Llangollen named as one of six 'most charming' Welsh towns

* The illustration of Llangollen in the WorldAtlas story. 

An international geography website has named Llangollen as one of the six most charming towns in Wales.

WorldAtlas.com specialises in educational geography, environment and current events.

Taking a look at Wales, it says the country frequently ranks on the bucket lists of travellers from the USA, adding: “Little wonder. In addition to its stunning mountain and coastal scenery, Wales boasts some of the most picture-perfect scenery in the United Kingdom.

Apart from Llangollen, the six towns in Wales it reckons are the most charming include Llanrwst and Betwys y Coed in Conwy, Beddgelert in Gwynedd, Brecon in Powys and Tenby in Pembrokeshire.

Of Llangollen, the website says: “Located in Denbighshire close to the border with neighboring England, Llangollen is every inch the quintessential Welsh small town.

“Set in the Dee Valley and framed by the Berwyn Mountains and the River Dee, the town's most important landmarks include the engineering miracle that is the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct. This UNESCO World Heritage Site was completed in 1805 and carries the Llangollen Canal over the River Dee and offers breathtaking views of the valley.”

The story, which is accompanied by a picture of the railway from the river side, adds: “You’ll also want to hop aboard the Llangollen Railway, a heritage steam line running along the Dee Valley with spectacular scenery the whole way.

“If you’re interested in sampling a little Welsh culture, try to time your visit to coincide with the Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod, an annual festival celebrating music, dance, and performance from around the world that’s held the second week of July.

“Outdoor pursuits can be enjoyed at the nearby Horseshoe Pass where you can also explore several ancient castle ruins.”

* To see the story, go to: 6 Most Charming Small Towns in Wales - WorldAtlas

Meanwhile, an article in the Manchester Evening News picks out Llangollen as one of the most festive towns in easy reach of Greater Manchester.

The article says: "Throughout December Llangollen Railway runs the Santa Special steam train where families can meet Santa and his elves on board. Meanwhile adults can enjoy a festive afternoon tea and listen to Christmas songs as you cruise along the Llangollen Canal, passing over the impressive Pontcysyllte Aqueduct. Revellers can even join the Christmas Party Boat which features a retro buffet and festive hits from over the years." 

* See it at: The towns near Greater Manchester named among the UK’s ‘most festive’ - Manchester Evening News