With 11 miles of World Heritage Canal Waterway this is the perfect walk or cycle for any couple or family. However these nearby attractions are the perfect excuse to zig-zag off the world heritage path and explore North East Wales.
Horseshoe Falls
Best place to start your journey is the Horseshoe Falls. This stunning and tranquil weir was built by Thomas Telford (man who designed the aqueduct) for the purpose of drawing the River Dee into the canal. Even though it does it’s job brilliantly, it really adds to the beauty of the landscape around it and makes for the perfect spot for a family picnic.
Valle Crucis Abbey
With a small exploration expedition you can see the ruins of Valle Crucis Abbey. With the building of the site getting underway in 1201 it has survived 8 centuries to become one of the best preserved abbey’s in the whole of Wales, the fishpond for the monks is still full of water!
The abbey has survived a very un-easy life with it being a victim of a serious fire and numerous attacks. It is the perfect place to unwind and watch the world pass by as the site is set in the middle of the Dee Valley.
Llangollen
The town of Llangollen is the southern hub of the county of Denbighshire.
With so many things to see and do in the town, it is the best place to stop and explore on your world heritage journey. If you are interested in the history of the town then Plas Newydd is the perfect place to hear the stories of the Ladies of Llangollen and go for a well deserved cup of tea and slice of cake in the tearooms. Timing your holiday to the Llangollen International Music Festival is the best way to immerse yourself in not only Welsh culture but some vibrant cultures from around the world.
If you are more of an adrenaline junkie then Llangollen is also the place for you. With so many water-sports activities to try out on the canal and River Dee, you can get that adrenaline kick you need on your next visit.
And if you’re tired of walking the canal route then you can hop onto a horse drawn boat and give your feet a rest whilst coasting along the canal.
Castell Dinas Brân
No trip to Llangollen is complete without a visit to the castle on the hill. With a well designed route up to the top, it isn’t as bad as you think. Your reward for reaching the summit is a stunning panoramic view of the Dee Valley and beyond, plus an overview of the world heritage canal (so you can see how long you have to go!) which makes for the perfect Instagram selfie.
With the site being nominated for Landmark of the Year for 2018 by the Country Living Magazine, then this is proof enough that this is a site not to be missed.
Pontcysyllte Aqueduct
With the highlight of the journey being the ‘Stream in the Sky’. It is a challenge in itself to see if you can dare to cross this spectacular structure.
Designed and built by Thomas Telford and William Jessop, the aqueduct was a structure that was way ahead of it’s time. With Pontcysyllte meaning ‘the bridge that connects’ it connects the canal to both sides of the valley. This site is the jewel in the crown of the World Heritage Site and is a unique experience that has to be experienced by all visitors.
You can walk across the stream in the sky if you wanted (or dare to) or save your legs again by taking a leisurely boat ride across via a trip or by hiring out a boat for the day from one of the businesses based at Trefor Basin. The only essential thing you do need to bring with you……is your camera.
Tŷ Mawr Country Park
After the excitement of the aqueduct then this country park is the perfect place for a spot of lunch. With fun activities for all ages including a children’s park, animal interaction, picnic areas ,walks and a visitor centre.
Why not stop off for some lunch and stare at the beauty of the Dee Valley.
Chirk Castle
One of the biggest attractions that is near the World Heritage Site canal is Chirk Castle.
With the castle being situated near the border of Wales and England, near the quaint of Chirk, it is the perfect place for a family to explore one of North Wales’ best preserved castles. With stunning gardens, fascinating history and events on going throughout the year, you are sure to find something for the whole family to enjoy.
