A town in Wales situated on the banks of the River Dee, Llangollen has a population of around 2,500 people and is often referred to as the Garden Town due to its beautiful open spaces and a huge selection of parks and gardens. If you’re planning a visit to Llangollen, it’s worth taking some time to explore all that the town has to offer and this blog post will give you an idea of some of the things you can do while you’re there.
Where is Llangollen
Llangollen is situated at a great location, just on Lake Vyrnwy. As soon as you reach Llangollen, check out its castle and ruins which date back thousands of years. This is one of the main reasons why so many people visit the area, not to mention the fantastic views in the surrounding areas. Visit Castell Dinas Brân, standing tall on top of a hill like a legendary king looking over his land from his tower. This epic fortress can be seen from miles away. Not finished looking at Llangollen’s history? Head on over to The Ruins of Valle Crucis Abbey which was founded in the 13th century. The ruins lie beneath Llangollen’s steep mountains and was once a remote spot that Cistercian monks sought out.
Why Visit Llangollen
The River Dee flows through a green and pleasant valley, past historic castles and beautiful countryside. The area has a strong association with Welsh culture and history, as well as an attractive environment for tourists of all kinds. Other historic attractions include Plas Newydd house built by Sir John Trevor, home of Catherine of Berain where you can see her collection of paintings, sculptures and ceramics. This manor house was used for some years by Bonnie Prince Charlie as his residence during his exile.
Things to do in Llangollen
From local tourist attractions to hotels and restaurants, there’s plenty of things to see and do whilst visiting Llangollen. Every city has hidden gems waiting for discovery, so spend time looking around town for fun places with local flavour. Just remember that not all businesses are open daily, but you can bet almost all of them will have a sign posted up outside telling you their hours. Keep your eyes peeled during your travels, because there’s more than meets the eye when it comes to hidden treasures throughout town. Also make sure you’re aware of any upcoming festivals or events before you visit because these tend to bring out tons of visitors every year! Other places you can explore during the year include:
Llangollen Canal: Take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque Llangollen Canal, or even better, rent a narrowboat and cruise along the serene waterway.
Pontcysyllte Aqueduct: Marvel at the engineering wonder that is the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can walk or take a boat trip across this stunning aqueduct.
Steam Railway: Ride the Llangollen Steam Railway for a nostalgic journey through the stunning Welsh countryside aboard a vintage steam train.
Horseshoe Pass: Drive or hike up the Horseshoe Pass for breath-taking views of the surrounding landscape. It’s also a popular spot for cycling.
Llangollen Museum: Explore the local history and heritage of Llangollen at the Llangollen Museum, located in the town centre.
Valle Crucis Abbey: Visit the atmospheric ruins of Valle Crucis Abbey, a mediaeval Cistercian monastery located just outside Llangollen.
Outdoor Activities: Engage in outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and kayaking in the surrounding countryside, with plenty of trails and waterways to explore.
Shopping and Dining: Wander through the town’s charming streets, lined with independent shops, cafes, and restaurants offering Welsh delicacies and artisanal goods.
Llangollen Bridge: Take a stroll across the historic Llangollen Bridge, which spans the River Dee and offers lovely views of the town and surrounding hills.
Music and Festivals: Check out the local music scene and cultural events, including the annual Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod, which celebrates music and dance from around the world.
Transport
Explore the history of Llangollen Railway, an old steam train which is sure to add some excitement to your trip. The train originates from 1862 and at one time it was possible to travel from Llangollen to London without having to change – impressive right? The railway closed to passenger traffic in 1965 and was used to ship goods instead. The railway has now been renovated and allows passengers to board and ride along the 7 ½ miles along the Dee Valley for a glimpse into what the journey would’ve been like in its heyday.
Llangollen is just a short way away from us here at Henstent Park. If you are stuck thinking of something different to do in and around the area, we recommend heading on over to Llangollen for a great historical journey and day trip.