Ker & Downey - Wales Explorations - Final Information

Nicole

Monday 9th September – Friday 20th September 2024

Number of Travellers: 2
Duration: 12 Days / 11 Nights

Day by Day

Day 1 - Monday 9th September - Arrival into Wales & Conwy

Upon arrival into Manchester airport, collect your rental vehicle and drive to the heart of Conwy Valley, arriving at Bodnant Welsh Food for some classic local cuisine. Take a short drive to visit the smallest house in Great Britain, nestled at the end of a terrace of houses on the quayside. Pop inside for a nosy of this national treasure and experience the special atmosphere inside.

Walk down to the World Heritage Site and famous fortress of Conwy Castle to soak up this exceptionally preserved set of Royal Medieval apartments. Follow the footsteps of King Richard II as he took refuge from King Henry VI.

Pick up self arranged vehicle at Manchester Airport.

The Castle Hotel confirmation numbers:
Room 1: BK034512/2
Room 2: BK034512/1

Overnight: Conwy | The Castle Hotel & Restaurant
Room Type: Deluxe Suite

Day 1 - Flight Details Read More +

Travel Date: September 8, 2024 | Airline: Singapore Airlines | Flight Number: SQ51
Departure Airport: Houston | Departure Time: 06:45
Arrival Airport: Manchester | Arrival Time: 09:40

Flights lands into Manchester on 9th September

Day 1 - Car Rental Pick Up Details Read More +

Car Rental Company: Hertz
Booking Reference: K7984087732
Pick Up Location: Manchester Apt Delta Hotels by Marriott, Hale Road, Hale Barns, Manchester, WA15 8XW | Pick Up Time: 11:00
Phone: 843 309 3047

Car rental arranged by Nicole

Day 1 - Directions Read More +

Directions for Day 1 here 

Directions here 

Day 1 - Conwy Castle Read More +

Activity: Conwy Castle
Start Location: Conwy Castle

Conwy Castle is a 1 hour 45 minute drive from Manchester airport

Your entry time to Conwy Castle is flexible. Last admission 16:30pm

Parking: Castell Conwy does not have a car park, we recommend parking in the Castle Hotel car park and walking from there (4 minutes)

Please use your Explorer Pass for entry (PDF found in the additional information drop down)

Day 1 - The Smallest House Read More +

Activity: The Smallest House
Start Location: The Smallest House, Conwy
Phone: +44 (0)1492 573965

Entry to The Smallest House is non-bookable and cash only (tickets are £1.50pp)

Entry time is flexible

Smallest House is open until 6pm

The Smallest House is within walking distance of your hotel

 

Day 1 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: Castle Hotel, Conwy | Location: High Street, Conwy
Reservation Time: 19:00 | Booking Reference: DMN-16870019813
Phone: +44(0)1492 582800

Please note this is a table reservation only.  Please pay directly.

The name on the reservation is Nicole Porto.

Day 2 - Tuesday 10th September - Beaumaris, Halen Mon Salt, Caenarfon & Portmeirion

This morning drive over the Menai Bridge to the island of Anglesey and visit Beaumaris Castle, the last and greatest created by King Edward I. This formidable defence fortress tells a tale of the dream that never came true as the unfinished towers make this a special place of ambition and beauty.

Next, head to the banks of the Menai Strait to discover Halen Mon. Experience a guided tour and tasting of hand harvested sea salt and discover what makes it one of the world’s finest seasonings.

End the day at Caernarfon Castle, recognised as one of the greatest buildings of the Middle Ages. Unlike it’s neighbouring castles, Caernarfon is most impressive for it’s scale and architectural drama. Journey on to Portmeirion to draw the curtains on this enchanting village.

