5 Things to do in Wales this Autumn that are good for the planet

I love Autumn. And I think it’s the perfect time to get out and explore. And if you want to make your exploration footprint a little lighter, you’re in luck as here are 5 of my favourite things to do in Wales that are also, would you believe, eco friendly.

Take a walk along the Llandegfedd reservoir trail
Pontypool260713_0
If you’re a local and haven’t been to Llandegfedd for a while then you’ll be pretty surprised to see the changes. Back in the Easter they opened a new visitor’s centre and cafe as well as a new six and a half mile, scenic route around the reservoir. The circular trial will have walkers going through woodland, pasture, a conservation zone and a golf course, where you’ll see loads of wildlife and be treated to wonderful views over the reservoir. And don’t worry if you don’t fancy a six mile jaunt, you can just do parts of it as it links in to other footpaths along the way.

Take a trip to the Senedd (The National Assembly for Wales)


If you’re planning to head down to Cardiff Bay, then do stop in the Senedd whilst you’re there. It is one of the most environmentally friendly parliament buildings in the world and made from traditional Welsh materials such as slate and Welsh oak. You can go in and have a wander around, grab a cup of coffee and go to the public galleries where you can observe Plenary in the Siambr, which is the Assembly’s debating chamber.

Newport Wetlands


The Newport Wetlands is one of the best places for wildlife in the UK, created on former industrial wasteland, it’s now a nature reserve full with wildlife and beautiful birds that nestle amongst the reed beds, lagoons and grassland that have been developed. It’s an ideal place for children and families as well as those who love nature and love to walk. And if you’re a keen photographer, then this place is a MUST. They also host a range of events which makes autumn the perfect time to get your wellies on and go explore.

Lunch/Dinner at the Felin Fach Griffin

image via felinfachgriffin.co.uk

I had to include at least one foodie outing and I’d recommend that you visit this wonderful pub/restaurant on the edge of the Brecon Beacons National Park. It supports local producers and has the best kitchen garden with the produce being used to produce some truly wonderful meals in the restaurant. It’s such a lovely place, relaxed, cosy and friendly. Oh! and you can take your dog along too.

The National Botanic Garden of Wales

Don’t worry if you’re not a keen gardener, you’ll still love a visit to the National Botanic Garden of Wales in Carmarthenshire. It has over 8000 different plant varieties, spread across 560 acres of beautiful countryside and there’s something to appeal to everyone. They host loads of different events and workshops for people of all ages so there’s always something interesting to do.

This post was sponsored by Triodos Bank which is the world’s most sustainable bank. Triodos which is popular across Europe only lend to business who help the environment, are socially responsible or aid cultural development. They are bank that’s interested in helping people and the planet making money work for positive social, environmental and cultural change. In 2016 Triodos will be launching current accounts in the UK and to celebrate that, they are offering YOU a chance to win an eco break in Amsterdam. Just go to their Facebook page for more details and to enter.

Author: Rachael

I'm a journalist and creative consultant. I write about how busy women (just like you) can live, work and eat - better.

26 thoughts on “5 Things to do in Wales this Autumn that are good for the planet”

  1. The Botanic Garden looks lovely. I may have to take my OH here as he’s a keen photographer and we’d both love to see such an eco-friendly building! x

  2. All your posts are getting me so excited for my trip to Cardiff next year. I’ll have to check a few of these out when I’m there

  3. I’ve never been to Wales but would like to add it to my list of places that I would like to go. By the sound of it, there are some really beautiful spots to check out.

  4. I loved the architecture of the Welsh assembly. Reminded me of a giant mushroom, but in a good way.

  5. Lovely list – The National Botanical Gardens of Wales is a gorgeous place – it is about an hour from me 🙂 Kaz x

  6. I am guilty of not exploring Wales very much, and I can see here that I’m really missing out. There’s loads to do isn’t there

  7. I live in North Wales but if I’ve ever further down south I’ll have to check these places out. Wales is such a beautiful country to live in x

  8. I desperately want to see more of Wales – we’re hoping to take some friends with us next summer. Wanna be our tour guide?? 😉 x

Leave a Reply

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.