March 1st. St David’s Day. The most important date in the Welsh calendar except maybe September 26th 2015 (look it up). Where better to celebrate it than in Wales itself? The only problem is; where to visit? Wales may be small but there’s plenty to see and do if you’re celebrating St David’s Day here. Alternatively, check out these other places in the UK to visit.
Photo by: Roberto Lo Savio/Fotolia
But first, let’s start with the basics.
Who was St David?
A Welsh bishop of Menevia during the 6th century, David was born around the year 500 in Pembrokeshire. He became known as a teacher and preacher and founded monastic settlements and churches in Wales, Devon & Cornwall and Brittany. It’s claimed David lived for over 100 years and died on Tuesday 1st March in 589. Pope Callactus II canonised David as a Saint in 1120 and he was declared Patron Saint of Wales.
Pembrokeshire
Head to Pembrokeshire and you’re in the heart of St David’s country. Make your way to St Non’s Chapel on the coast – or rather the ruins of it. The site is traditionally identified as the chapel of Blessed Non, mother of St David, and the site of his birth.
Photo by: esinel_888/Fotolia
A little further north lies the medieval ruins of St Davids Bishops Palace. Found next to St Davids Cathedral in the city of St Davids, it’s considered perhaps the most important ecclesiastical site in the country. Although there’s been a religious building on this site since the 6th century, the current ruins date from the late 13th and 14th centuries. The cathedral itself is impressive and boasts a particularly striking 16th century carved wooden ceiling.
Alternatively: Explore the gorgeous Pembrokeshire coast via the coastal path.
The Valleys
Perhaps the most recognised part of Wales, the Valleys are one of the most beautiful areas in the UK. Famous for its rich mining heritage, you can visit the Big Pit: National Coal Museum for a glimpse into the past.
Photo by: Jenny Thompson/Fotolia
Whilst here it would be rude not to visit Penderyn Distillery for a tour of Wales’ only distillery. It’s also one of the smallest in the world and offers a warm welcome.
Further south lies one of Wales’ most popular sites, Caerphilly Castle. Covering an astonishing 30 acres, Caerphilly is one of the greatest surviving medieval castles. Built by Gilbert “the Red” de Clare, the castle is surrounded by a series of moats and watery islands which merely add to the impressiveness of the site.
Alternatively: Head to the Brecon Beacons for some serious hiking.
Cardiff
Where else should you celebrate St David’s Day than in the capital? Why not start the celebrations with the St David’s Day Fun run on February 28th? Choose from a 1k, 5k, or 10k route around the Sophia Gardens to get the blood racing.
Photo by: brickisred/Fotolia
Alternatively, find a good spot for the annual parade which features bands, lots of flags, national dress and a carnival atmosphere. Make sure you explore the National Museum whilst in town, focusing on natural history and art it can be managed in around 4 hours so why not head there before the parade?
Alternatively: Take a tour of the Millennium Stadium.
St David’s Day Welsh Dictionary
Dydd Gŵyl Dewi Hapus! – Happy St David’s Day!
Pryd mae’r dawnsio gwerin yn dechrau? – What time does the country dancing start?
Hen Wlad fy Nhadau – Land of my Fathers
Cymru – Wales
Cymru am Byth – Wales forever
If you have any other recommendations for places to visit in Wales, let us know below. We’d love to hear your tips. Also, if you’ve got exciting plans for St David’s Day, we want to hear about them!
Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook and Twitter and sign up to our newsletter if you want to stay up to date with all the latest news and tips.
Subscribe to our newsletter
Want our blogs emailed direct to you? Sign up below to get updates featuring our blogs and car hire top tips. Receive the best deals on car hire straight to your inbox.
