Enjoy a summer of fun in Wales with fun for all the family

Wales Online

8 hours ago

All of the following businesses have paid to feature in this article.
As summer approaches, thoughts turn to enjoying a season of fun and relaxation.
With a wealth of activities that cater to all ages and interests, Wales has it all. Whether it's seeking out thrilling adventures or indulging in laid-back leisure, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Embrace the joy of exploring new experiences together.
With endless possibilities for fun, this summer is set to create lasting memories. Dive into our selection of activities and make the most of the sunny season in Wales...
Dyffryn Garden Games
(Image: Dyffryn Gardens)
Visit Dyffryn Gardens this summer holiday to hop, skip and jump your way to being the Dyffryn champion.
From July 19 to August 31, there'll be lots of games and sports dotted around the gardens to help families get outdoors and play together this summer. Who will win the hurdles? Who will be the family table tennis champion? And who will take the prize in archery?
Dogs are welcome on leads so your four-legged family members can join in too.
There's no need to book and no extra charge to play the Dyffryn Garden Games (normal admission applies - admission is free to National Trust members).
Where to go: Dyffryn Gardens, Duffryn Lane, St Nicholas, Vale of Glamorgan, CF5 6FZ
Find out more: visit nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/wales/dyffryn-gardens
Summer of Play at Tredegar House
(Image: Tredegar House)
From July 19, visit the seaside in the heart of Newport with a day out to the National Trust's Edwardian-themed Summer of Play at Tredegar House, sponsored by Starling Bank..
Find a giant sandpit, perfect for building sandcastles together, or dress up and let your imagination run wild in the make-believe play area. Capture the memories - pose in a traditional seaside cut-out or take a family photo on the giant deckchair.
If you need a moment of calm, sensory tents offer a gentle, under-the-sea experience for all to explore and enjoy.
No pre-booking is required. Normal admission applies, and National Trust members get free entry.
Find out more: visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/wales/tredegar-house
Dragonfly Festival at WWT Llanelli Wetland Centre
(Image: WWT Llanelli Wetland Centre)
Launched on the summer solstice, the festival kicks off 93 days of summer activities that celebrate the wonderful world of dragonflies.
Festival goers are invited to let their imagination run wild, enjoying an immersive experience in wetland nature until September 22, alongside a dazzling line-up of dragonfly-themed events and activities all summer long.
Attendees will be welcomed at the festival hub where colourful flags fly high and mark the start of a great adventure. From there, they can enjoy expert-guided walks or create a dragonfly masterpiece in a creative workshop. Go pond dipping and discover the minibeasts living below the surface or take part in challenges and giant outdoor dragonfly-themed games.
Activities that will captivate festival goers in high summer at WWT Llanelli include giant bubble artists, puppet theatres, dragonfly safaris, live musicians and much more.
Find out more: visit wwt.org.uk/Llanelli
All the fun of the farm
(Image: Drew Buckley)
There's so much to see and do this summer at Folly Farm. Start your day at the zoo, home to hundreds of animals including lions, giraffes, rhinos and penguins. Then head to the barn, where you can see friendly farm animals like goats, pigs and donkeys.
Step back in time at the vintage fairground, full of classic rides, games and family fun. Finally, explore the exciting play areas, with indoor soft play and outdoor adventures like 'Pirate Island' and 'Tractor Country'.
With four unique zones to enjoy - zoo, barn, fairground, play - Folly Farm offers the perfect mix of animals and adventure for all ages. Pick your own adventure.
Where to go: Folly Farm, Begelly, Pembrokeshire, SA68 0XA
Find out more: visit folly-farm.co.uk or call 01834 812731
Kids' climbing at Flashpoint Swansea
(Image: Flashpoint Swansea)
Flashpoint Swansea just got even better for families! A whole new floor dedicated to younger climbers opens this summer, featuring low walls, tiny top-outs, a light-up tunnel, and a slide.
With no age restrictions (supervision required), it's perfect for little ones taking their first steps on the wall. The rest of the centre is open to kids too, but the new Den is the best place to start.
Try a Little Monkey club taster this summer - a fun, instructor-led way to get your child moving, learning, and loving climbing from the very beginning.
Find out more: visit flashpointswansea.com/session/toddler-climbing-taster
Indoor trampolining fun at AirHop Wrexham
(Image: AirHop Wrexham)
This venue deserves a spot on your summer activity list. When summer arrives, outdoor fun often steals the spotlight - but what about when it gets too hot, or the kids need something fresh and active?
That's where AirHop Wrexham comes in: the latest indoor trampoline park to the AirHop Group, that's more than just a rainy-day backup. It's a high-energy, inclusive destination perfect for all ages.
