Wrexham
Wrexham is in a wonderful location. With only a twenty minute drive you can forget about what worries you and enjoy the landscape and tranquillity of the Welsh Hills, take a trip into the past and explore the Roman ruins which are located in the neighbouring town of Chester or simply explore the rich historical past of the County Borough of Wrexham itself. There are a number of incredible historical sites to be found a short distance from Wrexham’s town centre where you can get a feel for what life was like in centuries past, how the people lived and worked and how the settlement that became Wrexham grew and developed. Plus if you are thinking about touring Wales while you are here, Wrexham is the perfect base to use as the road links to the other parts of the country are excellent.
Places To Visit
You are not short of places to visit when you visit Wrexham as there is much to see in the surrounding area. For example Pontcysyllte Aqueduct was constructed over two hundred years ago, the arches reach a height of 200ft as they stride across the River Dee carrying the water of the canal high above. Visit in the summer and enjoy the experience of taking dinner on a canal boat as you travel over this incredible structure, the views are simply stunning.
The remains of the thirteenth century Valley Crucis Abbey are worth visiting too, if only to marvel at the engineering ability of our ancestors. The Abbey was destroyed at the orders of Henry VIII along with many others during the dissolution of the monasteries, though the ruins here have been well protected and preserved. Erddig Hall is now a National Trust property and provides a window of the world of upper class living in centuries past, the perfect place to see how the other half lived. The gardens here are wonderful to spend some time in, as is the adjoining park.
Things To Do
A lot of changes have been happening in Wrexham and if retail therapy is what you crave you will love some of the new developments. All of the changes have been made with a sympathetic nod to the past, and the shopping district continues to retain its original charm. The market that takes place here every Monday is the largest in the whole of North Wales. Take the kids to see the animals at Ty Mawr Country Park or visit the old lead mines for a glimpse of the past.
A short drive of five miles will take you to Caergwrle Castle which offers some of the most incredible views over the surrounding area. St Giles Church in Wrexham holds the tomb of Elihu Yale. Or, if you want a little more excitement spend that day at the races at Bangor-on Dee just outside of Wrexham. Learn about the place that you are visiting by paying a visit to the Bersham Heritage Centre which is located in the stunning Clywedog Valley.
