Indoor attractions, activities and things to do in Mid Wales

Book a slot for an active session at Quackers Indoor Play Centre, Newbridge-on-Wye. Let the kids run around enjoying the variety of slides, tubes, ball pits and rope bridges. 

Enter a tropical paradise at the Magic of Life Butterfly House, just outside Aberystwyth. Watch the huge tropical butterflies fly around, wander around rare and exotic plants, and see reptiles and large coral reef tanks full of colourful fish. Fantasy Farm Park in Llanrhystud is a great all-weather attraction. As well as outdoor activities, there's a pirate themed soft play area with a sand pit and sofa area, and a large barn with animal meeting and feeding experiences on offer.

The Silver Mountain Experience, Ponterwyd, is based in a 19th century silver-rich lead ore mine. Now an exciting attraction for all ages, you can discover the mining history, try gem panning, explore scary local myths in the The Black Chasm, and have a go in the Ultimate Xscape rooms. Younger kids will absolutely love A Dragon’s Tale interactive tour. The site is also dog-friendly. 

Whilst not technically indoors, a railway carriage is usually undercover! Steam enthusiasts of all ages will adore an atmospheric ride through the countryside on the Vale of Rheidol Railway, Aberystwyth, or the Welshpool & Llanfair Light Railway. 

You can amuse yourselves for hours at The National Library of Wales, Aberystwyth. As well as being a brilliant research hub, they hold regular thought-provoking events and exhibitions, have an indoor play area for younger kids, a cafe and galleries to wander round.

Explore inside Powis Castle & Garden in Y Trallwng (Welshpool) and find out how rich people lived back in the day. Discover opulent state rooms, and collections of textiles and artefacts from around the world, then enjoy a cuppa in the on-site cafe. If the weather isn't too bad, wrap up and explore the garden trails.

Hear tales of murder, dastardly trials and the servants who worked in the quarters below The Judge's Lodging at this grand 19th century house nodding to almost 500 years of judicial history. It's a murky, gaslit world to step into, with Victorian activity boxes for kids and some gruesome surprises for adults.

Y Plas is a Grade II listed Georgian mansion left to the people of Machynlleth in 1948. Admire the diverse talents of skilled local artists in the gallery, or relax in the cafe and restaurant. Nearby, MOMA Machynlleth showcases Welsh artworks, and hosts regular exhibitions and musical events in the Tabernacl.

Wander round the Oriel Davies Gallery in Y Drenewydd (Newtown) to see a wide range of local and international art, book on a craft workshop, and visit the shop full of locally-made products for sale. For some really eclectic artwork, head over to the magnificent Andrew Logan Museum of Sculpture in Aberriw (Berriew).

Exhibitions here are patchy for all the right reasons, as The Welsh Quilt Centre in Llanbedr Pont Steffan (Lampeter) celebrates an inspiring textile and design history with intricately weaved displays in a glorious high street venue. The shop offers thousands of beautiful blankets and quilts, and the deli-style café is run by a husband and wife team.

Have a go making your own mug or bowl from start to finish! Book onto a course at Alex Allpress Pottery School, Llanfair-ym-Muallt (Builth Wells) and learn a new skill. Courses are available for beginners and more advanced potters, suitable for ages 2 and up. It's a great rainy day activity.

Want to see a show? There are are lot of options spread around Mid Wales, with many venues having a cinema screen as well. Theatr Brycheiniog in Aberhonddu (Brecon), Wyeside Art Centre in Llanfair-ym-Muallt, Mwldan in Aberteifi (Cardigan) and Aberystwyth Arts Centre all have a wide range of performances to see, including live shows, comedy, music, events and films. 

Home to the Institute of Art and Ideas in a town known for creativity, The Globe at Hay is a vibrant epicentre for everything from poetry and string quartets to comedy and club nights. Visit the cafe for excellent local food, and look out for the art and philosophy festivals held here during the year. 

Y Borth's boutique cinema, Libanus 1877, adds a touch of luxury to every showing. Settle yourselves on comfy seats and enjoy a selection of tasty snacks and drinks.

When the forecast isn't looking great, plan ahead and book a special treat - a spa day. Mid Wales has a range of luxury places offering spa days and treatments.

The impressive Lake Vyrnwy Hotel: Spa Thermal Suite is an ideal spot for a relaxing time. A spa day here includes two hours in the indulgent thermal suite, a cream tea/afternoon tea and a choice of a wonderful massage/facial, depending which package you book.

A spa session at The Rock Spa in Llandrindod Wells includes use of their 18-metre heated pool, sauna, steam room and gym. There's a wide range of treatments, several using local produce, including facials, massages, rejuvenating body scrubs and wraps. Treat yourself to an afternoon tea at the Metropole afterwards.

Peterstone Court Health & Beauty Spa, just outside Aberhonddu (Brecon), offers luxurious treatments within their beautifully converted vaulted cellers. Enjoy the Jacuzzi, sauna and relaxation cave, then head upstairs for a delicious meal or seasonal afternoon tea.