Start here: simple steps for a new Welsh beginner
As a beginner, focus first on sounds, greetings, and short patterns. Welsh spelling is consistent once you learn it, so mastering the alphabet helps fast. Give special attention to ch (as in loch), dd (th), and ll (voiceless ll). Practice with audio and repeat out loud. Aim for tiny wins: introducing yourself, asking how someone is, and understanding yes/no answers.
- Learn the alphabet and key sounds with slow audio.
- Memorise 10 core phrases you’ll use daily.
- Practice short Q&A: name, where you’re from, how you are.
Find classes near you (community, college, workplace)
Prefer face-to-face learning? Search for “Learn Welsh” plus your town to find community courses, adult education colleges, and workplace schemes. The national Learn Welsh programme (Dysgu Cymraeg) offers structured pathways for beginners, often with evening options. Libraries and community centres sometimes host conversation groups, which are perfect for low-pressure practice near where you live.
- Ask your library or council about local beginner classes.
- Check adult education colleges for A1–A2 Welsh.
- Look for meetups or conversation circles near you.
Learn Welsh online for free (BBC and more)
If you like flexible study, combine online tools with simple goals. The BBC offers Welsh language guides, phrase pages, news clips, and audio to train your ear. Many platforms provide free starter courses for beginners, so you can sample different styles and choose what fits. Mix reading with listening and speaking to build balanced skills.
- BBC resources: phrases, news snippets, and Radio Cymru audio.
- Apps with free beginner units to build daily streaks.
- DysguCymraeg tasters and webinars for new learners.
Build a routine with audio and small wins
Consistency beats intensity. Try 15 minutes a day, five days a week. Use audio for shadowing: play a short clip, pause, and repeat exactly—intonation included. Keep a micro-goal list: one new phrase, one review, one minute speaking aloud. Track progress with a simple log so your momentum stays strong and visible.
- Daily: 5 minutes audio shadowing, 5 review, 5 new.
- Weekly: one real chat (class, partner, or online).
- Monthly: record yourself to hear your improvement.
Pronunciation and useful beginner phrases
Welsh usually stresses the next-to-last syllable, which helps rhythm. Train your ear with clear audio, then copy slowly. Smile while saying ll; it helps shape the airflow. Start with friendly phrases you’ll actually use—repeating them in different contexts builds real confidence for beginners.
- Shwmae / Helo – Hi; Sut wyt ti? – How are you? (informal)
- Dw i’n dysgu Cymraeg – I’m learning Welsh.
- Os gwelwch yn dda – Please; Diolch – Thanks.
- Ble mae…? – Where is…?; Dw i’n dod o… – I come from…
- Ydw/Nac ydw – Yes/No (for “Dw i…”)
FAQ
- How long to reach A1–A2 in Welsh as a beginner?
- With steady practice—around 15–30 minutes a day—you can often reach A1 in 8–12 weeks and A2 in 4–6 months. Progress varies, but mixing online study, audio practice, and a weekly class or tutor near you speeds things up.
- What are the best free online resources to learn Welsh?
- Start with BBC Welsh materials for phrases, clips, and audio. Add an app that offers free beginner units, plus Dysgu Cymraeg tasters. Combine these with Radio Cymru on BBC Sounds for immersion while commuting or walking.
- Do I really need audio if I’m a reading-first learner?
- Yes. Welsh spelling is logical, but audio ensures you catch key sounds like ch, dd, and ll. Short daily listening and shadowing fix pronunciation early, making speaking easier and building confidence for real conversations.
- How can I find a Welsh tutor or group near me?
- Search “Welsh tutor near me” and check local listings, libraries, and community centres. Ask your regional Learn Welsh (Dysgu Cymraeg) provider about conversation groups. Many teachers offer hybrid options—one in-person meet plus online follow-ups.
- Is there a big difference between North and South Welsh?
- There are vocabulary and pronunciation differences, but both are mutually understandable. Choose one variety—often the one taught near you or by your teacher—and stick with it at beginner level. You can switch or mix later.