10 great things to do in Mid Wales

This is my top ten of things to do, which doesn't recommend anything I haven't done, so apologies if your absolute favourite isn't there!

Go on the train from Machynlleth to Barmouth, Harlech or beyond on a sunny day. The coastal views are amazing and on a clear day you can see the Lleyn peninsula. The train goes closer to the coast than the road on this route, so at this you can see seabirds flying below you.

Cycle around Lake Vyrnwy (about 12 miles) and then visit the sculpture park below the dam, the bird hides and RSPB centre, finishing with a cup of tea and a cake in one of the cafes.

 

Climb Roundton Hill, a Montgomeryshire Wildlife Trust site just outside Churchstoke, and sit on the top with a flask of coffee. There is a 360 degree view and it is a peaceful and lovely spot.

 

Walk along the river walk by the River Severn in Newtown, keeping your eyes open for otters and kingfishers. Then visit the Robert Owen Museum in Broad Street to find out about this famous son of Newtown, the founder of the Co-operative movement.

Park in the town square in Montgomery and then walk up to the castle. Spectacular views and it's free!

Visit Bodnant Garden in North Wales, which is a beautiful 32 hectare garden owned by the National Trust. Go when the laburnham arch is at it's peak. It is stunning! Okay, this isn't strictly Mid Wales, but I've got to recommend it anyway!

Visit the Pistyll Rhaeadr waterfall, a few miles from Llanrhaeadr-ym-Mochnant. It's stunning from the bottom, and stunning from the top! It's a decent climb, so wear good shoes.

 

 

Visit Powis Castle, especially the garden. It's National Trust and  a bit expensive but worth every penny. The castle is warm looking and friendly, and the garden is a series of beautiful flowered terraces. Wonderful in any season.

 





Visit the Centre for Alternative Technology in Machynlleth. It's a really interesting place built on sustainable principles- and it's got a water powered lift! The gardens show how land can be used to produce food organically. A very informative place. (Haven't got a photo of this. Sorry!)

See Red Kites, either at the Gigrin Farm, Rhayader or at Nant yr Arian, a Forestry Commission site near Aberystwyth. These birds are beautiful.