Things to do in Wales, Wales: The Best History Museums

Yr Ysgwrn is a traditional Welsh farmhouse and Grade II* listed building, dating from the 1830s, which came to international recognition in 1917, as the home of the poet Ellis Humphrey Evans, better known by his bardic name, Hedd Wyn ('Blessed Peace'). On March 1st, 2012, Snowdonia National Park Authority and its partners announced that they had secured Yr Ysgwrn for the nation.

Museum is now closed for the winter but will reopen on 25 May. depending, of course, on the regulations at the time. When opening is possible we will continue to offer visitors the opportunity to book timed-entry visits, as well as being able to come in without pre-booking if the numbers in the Museum at the time permit it. Bookings are now available on Eventbrite. As you would expect, safe-distance requirements and all the other Covid-safe measures will be in place. The Museum gives a great insight into the woollen industry, its boom and bust cycles and the effect on the development and growth of Newtown during the 1800s. It covers the story of wool from fleece to flannel, and tells the story of the families who lived and worked in this rare building from that period. It opens during the summer months.

SWAM is a new unique Aviation museum based in South Wales near the former RAF St Athan. We allow visitors to get up and personal with our aircraft and displays, with different aircraft being open. We are only currently open at weekends and bank holidays, and while we have free parking, there is a suggested donation for adults of £5. We have a cafe and a shop with there is limited disabled access.

Just a stone's throw from Conwy's magnificent medieval town walls, the centre contains the county archive, an area library, heritage exhibitions, a community arts hub, meeting room, and café. It's a great starting point to explore the rich story of Conwy County. The exhibitions on display take visitors through five thousand years of history complete with unique objects and artworks.

Advance booking required Built in the late 13th century and reputed to be haunted by a past resident, this picturesque castle was built for King Edward I and is a perfect example of the "concentric castle" design. The displayed opening times are our general pattern. Please check the Cadw website for specific times and days, including closures.

Ceredigion Museum is a living mediator between the past and present. We aim to reflect the history of the county through material evidence. Ceredigion Museum is based at the Coliseum, Aberystwyth, with additional facilities throughout the county. Along with the permanent displays the museum has a lively programme of temporary exhibitions and events. Admission is free

The poet's former home is now a museum dedicated to his life and work.

The National Slate Museum Llanberis will reopen to the public on 23rd August 2020. During this unprecedented time the museum will be open for four days a week. Sunday, Monday, Wednesday and Thursday between 10am - 4pm. Entry is FREE but tickets must be booked in advance. For more information please visit the website

Covid-19 Update ~ Plas Newydd Tearooms will be open 10AM - 4PM daily. The Gardens and Grounds are open daily and free to explore! Plas Newydd Historic House will unfortunately be closed until further notice. Home of the ‘Ladies of Llangollen’ Miss Sarah Ponsonby and Lady Eleanor Butler captured the imagination of Regency society when they ran away and set up home together in Wales. Visit their extraordinary gothicised home and hear of the stream of famous visitors they received. Learn how they won the hearts of local people and turned a simple cottage into a fantasy of oak carvings and stained glass. Stroll through the gardens they developed and try homemade cakes in the tea rooms.