With everything from adrenaline-pumping dodgeball and interconnected trampolines to interactive AR challenges and reaction walls, the park offers non-stop excitement in a cool, safe space. Whether you're looking to burn off steam, host a party, or enjoy family time, there's something for everyone.
AirHop is also committed to accessibility, with Toddler Time, SEN sessions, and group options for schools and clubs.
Grab a Summer Pass giving you five jumps from just £25, valid until September 5 (T&Cs may apply).
So, skip the sunburn - make AirHop Wrexham your go-to summer hotspot for fun, fitness, and unforgettable memories.
Find out more: visit airhop.co.uk/wrexham-adventure-trampoline-park
Disco Bowl gets a striking makeover
(Image: Disco Bowl)
Disco Bowl Cardiff is turning up the fun with an exciting transformation that's set to bowl you over.
From upgraded lanes and fresh arcade games to a new-look bar, food menu, and an epic Laser Quest arena, this local favourite is getting a major glow-up — and it's all about creating the ultimate experience for families, friends, and partygoers.
Whether you're a strike king, a Laser Quest champ, or just in it for the pizza and pints, Disco Bowl Cardiff has something for everyone. Expect vibrant lighting, bigger prizes, and even more reasons to celebrate — from kids' parties and student nights to unforgettable nights out.
Get 25% off online bookings until July 20, 2025 (terms and conditions may apply).
Find our more: visit discobowl.co.uk
Summer of fun at Bryngarw Country Park
(Image: Bryngarw Park)
The award-winning Bryngarw Country Park near Bridgend offers a fantastic day out with fun for the whole family. Whether you're looking for a place to picnic, a nature trail to follow, or a place for the children to play for hours outdoors, Bryngarw has it all!
Over the summer months, head along for outdoor theatre performances including Robin Hood and The Wind in the Willows as well as ranger-led events and activities.
After exploring the park, head to the dog-friendly café for a bite to eat or a delicious ice cream.
Find out more: visit bryngarwcountrypark.co.uk
Enjoy an action-packed summer in Newport
(Image: Kirsten McTernan)
Join family-fun shows like Horrible Histories, Fireman Sam, Welsh Wrestling, and The Ultimate Bubble Show.
Get active with swimming lessons, free swims, tennis, cycling, welly walks, and Sport in the Park - a full day of family sports fun. Ages 11–16 can grab a six-week gym membership for just £31.50.
Don't miss Big Splash - Wales' largest free outdoor festival on July 19 and 20, packed with live music, street theatre, workshops and family activities for all ages.
Or get creative at The Riverfront with film club, nerf battles, hip hop dance, and free themed crafts. Plus, £3.50 cinema tickets for Lilo & Stitch, How To Train Your Dragon and many more.
Find out more: visit newportlive.co.uk
Things to do at Better Leisure Centres
(Image: Better Leisure Centres)
Discover more ways to play across Cardiff with Better. From soft play fun at Penylan Library and Community Centre (including a sensory area for under 2s) to exciting fun swims with floats and toys, there's something for everyone.
Tackle giant inflatable obstacle courses, explore off-road cycle tracks, or stay active with adult and junior gym sessions for ages 11–17. Whether with family or friends, there's no shortage of ways to stay active and make memories.
Find out more: visit better.org.uk/cardiff
Indoor fun at The Red Dragon Centre
(Image: The Red Dragon Centre)
Rain or shine, The Red Dragon Centre in Cardiff Bay is your ultimate indoor destination for summer fun.
Catch the latest blockbusters on the big screen at South Wales' only IMAX, go bowling or hit the arcades, refuel at tasty restaurants, or smash your summer fitness goals. With six hours' free customer parking, it's easy to make a day of it.
Plus, don't miss the sizzling line-up of family events - from dino encounters at Jurassic Bay (July 5 and 6) to buzzing markets and iconic movie moments.
Find out more: visit thereddragoncentre.co.uk
Classic film weekend with Outdoor Cinema
(Image: Outdoor Cinema)
Enjoy a weekend of classic films on July 26 and 27 with Outdoor Cinema in Singleton Park, Swansea.
Step into the swinging 60s and experience the electrifying romance and unforgettable dance moves of Dirty Dancing, or prepare yourself for heart-pounding suspense as you venture to Amity Island and witness the spine-chilling terror of a great white shark in the 50th-anniversary screening of Jaws.
Whether you're in the mood for love or looking for a scare, these iconic films promise an exhilarating ride. Even better, come and watch both for a fin-tastic time.
Find out more: visit visitswanseabay.com
Explore Glynn Vivian Art Gallery
(Image: Glynn Vivian Art Gallery)
Head to Glynn Vivian Art Gallery in Swansea this summer. Visit the new exhibition, Tigers & Dragons: India and Wales in Britain and discover the deep-rooted connections between the Indian subcontinent and Wales.
With family activities available, join the 'I Can… summer workshops' and learn how to experiment with paint, print and collage. Try out the new drawing class or take a free family tour of the exhibition. Booking is essential.
Check out the self-led activities, pick up a free gallery trail or sensory backpack during your visit.
Go online to see the full programme of what's on this summer. Free entry, everyone welcome.
Find out more: visit glynnvivian.co.uk or call 01792 516900