Enjoy a leisurely trip into Wales to explore the charming village of Llangollen, ride a vintage train and tour a medieval castle.
Settle in for a picturesque drive through the Merseyside Tunnel and south into Wales, passing historical towns such as Ruthin, cross winding Horseshoe Pass. Like many ancient Welsh villages, Llangollen is named for a saint, in this case Saint Collen, who founded a church here in the 7th century. The village is well-known for its 14th century stone bridge that has become a symbol of Llangollen. During free time here, you might shop, linger in a traditional pub, or watch horse-drawn boats slip through Llangollen Canal.
In time, you will board a restored passenger train and set off on the only standard-gauge heritage railway in North Wales. As you pass through Dee Valley, an official Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the countryside will be absolutely idyllic. Following a seven-mile route, you may see grazing sheep, hikers along the river and limestone escarpments.
Arriving in Carrog, you will enjoy a traditional Welsh lunch as a prelude to Chirk Castle. Completed in 1310, the fortress is lavishly decorated with rich tapestries and period furnishings, especially in areas such as the Bow Room, where aristocrats gathered. You will also have the opportunity to stroll through the lovely gardens.
