Food
Days Out
Beach
Bike & Hike
Sports
Nature
Gardens
Activities
Historical
Eating & Drinking
Bridge End Inn is located close to Ruabon train station. It is an intimate and genuine traditional pub complete with low beams, an open fire, warm and hospitable staff, a welcoming ambience, beer garden and great beer, and not a television in sight! It offers the opportunity to converse and relax in the the comfortable surroundings of a real pub. They offer pork pies and crisps the perfect accompaniment to one of their fine beers. They brew their own beers so there is a choice of excellent real ales, beers and ciders for your enjoyment, they are continually changing so you need to keep coming back to try the new ones. They run a number of events throughout the year including, live music, quiz nights, beer festival and more. The Bridge End has been awarded the best pub in Britain and it is not hard to see why, a fantastic real pub that you won't want to leave.
The Riverside Inn serves a wide range of foods, sourced locally when possible, in a relaxed and picturesque environment. You can enjoy lunch seated outside by the river, or you can dine inside surrounded by beautiful oak beams, pine tables and a log fire.
Fun Days Out
Enjoy a relaxing day out in the country. Travel by steam train through the beautiful Banwy Valley. Don't miss the very popular tearooms serving homemade cakes.
Llanidloes - 23.6 Miles (37.8 KM)
A great place to hike or bike, especially over the beautiful mountain road between Machynlleth and Llanidloes. It is also the perfect place to simply relax, stroll around and soak up some of the lovely Welsh scenery. The town is also known for its counterculture and liberal views and was awarded Fairtrade Town status in 2006.
Phil Price Rally School is a long established family run driving school, that extends a warm welcome to all its customers. They provide an ideal venue that allows you to put their fleet of RWD and 4WD Subaru Impreza's to the test, either on the test track or the main rally track. All the staff are highly trained and highly qualified to ensure you get the most from your driving abilities. Additionally they are very friendly, patient and encouraging in boosting your confidence and pushing you to your limits and will have you trying various different driving techniques during the day. Safety is paramount and you are provided with the appropriate equipment and given a full safety briefing before going out in the car. It is a thrilling and invigorating experience where you can really put the car through its paces if you dare. You get the maximum amount of driving during your day and it represents excellent value for money. Phil Price Rally School is a well organised and highly motivated towards providing the best service and customer satisfaction and all the staff are passionate about what they do and this enhances your overall time here. An electrifying jam packed day, highly recommended.
There is always something happening at Hoo Farm for all the kids to enjoy — see and feed the animals, make pottery, play in the gardens, the possibilities are endless.
The Place - 28.1 Miles (45 KM)
Drama, comedy shows, musicals and entertainments. Check the website for an up to date listing of forthcoming events.
Wonderland - 28.4 Miles (45.4 KM)
An award-winning big park for little people, a place where nursery rhymes and fairy tales come to life in all its themed rides, activities and a maze.
Beach
No recommended Beach found within 30 miles of this property.
Biking & Hiking
Kerry Ridgeway - 12.7 Miles (20.3 KM)
A lovely route of about 15 miles encompassing some beautiful countryside and fascinating historical landmarks. The ridgeway follows a gentle trail which is perfect for cyclists, hikers and horse riders alike. Its line can be traced back as far as the Iron Age and along the route visitors can spot Bronze Age burials and remains.
Explore the magnificent forest that is Coed Llandegla. Whether you?re a keen beginner or an experienced biker there is something for you. From challenging family routes, through fun off-road paths to hilly courses on tricky terrain; try the short 3 mile stretches or the more arduous 13 miles if you?re up for the challenge. There is also an award-winning cafe, which serves ?The Best Bacon Bap in Britain.?
Golf & Sports
Designed by the veteran champion James Braid, this course caters for all abilities. You'll be taken back by the breathtaking scenery that surrounds this course including the giant mountain peak of Snowdonia. There's a bar and restaurant in which to relax after a round of golf.
Ustrike - 13.8 Miles (22.1 KM)
Freshen up your bowling skills and enjoy an evening at Ustrike - the only ten-pin bowling centre in Mid Wales! If you get a bit hungry or thirsty, a bar and dining area is also available.
Springhill Farm are riding stables located set in a stunning location. They offer treks and hacks for all ages and abilities, and also cycle hire and archers for those not wanting to ride.
