Altogether fun2014

OFFA’S

DYKE

HERITAGE SITEWORLD

Must see attractions across the region

to Liverpool

Talacre Lighthouse

St AsaphCathedral

HarbourBridge

Rhuddlan Castle

DenbighCastle

Moel FamauJubilee tower

St Winefride's Well

RuthinGaol

Owain Glyndwr Statue Erddig

Dinas Bran

RailwayLlangollen-Corwen

Pontcysyllte

to Manchester

to Chester

to Shrewsbury

to Bala

A55

A494

A483

A494

A494

B4401A5

A525

Holywell

Mold

Denbigh

Ruthin

Corwen

Rhyl

Prestatyn

Llangollen

Wrexham

AREA OF OUTSTANDINGNATURAL BEAUTY

Come & find yourself in North East Wales.If you would like to receive more information about the area, events, attractions

or special offers please visit www.northeastwales.co.uk/altogetheryou

Fall under the spell of our spectacular scenery

and hear exciting tales of historic battles.

Discover miles of rolling hills, heather-clad

moorland, and the beautiful beaches of the

North Wales coast. Check out our unique

cultural scene. Meet the wildlife. Explore our

tracks and trails on a bike, a horse, or on foot.

Take a food trail, or just paddle in the sea. Visit

our fascinating ancient castles, or build your

own on a beach.

North East Wales is a great place to lose

yourself, but it’s very easy to find your way

around and just as easy to get to. Literally right next door to

England, with great transport links by car, bus, train, plane and

ferry. You can even arrive by canal boat if you like. Just hop

over the border and you’re on holiday.

North East Wales will captivate you from the moment you

arrive, and have you planning your next visit when it’s time

to go home.

Hop overJust

Welcome to North East Wales.

From Iron Age hillforts and seaside towns to exciting

festivals and action-packed outdoor activities; this stunning

part of the world has all the makings of an unforgettable

holiday, all year round, for all ages.

the border&you’re on holiday.

Countryside Coast Heritage

2

There’s nothing

quite like a proper

seaside holiday

to recharge the

batteries and make

you feel brand new.

Rhyl has no fewer than four

sandy beaches to choose

from, and Prestatyn has

three, so there’s plenty to

keep even dedicated beach

fans busy. Paddle in the

sea, fly a kite, build a sand

castle. Or give your sense

of adventure a workout and

try something new; our big

open shorelines are perfect

for windsurfing, kitesurfing,

paddleboarding and more.

Sounds too much like hard

work? Watching the world

go by from the comfort of a

deck chair also comes highly

recommended.

Whether you like active holidays of the sun and fun variety, or prefer to admire the scenery from a bike or a park bench, this part of the world has something for all ages, all year round.

Holidays

It’s little wonder that the seaside towns of Rhyl and Prestatyn are so popular with visitors. Each town is a great

base for exploring coast and country, but with miles of big sandy beaches and so much to see and do, they’re

excellent destinations in their own right. Head to the bustling resort of Rhyl for exciting attractions and events,

or go down a gear and explore Prestatyn’s beautiful natural surroundings and heritage.

Marine Lake and Miniature railwayThough Britain’s oldest miniature line has been running since 1911, it’s still the best way to get around Marine Lake.

This year’s events include a

Wizard Weekend in May, Sprint

Triathlon Festival in June and an

opportunity to race a train in July.

www.rhylminiaturerailway.co.uk

Drift parkDon’t be fooled by the name, Drift is not your average park.

For starters, this award-

winning park has its own

water park complete with

fountains and a paddling

pool. Then there’s a mini

golf course, a children’s

playground and an array

of impressive outdoor

sculptures and artworks,

and last but not least, an

open-air theatre.

the coast without the carsPont y Ddraig (Welsh for Dragon’s Bridge)

Enjoy

How do you like yours?

Break for the beach

by the sea

This iconic bridge is the last link in a 15 mile cycling

route which enters the county of Denbighshire, and

is part of both the National Cycle Network Route 5

and the Wales Coastal Path. Opened by Paralympic

cyclist Mark Colbourne MBE in 2013, the bridge

quite literally closes the gap in the coastal route;

that is, when it’s not opened vertically to allow

boats into the harbour. And, as if the bridge weren’t

impressive enough by day, the whole thing lights up

after dark. The harbour has excellent facilities for

seafarers, with new harbour-side facilities coming

soon for landlubbers to enjoy too.

Rhyl’s brand new harbour development gives anyone on foot, on a bike, in a wheelchair or a pram, the chance to admire harbour and seaside views, and to enjoy the coast without the traffic.

4 5

Rhyl Botanical GardensEstablished in the late 19th Century, Rhyl Botanical Gardens are believed to have been part of 17th century Ty’n Rhyl estate.

The gardens fell into decline

during the 20th century before

receiving a well-earned

makeover in 2004 by Rhyl

South West Central Resident’s

Association. Today the gardens

have tennis courts, a bowling

green, playground, café, and

lots of green spaces for strolling

and picnicking.

Make tracksYou might think that Rhyl town centre is a strange location for a cycling track.

But Marsh Tracks,

located on Route No 5

of the National Cycle

Network, is North East

Wales’ latest and most

exciting traffic-free

cycling venue, with a

national standard BMX track, a 1.3km

closed circuit road track and a 2km

pump track with attitude. It’s not just

for bikes though. The circuit track is

designed for everything from cycling

and disabled cycling, to running,

walking, in-line skating and nordic

walking. There are training courses for

all ages and you can even hire a track

if you like.

www.marshtracks.co.uk

Probably the best way to see our beautiful coastline is on a bike.

Route 5 of the National

Cycle Network runs along

the coast from Prestatyn. It’s fully signposted and forms

part of the Wales Coastal Path which runs around the

entire coast of Wales, with access to inland cycling routes,

too. The section between Prestatyn and Rhyl lets you

cycle along the edge of a beach, along proms and paths

and enjoy jaw-dropping scenery on the way.

www.sustrans.org.uk

Travel the coast under your own steam

Catch a live show at Rhyl’s sea-front Pavilion theatre,

where big names topping the bill this year include

Martha Reeves and Billy Ocean.

Fancy a night at the movies?

You can watch the latest blockbusters

and more at Rhyl’s Vue Cinema or

Prestatyn’s Scala Cinema and Arts

Centre, where there’s a live stage too.

Look out for a varied programme of

events of all kinds, with highlights including Rhyl’s annual

Air Show, where you can join thousands of visitors on

the seafront and be amazed by the awesome sight of

dramatic displays by the stars of British aviation.

To find out about this and our other brilliant events, check out the listings on page 32.

With so much to do and lots of great places to stay, Rhyl and Prestatyn are pretty much made for holidays. And there’s always something going on.

RhylExcellent golf, remarkable surroundingsA break on the North East Wales coast is a great way to make the most of the outdoors and get a few games in while you’re at it.

The challenging 9 hole links

course at Rhyl Golf Club will

test the mettle of players of

all standards and it’s open

all year round. With a history

going back to Victorian times

and celebrating its 125th

anniversary in 2015,

it’s officially the oldest golf

club in North Wales.

www.rhylgolfclub.co.uk

Rhuddlan Golf Club is a

championship parkland course

with awesome views of the

Clwydian Range and 18 holes

to challenge even the most

accomplished player. The Club

regularly hosts county and

national championship events,

including the Welsh Ping

Mixed Foursomes Finals

in 2015.

www.rhuddlangolfclub.co.uk

Go on,

treat yourself

If your ideal antidote

to a busy holiday

schedule is a spot of

retail therapy, you’ll

find plenty of excellent

shopping in Rhyl and

Prestatyn.

From big high street names in

fashion and homeware, to small

independent traders selling

unique crafts, gifts and artisan

produce. A good selection

of cafés, restaurants and

delicatessens are great places

to recharge afterwards.

7

There’s loads of stuff to do on the coast...

SeaQuarium, RhylWhat better location for a marine attraction than right on the seafront?

Home to subterranean species

from around the world Rhyl’s

SeaQuarium is where you can

get up close with British sharks,

rays and conger eels in the

underwater tunnel, catch a

performance by the harbour

seals at Sea Lion Cove, and sneak

a fantastic underwater peek as they

lark about in their 33,000 gallon pool.

www.seaquarium.co.uk

6

Offa’s

Dyke

As the first town in Wales to be

awarded ‘Walkers are Welcome’

status, it’s no surprise that

walking is serious business

in Prestatyn.

Gronant DunesGronant Dunes lies between Prestatyn and Talacre beaches and is the largest area of unspoiled sand dunes on the North Wales coast.

A Local Nature Reserve, a Site of

Special Scientific Interest and a

Special Area of Conservation all in

one, this protected coastal habitat

is home to rare plant and animal

species including sea holly, brown

hares, skylarks and the elusive sand

lizard. Gronant is probably best

known as the home of Britain’s

largest – and Wales’ only – colony

of little tern, which can be seen

from a viewing platform just off

the Wales Coast Path.

Whether you’re arriving on foot

or just starting your journey, the

walking here is seriously good

whichever way you approach it.

The North Wales Path begins its

60 mile journey west to Bangor

here, and Offas Dyke Path

National Trail begins its 177 mile

journey to Chepstow here too. Take the easy

Coastal Path, or slightly more tricky Offas

Dyke Path National Trail, the start (or end)

of which is marked with exceptional views

across the coast and Irish Sea and towards

Snowdonia at Gwaenysgor viewpoint.

Each route can be divided into smaller

sections to be tackled in just a few hours,

or you can keep walking if the mood takes

you. Alternatively for a quick walking fix,

try one of the many shorter circular and

linear routes around the town.

DyserthDyserth Waterfall plummets a whopping 70 feet over a limestone cliff on the slopes of Moel Hiraddug in the Clwydian Range Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Pack a picnic and enjoy the scenery,

or join one of many walks around

the village. Look out for rare violets

and orchids, buzzards and the odd

peregrine falcon too. Evidence of the

rich history of Dyserth village ranges

from the Iron Age to the Industrial

Revolution; and the village even gets

a mention in the Domesday Book.