Castell Deudraeth confirmation number: BK067434/1

Overnight: Portmeirion | Castell Deudraeth
Room Type: Castle Grand Room
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 2 - Directions Read More +

Directions for Day 2 here

Parking:
– Beaumaris Castle – parking a few mins away
– Halen Mon – parking on site
– Caernarfon Castle – parking adjacent to castle at waterfront
– Castell Deudraeth – parking on site

Day 2 - Beaumaris Castle Read More +

Activity: Beaumaris Castle
Start Location: Beaumaris Castle, Castle St, Beaumaris LL58 8AP | Start Time: 09:30
Phone: +44(0)3000 252239

Beaumaris is a 45 minute drive from Conwy Castle Hotel. We recommend leaving at 08:45am to arrive at Beaumaris for opening time at 09:30am

Parking information: parking a few minutes walk away

Please use your Explorer Pass for entry (PDF found in the additional information drop down)

Day 2 - Halen Môn Salt Tour Read More +

Activity: Halen Môn Salt Tour
Start Location: Halen Môn, Brynsiencyn Isle of Anglesey LL6 16TQ | Start Time: 11:00 | Approx Duration: 1 hrs
Booking Reference: 6164729
Phone: +44(0)1248 430871

Halen Mon is a 30 minute drive from Beaumaris. Parking is on site. Please arrive 5 minutes before your tour begins.

Please see additional information for your tour ticket confirmation.

Day 2 - Caernarfon Castle Read More +

Activity: Caernarfon Castle
Start Location: Caernarfon Castle, Castle Ditch Caernarfon Gwynedd LL55 2AY
Phone: +44(0)1286 677617

Caernarfon Castle is a 30 minute drive from Halen Mon.

Your entry time to the castle is flexible.

Please use your Explorer Pass for entry (PDF found in the additional information drop down)

Day 2 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: Castell Deudraeth Brasserie | Location: Portmeirion, Minffordd, Penrhyndeudraeth Gwynedd LL48 6ER
Reservation Time: 19:15 | Booking Reference: BXAZQD3J
Phone: +44(0)1766 770000

Please note this is a table reservation only. Please pay directly.

We have made the reservation using our company card. Should any charges be incurred in conjunction with the below cancellation policy below, we will invoice these to you.

Cancellation policy: Any cancellation requests made within 24 hours of your booked time will result in a cancelation charge of £18pp being processed and a no show charge is £30pp

Day 3 - Wednesday 11th September - Hiking Snowdon - Guided

Today, meet your expert guide as you hike Snowdon, also known as Yr Wyddfa in Welsh, which proudly stands as the highest mountain south of the Scottish Highlands. Though its elevation of 3,560 feet may not compete with the giants of the world, Snowdon remains an impressive and rewarding peak. Choose from 6 different paths to reach the summit, re-fuel with a picnic lunch whilst admiring the views of the valleys below.

Transfer back to Portmeirion and raise a glass to celebrate summiting the highest mountain in England and Wales.

Overnight: Portmeirion | Castell Deudraeth
Room Type: Castle Grand Room
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 3 - Guide Details - Tom Hutton Read More +

Name: Tom Hutton
Contact Number: +44 (0)7974 912 479
Meeting Place: Castell Deudraeth | Meeting Time: 09:00

Your expert guide will meet you at the reception of your hotel before your day hiking Snowdon. You will be able to discuss the route and then drive in convoy to the destinations.

Day 3 - Breakfast Details Read More +

Restaurant: Castell Deudraeth
Reservation Time: 07:45

Day 3 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: The Portmeirion Hotel & Restaurant | Location: Portmeirion, Minffordd Penrhyndeudraeth Gwynedd LL48 6ER
Reservation Time: 19:15 | Booking Reference: BJGXHXYW
Phone: +44(0)1766 772440

Please note this is a table reservation only.  Please pay directly.

The name on the reservation is Nicole Porto.

We have made the reservation using our company card. Should any charges be incurred in conjunction with the below cancellation policy below, we will invoice these to you.

Cancellation policy: Any cancellation requests made within 24 hours of your booked time will result in a cancelation charge of £18 pp being processed and a no show charge: £30pp

Day 4 - Thursday 12th September - Cwm Idwal hike, Swallow Falls and Dolwyddelan Castle - Guided

This morning, journey North and meet your guide to walk along the dramatic scenery of Cwm Idwal. Explore the beautiful ice-sculpted formations and witness the crystal clear waters of Llyn Idwal in the hollows below.

Pass through the quaint village of Pont Cyfyng and reach Swallow Falls, a spectacular waterfall created by the river Llugwy flowing through a narrow chasm. The water is separated by a prominent rock giving the falls the resemblance of a swallow’s tail and see the picture perfect back drop of beech, conifer and birch trees.

After saying farewell to your guide, stop off along your way to the stunning coastal town of Portmeirion at the impressive Dolwyddelan Castle. Since the 13th Century and built by Edward I, this mountain Castle has been a stronghold with stunning views.

