Things to do

Llangollen is renowned worldwide for the Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod held annually since 1947 – where the world comes together through music and dance.

However, it is not just the Eisteddfod that attracts visitors to Llangollen. The attractions in and around Llangollen keep visitors coming back time after time – along with Llangollen being an ideal base from which to explore other areas of north Wales; the industrial history of the Black Country; the maritime history of Liverpool and much more.

Please find below just a brief sample of things you may wish to experience or visit during your stay at Riverside Mews – you may also want to check out our Links page for further details.

• Llangollen Railway

  A steam railway enthusiast’s dream. For those who still dream of being a Steam Engine Driver or have children young enough to warrant an excuse to visit. Bit by bit since 1975 enthusiasts have been renovating the line, and rolling stock to go with it, and have reached as far as Carrog several miles up the Dee Valley. Thomas the Tank Engine and Friends are frequent visitors especially during school holidays and the Santa Special is a big attraction leading up to Christmas.

• Valle Crucis Abbey

  This is a CADW maintained site. Extensive remains of Cistercian abbey founded in 1201. The church dates from the thirteenth century, and the east range of the cloister was remodelled around 1400. There is a fine collection of medieval memorial sculpture.

• Plas Newydd

  Plas Newydd was home to the Ladies of Llangollen, Lady Eleanor Butler and Miss Sarah Ponsonby, from 1780 - 1829. They became celebrated throughout the country as the story of their friendship spread through Regency Society. The house retains the Gothic features they introduced. Plas Newydd is set in peaceful gardens surrounded by trees and include the font from the nearby Valle Crucis Abbey.

• Horse Drawn Canal Boat Trips

  From the Wharf you can embark on either a horse drawn boat trip along the feeder for the main canal, or a motorised aqueduct cruise which takes you across the famous Pontcysyllte Aqueduct built by Thomas Telford. Both these trips take in the magical sights and sounds of the beautiful Llangollen Canal. Longer horse drawn trips can be arranged for large groups.

• Llangollen Museum

  Discover a little of the fascinating history of this unique area in the borderlands of Wales. The Llangollen Museum site will let you find out about the people and places, stories myths and legends, shops and businesses and many other areas of the history. You can browse through the Museum Archives, look at the History of the Area, or experience a Photographic Tour.

• River Dee Angling

  – Fishing on the River Dee: Fishing Permits can be obtained from Watkin & Williams, 4 Berwyn Street, Llangollen, LL20 8ND. Tel 01978 860652. Salmon/Sea Trout £45 Weekly £18 Daily 3rd March to 17th October. Trout/Grayling £30 Weekly £8 Daily 3rd March to 30th Sept Grayling £8 daily 16th June to 16th March

• Castell Dinas Bran

  – Dominating the skyline over Llangollen is the ruin of the 12th century castle. A brisk walk will see you reach the summit from the town centre in less than 40 mins. Alternatively why rush? Recent renovations to the pathways make for a smooth ascent, but be sure to take your own refreshments – it has been over 30 years since a tea shop at the summit closed!