Rhuddlan Nature ReserveNot so long ago Rhuddlan Nature Reserve was an area of derelict land.

Now fully transformed, the reserve

provides an ideal habitat for nesting

and feeding birds and is already

home to many species including

kingfishers, otters, coots, moor

hens, herons and water voles; and

with a view of Rhuddlan Castle and

the National Cycle Route running

through it, it’s pretty great for

visitors too.

Bridlewood Riding Centre, GwespyrAs any horse will tell you, nothing beats a dash across a wide open beach with the wind in your mane.

Bridlewood Riding Centre – Highly

Commended by the British Horse

Society – has direct private access

onto the five mile sandy beach at

Talacre, so you can get out there

and really experience the freedom

of the beach. Whether on the sand

or on a hillside, riders can admire

the scenery on horseback,

accompanied by fully qualified

instructors, with activities for all

ages, including ‘Own a Pony’

days for young riders.

www.bridlewood.co.uk

Point of Ayr RSPB nature reserveLocation, location, location. The coastal waters, mud flats and salt-marsh around the Dee Estuary make a pretty ideal home if you’re a wading bird.

Star species to look out for at the

RSPB reserve include sandwich terns

in spring; peregrines and pintails

in autumn and winter; and oyster-

catchers all year round.

Prestatyn Walking Festival, 16-18 May 2014

Every day’s a walking festival in Prestatyn, but May’s annual Walking Festival makes it

official. It’s three whole days of walking activities and no fewer than 25 walks, most of

which are free. Walks range in difficulty from an easy stroll to a full-on challenging hike,

with highlights including Offa’s Dyke, the Wales Coast Path and the Clwydian Range Area

of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Every walk is different, but they all have one thing in

common: each one is a great way to get to know the coast or countryside on foot.

www.denbighshirecountryside.org.uk/walking

walk about

Prestatyn

98

The ancient town of Rhuddlan on the banks of the River Clwyd is probably best known for the ruins of its mighty medieval fortress.

The castle was built by English King Edward I in 1282 to subjugate the locals,

and the same qualities that made Rhuddlan such an attractive location for

Edward’s building project still stand today. Though these days visitors are

welcome to explore our town and countryside and make it their own.

Rhuddlan Explore our coastal heritage...

St Mary’s Church, RhuddlanSt Mary’s Church sits on the banks of the River Clwyd just a few hundred yards from Rhuddlan Castle.

Original parts of the church date back

to the 14th Century with a bit of a

makeover in the 19th century by

renowned architect Sir George Gilbert

Scott. Look out for the Bodrhyddan

mausoleum and a 17th-century sundial.

Twthill Motte and Bailey Castle, RhuddlanYou’d be forgiven for thinking that the big earthen mound next to Rhuddlan Castle is, well, a big earthen mound.

In fact, it’s the site of not one, but two

much earlier castles. Built in 1073 by

Robert of Rhuddlan at the behest of

William the Conqueror, Twthill Motte

and Bailey Castle was itself built on the

site of the royal palace of native Welsh

prince Gruffydd ap Llywelyn.

Roman Bath House, PrestatynTucked away

down a cul-de-sac in a residential area of

Prestatyn you’ll find the ruins of a Roman civilian bathhouse

dating from around AD 120.

The foundations are remarkably intact,

so you can see where our Latin ancestors

kicked back and enjoyed a spa day,

Roman-style.

Point of Ayr LighthouseBuilt in 1776 at the northernmost tip of mainland Wales, The Point of Ayr Lighthouse is the oldest lighthouse in Wales.

Unoccupied since Victorian times

until recently. The Lighthouse is

now home to a 7ft high stainless

steel keeper, the work of sculptor

Angela Smith.

Bodrhyddan HallHome to Lord Langford’s family for over 500 years, this Grade I listed country house contains a treasure trove of riches including armoury, artworks, furniture, and – wait for it – a 3,000 year old mummy.

The treasures continue outside with

a woodland garden, lovely picnic

area and a formal box-edged parterre

designed by architect William Eden

Nesfield who remodelled much of

the house itself in the 19th century.

Rhyl MuseumThis town centre museum tells Rhyl’s unique story.

Fascinating exhibits span the centuries

and include a Roman tile with markings

of the 20th Legion; a model of Rhyl’s

long-departed pier from 1880; a WWII

Home Guard dummy practice rifle; and a

‘Miss Rhyl’ sash from 1939’s contest, the

last one before the outbreak of WWII.

Bodelwyddan CastleSet in 260 acres of parkland, Bodelwyddan Castle is an historic house and accredited museum, with formal gardens and woodland, adventure playground and garden maze.

Inside, this partner of the National

Portrait Gallery showcases many

remarkable historic artworks displayed

in a stunning authentic period setting.

10 11

BeautifulStretch your legs, Saxon styleEach year thousands of walkers tread Offas Dyke Path National Trail, the 177 mile coast-to-coast National Trail from Prestatyn to Chepstow.

The Trail criss-crosses the border

with England and roughly follows

Offa’s Dyke, the 8 metre rampart built

by 8th century Saxon King Offa. In its

entirety the Trail can take a couple

of weeks to hike, so most people

like to strike it off in manageable

chunks. The section passing through

the North East Wales is the 34 mile

Llangollen to Prestatyn trail which

takes in Eglwyseg at Llangollen, the

Iron Age hillforts and Moel Famau.

It’s easily accessible along the way

so you can walk as little or as much

of it as you like.

On PilgrimageThis long distance footpath through the countryside links places of historical religious interest and roughly follows the ancient pilgrimage route from St Winefride’s Well in Holywell to Bardsey Island off the Lleyn Peninsula coast.

It’s some 240km in length all told,

with St Asaph Cathedral, Llanasa,

Tremeirchion are just three of the

highlights en route with digital hubs

full of local points of interest.

www.pilgrims-way-north-wales.org

Put your feet upAfter a hard hike around our beautiful countryside you’ll probably be in need of a recharge.

We have lots of walking-

friendly places to eat and

drink, all conveniently

located for easy access to

and from our tracks and

trails. Whether you fancy

a charming country pub

with a view as good as the

food and real ale, such

as the White Horse at

Hendrerwydd, or a friendly

cafe, such as Caffi Florence

at the foot of Moel Famau,

each one offers a warm

welcome to walkers and

a good excuse to break

your journey and rest tired

limbs while you decide

where to go next on your

big adventure.

Every step marks a new adventure hereQuite literally the high point in the Clwydian Range, Moel Famau is a good place to start exploring.

With iconic Georgian Jubilee

Tower at the summit it’s easily

spotted, and after a bit of legwork

to the top you’re rewarded with

incredible panoramic views across

Merseyside, the coast, Snowdonia

and the Dee Valley. Keep a lookout

for the locals; skylarks and rare

black grouse are just two of the

species at home in the open

heather moorland.

Tracing ancient footstepsWith its unique chain of 2,500 year old Iron Age Hillforts, the Clwydian Range is an archaeologist’s fantasy come true.

It’s among Wales’ most important

historic landscapes with one of the

highest concentrations of Iron Age

hillforts in Europe, but you don’t

have to be a member of Time Team

to appreciate them. They’re just as

much fun for walkers as they are

for historians, so you can trace the

footsteps of our ancestors in more

ways than one. Hillfort highlights

include Penycloddiau’s roundhouse

sites; ramparts and ditches at Moel

Arthur and Moel Fenlli; and stunning

views over the Dee Valley from Caer

Drewyn in Corwen. Try one of the

many audio trails available as part of

the Heather and Hillforts project, or

do it your way and be your own guide.

that’s official.&Big open spaces, clean fresh air, miles of tracks and trails and plenty of off-roading make the Clwydian Range one of Britain’s best places to explore on foot.

This string of hills runs south from Prestatyn to the Nant y Garth pass; and from the Vale of Clwyd eastwards to the

Dee Estuary, covering no fewer than 390 square kilometres with its wonderful mix of open heather moorland, craggy

limestone, woodland walks and lush green farmland. Commanding magnificent views in every direction and stunning

in its own right, you won’t be surprised to hear that together the Clwydian Range and Dee Valley are designated as

an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, one of only five in the whole of Wales.

12 13

The adventure starts hereNot only is cycling the final word in low carbon travel, it’s also a great way to see the parts of the countryside you don’t get to see from a car.

Our rolling hills and mountain tracks

are perfect for exploring on a bike,

with easy rides for pure enjoyment

and mountain biking for something

a bit tougher. With many of Britain’s

best routes right on the doorstep,

and views as breathtaking as the

climbs, you’re bound to find your

perfect trail.

Hop on a bike and try our tracks and trailsFor bike riding, the whole family can try Llyn Brenig reservoir’s ‘Around the Lake’ route.

Fancy something a bit harder?

Go up a gear and try ‘Over the Top’

to the highest permitted point for

mountain bikes. Or for something

really challenging ‘Loop the Loop’

will test the skills of even hardened

riders. Our superb bike trails come in

all degrees of toughness, each one

guaranteed to give your sense of

adventure a good airing.

www.ridenorthwales.co.uk

Adventures in Llandegla ForestA working forest with a reputation for some of the best mountain biking trails in Britain.

Llandegla has no fewer than 44km

of purpose-built top-class mountain

bike trails and a mountain biking

centre with bike hire, skills courses,

tune-ups and award-winning bacon

butties. It’s no wonder people come

from all over the UK to ride here. But

if you prefer to enjoy the outdoors

on two feet rather than two wheels

there are plenty of waymarked walks

through stunning forest scenery.

www.oneplanetadventure.com

The wetter the betterIf you’re up for something properly exhilarating, you won’t be disappointed.

Our challenging inland waterways

are perfect for those who crave that

white-knuckle feeling with a host of

excellent outdoor challenges. Give

white water rafting or abseiling a go,

visit a local gorge or take a kayak out

for a spin. For something a bit more

relaxing have a go at sailing on

Llyn Brenig.

www.whitewateractive.co.uk

Ceiriog ValleyIf you really want to get away from it all, the Ceiriog Valley is the place to be.