Your guide will arrange a meeting time and location with you the night before.

Overnight: Portmeirion | Castell Deudraeth
Room Type: Castle Grand Room
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 4 - Castell Dolwyddelan Read More +

Activity: Castell Dolwyddelan
Start Location: A470(T) Blaenau Ffestiniog to Betws-y-Coed, LL25 0JD

Visitor Notice:

The internal area of the castle is now open Friday, Saturday and Sunday & Bank Holidays 10am-4pm.  All other days, external viewing only.

There is no dedicated parking available – please do not use the car park near the farm house.

The pathway via the farm house to the castle is private property and there is no access to the castle via this route.

There is a layby on the A470 – 500m to the east of the monument with a public right-of-way.

Day 4 - Breakfast Details Read More +

Restaurant: Castell Deudraeth
Reservation Time: 07:45

Day 4 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: Yr Hen Fecws Restaurant | Location: Yr Hen Fecws, 16 Lombard Street Porthmadog LL49 9AP
Reservation Time: 19:30 | Booking Reference: R3DZCR
Phone: +44(0)1766 514625

Please note this is a table reservation only.  Please pay directly.

Name on the reservation is Nicole Porto.

 

Day 5 - Friday 13th September - Harlech Castle, Feed Red Kites and Pentre Ifan Burial Chamber

This morning visit Harlech Castle, known for it’s stunning surroundings amongst the rocky crags of the sea below and Snowdonia setting the scene behind. Enter Harlech over the floating footbridge, an easy feat today, unlike the many sieges this Castle historically withstood.

In the afternoon, perch yourself on a hilltop as you witness the long established tradition of feeding the red kites. Walk among the trails with remnants of the lead mining industry and look above the heather coated hills for the red kites to grace the skies.

Journey on to Pentre Ifan Burial Chamber for a mysterious journey to the Neolithic times when ancestors of this agricultural community buried their dead in these tombs and feel the haunting atmosphere amongst the hills.

Twr Y Felin confirmation number: 16749

 

Overnight: St Davids | Twr Y Felin Hotel
Room Type: Standard
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 5 - Breakfast Details Read More +

Restaurant: Castell Deudraeth
Reservation Time: 08:00

Day 5 - Directions Read More +

Directions here

Parking:
– Harlech Castle – pay and display car park on-site
– Bwlch Nant yr Arian Forest Visitor Centre – pay at ticket machine on arrival (£3 for 3 hours, £5 all day – cash or card, no change given -The ticket machine in the bottom car park takes coins and cards. The ticket machine in the top car park only takes coins)
– Pentre Ifan Burial Chamber – limited parking on lay-by outside
– Twr Y Felin – car park is located directly outside hotel

Day 5 - Harlech Castle Read More +

Activity: Harlech Castle
Start Location: Castell Harlech Harlech LL46 2YH | Start Time: 09:30
Phone: +44(0)3000 252239

Harlech Castle opens at 9:30am and is a 20 minute drive from Castell Deudraeth

Please use your Explorer Pass for entry (PDF found in the additional information drop down)

 

 

Day 5 - Woodland Walk & Red Kite feeding Read More +

Activity: Woodland Walk & Red Kite feeding

Start Location: Bwlch Nant yr Arian, SY23 3AB | Start Time: 15:00
Phone: +44(0)1970 890453

Bwlch Nant yr Arian is a 1 hour and 45 minute drive from Harlech Castle
The red kite feeding is free to watch

Tips for watching the red kite feeding

  • Make sure you arrive in time! The red kite feeding is at 2pm in winter (GMT) and at 3pm in summer (BST)
  • Follow the Barcud Trail easy access walking route around the lake to the viewing area
  • Continue past the viewing area to the large bird hide for close-up views of the kites swooping down to feed
  • The outside seating next to the café has views towards the lake and the red kite feeding area – this is a great place to watch the kites through your binoculars
  • Enjoy the spectacle from the café if the weather is bad
  • Find out more about red kites from the information boards in the bird hide and on the posts along the Barcud Trail

Day 5 - Pentre Ifan Burial Chamber Read More +

Activity: Pentre Ifan Burial Chamber
Start Location: Pentre Ifan Burial Chamber
Website: https://cadw.gov.wales/visit/places-to-visit/pentre-ifan-chambered-tomb

Pentre Ifan Burial Chamber is a 1 hour 35 minute drive from Bwlch Nant yr Arian

The burial chamber is free to enter

Closing time is 4pm and Last admission is at 3:30pm (access may be available after this time)

 

Day 5 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: GRAIN | Location: St Davids
Reservation Time: 19:30
Phone: +44 (0)1437 454321 | Website: https://grain.wales/st-davids/

This is a table reservation booked under Nicole Porto. Please pay directly.

