Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Carmarthen, Wales and Borough of Rossendale, England

Exploring the United Kingdom can be an incredible experience. In between two distinctive regions, Carmarthen in Wales and Borough of Rossendale in England, lies a wonderful drive full of adventure and history. Taking this route can take you between three and four hours, depending on the traffic. However, it's not about the destination; it's about the journey, so there are plenty of unexpected places to visit along the way.

The Halfway Point: Welshpool, POW

Before diving into the must-see stops, it's worth mentioning the halfway point: Welshpool, Powys. This town in Powys County, Wales, is a charming and relaxed place that should not be overlooked. You can find many cafes, local shops, and historical sites. The Llanfair Light Railway is a two-foot narrow gauge heritage railway that has been in operation since 1903. It runs along with the Banwy Valley, providing stunning views and an unforgettable experience.

1. Gigrin Farm, Powys (Bolded)

Approximately 45 minutes from Welshpool, Gigrin Farm, in Powys, is one of the most unexpected places to stop on this drive. The main attraction here is the red kite feeding station, which has been in operation for over 20 years. On the farm, you will have an opportunity to closely watch these incredible birds of prey and learn more about them. This experience will likely be one-of-a-kind, as red kites are not often seen in the wild anymore.

Favorite food to eat: Welsh rarebit, which is a kind of grilled cheese on toast.

2. Blists Hill Victorian Town, Ironbridge (Bolded)

About an hour and a half from Gigrin Farm, you will find Blists Hill Victorian Town. In this open-air museum spread over 50 acres, you'll be transported back to the Victorian era for a day. This reconstructed town showcases the everyday life and history of the time. You can visit shops, factories, and even a working foundry. The staff dress in a period costume, and they are happy to impart their knowledge and stories about the era.

Favorite food to eat: Pie and mash.

3. Trentham Estate, Staffordshire (Bolded)

Less than an hour drive from Blists Hill Victorian Town, you will arrive at Trentham Estate, which has something for everyone. The 725-acre estate features the Italian Gardens, the Trentham Shopping Village, woodlands, and the Trentham Monkey Forest. As you walk through the gardens, lined with colorful flowers, you'll feel a sense of tranquillity and peace. Moreover, you'll undoubtedly be amazed by the monkeys at the forest, which live in more than 60 acres of wilderness.

Favorite food to eat: Trentham's famous burger.

4. The Tolkien Trail, Hurst Green (Bolded)

North of Trentham Estate, you will find some incredible places to visit related to J.R.R. Tolkien, the author of The Lord of the Rings trilogy. The Tolkien Trail is an incredibly scenic walk that starts in the rural village of Hurst Green. The trail passes through spots that inspired the Shire in Tolkien's books and the characters that populate them. These places include the Stonyhurst College and Cromwell Bridge

Favorite food to eat: A hearty pie.

5. Simonstone Hall Hotel, North Yorkshire (Bolded)

Our final destination, Simonstone Hall Hotel, in North Yorkshire, is a hidden gem that will leave you speechless. The hotel, situated in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales, is surrounded by breathtaking scenery and an exquisite garden. It's an ideal place to relax and unwind after a long drive. The hotel also offers a variety of dining options, including a traditional Yorkshire afternoon tea.

Favorite food to eat: Yorkshire pudding.

In conclusion, this drive from Carmarthen, Wales, to Borough of Rossendale in England, is a trip that you'll never forget. During the drive, you'll see views that will make your jaw drop, and you'll get to visit some incredible places. From the beautiful gardens to the open-air museum, and from the bird of prey station to the nostalgic Tolkien trail. Once, you visit these places, you will be convinced that this drive is worth it. Don't think twice, pack your bags and start this enchanting journey!