‘A little bit of heaven on Earth’ is

how Lloyd George described it and

it’s easy to see why. Probably Wales’

best kept secret, this quiet valley

is just a few miles from the English

border and enjoys mile after mile

of wonderful scenery, best enjoyed

on a bike, on a pony or on foot. Try

the Ceiriog Valley Walk from Chirk

to Llanarmon where you can hop

on a bus if you need a rest. Have a

go at trout and sea trout fishing on

the River Ceiriog. Or enjoy the wide

open space of the Berwyn Mountains

where you might just have the whole

place to yourself.

The ingredients of a proper getaway are right here: hills, valleys, lakes, tracks, trails, rivers, you name it. But the best thing? Whether you’ve a hankering for biking on rough terrain, or a meander through the woods is more your thing, you’re never more than a few minutes away from an amazing experience in the great outdoors.

are made of

great weekendsWhat

14 15

The Woodland Skills CentreIf you fancy yourself as the next Ray Mears.

The Woodland Skills Centre is a

good place to learn the ropes.

Set in 50 acres of woodland with

permanent forest school sites and

workshops. You can learn all about

bushcraft right in the heart of the

Clwydian Range AONB, through a

range of courses, adventure days and

family weekenders in the woods.

www.woodlandskillscentre.co.uk

Greenfield Valley Heritage ParkMore than just a country park.

This 70 acre heritage site near

Holywell has woodland, reservoirs

and ancient monuments, including

the ruins of 12th Century Basingwerk

Abbey, and tells the fascinating story

of local industrial heritage.

www.greenfieldvalley.com

Ty Mawr Country ParkUnder Cefn Viaduct on the banks of the River Dee is a pretty unusual setting.

But then everything’s a bit unusual

here; not least the llamas keeping

foxes at bay. Feed the free-range

chickens and ducks, and see

traditional hay meadows full of

colour in summer at this pesticide

and chemical-free working farm.

Enjoy a picnic of goodies, then

take a walk with a ‘calorie map’

afterwards.

Llyn Brenig Visitor CentreThere’s so much to do at Llyn Brenig Visitor Centre.

Enjoy world-class fly fishing

on an upland reservoir stocked

with rainbow trout. Hire a bike

and go for miles on the tracks

and trails. Walk around the man

made lake. Or sail over it.

Enjoy tea and cake while the

kids go free-range in the

adventure playground.

www.llynbrenig.co.uk

Alyn Waters Country ParkThis country park in the beautiful Alyn Valley is split down the middle by the River Alyn.

Will you choose to explore the

Gwersyllt side with its visitor centre;

or the Llay side with children’s

playground and Local Nature

Reserve? The whole site has an

exciting programme of activities

throughout the year as well

as Green Flag accreditation,

so why not try both?

Nant Mill Visitor CentreSet in ancient woodland on the River Clywedog, Nant Mill Visitor Centre is a great place for families, with a playground, mole tunnel and minibeast display.

Watch the birds, squirrels and bank

voles from the bird hide and race

ducks on the river, or give your

legs a bit of a workout and join

The Clywedog Trail which passes

through the grounds at Nant Mill.

Loggerheads Country Park Brimming with wildlife and history.

Enjoy wonderful walks along the

river, through the woodland and take

in the amazing views from the top

of the rocks. Explore the old water

mill or visit our audiovisual room

revealing the stories of the area. The

Tea Gardens are an open green space

ideal for family picnics and games.

If you haven’t got a picnic, Caffi

Florence serve local, homemade food

with a smile. To help plan your visit

pop into the Clwydian Range Centre

where our staff can help or you can

pick up a leaflet, buy a map, book or

beautiful gift. Like us on facebook

Loggerheads Country Park.

packs a lot inLlangollen

Surrounded by rolling hills and the Berwyn mountains, the small town of Llangollen on the River Dee packs a lot in.

With more events than you can fit on a calendar;

from the Dee Rocks festival to Llangollen Fringe and

the International Musical Eisteddfod, there’s no shortage

of things to occupy you for a whole weekend or longer.

Plenty of places to stay, from cottages to campsites;

and loads of great cafés, bars and restaurants to keep

you fed and watered. If you’ve ever fancied a ride in a canal boat

pulled by a horse, the Llangollen Canal is the place to try it.

The town’s top attraction, Llangollen Railway Station is now

beautifully restored complete with vintage Brief Encounter-style

tea rooms. If trains are your thing, don’t miss the chance to see

classic steam locomotives in all their glory, or be the first to ride

the new extension to Corwen.

Llangollen RailwayThis charming

heritage railway takes you through the beautiful Dee Valley 7.5 miles from Llangollen to Carrog.

Thanks to the hard graft of volunteers working on the line to restore this well-loved railway, this summer you’ll be able to carry on to Corwen.www.llangollen-railway.co.uk

16 17

The Dee Valley WayThis 15 mile waymarked walking route takes you from Corwen to Llangollen, or the other way round if you prefer.

With stunning scenery all round,

highlights include Caer Drewyn

hillfort, the villages of Carrog

and Glyndyfrdwy, the Llantysilio

Mountains, Llantysilio church and

Telford’s Horseshoe Falls. For

something a bit shorter, just choose a

section and start walking. Too much

like hard work? Hop on a steam train

or horse-drawn canal boat and give

your legs a rest.

Fly fishing in the Dee ValleyA perfect habitat for fish makes the River Dee one of the best fly fishing rivers in Wales, with a reputation amongst aficionados as one of the best grayling rivers in Britain.

Expect to see (and with a bit of luck

catch) brown trout, salmon, and sea

trout here too.

Set out on foot in DenbighshireYou don’t have to book a week off work and spend days hiking to appreciate our surroundings.

Denbighshire’s Community Miles

is a collection of short waymarked

walks which just take an hour or a

bit longer if you like. Though less

challenging than some, they still

show off our best bits and you

can try mountain, vale, woodland,

riverside or coastal varieties.

Alternatively there are lots of shorter,

circular walks around our heathlands,

forests, and country parks, many

linked by the local bus service.

High AdventureHowever you do it, Thomas Telford and William Jessop’s awesome Pontcysyllte Aqueduct has to be crossed to be believed.

A Scheduled Ancient

Monument, an UNESCO

World Heritage Site,

a Grade I Listed structure

and part of the Offa’s

Dyke National Trail, this

masterpiece of civil

engineering is more than

two centuries old and still standing strong. The aqueduct carries the Llangollen

Canal over the River Dee and every year 1000 canal boats make the 1007 feet

journey across this ‘stream in the sky’ – a terrifying 126 feet up. Its monumental

proportions make it the longest and highest navigable aqueduct in the world.

Whether you choose to cross it on a canal boat, or on foot or by bike, those

with even the tiniest fear of heights best not look down.

www.pontcysyllte-aqueduct.co.uk

The story begins hereThe 18 kilometre long World Heritage Site kicks off at Horseshoe Falls where the Llangollen Canal gets its water from the River Dee.

The waterway we know and love

today was originally part of the

Ellesmere Canal, Thomas Telford’s

first big project. It links Llangollen

with Cheshire and Shropshire and is

Britain’s most popular canal. Probably

the best way to enjoy it is on a horse-

drawn canal boat trip from the wharf

in Llangollen. Visitors have enjoyed

gliding through the Welsh countryside

this way for over 100 years.

www.horsedrawnboats.co.uk

Chirk AqueductJust a few miles downstream from Pontcysyllte is Thomas Telford’s other aqueduct at Chirk.

Built in 1801, this

navigable aqueduct

carries the Llangollen

Canal across the Ceiriog

Valley to the English

border. At 70 feet high

and 710 feet long it’s no

match size-wise for its

big sister, but it still cuts

an impressive figure on

the landscape and enjoys

fabulous views of the

Ceiriog Valley below.

Pontcysyllte Aqueduct & Canal UNESCO World Heritage Site

your camera!forgetDon’t

18 19

Castell Dinas BrânHigh on a hill above Llangollen stand the ruins of a medieval castle constructed on the site of an Iron Age hill fort in about 1260.

Though a ruin for centuries, it’s

one of the best places to view the

spectacular countryside below.

Rhuddlan CastleBuilt by Master James of Saint George for Edward I in 1282, there’s no mistaking what this brawny castle said to would-be attackers.

Edward arranged for the River

Clwyd to be moved closer to the

castle, creating a sea port a whole

three miles from the coast. Though

time has taken it toll, Rhuddlan

Castle still cuts a mighty figure

on the landscape.

www.cadw.wales.gov.uk

Chirk CastleContinuously occupied for the last 700 years ago, Chirk Castle is the only one of Edward I’s Welsh castles still lived in today.

This medieval ‘des res’ comes

complete with tower and dungeon,

award-winning gardens, views over

nine counties and Offa’s Dyke at the

bottom of the garden.

www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Flint CastleImmortalised by Shakespeare in Richard II, Flint Castle on the Dee Estuary is Edward I’s earliest Welsh castle.

Attacks by Dafydd ap Gruffydd in

1282 and Owain Glynd wr in 1400

left it battle weary, but there’s still

plenty to see. The massive rounded

keep with 23 feet thick walls is a

masterpiece of military architecture

in its own right.

www.cadw.wales.gov.uk

Ewloe CastleSurrounded by 160 acre woodland at Wepre Park near Chester, this Welsh castle was built by Llywelyn ap Gruffudd (‘the Last’) after 1257.

Though in ruins since the end of the

13th century, there’s still enough of it

left to allow visitors to climb to the

top of one of the towers.

Caergwrle CastleCaergwrle Castle near Wrexham was built 1277 by one-time supporter of Edward I, Dafydd ap Gruffydd, who sparked the English invasion of Wales when he changed his allegiance.

Remodelled by Edward, the castle

made a lovely gift for his wife,

Eleanor of Castile. Today, a stunning

view of Flintshire is the prize for the

short hike to the castle.

Grand designsHow do you like your castles? Big, small, falling down?

Our castles come in all states and sizes, from a dilapidated

Welsh ruin on a hill, to the only one of Edward I’s fortresses

still occupied today. Many of Europe’s finest surviving

medieval forts are right here, including Rhuddlan Castle,

13th century military architecture at its most deadly.

