Llangollen

Introducing Llangollen

Set in the scenic Vale of Llangollen and featuring the River Dee as its gurgling heart, Llangollen is a slightly odd blend of cultured cool and gritty realism, perfectly illustrated by its culinary options, which range from foodie-friendly places to avoid-at-all-costs greasy spoons. The vale was part of the London to Holyhead stagecoach route in the 18th and 19th centuries, when the road ran through the middle of the town (now Bridge and Church Sts).

Traditionally Llangollen was a favourite day-trip destination for tourists in search of culture and Devonshire teas. In recent times, however, the town has made efforts to smooth over its rougher edges by building the profile of its increasingly respected Fringe Festival and celebrating the cachet it enjoys as host to the International Musical Eisteddfod, a six-day jamboree of music and dance that attracts folk groups from all over the world.

What’s more, the abundance of walking trails and a growing array of activity-based excursions reflect the way that Llangollen is changing as a destination – and it is all the more interesting for it.

Last updated: Sep 29, 2008