Wales has a unique and bilingual literary heritage: from poets such as Dafydd ap Gwilym, Gillian Clarke and Dylan Thomas; to children’s writers Roald Dahl and T Llew Jones; to contemporary novelists Caryl Lewis, Cynan Jones and Owen Sheers; to the enduringly mysterious stories of the Mabinogion.
Showcasing the best of Welsh literature, culture, and myths right in the places which created and inspired them, Land of Legends takes visitors on magical journeys to the heart of the stories and characters which made Wales. The Alice in Wonderland trail in Llandudno, the dramatic industrial landscape of the Valleys, and the vampire chairs of Llantwit Major, are a handful of the hundreds of literary attractions mapped through the ‘Land of Legends’ website.
Working in partnership with National Trust Wales, Amgueddfa Cymru – National Museum Wales and Snowdonia, Pembrokeshire Coast and Brecon Beacons National Park Authorities, the story map of Wales creates bespoke days out to hidden treasures and popular landmarks, based on your choices of haunted castles, fearless warrior princesses and mysterious monsters.
Mapped under 10 themes — Watery Worlds, Battles, Living Language, Folklore and Tradition, Sacred and Spiritual Landscapes, King Arthur, Childhood, Ghosts, Boots and Bread, and Rebels — each category highlights dozens of places attached to captivating stories, novels and myths, including places to eat, drink, explore and stay.
You can browse the map, selecting places based on your interests and location. Once you’re happy with your selection; ranging from ruined churches to secret coves, woodland trails, pubs and majestic mountains; you’ll be sent your very own itinerary by email – creating a unique literary adventure every time.
Land of Legends was expanded in 2017 for the Weird and Wonderful Wales project, including a tour of six heritage sites and the installation of a 50ft high mural on the Grade II listed Water Tower at Cardiff Central Railway Station. You can find out more about the project here.