Plus a few ruins, like those of Castell Dinas Brân, the

reputed last resting place of the holy grail. For a real

break with history why not spend the night in a castle?

Ruthin Castle is now a luxury hotel and spa, where

anyone with a feel for history will feel right at home.

Denbigh’s mighty 13th century castle sits above one of the largest and strongest set of town walls in Wales.

The fortress was so sturdy it survived attacks by

Owain Glynd wr in 1400, the Earl of Pembroke during

the Wars of the Roses, and Cromwell during the Civil

War. Today it’s a bit easier to get in.

Borrow the keys to the town walls

from Denbigh Library and explore

at your leisure, and enjoy views of

the Clwydian Range while you’re at

it. Other things to check out include

Burgess Gate (the main entrance to

the old town), Leicester’s Church, the bustling high street

and Denbigh’s array of exciting activities throughout the

year, from a monthly people’s market and a Plum Festival

to a fireworks display from the castle walls.

www.cadw.wales.gov.uk

Denbigh

20 21

St Dyfnog’s Church, Llanrhaeadr-yng-NghinmeirchBy the late middle ages St Dyfnog’s was among Wales’ top holy wells attracting pilgrims from far and wide.

Visitors today are greeted by the magnificent Tree of

Jesse stained glass window, one of Wales’ finest medieval

treasures, which narrowly escaped destruction during

the Civil War by being buried inside the massive dug-out

beneath it.

St Winefride’s Well, HolywellLegend has it that a spring erupted on the spot where unwanted suitor, Caradog cut off Winefride’s head when she spurned his advances.

Though the legend may be grisly, St Winefride’s Well

is renowned for its healing waters even today. The

present 16th century shrine is both a Grade 1 listed

building, a Scheduled Ancient Monument, and

Britain’s only shrine with a continuous history of

pilgrimage since the 7th century.

St Giles’s Parish Church, WrexhamOne of Wales’ finest examples of religious architecture, St Giles’s receives thousands of visitors each year, many from the USA who come to view the tomb of Yale University benefactor Elihu Yale.

Other things to look out for at this 15th Century church

include masonry, woodcarvings, religious artefacts and

stunning stained glass. The tower is the tallest building

in Wrexham and houses one of the only complete rings

cast by 18th Century bell-founder Abraham Rudhall of

Gloucester.

Open Church Network, WrexhamThe churches in and around Wrexham are not only places of worship at the heart of community life, they’re architectural and artistic treasures too.

The sixteen churches featured on this open church trail

welcome visitors to explore the art, architecture, politics,

war, heraldry and nature associated with each unique

sacred building.

www.openchurchnetwork.co.uk

Our churches, chapels and sacred places tell the story of hundreds of years of belief. Many are still important centres of community life today. Some are right at the heart of a town or village, and some are a bit more difficult to find. Whether Norman, Gothic, Victorian or truly ancient, each one has an unique story to tell.

Sacredstories

Valle Crucis AbbeyIn a beautiful countryside setting beneath Llangollen’s mountains, this 13th Century abbey gives a fascinating insight into the lives of Cistercian monks.

It’s one of the best preserved abbeys

in Wales, faring better against the

ravages of history than most of its

contemporaries. Original features

include a richly carved doorway,

Chapter House with striking

rib-vaulted roof, and the original

monks’ fishpond still full of water.

www.cadw.wales.gov.uk

St Asaph CathedralLocated right on the war-path of the medieval Welsh Princes and English Kings, the tiny city of St Asaph is home to the smallest ancient cathedral in England and Wales.

Begun in about 1239, the cathedral

was burnt by Edward I, rebuilt,

and burnt again by Owain

Glynd wr in 1402. Thanks to the

stoic determination of local

stonemasons and some thorough

remodelling by Victorian architect

George Gilbert Scott, it survived the

ravages of fire and history. Today,

visitors can admire North Wales’

only medieval canopied stalls and

the display of early editions of the

first Welsh Bible and Prayer Book

by Bishop William Morgan, who was

largely responsible for the survival

of the Welsh language.

For more information about churches in the area please visit medieval-wales.com or pick up the brochure Enjoy Medieval Denbighshire from our Tourist Information Centres.

CorwenRug Chapel and Llangar Old Parish ChurchDon’t be fooled by first impressions. The plain exterior of Rug Chapel belies the riches within.

Interior fixtures and fittings at this private 16th Century chapel are extensively

decorated High Church-style in a riot of colour. Even older is nearby Llangar

Church, a small whitewashed medieval parish church overlooking the Dee and

Alwen rivers. Its many original features include stunning 15th-century wall

paintings and a 17th-century figure of death.

www.cadw.wales.gov.uk

22 23

RuthinKings, Queens

medieval adventures&With more listed buildings than any other market town in North East Wales, Ruthin is heaven for historians, with plenty more to get excited about.

Once reputed to have ‘a pub for every week of the year’, these days Ruthin has fewer taverns. There are still plenty of

places to grab a bite though if you’d like someone else to cook, and a multi-award-winning delicatessen packed with

wonderful ingredients if you fancy being the chef. Centred around St Peter’s Square, the town has many other notable

features including a Victorian clock tower, the 14th Century Parish Church of St Peter, and 15th Century Old Court House;

the location of Ruthin’s original gaol before its more famous successor came along.

Ruthin Castle, RuthinBuilding work began on this notorious medieval stronghold in 1277 by Llywelyn ap Gruffydd’s little brother Dafydd.

Edward I took over the building

project and it wasn’t long before

queen Eleanor moved in. The

castle survived Owain Glynd wr’s

burning of Ruthin in 1400, only to

be demolished during the Civil War.

Now a country house hotel, these

days everything’s far less turbulent at

Ruthin Castle; visitors can relax at the

luxury day spa and plan their next

epic adventure.

Ruthin Gaol, RuthinBetween 1654 and 1916, thousands of prisoners, innocent and guilty, passed through the gates of Ruthin Gaol to languish at his or her majesty’s pleasure.

You too can do time here,

explore the eerie cells

and discover life

behind bars years

ago; visit the

Pentonville block

and hear the story

of William Hughes,

the last person to

be hanged here.

Nant Clwyd y Dre, RuthinNant Clwyd y Dre is the earliest timber framed town house in Wales and, along with the castle, one of the few buildings to survive the burning of Ruthin by Owain Glynd wr.

The building tells the story of life in

Ruthin through many centuries of

renovations and makeovers; with

furnishing to make any interior

designer weak at the knees.

Plas Newydd, LlangollenWhen Sarah Ponsonby and Lady Eleanor Butler eloped from Ireland to Plas Newydd these ‘Ladies of Llangollen’ scandalised Regency society.

Wordsworth, Shelley, Sir Walter

Scott and literary bad-boy Lord

Byron were all on the guest list at

Plas Newydd, and today visitors can

admire the extraordinary collection

of objet d’art, the peaceful gardens

with impressive topiary and the

stone circle used for 1908’s

National Eisteddfod.

www.denbighshire.gov.uk

Plas Teg, MoldA recent star of Channel 4’s Country House Rescue with Ruth Watson.

This magnificent Grade 1 listed

mansion is among Wales’ most

important Jacobean houses, and

a great place to get a fascinating

glimpse of the lives of early

Stuart nobility.

Wrexham Museum and ArchivesWant to know more about Wrexham’s history?

Wrexham County Borough Museum

is a good place to start. Displays

and collections depict the eventful

story, from prehistory right up to the

present day, of this unique

English-Welsh border town.

Gladstone's Library, HawardenIn 1895, four-time British Prime Minister William Ewart Gladstone bequeathed £40,000 and much of his private book collection to found Gladstone's Library in Hawarden.

Though 85 at the time, he hauled

most of his 32,000 books to the

library by wheelbarrow. Today,

it’s Britain’s finest residential

library, and the nation’s tribute

to his life and work.

www.gladstoneslibrary.org

Erddig, WrexhamFamous for the unusually close relationship between the Yorke family and their servants.

Erddig’s interiors feature original

18th and 19th century furnishings,

while outside visitors can explore

the laundry, bakehouse, stables,

sawmill and smithy.

The landscaped grounds are

among Britain’s most important

18th century gardens, and home

to the National Ivy Collection.

www.nationaltrust.org.uk

24 25

FreshWith our lush green landscapes and long beautiful coast, it’s no surprise that this part of the world produces some pretty fantastic food.

With vegetables grown in our fields,

meat straight from the farm, and

seafood caught

this morning,

fresh is how

we like it.

And whether

you’re choosing from the menu at local

Michelin Star-winner Tyddyn Llan, or

creating something from scratch at

the farmer’s market, a good feed is

guaranteed. So proud are we of our

local produce, we have not one, but

two food festivals: Mold Food and

Drink Festival in September, and

Llangollen Hamper in October.

& localthat’s how we like it.

The Clwydian Range food trailWith all this delicious food about, we’ve devised our very own food trail to take you on a culinary journey through the beautiful Clwydian Range, where you can try everything from cheese to chocolate, paté to pies, plus a drop of local cider to wash it down.

This gastronomic tour of the Clwydian Range takes you through some of the most spectacular views in Wales while

you sample the achievements of award-winning local producers who grow or make their delicious food right here. With

a café serving up delicious food from local ingredients, two farm shops selling the pick of the crop, two butchers, a

delicatessen, two bakeries and six speciality producers, there’s more than enough to satisfy even the hungriest foodies.

www.foodtrail.co.uk

Other foodie highlights...The Rhug Estate and Shop, CorwenFirst opened in 2003 with not much more than a butcher’s counter, Rhug has grown into a wonderful shopping and eating experience.

With 70 varieties of cheese, their

own award-winning organic meat

produced on Lord Newborough’s

12,500 acre estate, and a Michelin

Star-trained executive chef in the

Bistro’s kitchen.

Hawarden Estate Farm Shop, HawardenThis wonderful farm shop food hall sells meat, fruit and vegetables sourced directly from farms on the Hawarden Estate.

Home-cured and home cooked are

the buzz words on the deli counter,

and the café serves up delicious

food using fresh ingredients

straight from the farm.

