Wales is a country on a human scale that crams a lot in, a unique culture, beautiful landscapes and friendly people with an original spirit.

The towns and cities are bustling with theatres, restaurants, nightclubs, concerts and comedy clubs ready to entertain every night of the week. Cardiff is home to Millennium Centre one of the largest theatres in Europe and hosts ballet, opera, theatre and dance all under one roof. Whilst the Millennium Stadium and International Arena host many international concerts, such as Madonna and U2.

Wales enjoys a spot of retail therapy. From the local markets to the city centres full of leading high street stores shoppers are spoilt for choice. Along with the leading UK department stores, Welsh towns and cities also have many speciality shops and independent boutiques. They’re full of local designer stock that you won’t find anywhere else.

Wherever you live in Wales you are never far from the countryside. Wales’ landscape is so varied and comes equipped with mountains, hills, rivers and the sea so there is plenty to do – how about coasteering, wakeboarding or golf. Almost a quarter of Wales is designated as a National Park or an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. More about Wales’ activities.

Education is an important feature of life in Wales. Education in Wales is compulsory between the ages of 5 to 16 and we have about 1900 state schools offering free education to more than 470,000 pupils. Another 65,000 students between 16 and 19 are in vocational training in further education institutions. A number of overseas pupils are also enrolled in our private fee-paying schools.

A significant number of students all over Wales are educated either wholly or largely through the medium of Welsh and lessons in the language are compulsory for all until the age of 16. Welsh medium education is available to all age groups from nursery through to schools, colleges, universities and adult education.