ProAdventure will place you right in the centre of the excitement of outdoor activities, they are located in the scenic and beautiful Dee Valley, Llangollen. A range of activities and sports are available such as, canoeing, kayaking, rock climbing, gorge walking, abseiling, raft building and more. They offer everything from day activities to full training courses where you can learn a new skill. When you come to ProAdventure you are assured fun, excitement and thrills, the adrenaline will flow and the heart will be worked. The instructors are all professional and your safety and comfort is paramount, so you can rest assured you will be well looked after. They cater to all ages and abilities and you will be surprised at what you can learn whilst you are here. Staff are friendly, knowledgeable and interactive and the equipment is excellent. Be prepared to get wet, and come away with a few bumps and bruises but definitely worth the experience. At the end you will be looking to come back and try another adventure! ProAdventure is a first class activity centre, great staff, equipment, location and real value for money.
White Water Tubing UK is the place to go if you are after fun, excitement and exhilaration. If you have an abundance of energy and nerves of steel or are looking to overcome some fears then you will not be disappointed, at White Water Tubing UK you are assured the best in outdoor adventures. They offer fully trained professional river guides, their numbers are restricted for everyones comfort and safety, they will familiarise you with the equipment and give you a complete safety talk before you commence your activities. You are fitted with premium wetsuits, neoprene socks, buoyancy aid, helmet and gloves, as well as transport. A selection of the activities on offer are white water rafting, white water tubing, stand up paddle boarding, archery, gorge walking, climbing and abseiling and paintballing. They are happy to adapt and cater to your individual/group needs and there are activities suitable to all ages and abilities. In between thundering the white rapids there are moments of tranquillity where you can enjoy the splendid scenery of the Dee River. With experienced and friendly staff, stunning scenery and first class equipment White Water Tubing UK offers an excellent package of fun and excitement at reasonable prices, great fun for all ages and abilities. Definitely recommended.
Safe and Sound Outdoors provides a choice of outdoor activities that are aimed at all ages and abilities. They are located in the Dee Valley, Llangollen, an area of stunning scenery. A selection of the activities they offer include abseiling, rock climbing, gorge walking, high ropes, canoeing, kayaking, mountain biking, paintballing and white water rafting. If you are looking for an activities that are energetic and exhilarating then you are at the perfect place. It is definitely the venue for adrenaline seekers or even if you want to test your boundaries and abilities. The staff are friendly and professional and immediately put you at ease, they give a full safety briefing before your activity and explain the equipment. The staff are fun, friendly and professional and only add to the experience. Don't worry about the weather you are assured a fantastic time, you will be getting wet so it doesn't matter if it rains! There are activities to suit all ages and abilities so a great time can be had by all. Safe and Sound Outdoors is definitely worth the visit and you will find yourself wanting to return to try the other activities on offer, well worth the money, and a great team of staff!
Ty Nant Outdoors is a centre for fun and excitement, and offers a range of activities and adventures from taster sessions through to professional outdoor qualifications. They offer a range of fun and exhilarating activities with canoeing, kayaking, white water rafting, climbing, quad biking, bush craft, high ropes and abseiling being a taster of what is on offer here. The staff here are all professionally trained and safety is number one but they also ensure everyone has fun too, in addition all the equipment is excellent quality. You get full safety instructions and a talk through the equipment before you commence your activity. The staff are all friendly, informative and helpful and ensure your experience is memorable and fun. At Ty Nant Outdoors you are assured to get wet, very wet and also to have so much fun, despite the bumps and bruises! They offer activities to all ages and abilities so everyone can get involved. In summary Ty Nant Adventures is fun, exciting and is not to be missed, should definitely be experienced! Value for money too which is important.
Set amongst spectacular mountainous scenery Bala is the largest natural lake in Wales. This 4.5 mile long lake is popular for sailing, windsurfing and canoeing. Mountain biking, rock climbing and archery are among the non-water based activities on offer here.
Whatever your experience or age, Underhill Riding Stables have horses or ponies to suit you. So you can enjoy the peace and beauty of the Mid Wales countryside on horseback.
Nature Reserves
Nature Reserve with bird watching and well marked out nature trails you can walk round. A beautiful location at the heart of the Cambrian Mountains, with a whole host of differing habitats. There are also events that are set up at Gilfach Nature Reserve such as Badger Watching.