26 27

Shopping in WrexhamWith its medieval market heritage, its only right that Wrexham should have developed into a thriving modern retail centre to satisfy even die-hard shoppers.

Independent artisan shops and

quirky boutiques sit happily

alongside big high-street names

here, and although recent

developments have added an extra

250,000 square feet to Wrexham’s

shopping area, fans of the town’s

old streets Temple Row and Bank

Street and its traditional arcades, will

be pleased to hear that their unique

charm remains intact.

Farmers MarketsThere’s nothing quite like a farmers market to put you in touch with the countryside and the people who live and work there.

Where else can you see and buy

the wonderful food that our corner

of the country produces, and chat

to the farmer who grew it? It’s

simple: food fresh from the farm just

tastes better. Vegetables straight

from the soil, free-range eggs laid

that morning. You’ll always find

something for supper, and as many

farmers these days diversify, there’s

lots more besides. Check out your

nearest Tourist Information Centres

for details.

Traditional market townsHistorically speaking, the combination of our proximity to the English border and our lush farmland made North East Wales a perfect place for trade.

Many of our traditional market

towns still hold regular markets to

this day. Often held in an historic

setting, our markets sell a surprising

range of products, from fruit and

footwear to furnishings. All have a

buzzing atmosphere and traders

who are experts in what they sell.

Find traditional markets at Wrexham,

Denbigh, Llangollen, Ruthin,

Holywell, and Mold. Check out your

nearest Tourist Information Centres

for details.

Plassey Craft CentreWith more than 25 shops selling a huge selection of craft items, handmade jewellery, soft furnishings, cycles, scooters and more, there’s enough to keep shoppers busy for a whole afternoon or longer.

If shopping isn’t your

bag, you can admire

panoramic views over the

Dee Valley, enjoy a nature

walk or practice your swing

at the 9 hole golf course.

www.plassey.com

Hidden gems you won’t want to miss...Those with a eye for a vintage bargain or a design gem will be delighted at the mix of unusual shops and boutiques that this part of the world has to offer.

Fans of original pieces and

one-offs will love the unique range

of vintage shops selling clothing,

footwear, books, textiles and other

fabulous pieces you simply won’t

find on the high street. Just keep

your eyes peeled; the best ones

are often hidden down secret side

streets – such as Harley’s Vintage

Boutique in Llangollen – or out of

town, such as Homewood Bound

Collections in Ruthin with its ever-

evolving collection of stylish things

for the home including furniture,

collectables and antiques, plus a

delightful tea room with even more

to tempt you.

ShoppingSmall and independent or big and on the high street, our shops come in all varieties.

When you add to the mix our street markets

and farmers markets you get a pretty special

shopping experience. With unique crafts created

by hand and jewellery and ceramics from the

local studio, there’s no shortage of gorgeous

things being made right here. Treat a loved one,

or yourself for that matter.

comes in all shapes & sizes here

Ruthin Craft Centre, the centre for applied artsRuthin Craft Centre, The Centre for the Applied Arts, is one of Britain’s best places to see and create contemporary arts and crafts.

Constructed from cast stone with a zinc roof, the Centre’s distinctive

building is a work of art in itself. Around the courtyard you’ll find the

working studios of practicing designer-makers where the creative

process unfolds. Inside, gallery spaces show top works from home and

abroad, and a retail space sells pieces of stunning jewellery, ceramics,

glass, metalwork and textiles; all created by the country’s leading

makers. After an hour or two spent admiring the collections, Café R,

the Centre’s family run restaurant will revive and restore. If you want

to discover more about Ruthin - why not walk the new art trail which

was launched this year and starts in the Craft Centre.

For more information visit

www.ruthinarttrail.co.uk

28 29

Helfa GelfEach September north Wales’ biggest open studio event Helfa Gelf invites visitors to see artists at work in their own studios.

This free art trail is a great

opportunity to view the work of

painters, sculptors, photographers,

jewellery makers, potters,

weavers and printers from across

Denbighshire, Flintshire and

Wrexham. Whether in a gallery or

a garden shed, visiting the artist in

their own working environment gives

enthusiasts the chance to see the

creative process come to life, to chat,

and buy direct.

www.helfagelf.co.uk

Deeside Leisure Centre, Ice Rink and Afon SpaDeeside Leisure Centre is not your average leisure centre.

Sure, it has a fitness suite, football

pitches, a sports hall and squash

courts, but this one is home to the

National Centre for Ice Sports in

Wales, where you can try a variety of

activities on the rink’s Olympic-sized

pad; from ice hockey and curling to

disco. Then unwind in the on-site spa

afterwards.

Flintshire Leisure TourMarket towns, medieval castles, stunning scenery.

With so much to see across Flintshire,

you’ll be pleased to know there’s a

car trail to help you on your way.

The Flintshire Leisure Tour is about

83 miles long altogether and you

can tackle it in sections. Officially

starting in Mold and sign-posted

throughout, the tour takes you

on a loop past all our best bits

and you can hop out and explore

off-trail along the way when you

feel like it.

www.flintshireleisuretour.co.uk

Bangor on Dee RacecourseYou can’t beat the spectacle of horses and jockeys close up, the rush to place a bet, and the thrill of the race itself.

The very first Steeplechase meeting

was held here in 1859, and Bangor

on Dee Racecourse has been

attracting race-goers ever-since.

The grass banks overlooking the

course create a wonderful natural

viewing platform, which is why this

racecourse is the only one in Britain

without a grandstand.

www.bangorondeeraces.co.uk

The Llangollen PavilionOpened by the Queen in 1992 and among Llangollen’s most striking landmarks.

The Llangollen Pavilion is home

to the world-famous Llangollen

International Musical Eisteddfod each

July, plus a year-round programme

of concerts, exhibitions and events

including the Llangollen Hamper

in October.

www.llangollenpavilion.co.uk

Wales Rally GBThis November join thousands of rally fans to see the rally cars, crews and teams at Deeside as they get ready for the next day's gruelling challenge in the North East Wales countryside.

Based in Deeside with all the action

now taking place in north Wales

over challenging special stages set

in classic Welsh forests, offering

amateur competitors the chance to

compete on the same stages and use

the same Service Park as the world

championship contenders.

www.walesrallygb.com

Scala Cinema And Arts Centre, PrestatynOnce the oldest one-screen cinema in North Wales.

This cutting edge arts venue is now

a major culture and entertainment

destination in its own right, complete

with Wales’ first fully digital cinema.

www.scalaprestatyn.co.uk

68th International Musical Eisteddfod, LlangollenThe biggest and best cultural event on the Welsh calendar, Llangollen’s International Musical Eisteddfod is a world-famous six-day celebration of music, dance costume and culture.

Llangollen has welcomed visitors to the event since

its very first outing in 1947, with festival-goers now

totalling more than 50,000. Around 5000 amateur

and professional competitors from over 50 countries

are joined on stage by world-famous artists. Luciano

Pavarotti, Kiri Te Kanawa, Lesley Garrett, James

Galway, Joan Baez, Elaine Paige, Katherine Jenkins,

Lulu and Russell Watson are just a few of the huge

talents to grace the festival stage. This year’s

headliners include Bryn Terfel, Caro Emerald, and

vintage rockers Status Quo.

www.international-eisteddfod.co.uk

Clwyd Theatr Cymru, MoldAs Wales’ leading producing theatre, Clwyd Theatr Cymru presents much of its work on tour throughout the UK.

Back at the theatre, audiences enjoy just short of

1000 public performances each year across five

venues, with a huge variety of touring drama, dance,

music, exhibitions and a community festival in the

summer. After the theatre, there’s a cinema, a book

shop and three art galleries. Just in case you need a

final fix of culture.

www.clwyd-theatr-cymru.co.uk

ordinaryWe don’t do

North East Wales is home to Wales’ favourite music festival, Wales’ leading producing theatre, and the National Centre for Ice Sports in Wales.

You can visit Wales’ first fully digital cinema, and Wales’

biggest open studio event here too. Add to the mix our

83 mile-long sign-posted driving tour and our top-class

racecourse and you’ll probably agree that this part of the

world has all the ingredients of an extraordinary holiday.

Pretty amazing, really.

30 31

AprilRHUDDLAN CASTLE EASTER EGG HUNT 20 APRIL

Hop along to Rhuddlan Castle on

Easter Sunday for an Egg Hunt.

There’s a prize for each of the first

175 children to take part.

www.cadw.wales.gov.uk/events

THE DENBIGH CASTLE EASTER QUEST 20 APRIL

Join Huw the Spy for the Easter Egg

Quest at Denbigh Castle. There’s an

egg for each of the first 100 children

to join in.

www.cadw.wales.gov.uk/events

May - JuneWOMAN'S FESTIVAL OF MUSIC & ARTS LLANGOLLEN 2 - 5 MAYwww.womensfestivalofmusicandarts.

weebly.com

LLANGOLLEN WALKING FESTIVAL 3 - 4 MAY

Walkers of all levels can join

short, medium and long walks

at this friendly festival, where

expert guides share their

passion for the beautiful

Dee Valley.

llangollen.org.uk/thingstodo/festival

LLANGOLLEN RAILWAY TEDDY BEARS’ PICNIC 10 - 11 MAY

Bring the little ones and their cuddly

friends for a whole day of fun at the

Teddy Bears’ Picnic.

www.llangollen-railway.co.uk

PRESTATYN WALKING FESTIVAL 16-18 MAY

Walkers of all ages and abilities can

enjoy three whole days of walking

and more at this 10th annual festival,

with themed walks ranging from

simple to strenuous.

www.prestatynwalkingfestival.co.uk

or www.ramblers.org.uk

LLANGOLLEN RAILWAY DAY OUT WITH THOMAS THE TANK ENGINE 31 MAY - 1 JUNE

Take a ride with Thomas the Tank

Engine and his friends and meet The

Fat Controller at this fun-packed day

out with the famous locomotive.

www.llangollen-railway.co.uk

COASTLINE BLUEGRASS MUSIC EVENT 6 - 8 JUNE  

www.coastlinebluegrass.co.uk

DENBIGH MIDSUMMER FESTIVAL 14 - 21 JUNE

Heritage walks, live music, a tea

dance, a French and Celtic Market,

a golf tournament and Welsh and

English poetry are just some of the

events and activities at Denbigh’s

unique summer festival.

