Celebrating 75 years of Wales’ National Parks: The hidden gems behind Britain’s best-kept secret

Wales is celebrating 75 years since its first National Park was established.

Wales has three spectacular National Parks, which are celebrating 75 years since the first one was founded. Home to long stretches of coastline, some of the highest peaks, and over 400 castles to explore.

A brief history of the British National Parks

The story of Britain's National Parks begins with the Romantic poets of the early 1800s, who celebrated the wild beauty of the countryside. Wordsworth famously declared the Lake District a kind of "national property" belonging to anyone with the eye to see it and the heart to love it. That sentiment took political shape in 1884, when James Bryce MP introduced the first "freedom to roam" bill; though it failed, it lit the fuse for a much longer campaign.

As industrialisation filled Britain's towns and cities through the early 20th century, the public's need for countryside access only grew. In 1936, the government issued its White Paper on National Parks, and then in 1949, Parliament passed the landmark Act establishing National Parks, hailed by Minister Lewis Silkin as "the most exciting Act of the post-war Parliament."

Wales is made up of three National Parks, with the first being founded 75 years ago. These National Parks were established to preserve the beauty of the countryside that Wales has to offer. These spaces have been protected and cared for, allowing visitors and locals to enjoy them with their loved ones.

Dylan Nicholas, Media Relations Manager at Transport for Wales said: "Wales is known for its beautiful scenery and striking countryside. You do not have to be a hiker to go and enjoy these National Parks, and they are easy to explore using rail, TrawsCymru buses, TfW fflecsi routes, or even via the scenic Sherpa bus.

“There is plenty of variety for everyone, with small towns to explore, some of Britain's best beaches, over 400 castles to see, and more."

With 520 square miles of mountain ranges and valleys, there is plenty to visit. Famously known for Pen Y Fan, the highest peak in south Wales, standing at 2,907 feet. It is Wales' first named international dark sky reserve, making it an excellent spot for stargazing and spotting the planets.

Perfect for hiking and exploring 'Waterfall Country' to see famous waterfalls like Sgwd Rhyd Yr Hesg. You can access this park by catching the T4 which goes from Merthyr to Newtown, or the T6 which goes from Brecon to Swansea.

This unique national park is primarily designated for its coastal landscape, which is unlike any other British national park. No point within the park is more than 10 miles from the sea. Famous for its long stretches of white sand and stunning coves, the Pembrokeshire Coast is a natural wonder.

Tenby’s seaside town is a great place to visit with glorious beaches, a warm atmosphere and fine Victorian houses, making it a must visit if you’re in the area. Tenby railway station is less than a 10 minute walk from the beautiful beaches and harbour.

The first Welsh National Park, established in 1951, is also the largest park in Wales. With nine mountain ranges, it also covers a total of 823 square miles of vast land. Known for Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon), the highest mountain in Wales and England, standing at an impressive 3,560 feet.

You can reach the summit on foot or aboard the famous Snowdon Mountain Railway. You can easily access Eryri by train from Bangor or Betws-y-Coed, or via Conwy Valey fflecsi or Sherpa Wyddfa.