Gardens & Woodlands
For a meagre sum you can spend a great day enjoying all that this magnificent 18th century house has to offer, including 500 acres of wonderful parkland commanding glorious views.
The stunning Coed Llandegla Forest is among the largest of all privately-owned recreation facilities in all of North Wales! Bicycle rentals are offered so visitors have more ways to see the natural beauty of the area. The grounds also include walking routes, trails, a bike shop and a convenient cafe.
Local Attractions
Park Hall the Countryside Experience is located close to Oswestry in Shropshire and is a very popular and highly acclaimed visitor attraction. It offers so much to see and do with frequent hands-on animal activities such as feed, holding, petting, pig racing, milking a cow and much more. There are two huge indoor playbarns, ample outdoor play, including a zip wire, adventure course, play village, nature trails and driving activities with tractor rides, go karts, Landrover experience, diggers and driving school. In addition there is the Victorian School and Museum where you can get an idea of what it was like to be a child during this era, there is also the recreation of a Victorian home and farmhouse complete with authentic furniture and artefacts showing the daily lives of people back then, as well as a collection of Victorian toys and games, writing materials, books, together with an intriguing collection of clothes, boots and shoes. Step back further in time at the Iron Age Roundhouse and see artefacts of this period and get an insight into how these people would have lived. Another exhibit is relating to the Welsh Guards, there is wonderful collection on display of uniforms, artefacts and memorabilia dating from their inception in 1915 to date, an interesting and informative collection. Don't miss the Science Illusion Zone, great fun. The park is well laid out and very clean and well maintained. The staff throughout are excellent, very friendly and helpful. It is open daily from March through to September from 10.00am to 5.00pm. Throughout the year they organise a number of events, activities and experiences, it is worth keeping an eye out for these they are fun and entertaining. There are picnic benches if you want to take along your own food or visit the Tearooms where they serve a nice selection of tasty snacks and lunches that are well priced and offer real value for money. Park Hall the Countryside Experience is a fabulous visitor attraction with so much on offer there is something to appeal to everyone and at really great prices too, a definite if you are in the area.
Oswestry Cricket Club is located just outside of the village of Morda in Shropshire. They are a welcoming and friendly club . The clubhouse is open whilst games are on so you can enjoy a drink on the terrace on a nice sunny day. The clubhouse is warm and cosy, the seats are comfortable, it is clean and well maintained. On match days they show sky sports, you can also get a selection of pies and rolls, drink prices are very good. The pavilion bar area look out across the pitch. The staff are lovely, friendly and helpful.
The Willow Art Gallery is located in the market town of Oswestry. It is a bright and contemporary gallery that hosts a diverse collection of exhibitions from accomplished contemporary local and international artists. The exhibitions consist of a large range of subject matter and media consisting of painting, photography, sculpture, pottery, textiles, illustration and mixed media. They also arrange throughout the year a range of workshops, talks, live music and events that you can get involved in. It is a friendly and welcoming gallery and the exhibits are well displayed. Staff are very approachable and friendly and will happily discuss the items on show or the artists involved. There is also a cafe that is smart and cosy, with a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, the seating is comfortable and they offer a really nice selection of snacks, lunches and home baked goods, that are delicious, service is very good and prices are very reasonable. The craft shop is lovely and has a nice selection of quality gifts that are well priced, you are sure to find something special. A great place to stop if you are in the town, a real delight.
Shopping centre with a difference, 30 unique shops in a Grade II listed Greek Renaissance style building in the heart of Shrewsbury.
Llangollen Wharf Boat Trips gives customers the opportunity to experience the beauty of one of the most scenic places around, Llangollen Wharf and the Dee Valley, now part of a World Heritage site. There are various options to see the canal, either by a horse drawn boat trip that takes you along the feeder for the main canal, or a motorised aqueduct boat trip that will take you over the infamous Pontcysyllte Aqueduct. Or you can hire a day boat that will accommodate up to ten people, making for a great family day out, they come fully equipped for your convenience. The pick up point is at the Wharf and located here is a tea room and gift shop where you can enjoy a leisurely drink before embarking, from here there are pleasant views of the canal and town. If you are interested in taking the aqueduct trip you can pre-order lunches and cream teas. All boat options offer you the chance to revel in the peace and tranquillity of the area as you enjoy the local wildlife and stunning scenery while your guide will depart his knowledge of the local area in a running commentary. The guides are all very friendly and informative.The prices are reasonable considering what you get, definitely worth the experience as it provides great photo opportunities and a chance to experience some amazing engineering feats and sights. Perfect for all ages.
