The picturesque town has it all – from white-water rafting to a UNESCO World Hertiage Site
Llangollen(Image: Wales Online )
Tripadvisor has unveiled its Summer Travel Index for 2025, and a town in North Wales has been hailed as one of the top spots to visit this summer.
Tucked away in the heart of North Wales, the scenic town of Llangollen has secured its spot among the UK’s premier travel destinations. Whether you’re a history buff, an outdoor adventurer, or a seeker of cultural richness, Llangollen offers a unique mix of allure and adventure that continues to enchant visitors year after year.
Encircled by the dramatic Berwyn Mountains and nestled along the banks of the swift-flowing River Dee, Llangollen’s landscape encourages you to unwind and absorb its beauty – or, if you prefer, plunge into a variety of outdoor activities.
Hiking, mountain biking, and white-water rafting are popular activities here, with trails and waterways that cater to both the adventurous and the relaxed traveller, reports Wales Online.
One of the most iconic ways to appreciate the scenery is aboard a horse-drawn canal boat, a tranquil journey along the Llangollen Canal that includes a trip over the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct.
TripAdvisor ranked Llangollen in North Wales as the tenth best place to go on a summer holiday in the UK.
Perhaps the town’s most renowned landmark, the aqueduct is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an architectural wonder.
This towering 18-arched structure, constructed in the early 19th century, carries the Llangollen Canal 126 feet above the River Dee and remains the world’s highest navigable aqueduct.
Equally impressive is the Llangollen Bridge, a centuries-old structure hailed as one of the Seven Wonders of Wales.
For those with a passion for history, Llangollen has plenty to offer. The tranquil ruins of Valle Crucis Abbey, a 13th-century Cistercian monastery just outside the town, provide a contemplative retreat and a peek into medieval monastic life.
In addition, the Llangollen Railway offers a nostalgic trip back in time.
“Board a steam train and traverse the picturesque Dee Valley on one of the UK’s most delightful heritage railways.
“Beyond its natural and cultural offerings, part of what endears Llangollen to many is its sense of community.
“The town centre is peppered with independent shops, snug cafeĢs, and friendly pubs.
“Whether you’re enjoying a Welsh ale by the river or perusing local artisan crafts, the warmth and authenticity of Llangollen shine through.”