GRAIN is a 7 minute walk from your hotel

Day 6 - Saturday 14th September - Exploring Pembrokeshire

Hike a section of the spectacular Pembrokeshire Coastal Path along the most varied coastal scenery in Britain. Twisting and turning for nearly 300km, there are plenty of magnificent views to enjoy along the cliff tops and beaches below. Rest your legs for a while at Pembroke Castle. Be fascinated by its tumultuous past, how its defenders narrowly avoided a siege by the Welsh and the unique cylindrical tower.

This afternoon, discover the hidden gem of Church Door Cove. Marvel at this geological wonder of a small sandy cove with towering cliffs cut by the sheer force of the sea, resembling doorways of a church.

Overnight: St Davids | Twr Y Felin Hotel
Room Type: Standard
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 6 - Breakfast Details Read More +

Restaurant: Twr Y Felin Hotel
Reservation Time: 08:00

Day 6 - Pembroke Castle Read More +

Activity: Pembroke Castle

Start Location: Pembroke Castle Pembroke Pembrokeshire SA71 4LA | Start Time: 13:00
Phone: +44(0)1646 681510

Day 6 - Directions Read More +

Directions to Pembroke Castle and Church Door Cove here

Hiking route suggestions here 9.0 km and here 7.7km

Parking:
– Pembroke Castle – pay and display down the road from the Castle
– Church Door Cove – parking W3W – ///shrubbery.cares.playroom or further walk away along path ///shuttled.readers.grace

Day 6 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: Really Wild Emporium | Location: 24 High St, St Davids, Haverfordwest SA62 6SD
Reservation Time: 20:30 | Booking Reference: 3996
Phone: +44 (0)1437 721755 | Website: https://www.reallywildemporium.co.uk/

The restaurant is a 6 minute walk from your hotel or there is free on-street parking after 6pm

This is a table reservation only for the tasting menu, booked under Nicole Porto.

Please pay directly.

We have made the reservation using our company card. Should any charges be incurred in conjunction with the below cancellation policy below, we will invoice these to you

Cancellation policy: No-shows or cancellations less than 2 days in advance will be subject to a charge of £30 per person

Day 7 - Sunday 15th September - Penderyn Distillery and The Brecon Beacons

Start your day learning about the home of Welsh whiskey and what makes Penderyn Distillery so special. A combination of the villages natural spring water and unique copper pots gives this once lost art a new lease of life.

Drive North through the Brecon Beacons and stop for a walk in this majestic National Park before arriving at your final stop in Wales, the picturesque Hay-on-Wye.

The Swan at Hay confirmation number: DBM311642801886003

Overnight: Hay-on-Wye | The Swan at Hay
Room Type: Classic

Day 7 - Breakfast Details Read More +

Restaurant: Twr Y Felin Hotel
Reservation Time: 08:00

Day 7 - Penderyn Distillery Read More +

Activity: Penderyn Distillery

Start Location: Penderyn Distillery Penderyn Rhondda Cynon Taf CF44 0SX | Start Time: 11:00
Booking Reference: ZMMV-260724
Phone: +44(0)1685 810 650

Your voucher and ticket is in the important information section of your final information document.  Please take this with you on the day.

Day 7 - Directions Read More +

Directions here

Parking:
– Penderyn Distillery – parking on site
– The Swan at Hay – small carpark to the rear of the hotel – please note that people have reviewed as tight. Permit parking out front is Mon-Sat 8am-6pm or one hour

Suggested Walk:
Four Waterfalls Walk – 8.8km circular – here – start at Gwaun Hepste car park (£6 per car) or Cwm Porth car park (approx £5 for day) – this is a 10 minute drive from the Distillery

Day 7 - Dinner Details Read More +

| Location: The Swan at Hay
Reservation Time: 19:00

This is a table reservation booked under Nicole Porto. Please pay directly.

