The Legendary Vale of Llangollen
A dramatic, twisting and deep river valley steeped in myths and legends with a fascinating history, spectacular scenery and cultural experiences.
A dramatic, twisting and deep river valley steeped in myths and legends with a fascinating history, spectacular scenery and cultural experiences.
Steeped in myths and legends, the ancient Welsh town of Llangollen and the vale in which it sits are the focus of this fantastic tour. A charming town nestled in the heart of North Wales it is a treasure trove of sightseeing opportunities, offering a blend of natural beauty, historical significance and cultural experiences. Highlights include a horse-drawn canal cruise, a ride on the scenic Llangollen Heritage Railway and a visit to the mighty Chirk Castle. A dramatic, twisting and deep river valley that displays both spectacular limestone cliffs and gentler rolling hills given to farms and dense woodland – it is both varied and surprising.
ITINERARY
Monday - Morning departure from Dorset with stops as appropriate to our hotel in Mold with a welcome hot drink and local Bara Brith on arrival. Your bags will be portered to the room and after settling in enjoy dinner.
Tuesday - Visit the town of Llangollen and enjoy some time here to explore its attractions which are many and varied. This afternoon we shall experience a 2 hour horse-drawn barge cruise along one of the most beautiful lengths of canal you will ever see. Marvel at the Chain Bridge across the River Dee and striking views of the Horseshoe Falls. A delicious Welsh cream tea box will be served on-board.
Wednesday - We board the Llangollen heritage railway which operates heritage trains, for a 90 minute round trip alongside the spectacular River Dee. After 10 miles arrive at Corwen at the foot of the Berwyn mountain where you can alight and view the restored Victorian station. On return to Llangollen reboard the coach and drive over the spectacular Horseshoe Pass, stopping near the summit for a photo. We spend time this afternoon in the town of Ruthin which is packed with history from the medieval to the Tudors. Explore cobbled streets, the castle or the Ruthin Gaol, open to the public for tours - the town is a tiny Welsh wonder.
Thursday - Visit Chick Castle (NT) - begun around 1295, Chirk Castle is the only one of Edward I's border castles to have been continuously inhabited since its completion in 1310. This means that Chirk Castle has a uniquely long, colourful history which will be revealed during a self-guided tour.
There will be time to admire the tranquil gardens which are full of rare shrubs, flowering borders, a rose garden, scenic views and meandering pathways.
Friday - Homewards bound with comfort breaks as appropriate to arrive back in Dorset late that afternoon.
B=Breakfast, D=Dinner
BEAUFORT PARK HOTEL, MOLD
Set in the village of New Brighton near the Flintshire border village of Mold this independently run 3 star hotel provides an informal and relaxed atmosphere. All of the 100+ bedrooms provide home from home comfort with private bathroom with free toiletries, hairdryer, television, phone, iron, tea tray and free wifi. Orchard Restaurant provides a three course dinner with menu choices and a substantial hot/cold breakfast. Arches Bar is a great place to socialise or you can enjoy a drink on the outdoor terrace. There is no lift but only two floors so plenty of ground floor bedrooms if you struggle with stairs. Room service is available. Local entertainment is provided on certain evenings.
5 Days // £619.00 Per Person SRS £50.00
Option to upgrade to a twin bedded Deluxe room – larger with seating and walk-in shower +£50 per person.
Holiday Highlights : All coach travel, 4 nights hotel accommodation, Half board meals, Local entertainment, Horse-drawn cruise, Cream tea on cruise, Heritage railway fare, Entry to Chirk Castle.
Below is a list of pick-up points available on this tour.
Below is a list of pick-up points available on this tour.
| Name | Address |
|---|---|
| Beaminster Area | Convenient local point in Beaminster to be advised |
| Blandford Area | Convenient local point in Blandford to be advised |
| Bournemouth Area | Convenient point in Bournemouth to be advised |
| Branksome Area | Convenient point in Branksome to be advised |
| Bridport Area | Convenient local point in Bridport to be advised |
| Britannia Inn | Britannia Inn, Fortuneswell, Portland |
| Charlestown | The Alexandra Inn, Chickerell Road, Charlestown |
| Chickerell | Bluebird Garage, Chickerell Road |
| Corfe Castle | Convenient point in Corfe Castle to be advised |
| Courtlands | Portland, Courtlands bus stop |
| Dorchester South Station | Dorchester South Station bus stop |
| Dorchester TOT | Top O'Town Car Park (by cafe), Dorchester |
| Easton | Easton Square, Portland |
| Ferndown Area | Convenient local point in Ferndown to be advised |
| Foords Corner | Foords Corner bus stop, Wyke Regis |
| Jestys Avenue | Bus stop end of Jestys Avenue on Littlemoor Road |
| Littlemead | Broadwey, Littlemead bus stop (Swan Inn) |
| Littlemoor Road Finches | Littlemoor Road, The Finches bus stop |
| Lodmoor Hill | Lodmoor Hill Bus Stop (near Post Office) |
| Lyme Regis | Convenient local point in Lyme Regis to be advised |
| Lyndale bus stop | Wyke Regis, Lyndale Bus Stop |
| Nottington | Broadwey, Nottington Corner bus stop |
| Poole Area | Convenient local point in Poole to be advised |
| Poundbury QMSE | Poundbury Queen Mother Square bus stop (Coach heading into Dorchester) |
| Radipole | Spa Hotel bus stop, Radipole |
| Redlands | Redlands, Opposite Garage |
| Ringwood Area | Convenient local point in Ringwood to be advised |
| Rodwell | Rodwell Traffic Lights, Rodwell Rd/Rodwell Ave |
| Sgt Bunn | St Bunn Bakery, Lanehouse Rocks Road |
| Sherborne Area | Convenient local point in Sherborne to be advised |
| Southwell | Portland, Southwell, Opposite Eight Kings Inn |
| St Edmunds Church | St Edmunds Church, Lanehouse Rocks Road |
| St Johns Church | Weymouth, St Johns Church, outside Dentist |
| St Nicholas Church | Southlands Road bus stop on Buxton Road, Weymouth (former St Nicholas Church) |
| Sturminster Newton Area | Convenient point in Stur. Newton to be advised |
| Swanage Area | Convenient local point in Swanage to be advised |
| To be advised | To be advised - Approx. 2 weeks before travel |
| Upton Area | Convenient local point in Upton to be advised |
| Victoria Square | Victoria Square bus stop, Portland |
| Wareham Area | Convenient local point in Wareham to be advised |
| Westwey Road | Westwey Rd, Magistrates Court, Weymouth |
| Weymouth Bluebird | Weymouth, Outside Bluebird Office, K1 bus stop |
| Wimborne Area | Convenient local point in Wimborne to be advised |
| Wool Area | Convenient local point in Wool to be advised |
| Wyke Smuggler | Smugglers Inn, Wyke Regis |
| Yeovil Area | Convenient local point in Yeovil to be advised |
