This fairytale village in Wales is one of the most beautiful places in Britain

Did you know being in awe of something is scientifically proven to work wonders on your mental health? Evidence shows that when we admire a gorgeous piece of art or set our eyes on a stunning beach, it can improve our nervous system’s ability to relax and increase our sense of meaning. 

From glistening cliffs and otherworldly islands to majestic cathedrals and storybook castles, the British Isles are abundant in awe-inspiring buildings and landscapes. Time Out has written about the 23 best-looking of them all in our guide to the most beautiful places in the UK. And over the past few weeks we’ve been spotlighting them one by one. Next up: Portmeirion. 

The folly village hidden in north Wales was dreamt up by architect Sir Clough Williams-Ellis as a tribute to the Mediterranean, and constructed between 1925 and 1975. Buildings come in a wide assortment of colours, and take cues from all kinds of architectural styles, from Italianate and gothic to arts and crafts. The dramatic peaks of Eryri (Snowdonia) and the waters of the Dwyryd estuary just add to its beauty.  

Ed Cunningham, Time Out’s UK news and features editor, said: ‘Portmeirion little resembles anywhere in the Med and is more akin to a pristine model village that fascinates whatever your view: eclectic rooftops or serene fountains, dainty flowerbeds or elegant statues, sweeping estuary or winding forest paths.’

In the village centre, you’ll find a giant chessboard, a gothic pavilion and a bizarre gift shop selling memorabilia from cult ’60s TV show The Prisoner (which was filmed there). There are two restaurants and a small selection of cafés for refreshments, too. And if you wander away from the centre, you might stumble upon the elegant Japanese Garden, a subtropical forest, or the private beach looking out over the Dwyryd Estuary. 

‘Don’t miss out on the lighthouse,’ Ed adds. ‘A short walk out from the village, it’s both a twee delight in itself and a viewpoint with broad views of the River Dwyryd estuary and beyond.’

Check out the rest of the 23 most beautiful places in the UK to visit in 2026. 

Plus: This ancient Bristol marketplace is one of the UK’s coolest neighbourhoods right now.