Most of our guests come to visit Llangollen to explore our wonderful town and the local countryside. But of course, there are many other interesting places to visit from Squirrels Llangollen and so we thought it would be nice to put together a list of some of our favourite local towns.
Here are three suggestions of places in Chester, Wrexham, Oswestry, Welshpool and Shrewsbury that are worth a visit if you are planning a tour and most are accessible for a day trip if you are making Squirrels Llangollen your base for a few days.
Bear in mind not all attractions will be open all year round, may charge for entrance and not be accessible, so do check before you make the trip.
Chester
Chester is a charming Roman city on the banks of the River Dee. The city centre offers a wide range of shopping and eating possibilities and the City Walls make a great place to walk and view the city below.
A day at the races – Chester Races are very popular and a great day out. Dress to impress. https://www.chester-races.com/
A trip on the River Dee – Boat trips are available in the summer on rowing boats and bigger craft if you prefer. https://www.chesterboat.co.uk/
The Cavern of the Curious Gnome – just a quirky bar with European beers and British craft ales. https://thecavernofthecuriousgnome.co.uk/
Wrexham
Wrexham is Wales’ newest city and is an ideal shopping destination. The city centre is easily navigated on foot with a wide selection of eating places.
Football – Who hasn’t heard of Wrexham AFC’s success and Hollywood owners? https://www.wrexhamafc.co.uk/
Xplore! Science Discovery Centre – you are never too young to learn about science. https://xplorescience.co.uk/
Erddig – See how the other half (the servants) lived in this stately home surrounded by 1,200 acres. https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/wales/erddig
Oswestry
As a border town, Oswestry is home to a Welsh language shop and especially on market day, you are likely to hear Welsh being spoken. Take a walk around this town and you will find cafes, pubs and independent retail outlets.
Niche Patisserie – Executive Pastry Chef Adam Cleal Semi Finalist of Bake Off The Professional’s 2019 will please everyone with a selection of pastries. https://nichepatisserie.com/
Iron Age Hillfort – Three thousand years old and counting. https://www.visitoswestry.co.uk/attractions/oswestry-hillfort-old-oswestry/
Cae Glas Park – A beautiful municipal park in the centre of the town, ideal for a coffee and a few minutes to people watch. https://www.oswestry-tc.gov.uk/visit-oswestry/
Welshpool
Y Trallwng in Welsh, boasts a number of shops and cafes along its main street and one of the UK’s last remaining cock fighting pits.
Powis Castle – Eight centuries of history and spectacular views across the Severn valley. https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/wales/powis-castle-and-garden
Charlies – A garden centre, and then some! https://www.coedydinas.co.uk/
Welshpool & Llanfair Light Railway – Built in 1903, you can travel on trains from across the world. https://wllr.org.uk/
Shrewsbury
As the county town of neighbouring Shropshire, Shrewsbury has a lot to offer. As well as shops, cafes and pubs, there are plenty of opportunities for interesting walks around this medieval town and along the banks of the River Severn.
Shrewsbury Castle – A 1000 year history for you to discover. Find out about the county’s regimental past. https://www.shropshiremuseums.org.uk/shrewsbury-castle/
Shrewsbury Market Hall – A unique food and drink shopping destination with over 60 independent traders in the town centre. https://www.shrewsburymarkethall.co.uk/
Shrewsbury Flaxmill Maltings – The grandparent of all skyscrapers. The world’s first iron framed building. https://www.shrewsburyflaxmillmaltings.org.uk/
Siwrne dda Bon voyage