GWYL RHUTHUN RUTHIN FESTIVAL 29 JUNE - 5 JULY

A week long festival for all the family.

www.ruthinfestival.co.uk

RHYL HARBOUR OPENING 30 MAY - 1 JUNE

THE QUEENS BATON RELAY 30 MAY - 1 JUNE

WOODFEST WALES, ST GEORGE 30 MAY - 1 JUNEA celebration of everything wood-

related, with activities ranging

from pole climbing to a chainsaw

challenge. Plus mountain bike racing,

art and education zones, craft and

food fairs and more.

www.woodfestwales.co.uk

Events 2014 JulyLLANGOLLEN RAILWAY CLASSIC TRANSPORT WEEKEND 5 - 6 JULY

Discover the world of classic steam

and diesel engines, heritage railcars

and historic vehicles at this unique

transport festival where you can even

catch a vintage bus.

www.llangollen-railway.co.uk

LLANGOLLEN INTERNATIONAL MUSIC EISTEDDFOD 8 - 13 JULY

See amateur and professionals from

all over the world perform at this

unique celebration of music, dance,

costume and culture; Wales’ biggest

and best annual music event.

www.international-eisteddfod.co.uk

FESTIVAL OF ARCHAEOLOGY, DENBIGH CASTLE 12 JULY

FESTIVAL OF ARCHAEOLOGY, RHUDDLAN CASTLE 13 JULY

These annual hands-on heritage

workshops are a great way for the

whole family to discover our local

history. Have a go at some ancient

crafts, try a bit of art interpretation,

and learn from the experts.

www.cadw.wales.gov.uk/events

PRESTATYN CARNIVAL 19 JULY

All the fun of the carnival with

an unique mix of modern and

traditional entertainment, events

and competitions, field attractions,

a fun fair and lots more besides.

www.prestatyncarnival.co.uk

LLANGOLLEN FRINGE FESTIVAL 20 JULY

Now in its 17th year, the local and

national popularity of the Fringe

continues to grow. This year the

inspiring mix of events includes

highlights such as the ‘blues train’.

www.llangollenfringe.co.uk

PRESTATYN FLOWER SHOW 25 - 26 JULY

Join the celebrations as Prestatyn’s

annual flower show turns 20 this year.

With prize-winning exhibits, classic

cars, live jazz and a brass band just a

few of the things on offer.

www.prestatynflowershow.co.uk

LLANGOLLEN RAILWAY 1960S WEEKEND 26 - 27 JULY

Come dressed in full ‘60s garb and

relive the sights and sounds of the

grooviest decade! Arrive in a 1960s

vintage car and claim a free rover

ticket.

AugustLLANGOLLEN FAERY FESTIVAL 9 & 10 AUGUST www.northwalesfaeryfestival.com

DENBIGH AND FLINT SHOW 21 AUGUST

For 2014 in the main arena they will

have the UK'S top quad bike stunt

riders performing breath taking

events. It offers a wonderful day out

for the whole family.

www.denbighandflintshow.com

WELSH LANGUAGE MUSIC FESTIVAL 23 AUGUST

PROMS ON THE PROM SUNDAY 24 AUGUST EVENTS ARENA, RHYLPack your picnic and join in

the party as Proms on the

Prom. The open-air concert will

contain an uplifting and inspiring

celebration of stirring classical

favourites to entertain the entire

family. For further information visit

www.rhylpavilion.co.uk

or facebook.com/TIC Rhyl

LLANGOLLEN RAILWAY STEAM GALA 29 - 31 AUGUST

Join hundreds of train buffs at this

unique weekend of steam. Enjoy all

kind of train activities on Llangollen’s

wonderful heritage railway.

www.llangollen-railway.co.uk

CORWEN WALKING FESTIVAL 30 - 31 AUGUST

Enjoy walks around Corwen town or

a high ridge hike along the Berwyn.

With guided walks that take a whole

day or just a couple of hours, plus

skills lectures and great evening

entertainment.

www.corwenwalkingfestival.co.uk

RHYL AIR SHOW 30 - 31ST AUGUST

Join thousands of spectators on the

coast at Rhyl for this free two day air

event. With dramatic flying displays,

parachute jumps, super-fast jets,

graceful flights and more.

www.rhylairshow.co.uk

32 33

SeptemberHELFA GELF ART TRAIL THROUGHOUT SEPTEMBER

North Wales’ biggest open studio

event offers visitors an unique

opportunity to peek behind the

scenes at designers, artists and

craft-makers at work in their

own studios.

www.helfagelf.co.uk

OPEN DOORS PROGRAMME 1 - 30 SEPTEMBER

Wales's largest celebration

of buildings and architecture,

run by volunteers. For more

information visit

www.cadw.wales.gov.uk

TOUR OF BRITAIN 7 - 14 SEPTEMBER

The Tour of Britain is the UK's

biggest professional bicycle race

and is a centre of the British

sporting calendar.

www.tourofbritain.co.uk

WIGGLE ETAPE CYMRU 14 SEPTEMBER

This is an 'epic' lung busting, leg

-aching, end of season sportive,

which provides the most challenging

closed road test in the UK. The route

takes the contestants through the

beautiful Clwydian Range and Dee

Valley AONB including the legendary

Horseshoe Pass.

www.humanrace.co.uk/events/cycling/etape-cymru

MOLD FOOD FESTIVAL 20 - 21 SEPTEMBER

Watch celebrity chefs at the cookery

theatre, visit over 100 food stalls,

enjoy children’s entertainers and

hear live music at this exciting

local food festival.

www.moldfoodfestival.co.uk

NORTH WALES INTERNATIONAL MUSIC FESTIVAL, ST ASAPH 20 - 27 SEPTEMBER

A great opportunity to experience

live performances of classical music

by local, national and international

artists centred around St Asaph’s

historic cathedral.

www.nwimf.com

OctoberLLANGOLLEN HAMPER 18 - 19 OCTOBER

A two day celebration of local

food. Learn some new and

exciting recipes at the cookery

demonstrations and pick up and

the ingredients to make them

yourself at the producers’ market.

www.llangollenfoodfestival.com

November

LLANGOLLEN RAILWAY RIDE THE ROCKET FIREWORK TRAIN 2 NOVEMBER

Hop aboard for an exciting evening

train ride from Llangollen to Carrog,

and enjoy a stunning fireworks

display on the return journey.

www.llangollen-railway.co.uk

WALES RALLY GB 13 - 16 NOVEMBER

Rally of legends. The final round of

the FIA World Rally Championship

www.rallygb.com

34

a drive to exploreThe Flintshire Leisure Tour is 84 miles of countryside,

coastline, market towns and historic attractions,

broken into nine manageable sections. A magical

mystery tour around the entire county. You won’t do it

all in a day. But you’ll have fun trying.

FP_FlintshireAd2_alt_Layout 1 23/01/2014 15:17 Page 1

Plassey Holiday Park, Eyton, Wrexham, North Wales LL13 0SP

01978 780 277www.plassey.com

A luxury, 5 star holiday park• Fully equipped touring pitches• Unique retail village• On site restaurant & coffee shop• 9 hole golf course• Indoor swimming pool• Nature trail & fi shing ponds

Tyn Y Capel Community run Inn & Restaurant in beautiful rural Minera

Tyn Y Capel Inn & Restaurant, Church Road, Minera, Wrexham LL11 3DA

Telephone: 01978 269 347Email: tynycapel@outlook.comwww.tyn-y-capel.com

Good Food, Real Ales & Great Atmosphere await you

Open: Wednesday evening (6pm) & Thursday until Sunday from 12 noon.

Park Road, Ruthin, Denbighshire LL15 1BB Tel: +44 (0)1824 704774 Open daily from 10.00am – 5.30pm FREE Admission. FREE on-site parking Visit our website for exhibition information www.ruthincraftcentre.org.uk

Ruthin Craft Centre The Centre for the Applied Arts Galleries / Restaurant / Shop / Makers Studios

Contact: Jenny Clark Telephone: 01745 342 762Email: inquiries@the-melbourne.co.ukwww.the-melbourne.co.uk

Enjoy a pleasant holiday in our family run home from home. Rooms serviced daily. Tea/coffee facilities. Towels provided. Own keys provided. Full cooked breakfast, optional evening meal. Near to theatre and beach.

Open: Jan - Dec B&B: £25 - £35No of rooms: 6 En-suite: 4 Total bed space: 14

BRITISH SIGN LANGUAGE

Melbourne Guest House8 Beechwood Road, Rhyl, Denbighshire LL18 3EU

S ı Ò - Ü ^ t Ô

Telephone: 01745 710626 / 07711 472033www.woodlandskillscentre.co.uk

Courses in bushcraft, basket making, coracles, spoon carving, forge work, longbows, charcoal, stool and chair making, timber frame building, woodland management, coppice and greenwood crafts. Family woodland holidays. Free camping.

Set in 50 acres of woodland in the Clwydian Range AONB in north-east Wales

Llangollen

Y Capel, Castle Street, Llangollen.

Denbighshire. LL20 8NU

Tel: 01978 860 828

email: llangollen@nwtic.com

Mold

Earl Road, Mold, Flintshire. CH7 1AP.

Tel: 01352 759 331

email: mold@nwtic.com

Wrexham

Lambpit Street, Wrexham. LL11 1AR.

Tel: 01978 292 015

email: tic@wrexham.gov.uk

Like us on facebook

/NthEastWales

Follow us on twitter

@NthEastWales

FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE AREA VISIT OUR WEBSITE

northeastwales.co.uk

Where you can search for accommodation or give our Tourist Information Centres a call - they are staffed by friendly local experts who will answer any question you have for the area or even book a bed for you.

denbighshire.gov.uk/whatsonor download it from

from your local Tourist Information Centre

IF YOU ARE LOOKING FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT EVENTS IN THE AREA.

