Wales is Bringing in a Tourist Tax – Here’s What You Need to Know
Love a long weekend in Llandudno? Hike-obsessed with Snowdonia? Partial to a pint by the Pembrokeshire coast? Well, your next trip to Wales might come with a new add-on: a tourist tax.
Before you panic: we’re not talking Venice-style entry fees or some ruthless tax on selfies with sheep. The plan, passed last week by the Welsh Parliament (aka the Senedd), will let local councils charge a small nightly fee for overnight stays. The goal? To help make tourism a bit more sustainable – and ensure visitors give something back to the places they love to visit (and post to death on Instagram).
When’s it happening?
Not just yet. The new law was passed last week by the Welsh Parliament, but the tax won’t kick in until 2027. Each local council will decide whether to bring it in, so it might apply in some areas and not in others.
How much will it cost?
If you’re staying in a hotel, Airbnb or B&B, expect to pay £1.30 per person, per night. Hostels and campsites will charge just £0.75 per adult, and anyone under 18 goes free. You won’t pay the tax if you’re staying with family or friends in their main home, or if your booking lasts more than 31 nights.
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Where does the money go?
The Welsh government reckons the levy could raise £33 million a year. That cash will go toward local infrastructure, events, and – crucially – supporting the Welsh language. Only around 28% of people in Wales speak Welsh, and the hope is that this funding will help boost that number through language classes, cultural events and better bilingual signage. It’s all part of the government’s plan, Cymraeg 2050, to reach a million Welsh speakers by mid-century.
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Will it apply across all of Wales?
Nope. Each local council will decide whether to adopt the tax, so depending on where you go, you may or may not be charged. If you’re planning a trip after 2027, it’s worth checking in advance.
What about the rest of the UK?
Scotland’s already ahead of the game – Edinburgh is introducing a 5 percent tourist tax in 2026, with Glasgow following in 2027. In England, it’s more complicated. Councils don’t yet have the powers to introduce a tourist tax unless new national legislation is passed. But some cities – like Manchester and Liverpool – have found a workaround through Business Improvement Districts, allowing them to add local hotel fees.
The takeaway?
Wales isn’t trying to scare off holidaymakers – just asking for a small contribution to help maintain the landscapes, languages and communities that make it so special. So yes, your next trip might cost a little bit more – but you’ll be helping to protect what makes Wales magical.
And honestly, that’s a pretty good return for £1.30.
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