You’ve heard of the seven wonders of the world but have you heard of the seven wonders of Wales? We might not have the Hanging Gardens of Babylon or the Great Pyramids but we do have some pretty spectacular Welsh wonders.
The Seven Wonders of Wales is a poem written sometime in the late 18th century about the landmarks in north Wales.
Pistyll Rhaeadr and Wrexham steeple,
Snowdon’s mountain without its people,
Overton yew trees, St Winefride’s well,
Llangollen bridge and Gresford bells.
Five of these are in North East Wales, the 16th century tower of St Giles Church in Wrexham can be seen for miles and is one of the finest examples of ecclesiastical architecture in Wales. There is no less than 21 ancient yew trees in St Mary’s Church in Overton on Dee, the oldest tree is said to be 2000 years old, predating the church.
St Winefride’s Well in Holywell has been a place of pilgrimage for over 1300 years and it is said to have healing waters. Saint Winifred is a virgin martyr, beheaded by Caradoc, a local prince, after she spurned his love. A spring rose from the ground at the spot where her head fell and she was later restored to life by her uncle.
Llangollen Bridge claims to be the first stone bridge to span the River Dee and there is evidence of a crossing there dating as early as 1284. The current ‘modern’ construction dates back to 1500.
The Bells of All Saints’ Church Gresford have been listed for their purity and tone.
Whereas some of these ‘wonders’ may not tempt the more modern visitor we would like to suggest our top seven which would impress even the most discerning traveller.
The Clwydian Range and Dee Valley AONB
Pontcysyllte Aqueduct & Canal World Heritage Site
The little tern colony at Gronant beach
You may have your own top seven, and we would love to see them, please share on our social media using the #northeastwales.
Blog written by Denbighshire County Council Tourism Department as part of the Destination Management Plan 2021.