Pick up a copy of the latest

bordering on the sublime

Flintshire. Why go further?

In Flintshire you can come a

very long way in a very short

time. You’ll find a superb

theatre, a castle immortalised

by Shakespeare and one

of the most beautiful

landscapes in Wales. All just

a few miles from the English

border. But about a million

miles from the norm.

FP_FlintshireAd1_Alt_Layout 1 23/01/2014 15:15 Page 1

BryntegGUEST HOUSE

Susan & AdrianProprietors

42 River Street ~ Rhyl

Denbighshire ~ LL18 1PT

Telephone : 01745 339154Email : enquiries@bryntegguesthouse.co.uk

WWW.bryntegguesthouse.co.uk

The Brynteg is a family run guesthouse just 200 yards away from the seafront and its sandy beach. We are within a short walking distance of Rhyl town centre and all local amenities. All rooms are: en-suite and tastefully decorated, Digital TV (some with DVD players), Tea/Coffee making facilities, hair-dryers, toiletries and towels provided. Free WiFi. We offer a home-cooked full English breakfast.Open:Jan-Dec B&B:£25-£30 No of rooms:4 all ensuite Credit cards Accepted

Voted one of theTOP TEN ADVENTURE BREAKS

in the UK by The Independent

WWW.MOTOR-SAFARI.CO.UK 01978 754533 | 01978 447199 | info@motor-safari.co.uk

Motor Safari, The Uk’s Leading 4X4 & Multi Activity Adventure Experiences Company. Bespoke Events Designed To Guarantee Wonderful Adventures.Selected Activities/Facilities Include: 4X4, QUADS, ARCHERY, SHOOT & ART STORMING, A BEAUTIFUL CONVERTED BARN, CAFE & CONFERENCE AREA

Bangor

Y fflint flint Caer

CHeSter

rHYlllandudno

PortHmadogaBerSoCH

HarleCH

aBerYStwYtH

Caernarfon

CaergYBiHolYHead

aBermawBarmoutH

aBerdYfiaBerdoveY

aBerteifiCardigan

aBeraeron

nefYn

aBerdaron

dinBYCH-Y-PYSgodtenBY

PemBroke

aBertaweSwanSea

PortHCawl

llanelli

CarmartHen

CaerdYdd Cardiff

YnYS Y Barri BarrY iSland

CaSnewYddnewPort

CaS-gwent CHePStow

aBergwaun fiSHguard

tY ddewi St david’S

ˆ

Mae Llwybr Arfordir Cymru – sy’n 870 milltir o hyd – yn barod i’w archwilio. Gan ymestyn o’r ffin rhwng Cymru a Lloegr yng nghyffiniau Caer yn y gogledd, i Gas-gwent yn y de, dyma’r llwybr arfordirol di-dor hiraf drwy’r byd.Ar hyd y Llwybr mae yna olygfeydd godidog, o glogwyni uchel i draethau tywodlyd. Mae hefyd yn cynnig sawl awyrgylch gwahanol, o ddinasoedd mawr i borthladdoedd pysgota bychain.Bydd y Llwybr yw apelio at ymwelwyr a thrigolion lleol fel ei gilydd, gan helpu pawb i fwynhau ffordd iachach o fyw trwy wneud mwy o ymarfer corff. Ei nod hefyd yw dod â manteision economaidd i ardaloedd arfordirol.Caiff y gwaith o greu a gwella Llwybr Arfordir Cymru ei gydlynu gan y Cyfoeth Naturiol Cymru a’i ariannu gan Lywodraeth Cymru, Cronfa Datblygu Rhanbarthol Ewrop ac awdurdodau lleol arfordirol.www.llwybrarfordircymru.gov.uk

llwybr arfordir Cymru wales Coast Path

Photographs © Crown copyright (2013) Visit Wales

The 870 mile long Wales Coast Path is ready to be explored. Stretching from the Welsh border near Chester in the north to Chepstow in the south, it is the longest continuous coast path in the world.The Path offers spectacular scenery from soaring cliffs to sandy bays... and contrasting atmospheres from big cities to tiny fishing ports.The Path is designed to appeal to visitors and local people alike – helping everyone enjoy a healthy lifestyle by taking more exercise and bringing economic benefits to coastal areas.Work to create and improve the Wales Coast Path is co-ordinated by Natural Resources Wales and funded by the Welsh Government, the European Regional Development Fund and the coastal local authorities.www.walescoastpath.gov.uk

RHUDDLAN

ST ASAPH

DENBIGH

Bodelwyddan

Talacre

Meliden

Dyserth

Caerwys

Afonwen

Nannerch

Llanrhaeadr

Rhewl

LlanbedrDyffryn Clwyd Llanferres

FlintMountain

Rhosesmor

RhydymwynSychdyn

Llanfynydd

Llanarmonyn-Ial

Llandegla

Minera

Marchwiel

Worthenbury

Bangor-on-Dee

Trevor

Glyn Ceiriog

Carrog

Llandrillo

LlanarmonDyffryn Ceiriog

Froncysyllte

Holt

Northop NorthopHall

Halkyn

Oakenholt

Bodfari

Henllan

Mostyn

HOLYWELL

Queen’sFerryConnah’s

Quay

Hawarden

Broughton

Saltney

Rossett

Marford

Gresford

Ruabon

Overton

Ewloe

Buckley

Penyffordd

Hope

Llay

WREXHAM

WREXHAM

F L I N T S H I R E

D E N B I G H S H I R E

LLANGOLLEN

CORWEN

CHIRK

Caergwrle

Cefn-y-bedd

RUTHIN

MOLD

FLINT

R i v e r D e e

G r e e n f i e l dV a l l e y

DenbighCastle

RhuddlanCastle

EuloeCastle

HawardenCastle

HoltCastle

Chirk Castle

CastellDinas Bran

R i v e r E l w y

River C lwyd

VA

LE

O

F

CL

WY

D

Moel Famau

L o g g e r h e a d sC o u n t r y P a r k

C l y w e d o gV a l l e y

T y M a w rC o u n t r y P a r k

C E I R I O G V A L L E Y

P o n t c y c y l l t eA q u e d u c t

A l y n W a t e r sC o u n t r y P a r k

L l y n B ra n

L l y n B r e n i g

C o e dC l o c a e n o g

F o r e s t

HorseshoePass

R i v e r D e e

Ri v

er

De

e

R i v e r D e e

BE

RW

YN

S

Vale of Llangollen

River A l y n

Prestatyn

RHYL

RHUDDLAN

ST ASAPH

DENBIGH

Bodelwyddan

Abergele

Kinmel Bay

Towyn

Talacre

Meliden

Dyserth

Caerwys

Afonwen

Nannerch

Llanrhaeadr

Rhewl

LlanbedrDyffryn Clwyd Llanferres

FlintMountain

Rhosesmor

RhydymwynSychdyn

Llanfynydd

Llanarmonyn-Ial

Llandegla

Minera

Marchwiel

Worthenbury

Bangor-on-Dee

Trevor

Glyn Ceiriog

Carrog

Llandrillo

LlanarmonDyffryn Ceiriog

Froncysyllte

Holt

Northop NorthopHall

Halkyn

Oakenholt

Bodfari

Henllan

Mostyn

HOLYWELL

Queen’sFerry

CHESTER

Connah’sQuay

Hawarden

Broughton

Saltney

Rossett

Marford

Gresford

Ruabon

Overton

Ewloe

Buckley

Penyffordd

Hope

Llay

WREXHAM

HHHXXXXXXEXEXEWRWWW HAMHHHHHHHHXXXXXXXXXXEEERRRWWWWWWREXHHHHHXWREXHAM

RHHSSST SSST SF L I N T SSSS R EI RIHHHHHTTF L I NF EN HHF L I N T S H I R E

RRRRRRD E N B I G H S HBBBBBBBDD E N B I G EEEERRRRRRIIIIIE N B I G H S HBBBD EEEN RRBBBBBB H S HD E N B I G H S H I R E

LLANGOLLEN

CORWEN

BALA

CHIRK

OSWESTRY

Caergwrle

Cefn-y-bedd

RUTHIN

MOLD

FLINT

KEY

Tourist Information Centres

Tourist Information Points

County Boundaries

Ffynnongroyw

D e e E s t u a r y

R i v e r D e e

G r e e n f i e l dV a l l e y

Flint Castle

DenbighCastle

RhuddlanCastle

EwloeCastle

HawardenCastle

HoltCastle

Chirk Castle

CastellDinas Bran

R i v e r E l w y

River C lwyd

DDW

YD

YWW

YWWWWW

LWW

LWW

LLLLC

LCC

LCCCC

F

C

CO

FO

FOOOO

E

EOO

VA

LE

AL

EA

VVVA

LE

O

F

CL

WY

D

Moel Famau

L o g g e r h e a d sC o u n t r y P a r k

C l y w e d o gV a l l e y

T y M a w rC o u n t r y P a r k

CCCC EC EE I R IE I RR IIIIII OI O

R I O GR I O GG V VV A L L E Y

V A L L E Y

C E I R I O G V A L L E Y

P o n t c y c y l l t eA q u e d u c t

A l y n W a t e r sC o u n t r y P a r k

L l y n B ra n

L l y n B r e n i g

C o e dC l o c a e n o g

F o r e s t

HorseshoePass

A l w e nR e s e r v o i r

R i v e r D e e

Ri v

er

De

e

R i v e r D e e

BEE

RRWWWWWWWW

YYYYYNNN

SS

of LlangollengolleVale ggggof Llangolleof Llangolleeeale of Llangollenale of LlangollenllllllVale of LlangollenVale of LlangollenVale of Llangollen

River A l y n

CCCLLL

WWWYYY

DDDDDDDDDDDDIIIIIIIIII

AAANNN

RRRAAA

NNNGGG

EEEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA

NNNDDD

DDDDDDEEEEEEEE

EEEEEEEEEEVVVVVVVVV

AAAAAAAAAAALLLLLLLL

LLLLLLLEEE

YYYAAA

OOONNN

BBB

How to find us

Credits

Design: viewcreative.co.uk

Printers: Westdale Printers Ltd

Published: Denbighshire County Council

Photography: ©Martin Lyons Photography

©David Wilcock ©Dewi Tannatt Lloyd

©Andre Lavadinho ©One planet adventure

©National Trust Images Andrew Butler

©National Trust Images Andreas von Einsiedel

©Denbighshire County Council

©Conwy County Borough Council

Whilst every effort has been made to ensure

accuracy, the publishers can accept no liability

whatsover for any errors, inaccuracies or omissions

or for any matter in any way connected with or

arising out of the publication of the information.

