Start here: the beginner roadmap
Focus on the essentials first: sounds, core phrases, and confidence. Welsh spelling is consistent once you learn the rules, so a little effort at the start pays off quickly. Keep sessions short, frequent, and active—listen, repeat, and use what you learn aloud.
Aim for realistic wins in your first two weeks, then build from there. You’re not cramming; you’re creating a steady habit that grows your vocabulary and pronunciation together.
- Master the alphabet and key sounds early.
- Learn survival phrases for greetings and introductions.
- Get numbers, days, and simple patterns under your belt.
- Set a 10–15 minute daily plan you can keep.
The best free online tools
Good news: you can learn welsh online without spending a penny. Mix a structured course with bite‑size practice and audio to keep progress steady and fun.
- BBC Learn Welsh (Beginner) – short video and audio clips with clear explanations.
- SaySomethingInWelsh – audio‑first speaking drills that build real conversation quickly.
- Duolingo – gamified practice for beginners; great for daily streaks and basics.
- Memrise – community courses with audio for words, phrases, and patterns.
- Dysgu Cymraeg / Learn Welsh – national portal with free tasters and course finders.
Pronunciation: master the sounds with audio
Welsh pronunciation looks different but is very learnable. Treat it like music: repeat short audio, shadow the speaker, and record yourself. Prioritise clarity over speed—good habits now make everything easier later.
- ll – voiceless “hl” sound (as in Llanelli).
- ch – like Scottish “loch,” never as in “church.”
- rh – breathy r at the start of words.
- dd – like “this”; th – like “thin.”
- f = “v” sound; ff = “f” sound.
- u and y – vary by dialect; copy audio closely.
- Stress – usually on the penultimate syllable.
Build a daily routine that sticks
Consistency is the secret weapon. Small, frequent sessions help you learn faster than occasional long ones. Keep materials easy to open on your phone so you can slot practice into spare moments.
- 5 minutes: listen to a beginner audio clip, shadow it twice.
- 5 minutes: speak aloud—greetings, numbers, a mini dialogue.
- 3 minutes: read and highlight new words in a short text.
- 2 minutes: quick review—write one sentence about your day.
Find people and classes near you
Welsh comes alive when you use it with others. Even one short conversation per week boosts motivation and helps lock in pronunciation. Look for beginner‑friendly spaces where mistakes are welcome.
- Dysgu Cymraeg / Learn Welsh – search for local beginner courses near you.
- Community colleges and libraries – ask about free taster sessions.
- Meetup or Facebook groups – “Welsh learners near me” often finds conversation circles.
- BBC Cymru and local radio – passive listening builds rhythm and vocabulary.
- Language exchange apps – swap English for Welsh practice online.
FAQ
- How long to reach A1–A2 in Welsh?
- With 15–20 minutes a day, many beginners reach solid A1 in 6–8 weeks and early A2 in 3–4 months. Focus on speaking from day one, regular audio practice, and a simple weekly review.
- Which free resources are best for absolute beginners?
- Start with BBC Learn Welsh for explanations, SaySomethingInWelsh for speaking drills, and Duolingo or Memrise for daily vocab. Combine one main course with short audio sessions for balance.
- Is Welsh pronunciation hard?
- It’s different, not hard. Sounds like ll and ch seem tricky at first, but consistent audio shadowing makes them automatic. Learn the rules, copy native audio, and record yourself to check progress.
- Can I find free classes near me?
- Yes. Search the Dysgu Cymraeg / Learn Welsh portal for local providers, check community centers and libraries for tasters, and look for “Welsh learners near me” groups. Many offer online options too.