The Met Office has issued a red weather warning for extreme heat across parts of Wales, with temperatures forecast to reach 38°C in some areas. The warning, covering parts of south Wales, states that "an exceptional spell of hot and humid weather is expected across this region, with impacts to the general population highly likely." Amber and red weather warnings are in place until Thursday, with the red warning active from Wednesday 9am until Thursday 9pm.
While many might head straight for the beach, popular spots like Barry Island can become overcrowded, with packed beaches, traffic, and long queues. Instead, consider these alternative places to cool down across Wales.
Ponty Lido, Pontypridd
This bookable community pool in Ynysangharad War Memorial Park is an ideal spot to cool down, managing crowds well by only allowing visitors with swim or spectator tickets poolside. It features three outdoor pools catering to families, cold-water enthusiasts, and serious swimmers. Facilities include indoor and outdoor showers and changing rooms. The Lido, which closed in 1991, was restored and reopened in 2015 by The Prince of Wales and The Duchess of Cornwall. It retains charming 1920s turnstiles and wooden cubicles while adding modern touches. Admission is £3.50 for adults, with children free, and lifeguards are on hand.
Spring Valley Lakes, Neath
Located in the Glyn-Neath Valley off the A465, Spring Valley Lakes is an 80-acre eco-friendly campsite and activity centre. The site features two vast, spring-fed lakes set in a wooded valley, offering paddleboarding, kayaking, and wild swimming. The lakes were quarried over 26 years ago for sand and stone used in building the dual carriageway. The site also offers glamping pods, camping, and on-site facilities, making it a family-friendly escape less than an hour from Cardiff.
Dan yr Ogof Caves, Bannau Brycheiniog
This 15km-long cave system is one of the most extensive in Western Europe, discovered almost a century ago by two brothers. It features underground lakes, rivers, and two 40-foot waterfalls, along with rock formations dating back millions of years. The site also includes a dinosaur park with over 200 life-sized dinosaur models, appealing to children and adults alike.
Wentwood Forest, Newport
Wentwood Forest, between Newport and Chepstow, is a 353-hectare woodland owned by the Woodland Trust and managed with Natural Resources Wales. It is an example of large-scale restoration from a plantation to semi-natural ancient woodland. The forest offers an extensive network of roads, tracks, footpaths, and bridleways, with the family-friendly Wentwood Forest Circular trail (4.7 km) being a popular route. The canopy provides ample shade on hot days.
Bounce Below, Llechwedd
Located at Zip World Llechwedd in North Wales, Bounce Below is a subterranean playground featuring giant trampoline-style nets suspended across multiple levels in a cavern twice the size of St Paul's Cathedral. The cavern maintains a constant cool temperature of 6 to 8°C year-round, offering a refreshing escape from the heat.
Waterfall Country, Neath
The Vale of Neath is home to nine waterfalls, with five rivers—Mellte, Hepste, Pyrddin, Nedd Fechan, and Sychryd—creating a dense concentration of waterfalls accessible via the Four Falls Trail. The area has inspired artists like Turner and is said to have influenced Shakespeare's romantic plays. Natural Resources Wales advises against entering the water due to hidden undercurrents, freezing temperatures, and steep drop-offs.
Caerphilly Castle, Caerphilly
Caerphilly Castle, the largest castle in Wales and second-largest in Britain, features a famous leaning tower that has tilted 3 metres since 1648. Its network of moats and dams is considered the most elaborate water defences in Britain. The 13th-century castle offers shade and historical exploration, attracting tens of thousands of visitors annually.
Llanerch Vineyard, Vale of Glamorgan
Llanerch is the UK's first vineyard hotel, offering wine tastings in a leafy setting. The 1-hour tasting experience covers the winemaking process for signature wines like Llanerch Estate and Cariad. The estate also features an award-winning restaurant and accommodation with views of the vineyards.
Big Pit, Blaenavon
Big Pit is a former coal mine that operated until 1980, now a tourist attraction offering tours 300ft underground led by former miners. Above ground, multimedia tours and exhibitions explore Wales' coal mining history. The constant underground temperature provides a natural cool environment.
Llanishen Reservoir, Cardiff
Built in the late 19th century, Lisvane and Llanishen Reservoirs cover 110 acres and opened for recreation in 2023 after a substantial revamp. Activities include open-water swimming, canoeing, paddleboarding, and sailing. Supervised cold-water dips cost £4, with vigilant guides on hand. The site is a haven for flora and fauna.
Dylan Thomas' Boathouse and Writing Shed, Laugharne
The Boathouse, where poet Dylan Thomas lived for the last four years of his life, is now a museum with original manuscripts and recordings. The writing shed, where he penned works including Under Milk Wood, is nearby. A teahouse serves coffee and homemade cakes with estuary views.
Fforest Farm, Cardiff
Forest Farm, on the banks of the River Taff, features remnants of the old Glamorganshire Canal and habitats including woodland, meadows, ponds, and marshes. The Taff Trail runs through the site, and a guided walk is available from Friends of Forest Farm. The main route is approximately three miles long, starting at the car park on Forest Farm Road.