Dance, opera, world music, comedy, food and drink - you can enjoy all of these and more at the Royal International Pavilion in Llangollen, North Wales. This is a venue for theatre as well as exhibitions and concerts.
Llangollen Canal Walk crosses the border between England and Wales. It is the mixture of stunning countryside and astounding engineering that make it so popular. The Pontcysyllte Aqueduct takes the canal over the River Dee and is an incredible 125 feet high, the canal is unprotected along one side and is quite hair raising if travelling in a narrow boat as it gives the effect of a sheer drop, definitely worth experiencing, the path is narrow but there are lots of warning signs. Also of interest is Chirk Tunnel that runs for 421 metres. Running through the rural countryside, the canal is frequented by walkers, joggers and cyclists, there are a few spots that are particularly lovely, like Horseshoe Falls and Blake Mere. If you continue along the canal it will take you to the slopes of Snowdonia. The area is peaceful and tranquil and offers many places of interest to visit, or stop for some refreshments. The canal can be enjoyed by foot or by hiring a boat or taking a canal boat ride trip, great fun for all ages.
Ludlow - 27.2 Miles (43.5 KM)
Set within the beautiful south Shropshire countryside, Ludlow is a flourishing market town famed for its excellent eateries, festivals and castle. Stunning buildings line the winding streets adding to the atmosphere of, according to Sir John Betjeman, ""the most perfect town in England.""
Historical & Heritage Sites
Housed in a converted 19th Century warehouse alongside the Montgomery Canal, this museum tells the story of Montgomeryshire. There are various exhibitions running throughout the year.
Home to the Herbert family, this medieval castle sits high above some world famous gardens. It's home to a beautiful collection of treasures from India as well as one of the finest collections of paintings and furniture in Wales. (Wheelchair access to ground floor only)
Built on the former site of a motte and bailey castle in the early 13th century, this Norman castle is located on the Welsh border and commands spectacular views across Montgomery in Powys. Although now in ruins, the site is still worth a visit for the stunning setting and sense of history.
A ruined Welsh castle dating from the 13th century with spectacular views across the Severn Valley. Its complex evolution is a fascinating one; changing between Welsh and English hands, however ultimately it was to be left in a state of ruin by the late 14th century. Due to recent excavations the public can once again view what remains of this fascinating castle.
Now ruined, this once fortified manor house was built between 1284 and 1293 by Robert Burnell, the Chancellor of England. He was said to be a good friend of King Edward I. This relationship meant that the castle had a very special purpose in British politics at this time. Legend has it that the first Parliament in which all the Commons were fully represented took place here in 1283.
Plas Newydd - 20.2 Miles (32.3 KM)
Plas Newydd, started off as a modest cottage where two ladies welcomed many famous visitors, including Wordsworth, Wellington and many more notable people of this era. Gradually it was turned into a Gothic apparition of protruding stained glass and intricately carved oak. Today this impressive and stunning residence is home to an exhibit of some of the personal possessions of Lady Eleanor Butler and Miss Sarah Ponsonby, there is also an audio tour that assists in bringing their intriguing story to life. The audio tour allows you to see the house at your own pace and clearly explains the history of the house and the all about the unusual wood panels. Outside the gardens and topiary are beautiful and are certainly worth taking the time to enjoy and explore and also the riverside walk. Within in the stable block are tea rooms where you can enjoy some light refreshments, everything is home cooked and delicious. The house is open everyday expect Tuesday, from April through to September. There is a small entrance fee to the house but it is well worth the money for what is available, the gardens are free. Plas Newydd transports you back in time to a period of refinement and elegance. In the summer months a number of events usually take place in the gardens so it is definitely worth looking to see what might be taking place. Plas Newydd is a stunning and mesmerising house and will delight any visitors, certainly worth a visit.
