With rich cultural elements distinctly different from its neighbour - yes, whisper it, England - and a majestic landscape with its own unique flavour, the small nation of Wales can truly capture the heart. This is a land fervently celebrated by ancient poets, famous artists, and everyday residents for its charming coastal towns, thriving urban areas, and peaceful rural locations. Living in Wales (or Cymru, as it is known in Welsh), is an experience in itself, rooted in its status as one of Celtic Europe’s most prominent political and cultural centres, and a fierce sense of independent pride prevails.
Whether you choose to live in a quaint village wedged among a scenic valley, a bustling metropolis with endless cultural stimulus, or near one of the many stunning beaches along an epic coastline, there is something for everyone in Wales. Here is our pick of the best places to live in Wales.
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ABERGAVENNY, MONMOUTHSHIRE
Less than 30 miles from the Welsh capital Cardiff, this market town on the edge of the Bannau Brycheiniog National Park is deeply desirable for myriad reasons. It’s hard to quantify friendliness, but the objective consensus about Abergavenny is that it is overwhelmingly welcoming and friendly, where the sense of community spirit and togetherness is palpable. The smiling faces and kindly actions of locals are a huge pull, but the landscape itself is also stunning. This charming, picturesque town is located between three classically imposing mountains: Sugar Loaf, Skirrid, and Blorenge. Not only does this make for sumptuous views, it’s also a superb launching pad for hiking in the Welsh countryside.
Perhaps top of the list though is what you can eat and drink here. Abergavenny - in the southeast county of Monmouthshire - is one of the foremost food and drink hubs in Wales: there has been a market here since the 13th century, serving all manner of culinary delights, and the Abergavenny Food Festival has been a firm favourite for more than two decades, attracting 35,000-plus visitors, 200 exhibitors, and celebrity chefs galore every September.
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PORTHMADOG, GWYNEDD
This enticing harbour town in Gwynedd, north Wales, is easy on the eye and wonderfully located. Its surroundings are truly beautiful, with bustling coastal charm and the nearby mountainous landscapes of Eryri National Park (formerly known as Snowdonia National Park). Porthmadog has long been a desirable place to live, and with an ever-evolving range of shops and attractions, that is still an upward curve. The range of properties available in and around Porthmadog are broad and appealing, ranging from seaside period properties and modern apartments to traditional Welsh cottages and farmhouses. There are even claims that the town enjoys some of the warmest weather in the UK, thanks to its geography and topography, making it that much more attractive.
While Porthmadog blossomed as a port in the 19th century, it still has a busy harbour today - largely for leisure - and nearly 75% of residents speak fluent Welsh in addition to English. Porthmadog is also a major hub on the train network, with no less than three lines running through it, while walkers and cyclists can follow the Wales Coast Path and Lôn Ardudwy routes respectively. Outstanding attractions nearby include Portmeirion and Harlech Castle, but in Porthmadog itself, it’s hard not to fall in love with The Cob. This deeply-cherished local landmark - a mile-long embankment across the estuary - has shaped the destiny of the town and draws people into its magical spell.
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MUMBLES, SWANSEA
The Gower Peninsula in south Wales is so picturesque that it was the first place in the UK to be designated as an ‘Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty’. The description says it all, and while that was back in 1956, the area’s timeless beauty endures. The Mumbles is perhaps the best place to live in Swansea , with its quaint market town, stunning seafront homes, and direct access to the dazzling coastline and Gower peninsula
Mumbles itself is a vibrant place, with handsome period properties, popular sports clubs, a strong mix of independent and brand-name shops, plus lively cafes and restaurants and a tight-knit, active community. The wild, intimate, majestic beaches of Rhossili Bay and Three Cliffs Bay are a short drive away - and will take your breath away.
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BRECON, POWYS
The quality of life in Brecon comes with the territory, so to speak. This historic market town in Powys offers natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, a strong sense of wellbeing, and a healthy range of amenities for its residents. Education, healthcare, and shopping needs are all well catered for: Brecon has several primary and secondary schools, and there is a local hospital and various GP practices, while the local shopping options are superbly varied.
Brecon Market Hall often takes centre stage, with independent boutiques offering locally sourced produce. Charm abounds throughout: there are bookshops, art galleries, and culturally-cute cafes, all fuelled by a busy calendar of events throughout the year, including the annual Brecon Jazz Festival held every August. Located just inside the Bannau Brycheiniog National Park border, residents enjoy the wonders of the mountain range all year round, and the winding River Usk runs through the town, with a popular walking trail running alongside it for a tranquil walk.
Employment in Brecon is rooted mostly in tourism and retail. Its location within a national park means a buoyant local economy related to and fed by outdoor activities and the conservation movement. Brecon is well connected by road, but public transport options are more limited compared to urban areas such as Cardiff and Swansea.
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CARDIGAN, CEREDIGION
Remote - yes. Stunning - absolutely. Connections from Cardigan to the rest of the UK aren't amazing, but this far-flung part of west Wales has such a magnetic pull that it might not matter. Located on the south-west coast of Wales, Cardigan is a famous small harbour town, renowned for its scenic beauty, coastal charms, and a seriously relaxed lifestyle (for its close-knit residents, at least). There is so much character and personality to enjoy here - especially the former abattoir that’s been converted to a three-screen cinema and theatre. There is also a splendid glut of independent retailers and boutiques, alongside a foodies’ paradise: superb butchers, bakeries, and coffee houses.
There is a ‘cool’ cache here too. Those who have chosen to make Cardigan their home are seen as proactive lifestyle devotees, opting out of big city ways. And talking of those connections again - there is easy access to the surrounding countryside and local national parks, some of which are the most beautiful in the UK. Depending on what floats your boat - pun intended - what more could you want?
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Final Take
Wales offers a multitude of delights. This is nature’s playground, with community spirit, outdoor adventures, thriving high streets, local heritage, and historic architecture. Castles are never far, wherever you are. Wherever you choose to assemble your own stronghold though, this is a nation with a proud culture - and living in Wales is to be immersed in the best of its passionate traditions.
