Describing itself as 'a charity that works to preserve and protect historic places and spaces - for ever, for everyone', the National Trust is custodian of some of the most culturally-important buildings and landscapes in the UK.
In Wales alone it is responsible for taking care of more than 30 buildings (ranging from castles to farmhouses), 46,000 hectares of land and 157 miles of coastline.
As well as being beautiful places to visit, National Trust properties host countless seasonal activities throughout the year, most free to members. If you're thinking of visiting, check the website in advance so you don't miss anything!
Penrhyn Castle, near Bangor
Just short drive from our hotel, Penrhyn Castle sits majestically between the mountains of Snowdonia and the Menai Strait. This magnificent Neo-Norman castle - a 'folly' built in the medieval-style in the 19th century - is surrounded by a vast expanse of parkland. With a fascinating and divisive history, Penrhyn is a superb example of Victorian power made real.
Within the castle walls you can explore the public and private rooms of the house - including the kitchens and bedrooms slept in by royalty.
There is an impressive railway museum dedicated to industrial locomotives, some of which were once used in the Penrhyn Quarry, just a few miles away. Outdoors, there's acres of formal gardens and trails though autumnal woodland, plus and excellent adventure playground for kids.
WHAT'S ON
All this autumn, the National Trust invite you to experience the What A World exhibition. Using pieces from Penrhyn's collection, local school pupils and artists explore the castle's connection to its colonial past, the transatlantic slave trade and the culture of colonialism.
From the 22nd of October to the 6th of November join Penrhyn's Pineapple on an adventure around the castle!
Non-members: admission £13.00 for adults - £6.50 for children - £32.50 family ticket.
Plas Newydd, Anglesey
This captivating mansion and gardens boasts spectacular views of Snowdonia, the Gwynedd coastline and the Menai Strait.
There really is something for everyone at Plas Newydd. Naturalists can seek out the elusive red squirrel that makes its home in the woods of Plas Newydd. Kids and the young at heart will love the adventure playground and giant treehouse! The green-fingered among you will delight in the estate vast array of formal gardens - the Italian Terraces are not to be missed. Finally, culture vultures will enjoy the military Waterloo museum and exhibition of Rex Whistler's work.
What's On
Monday to Friday (11:00 - 11:30am) from the 6th of October, join a tour and learn more about Rex Whistler's stunning and fantastical mural of the Menai Strait and beyond.
Bookable at the visitor reception on the day, on a first-come-first-served basis. Maximum of 15 people per talk.
Non-members: admission £11.00 for adults - £5.50 for children - £30.30 family ticket.
Bodnant Garden, Conwy Valley
This gorgeous 80 acre garden is stunning all year round; there is always something to see, smell and touch here. Personally, we find autumn one of the best times of the year to visit this National Trust jewel. Bodnant's vast collection of trees put on a dazzling display of seasonal foliage, unrivalled this side of New England!
Explore a variety of habitats including formal gardens, woodland, meadow and riverside and afterwards enjoy a spot of retail therapy at the garden centre and adjacent shops.
Non-members: admission £14.00 for adults - £7.00 for children - £35.00 family ticket.
Ty Mawr Wybrnant, near Betws-y-Coed
Birthplace of Bishop William Morgan, the first person to translate the Bible into Welsh, this 16th century farmhouse on the outskirts of Betws-y-Coed is a must for history buffs.
There are several picturesque walks surrounding Ty Mawr. These trails meander from ancient woodland to traditionally-managed landscapes, including the authentic Tudor garden which, in its heyday, supplied the house with food, medicine and floral decor.
Non-members: the house is currently closed but visitors are welcome to enjoy the grounds free of charge.
Explore Welsh heritage and stay at the Royal Victoria Hotel
The Royal Victoria Hotel is perfectly situated to explore all these National Trust properties and more - most being within an hour's drive of the hotel. Why not make a stay of it and enjoy all National Trust Wales has to offer this autumn? Book your stay today.