Llangollen Railway is predominately a steam hauled heritage railway positioned next to the historic Dee bridge, on certain dates they do run Diesel locomotive and Heritage Railcar services. The line runs beside the River Dee and the whole section has been designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest. The line extends for 7 1/2 miles upstream, starting at Llangollen Station and finishing at Carrog. From the time you purchase your ticket at the Victorian inspired ticket office you are transported back to the nostalgic era of steam travel when the railroads were king and the main mode of travel. The railway is positioned inside an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and this is clearly obvious as you travel through the Dee Valley. The sights are stunning and continually change as you continue on your journey, all carriages offer spectacular views. All you have to do is sit back, relax and enjoy the rolling countryside as the motion of the train and whooshes of steam soothe you. You can stay on the train for the entire route or disembark at a number of stops to explore, take a walk along the designated routes, see the sights or have a picnic, some stations have a cafe that serve drinks, snacks and hot meals. At Llangollen Station there is a gift shop that sells items of railroad memorabilia, it is only open certain days. Throughout the year the railway operates a number of events so it is worth checking to see what is taking place. The staff are friendly, the stations and trains are lovely and clean and the facilities are great a credit to all the hard working volunteers. Llangollen Railway offers a fantastic day out for everyone, all ages will love the train journey, a real journey back in time. It is also very reasonably priced so makes for a great family day out.
A beautiful grade II listed property and one of the finest examples of Victorian Gothic Revival architecture in Wales. The hall was originally built in 1834 by Thomas Wilson; however a huge expansion project led by the Philips family in 1869 doubled its size. Recently restored by the current owners, this magnificent house features some beautiful interiors and impressive collections. Take a stroll around 12 acres of gardens overlooking the ?Abbey of the Long Valley? which dates from the 12th century.
The Ironbridge Antiques, Arts and Crafts Centre houses a variety of beautiful and meaningful items. See timeless antiques, furniture, ceramics, glassware and collectibles. The walls are adorned in gorgeous framed photos, all taken in the area as well as beautiful paintings created by local artists. More than 60 stalls and cabinets are on display.
The Bala Lake Railway, also called Rheilffordd Llyn Tegid, covers a breathtaking 9 mile stretch that runs along the shores of Bala Lake through Snowdonia National Park. The journey begins at the Llanuwchllyn station. Observe steam trains being serviced and see the Victorian signal box in action! Light refreshments are offered at the station buffet.
The Ironbridge Gorge Museum Trust was formed in 1967 to help preserve and share the historic significance of this beautiful area. The collections contain a number of diverse artefacts, documents and much more. Explore the Darby family archives or see the prints, books and paintings in the Elton collection. The Telford collection features manuscripts, prints, drawings and paintings while the George Maw Geological and Mineral collection focuses on the Earth.
Antique collectors and history buffs must see the hidden treasures found at the Curio Centre in Ironbridge. This fascinating landmark was awarded World Heritage status, and for good reason. Established in 1996, the centre offers a wide range of items that can't be found anywhere else. Discover fine China, jewellery, stamps, medals, books and items made of gold and silver.
The Iron Bridge and Tollhouse is one of the 10 fascinating museums located in Ironbridge Gorge. Millions of tourists have explored this important landmark since 1779. The bridge was constructed by Abraham Darby III and is celebrated as one of the symbols of the Industrial Revolution. Learn more about how the structure was built while taking in the best views in the area.
Step back in time in the Victorian town. A completely unique museum where all the staff are in Victorian dress. See the Grocers, Bakery, Chemist and even exchange your money into shillings at the bank and purchase old fashioned sweets or traditional fish and chips. Have fun on fairground or trundle over the cobbles on a horse and cart.
Discover a world of Victorian judges and criminals in this award winning, interactive museum. After undergoing heavy restoration, this fascinating attraction boasts original furnishings and interiors which allow visitors to be transported back in time to the 1870s. Explore the damp and dingy prison cells, the impressive apartments that once belonged to Victorian judges and witness the trial of William Morgan in the courtroom.
Blists Hill Victorian Town is one of 10 museums in Ironbridge Gorge. Explore local history while embarking on an exciting journey that is great for visitors of all ages. Discover what life was like a century ago. Exchange your money for shillings, pence and pounds then sample traditionally prepared fish, bread and other delicious food items.