Day 8 - Monday 16th September - Matlock Bath, Nine Ladies and Haddon Hall

Enjoy a relaxing morning exploring the quirky shops, cafes and amusements of Matlock Bath as you stroll along the Rive Derwent. It’s unique position in a limestone gorge with the charming promenade and tranquil atmosphere gives you a sense of peace in nature. Next visit the Nine Ladies Stone Circle from the Bronze Age, traditionally believed to depict nine ladies turned to stone as a penalty for dancing on Sunday.

End the day at Haddon Hall, a favourite location for film makers featuring tales of Jane Eyre, Pride and Prejudice and Elizabeth to name a few. Marvel at the Elizabethan Walled Gardens renowned for their beauty and structure.

Scotman’s Pack Hotel reservation number: 980-429-991

Overnight: Hope Valley | The Scotsman's Pack
Room Type: Twin Ensuite
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 8 - Directions Read More +

Directions here

Parking:
– Matlock Bath – there are a few pay and displays in town
– Haddon Hall – pay for parking at exit barrier of car park – (car park across other side of A6 – take care crossing)
– Nine Ladies – https://w3w.co/decorator.parsnips.saddens
– The Scotman’s Pack Hotel – small car park on site and on street parking

Day 8 - Haddon Hall Entry Read More +

Activity: Haddon Hall Entry

Start Location: Haddon Hall Bakewell Derbyshire DE45 1LA | Start Time: 14:00
Booking Reference: 149670
Phone: +44(0)1629 812 855

Please see the additional information drop down for your ticket PDF

Day 8 - Dinner Details Read More +

Pub: The George, Hathersage | Location: The George, Main Road Hathersage Derbyshire S32 1BB
Reservation Time: 19:30 | Booking Reference: DMN-16870028570
Phone: +44(0)1433 650436

Please note this is a table reservation booked under Nicole Porto.  Please pay directly.

The pub is a 8 minute walk from your hotel or there is parking on-site (barrier opens automatically – code to exit is on receipt)

 

Day 9 - Tuesday 17th September - Hiking Mam Tor

The most dramatic vista of the Peak District awaits as you climb Mam Tor. Once you reach the summit, enjoy views North over the Edale Valley to Kinder Scout and the Derwent Moors. Also called ‘The Shivering Mountain’ you’ll be rewarded with iconic topography views of Englands stunning landscape.

Overnight: Hope Valley | The Scotsman's Pack
Room Type: Twin Ensuite

Day 9 - Directions Read More +

Directions here

Parking:
– Castleton Car Park – Cross Street, Castleton, Hope Valley, Derbyshire, S33 8WH – pay and display or plenty of other parking around

Please additional information drop down for circular route map

Day 9 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: Bank House, Hathersage | Location: Bank House, Main Road Hathersage Hope Valley S32 1BB
Reservation Time: 19:00 | Booking Reference: BH96TXTH
Phone: 01433 449060

Please note this is a table reservation booked under Nicole Porto.  Please pay directly.

The restaurant is a 6 minute walk from your hotel.

Day 10 - Wednesday 18th September - Caving

Home to the highest natural cavern in the UK, enjoy winding your way through the twists and turns of passageways and exploring the caverns and tunnels of this labyrinth laden land. With your expert guide, explore the Subterranean caves and discover the impressive chambers that lead to stunning waterfalls and fine calcite formations. Feel the adrenaline with a traverse above underground waterfalls and challenge yourself with an abseil straight from the surface.

Overnight: Hope Valley | The Scotsman's Pack
Room Type: Twin Ensuite

Day 10 - Caving Read More +

Activity: Caving

Start Location: Castleton National Park Visitors Centre, Buxton Road, Castleton, S33 8WP | Start Time: 10:00
Booking Reference: NA075
Phone: +44(0)1904 500094

Directions to caving car park here

Parking:
Castleton Visitors Centre car park – please do not pay for parking. You will be driving from here less than 5 minutes up the road. You will not be parking here for the day, you will need your own vehicle to follow the instructor to the cave.

