The Wandering Bard's Valley Tour or the Swansea Bay Tour.
Active
8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
On this tour you are accompanied by a historian with a deep passion and knowledge of Wales. You will learn some Welsh, sample traditional Welsh food and learn about the ancient history and culture of Wales. Gareth, your guide is a fluent Welsh speaker and he will give you an insight into Wales that wouldn't be available with a standard tour operator.
South Wales is the most populated area of Wales and it is the area of Wales that is the most iconic around the world. This area includes neolithic sites, Roman remains, breathtaking waterfalls, imposing Norman castles, industrial heritage, dramatic mountain scenery as well as beaches voted as some of the best in the world. The wandering bard offers either a Valleys tour, taking in some of Wales's best known ancient wonders or the Swansea Bay option which shows off some of Britain's most beautiful coastline. Both are fantastic days out and have been given excellent feedback by 99% of customers. Please check which tour you have booked.
Available options
Swansea Bay tour
Duration: 8 hours: Pick up at 0800 from the Hilton Hotel in Cardiff City Centre with drop off at 1630 at the same place. <br/>Swansea and the Vale of Neath : The Swansea Bay tour. This tour visits Rhossili beach on the Gower, Mumbles, Neath Abbey and Melincourt Waterfalls
The valleys tour
Duration: 8 hours<br/>The Bard's valley odyssey: Travel through the beautiful Wye Valley stopping off at some of Wales's most iconic landmarks.
What's included
Local guide
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Professional guide
Tour escort/host
Driver/guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
This is on the Valleys tour. Marvel at the size and location of the UK's third biggest castle.
2
Stop 2
This is on the Valleys Tour. Enjoy the abbey and the scenic views of the River Wye.
3
This is on the Valleys tour. Enjoy a walk around the market town and visit Wales's first Norman Castle in a stunning setting over looking the River Wye.
4
This is for the Swansea Bay option. Enjoy breathtaking views of the cliffs and worms head at one of Wales's most iconic beaches
5
This is for the Swansea Bay option. Stop for lunch at one of Wales's most beloved seaside resorts and enjoy a world famous Joe's ice cream
6
This is for the Swansea Bay option. Marvel at the largest Abbey in Wales. It's a 900 year old masterpiece set in the beautiful Vale of Neath.
7
This is the Swansea Bay option. The vale of Neath is known as waterfall country and this is one of the best. It was painted by JMW Turner and the walk to the waterfall will really take your breath away.
What's not included
Drinks
Food and drinks, unless specified
Lunch
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
FR
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.9
163 reviews
5★
149
4★
10
3★
4
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
4.9
228 reviews
5★
218
4★
8
3★
1
2★
1
1★
0
Important information
Specialized infant seats are available
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Children must be accompanied by an adult
A maximum of 8 people per booking
Customers need to be aware that there are two tours available. There is the Valleys option calling at Tintern Abbey, Chepstow Castle and Caerphilly Castle and there is the Swansea Bay option calling at Rhossili Bay, Mumbles, Neath Abbey and Melin Court waterfall. Gareth is the only guide so only one of these trips goes ahead per day. Please check your booking to see which trip you have booked. They are both the Wandering Bard's tour but one goes to Swansea Bay whereas the other goes inland to the Valleys. This has caused confusion with customers in the past.
Meeting point
The tour will pick up outside the Hilton Hotel on the Taxi Rank.
About Cardiff
Cardiff, the vibrant capital of Wales, is a city rich in history and culture. Known for its stunning medieval castles, lively waterfront, and thriving arts scene, it offers a unique blend of ancient and modern attractions. The city's friendly atmosphere and diverse culinary scene make it an appealing destination for travelers.
Top Attractions
Cardiff Castle
A stunning medieval castle in the heart of the city, offering guided tours and historical exhibitions.
Historical
2-3 hours
£15-£25
Cardiff Bay
A vibrant waterfront area with restaurants, bars, and cultural attractions.
Entertainment
Half day
Free to explore
National Museum Cardiff
A museum showcasing Welsh art, geology, and natural history.
Museum
2-3 hours
Free entry
Must-Try Local Dishes
Welsh Rarebit
A savory dish made with a hot cheese-based sauce served over toasted bread.
Dinner
Contains gluten and dairy
Welsh Cakes
Sweet griddle cakes made with flour, butter, eggs, and currants.
Dessert
Contains gluten and dairy
Popular Activities
Hiking in the nearby countryside
Surfing at Bartholomew's Beach
Picnicking in Bute Park
Spa treatments at luxury hotels
Visiting museums and galleries
Attending performances at the Wales Millennium Centre
Boat tours in Cardiff Bay
Kayaking in the Taff River
Best Time to Visit
June to August
Summer is the peak tourist season with warm weather and numerous festivals. Expect crowded attractions and higher prices.
15-22°C
59-72°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English, Welsh
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
Pound Sterling (GBP)
Time Zone
GMT (UTC+0) or BST (UTC+1) during daylight saving time
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Cardiff is generally safe, but visitors should be aware of pickpockets in crowded areas.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure in crowded areas.
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps.
Getting there
By air
- Cardiff Airport • 14 km (9 miles) from city center
By train
Cardiff Central
By bus
Cardiff Central Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Affordable and covers most of the city. The network includes frequent services to major attractions.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Bolt
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Cardiff Bay
Cathays
Day trips
Caerphilly Castle
12 km (7.5 miles) • Half day
A well-preserved medieval castle with a moat and drawbridge.
Bartholomew's Beach
15 km (9.3 miles) • Full day
A popular beach with golden sands and clear waters.
Festivals
Cardiff International Food and Drink Festival • July
Cardiff Festival of Walling • September
Pro tips
- Visit Cardiff Castle early in the morning to avoid crowds.
- Explore the city's vibrant street art scene in the city center.
- Take a boat tour of Cardiff Bay for a unique perspective of the city.
- Try local Welsh dishes at traditional pubs and markets.
- Use the Cardiff Bus app for real-time updates and ticket purchases.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
