As the winter frost melts away, Llangollen merges as a springtime haven for cycling, allowing you to enjoy its natural beauty, before the heat of summer draws the crowds. From flat stretches along the canal, nature spotting with the kids or testing your lungs up the steep valley roads, there’s a cycle route for every type of adventurer. In this article, we list our top 5 spots to explore via bike this Spring – check out our route guides for more detailed route descriptions and downloadable navigation guides.
- The Llangollen Canal Towpath (West)
No trip to Llangollen is complete without experiencing the sights of this vibrant canal but to beat the crowds, visiting in Spring is a definite must. And there’s no better way to experience it (in our opinion!) than by bike… it’s flat, traffic free and easy to navigate, making it an ideal option for visitors with young children or assisted cycling needs.
Begin your cycling adventure by heading west from the town towards the Horseshoe Falls, which is located only a short distance from the town centre. Keep an eye out for the Chain Bridge on your left, listen to the roar of the Dee River below and try to locate the aromatic smell of wild garlic, which grows freely at this time of year. Secure your bike by the Chain Bridge Hotel and enjoy a stroll over the bridge or refuel in the hotel restaurant.
2. The Llangollen Canal Towpath (East)
Heading east from the town, the canal path takes you to the world famous, UNESCO world Heritage, Pontcysyllte Aqueduct. This impressive structure carries the Llangollen canal, and its visitors, over the River Dee, offering breath-taking panoramic views of the valley 39m below. From the aqueduct you can either return to Llangollen along the same path or cross over with the canal*, and head towards Chirk.
3. Chirk Castle
Following the canal from the aqueduct brings you to the small town of Chirk, located approximately 7 miles from Llangollen. Challenge younger riders (and older alike) to navigate the Chirk tunnel along the way; at 421 metres it’s one of the longest canal tunnels in Wales – don’t forget your bike lights! Detour off the canal when you hit the first road crossing and head right along country lanes towards Chirk Castle. Look out for wildlife along the tree lined route and try to spot the deer as you approach the castle grounds. If visiting around Easter, it’s worth checking the National Trust website to see what events are happening.
4. Sheep!
If Wales is famous for anything, sheep has to be up there on the list! And there’s no better time to immerse yourself in Welsh sheep farming than during the Spring, when the fields come alive with the sound of lambs. Heading north-west from Chirk you’ll have ample opportunity to view sheep farming first hand, as you navigate the back lanes of the Dee Valley, taking in the vibrant colours of the Welsh countryside. Keep an eye out for Wales’ national flower, the daffodil, which bloom from early Spring, or the bluebells later in the season. Just before dropping back into Llangollen, you’ll pass the downhill mountain bike trails of One Giant Leap, which for a small fee, the more adventurous can shred like a hero down to the bottom of the valley. If downhill isn’t your thing, follow the road back down to the town, though take care as it gets quite steep (check your brakes before descending).
5. Plas Newydd
Returning to Llangollen, you’ll pass by the Gothic home of the famous “Ladies of Llangollen”. This now-museum offers a fascinating glimpse into their unconventional lives and houses a collection of their personal belongings. Secure your bike and explore the beautifully landscaped gardens which, during the early Spring, come alive with a carpet of crocus.
Finish your Spring cycling with well earned refreshments at the numerous eateries, coffee shops and pubs back within the town.
**Spring Cycling Tips**
The weather in Wales is always unpredictable, but during the spring, you can expect anything from sun to snow so it’s advisable to dress appropriately and bring layers when out for any period of time. Always wear a helmet and use lights and reflective gear where possible. Familiarise yourself with the route beforehand and know your limits – we have some hefty hills which can test all levels of fitness if you’re not prepared! It’s good practice to pack essential tools and spare parts for any unforeseen circumstances. The Drosi Bikes workshop is available to everyone for DIY repairs and, if you’re not sure what you’re doing, our volunteers and mechanics are usually on hand to help out.
*The Pontcysyllte Aqueduct will be closed for a short period from late February for maintenance work. To divert, follow the B5434, re-joining the canal towpath at the Canal Side Lift Bridge in Froncysyllte (what3words:///grab.revamping.lifters)