What to Bring With You:

Our guide will provide you with full caving equipment.
Below you will find a list of things to bring.
– Please be aware any clothing worn in the cave will likely end up wet and muddy!
– The cave environment can be quite cool, so we recommend several layers:
– 3 or 4 warm layers for the upper body (i.e. thermal base layer, sweat shirt and fleece top)
– Warm trousers (cargo or walking trousers and thermal long-johns if you have them no denim)
– Thin warm hat, balaclava or buff (optional, must safely fit under the helmet)
– We provide wellies but you can bring your own or walking boots
– If you get cold easily you may appreciate gloves; either thick rubber, neoprene or gardening style gloves if it is a colder time of the year
– Water & energy bars and other snacks that are in sealed packets that can be put into cave suit pockets.
– A full lunch is difficult to carry.
– Anything you bring must be in waterproof containers and there may not be space in the bags depending on the trip.
– It’s a good idea to eat a big sandwich just before you leave your vehicle before you walk to the cave.
– It is best to have flexible snack options so the guide can advise you on the day.
Important – Please do not take any valuable items into the cave, or wear any jewellery, especially; rings, belly button rings, necklaces, and earrings.

Day 10 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: The Scotsman's Pack, Hathersage | Location: The Scotsman's Pack, School Lane Hathersage Derbyshire S32 1BZ
Reservation Time: 19:00 | Booking Reference: B9NZ74KP
Phone: +44(0)1433 650253

Please note this is a table reservation only.  Please pay directly.

Name on the reservation is Nicole Porto.

Day 11 - Thursday 19th September - Footsteps of Jane Eyre

Spend today walking in the footsteps of young governess Jane Eyres’ story, famously written by the novelist Charlotte Bronte. Weave your way past many scenes and bring the famous gothic novel to life. Take the chance to explore a Romano-British village, Norman fort, historic church and breathtaking moors, perhaps enjoying a picnic or lunch in a cosy cafe along the way. Seek out hidden gems like Robin Hood’s cave, wildlife such as cackly red grouse and the distinguishable curlew and learn about local legends. Retire to your hotel after your adventures for a relaxing evening.

Overnight: Hope Valley | The Scotsman's Pack
Room Type: Twin Ensuite

Day 11 - Directions Read More +

Directions here

The trail can be walking from the hotel.
Alternatively the starting location is at: The George Inn, Main Rd, Hathersage, Hope Valley S32 1BB

Please see additional information drop down for the Hathersage Trail Map

Day 11 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: The Maynard, Hope Valley | Location: The Maynard, Main Rd Grindleford Hope Valley S32 2HE
Reservation Time: 19:00 | Booking Reference: DMN-16870029834
Phone: +44(0)1433 424110

Please note this a table reservation booked under Nicole Porto.  Please pay directly.

The restaurant is a 10 minute drive from your hotel. There is a car park on site, please make sure that you register your car at the main reception to avoid a fine.

Day 12 - Friday 20th September - Depart

Enjoy the scenic views that unfold beyond the window as you wind your way back through the Peak District and arrive at Manchester Airport to drop off your rental vehicle and say goodbye to England and Wales as you begin your journey home.

Drop off self-arranged vehicle. We recommend arriving for your flight 3 hours prior to departure. 

Day 12 - Directions Read More +

Directions to car drop off here 

Day 12 - Car Rental Drop Off Details Read More +

Car Rental Company: Hertz
Booking Reference: K7984087732
Drop Off Location: Car rental drop off location: Manchester Apt Delta Hotels by Marriott, Hale Road, Hale Barns, Manchester, WA15 8XW | Drop Off Time: 08:00
Phone: 843 309 3047

Day 12 - Flight Details Read More +

Travel Date: September 20, 2024 | Airline: Singapore Airlines | Flight Number: SQ52
Departure Airport: Manchester | Departure Time: 10:40
Arrival Airport: Houston | Arrival Time: 14:30

Trip Details

Inclusions Read More
  • 11 nights accommodation, as stated in the itinerary above
  • Most breakfasts, as stated in the itinerary above
  • The services of a qualified and experienced guide on Day 3 & 4
  • All guided hikes mentioned in the itinerary
  • Entrance fees and activities mentioned in the itinerary, specifically:
    • Entry to The Smallest House
    • Entry to Conwy Castle
    • Entry to Beaumaris Castle
    • Entry to Halen Mon Salt
    • Entry to Caenarfon Castle
    • Entry to Swallow Falls
    • Entry to Harlech Castle
    • Entry to Pembroke Castle
    • Entry to Penderyn Distillery & tour
    • Entry to Haddon Hall
    • Private Guided Caving tour
  • Personalised trip design and delivery
  • 24/7 In-Country Support from the Wilderness Team
Exclusions Read More
  • Flights
  • Travel insurance
  • Car hire
  • Meals not mentioned in the inclusions
  • Activities and entrance fees not mentioned in the inclusions
Notes Read More
  • Activities are only private if specifically stated

