the heart of our marketing.

We support the brand strategy of Visit Wales which seeks to:
  • Elevate our status
  • Surprise and Inspire
  • Change perceptions
  • Do good things
  • Be unmistakably Wales.

The hashtags we use in Mid Wales are #RealMidWales and #VisitMidWales

Mid Wales Visual Signature is a template for taking distinctive Mid Wales photographs/video.

We are keen to work with journalists and publications that support our tone of voice and the brand vison we're aiming to build upon.

>> Read more about the Real Mid Wales brand and download our visual signature​

Contact Us

To contact us with enquiries, please e-mail: [email protected]

To register your interest in visiting Mid Wales on a press trip, please complete our Media Visit Request Form

For tourism research queries, please contact Visit Wales at: [email protected]

Businesses & organisations in Mid Wales: To send us your news, or to be considered for hosting future press trips, please join MWT as a member.

For general press enquiries relating to the tourist industry in Mid Wales (e.g. statements, tourism figures, comments from our CEO etc.) please email [email protected]