Copyright for the material is held by the publishers

and may not be reproduced in part or in whole in

any form without written consent.

43

1 The Isle of Anglesey

Anglesey offers unparalleled

beauty, amazing adventures, serious

solitude and a warm welcome. Easily

accessible; this unique island, with

its coastline, varied beaches and

historical towns make it a superb

base for all the family. Those that

have visited need not be told.

They just return…

+44 (0)1248 713177anglesey@nwtic.comvisitanglesey.co.ukfacebook.com/visitanglesey

2 Llandudno & Colwyn Bay

Vibrant Llandudno, the Victorian

seaside gem with a history that

goes back to the Bronze Age.

World Heritage Conwy with its rich

maritime past. Waterfront adventure

in Colwyn Bay. Year round breaks,

filled with family fun, good food,

great walking, world-class theatre

and a full calendar of exciting events.

All within easy reach of Snowdonia.

+44 (0)1492 577577llandudnotic@conwy.gov.ukvisitllandudno.org.ukfacebook.com/visitingllandudnotwitter.com/visit_llandudno

3 North East Wales

4 Snowdonia Mountains & Coast

The outdoor adventure playground

of North Wales that includes the

Snowdonia National Park, Llyn

Peninsula and Cambrian Coastline.

A wide choice of quality

accommodation, attractions and

activities – castles, narrow gauge

railways, golf, cycling, walking, award

winning beaches, country parks,

Wales Coast Path, World Heritage

Site, Areas of Outstanding Natural

Beauty and Heritage Coast.

+44 (0)1341 281485tourism@gwynedd.gov.ukvisitsnowdonia.infofacebook.com/visitingsnowdoniatwitter.com/visit_snowdoniavisitsnowdonia.wordpress.com

5 Mid Wales & the Brecon Beacons

Magnificent Walks – two national

trails, waterfall trails and many other

breathtaking walks besides. Take a

moonlit walk in the Brecon Beacons

under our night-time skies… now

with official Dark Sky Status. Muddy

Wheels – cycling on and off road.

A great track record – four years

with the Tour of Britain, home to

Dyfi Enduro and Beacons Beast.

Family traffic-free routes to extreme

mountain biking await. Year-round

events – from Hay Literary to

Machynlleth Comedy, from Green

Man to the Royal Welsh and Winter

Shows, celebrating our agricultural

heritage. Stay in magnificent

mansions to wacky wigwams. All

topped off with mouth-watering

cuisine, local whisky and marvellous

wines. That’s Mid Wales My Way!

+44(0)1874 622485tourism@powys.gov.ukmidwalesmyway.com

6 Ceredigion – Cardigan Bay & the Cambrian Mountains

Discover the landscape, villages and

harbours that inspired Dylan Thomas

and delve into Wales’s history at

Cardigan Castle. Walk gentle or

challenging sections of Ceredigion’s

coast path from a promenade stroll

at Aberystwyth to hill fort climbs

at Llangrannog. Spot dolphins and

birds; enjoy family fun at award

winning beaches and all sorts of

events; relax and savour Cardigan

Bay seafood to Cambrian Mountain

lamb.

+44 (0)1970 612125brochure@ceredigion.gov.ukdiscoverceredigion.co.ukfacebook.com/discoverceredigionTwitter: @visitceredigion

7 Pembrokeshire – Britain’s only Coastal National Park

Rated by National Geographic

magazine experts as the second best

coastline in the world. With 186 miles

(299km) of magnificent and varied

coastline and more than 50 beaches,

there’s plenty of space for everyone.

Choose between lively Tenby and

Saundersfoot or peaceful St David’s

and Newport. Perfect for outdoor

activities or just relaxing. To find out

more about Pembrokeshire.

visitpembrokeshire.com

8 Carmarthenshire – Carmarthen Bay

The last place that Dylan Thomas

called home and the best place

to be to celebrate and capture his

centenary celebrations in 2014.

Carmarthenshire stretches from

Carmarthen Bay in the south to

western Beacons and the Cambrian

Mountains in the north, wondrous

Gardens, awe-inspiring Castles and

Wales’s longest beach, market towns

brimming with local produce and

chic shopping.

+44 (0)1267 231557marketing@carmarthenshire.gov.ukdiscovercarmarthenshire.com

9 Swansea Bay – Mumbles, Gower, Afan & the Vale of Neath

Discover Dylan Thomas in Wales’s

Waterfront City, birthplace of our

poetic hero and playwright. Be a

part of his centenary celebrations

throughout 2014. Spend some time

in the UK’s first Area of Outstanding

Natural Beauty. Unwind on award-

winning beaches and explore unspoilt

countryside. Bring your board, bike

and boots and enjoy watersports,

cycling and walking.

+44 (0)1792 468321tourism@swansea.gov.ukvisitswanseabay.com

10 The Valleys – Heart & Soul of Wales

World-class mountain biking and

other activities on, over and under

landscapes that are never short

on drama. Proud communities

bursting to tell you their stories

about Wales’s largest castle, a World

Heritage Site, craft beers and ciders

and an intriguing cast of heroes

from the mythological past to the

contemporary music scene. You

haven’t visited Wales until you’ve

been to the Valleys – the Heart and

Soul of Wales.

+44 (0)29 2088 0011contactus@thevalleys.co.ukthevalleys.co.uk

11 Cardiff – Capital of Wales

The capital of Wales has unique

attractions, top-class entertainment,

a wide range of accommodation

to suit all needs and quality

shopping with a difference. Cardiff

Castle, the Millennium Stadium,

National Museum Cardiff, the Wales

Millennium Centre and famous

Doctor Who Experience combined

with Cardiff Bay offer indoor and

outdoor entertainment for everyone

all year round.

+44 (0)29 2087 3573visitor@cardiff.gov.ukvisitcardiff.com

12 The Glamorgan Heritage Coast & Countryside

The dramatic Heritage Coast and

popular resorts of Barry Island and

Porthcawl are fringed by lovely Vale

and Bridgend countryside and green

hills. Discover the special character

of an area steeped in history –

and it’s close to Cardiff, Wales’s

cosmopolitan capital.

+44 (0)1446 704867+44 (0)1656 815338tourism@valeofglamorgan.gov.uktourism@bridgend.gov.ukvisitthevale.combridgendbites.com

13 Wye Valley & Vale of Usk

Fantastic scenery and high-quality

food and drink from the Brecon

Beacons National Park to the Wye

Valley Area of Outstanding Natural

Beauty. Explore castles, Roman

towns and beautiful gardens; then

take in award-winning vineyards

bustling market towns and great

local pubs. With the renowned

Newport and Abergavenny Food

Festivals, celebrated restaurants and

artisan producers, discover why we’re

the Food Capital of Wales.

+44 (0)1291 623772tourism@monmouthshire.gov.ukvisitwyevalley.com

Find out more by visitingvisitwales.com/brochures todownload as many brochuresas you like or select up tothree for free postal deliveryor call +44 (0) 8701 211256.

The Valleys

1

3

4

5

6

78

9 10

12

11

13

2

Wales is divided into 13 distinct areas, each with its own individual character. Allow us to introduce you.

1 The Isle of Anglesey

2 Llandudno & Colwyn Bay

3 North East Wales

4 Snowdonia Mountains & Coast Eryri Mynyddoedd a Môr

5 Mid Wales & the Brecon Beacons

6 Ceredigion – Cardigan Bay & the Cambrian Mountains

7 Pembrokeshire – Britain’s only Coastal National Park

8 Carmarthenshire – Carmarthen Bay

9 Swansea Bay – Mumbles, Gower, Afan & the Vale of Neath

10 The Valleys – Heart & Soul of Wales

11 Cardiff – Capital of Wales

12 The Glamorgan Heritage Coast & Countryside

13 Wye Valley & Vale of Usk

Meet our holiday areas44 45

Gweithgareddau am ddim i bawb...Os ydych yn ymweld a’r ardal neu’n byw yma mae gennym antur newydd gy� rous i chi.

Lawr lwytho antur yfory heddiw...ewch i digidolsirddinbych.co.uk neu digidolsirddinbych.mobi

Dinbych - Rhuthun - Corwen - Llangollen

Free activities for all...Whether you are on a visit or live here we have an exciting new adventure for you.

Download tomorrow’s adventure today...visit digitaldenbighshire.co.uk or digitaldenbighshire.mobi

Denbigh - Ruthin - Corwen - Llangollen

Partneriaeth Cynllun Datblygiad Gwledig Sir Ddinbych Denbighshire Rural Development Plan Partnership

Gweithgareddau am ddim i bawb...Os ydych yn ymweld a’r ardal neu’n byw yma mae gennym antur newydd gy� rous i chi.

Lawr lwytho antur yfory heddiw...ewch i digidolsirddinbych.co.uk neu digidolsirddinbych.mobi

Dinbych - Rhuthun - Corwen - Llangollen

Free activities for all...Whether you are on a visit or live here we have an exciting new adventure for you.

Download tomorrow’s adventure today...visit digitaldenbighshire.co.uk or digitaldenbighshire.mobi

Denbigh - Ruthin - Corwen - Llangollen

Partneriaeth Cynllun Datblygiad Gwledig Sir Ddinbych Denbighshire Rural Development Plan Partnership

SeaQuarium Rhyl, East Parade, Rhyl, Denbighshire, LL18 3AFT: 01745 344660 W: seaquarium.co.uk

OPEN DAILY FROM 10AM

Rhyl’s harbour development Pont y Ddraig (Welsh for Dragon’s Bridge)

Front cover:

Carrog, Clwydian Range and Dee Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty