Llangollen features in list of Wales' most 'underrated' towns

 

* Plas Newydd is quoted as one of the highlights of "underrated" Llangollen.

Llangollen appears in an geography website’s list of the Nine Most Underrated Towns in Wales.

World Atlas, based in Quebec, Canada, says it is one of the largest publishing resources in geography and also covers sociology, demography, environment, economics, politics and travel.

According to its own description, in 2019 alone, it served over 165 million readers from around the globe.

In its “underrated towns” feature it says Wales is often overlooked as a place to visit, with many people “not knowing of the treasures it holds in vibrant folklore and endowed with a rich culture”,

Llangollen shares the list of “underrated” towns with Kidwelly in Carmarthenshire, Llangefni on Angelsey, Abderdaron in Gwynedd, Llangorse in the Brecon Beacons, Welshpool and Llanwertyd Wells in Powys, Tregaron in Ceredigion and Hawarden in Flintshire.

Of Llangollen it says: “A riverside delight that is part of a UNESCO World Heritage site, with an eponymous railway, a breathtaking hike to a 13th-century castle, and a Gothic-tinged mansion, Llangollen is optimal for embracing relaxation.

“Llangollen Railway is a scenic heritage railway from Llangollen to Corwen, with views of storybook villages, castles, and lush rolling hills. A variety of unique excursions are available throughout the year.

“If the aquatic route is more appealing, the Llangollen Canal meanders through town, an ideal spot to picnic by or take a cruise down, especially if one of the unique horse-drawn boats is available for a ride. Horseshoe Falls, a dramatically beautiful piece of Thomas Telford engineering, is not to be missed.

“For history buffs, Castell Dinas Bran and Plas Newydd House will capture imaginations. Castell Dinas Bran, or the Crow's Fortress, is a rare 13th-century Welsh-built stone castle perched on a hilltop with panoramic views of the surrounding valleys.

“Plas Newydd (New Hall) is an unbelievable mansion with enchanting gardens, best known for being home to the unconventional "Ladies of Llangollen," a pair who lived together for fifty years, becoming 18th-century celebrities and expanding the house from a small cottage to the modern iteration.” 

* See the full article at: 9 Most Underrated Towns in Wales - WorldAtlas