 

Notes On Weather & Flexibility

Weather – September in Wales & England can be a very wide range of weather, and very changeable. Suitable clothing and footwear is essential, as well as a flexible attitude. Plans may have to be changed to accommodate Mother Nature, and your guide will have back-up plans that they will discuss with you if required.

 

Essential Packing List

  • Waterproof jacket with hood
  • Waterproof over-pants
  • Sturdy hiking boots/shoes (sneakers or tennis shoes are not suitable for hiking)
  • Day pack 20-30 litre for carrying water and extra layers
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Warm layers
  • Warm hat, gloves and a neck gaiter
  • Hat, sunglasses and sunscreen
  • Smart casual attire for dinners

Note: If you would like us to provide trekking poles for your use then please just let us know and we will ensure these are available for you.

Tipping Guidelines

For tipping our guides – We don’t generally recommend a set amount as tipping is not expected in the same way that it is in North America. However, similar North American travel companies generally suggest something along the lines of £10-30 per person per day for your guide, which is a wide range to choose from. Generally, we would encourage you to ask yourself what you were expecting from your guide, and then think about how they have exceeded those expectations and choose an amount you are comfortable with.

For local services such as restaurants again tipping is not expected but if you receive great service then 10-15% of the bill is normal.

Luggage Notes

Please note that we expect travellers to bring an average of One Large Holdall or Suitcase and up to Two smaller day-bags or hand-luggage sized pieces. If you expect to bring more than this then please let us know well in advance of arrival so that we can ensure there is capacity for this (additional charges will apply if separate luggage transfers are required).

Important Contact Numbers Read More
Wilderness England Office | 9:00am – 5:30pm

UK: +44 (0)1768 721 210
US: 833 574 0690


Out of Office Hours | 5:30pm – 9:00am

+44 (0)7482 170 401


Emergency Services

999

Important Additional Information Read More
  • Day 2 - Halen Mon Tour Confirmation - PDF: View Now
  • Day 7 - Penderyn Distillery Voucher - PDF: View Now
  • Day 7 - Penderyn Distillery Ticket - PDF: View Now
  • Day 8 - Haddon Hall Tickets - PDF: View Now
  • Day 9 - Mam Tor Circular Route Map - PDF: View Now
  • Day 11 - Hathersage Trail Route Map - PDF: View Now
  • Day 1, 2 & 5 - Explorer Pass for 2 - PDF: View Now
Terms & Conditions Read More

Please see our booking terms here.


Accommodation

The Castle Hotel & Restaurant

High Street | Conwy | North Wales |
LL32 8DB | Wales
Phone: +44(0)1858 438300
Web: castlewales.co.uk

Castell Deudraeth

Minffordd, Penrhyndeudraeth | Portmeirion | Wales |
LL48 6ER | Wales
Phone: +44 (0)1766 770000
Web: portmeirion.wales/stay/accommodation

Twr Y Felin Hotel

Ffordd Caerfai | St Davids | Pembrokeshire |
SA62 6QT | Wales
Phone: +44 (0) 1437 725 555
Web: twryfelinhotel.com

The Swan at Hay

The Swan at Hay, Church Street | Hay-on-Wye |
HR3 5DQ | Wales
Phone: (+44) 01497 821188
Web: swanathay.co.uk

The Scotsman's Pack

School Lane, Hathersage | Hope Valley | Derbyshire |
S32 1BZ | England
Phone: 01433 650253
Web: scotsmanspackcountryinn.co.uk


Meet Your Guide

Tom Hutton

Contact Number: +44 (0)7974 912 479

I was born in the Cotswolds and raised in the southwest of England. After 20 years in a suit and tie, I threw it all in and became a photographer and writer, specialising in the outdoors, particularly mountain biking. Somehow, this morphed into guiding and instructing, and I’ve never looked back.