Roman Parade Ground

You're standing on what was once a parade ground for Roman soldiers - now just grass and earthworks on a Welsh hillside near Blaenau Ffestiniog. It's the sort of place that doesn't look like much at first glance, which is precisely why it's interesting. The Romans built this around 80 AD as a military base, and you can still make out the defensive ditches and the flat area where troops would have drilled. There's no visitor centre, no gift shop, no interpretation boards telling you what to think. Just the landscape and your imagination.

This is for archaeology enthusiasts and walkers rather than families wanting a day out with the kids. You'll need a decent map or GPS to find it properly - it's not signposted from the road - and allow about an hour to have a proper look and understand what you're seeing. The real appeal is the sense of standing in a genuinely ancient place that hasn't been smoothed over by modern tourism. It's on farmland, so do check access before you visit.

If you're staying at Llechwedd Glamping at Plas Weunydd or Barcdy Caravan & Camping Park, both within five miles, this works as a half-day detour while exploring the slate mining heritage and walking routes around Blaenau Ffestiniog. Combine it with Llechwedd Slate Caverns or the various hill walks in the area. Go on a clear day - the views across the Ffestiniog Valley are worth the trip alone, even if you're uncertain about Roman fort earthworks.