LLANGOLLEN has been named on a list of the UK's 'best towns and villages' - and ranked as Wales' number one.
More than 9,000 Which? members rated the inland towns and villages they'd visited, with the top spots going to Wells in Somerset and Avebury in Wiltshire.
But, Llangollen was selected as Wales' top place to visit and seventh on the list overall.
The town received an overall 79% destination score, thanks to a three-star rating for its shops and its 'peace and quiet' factor, four-star rating for its food and drink and tourist attractions and five-star ratings for its scenery and 'attractiveness'.
The Which? website reads: "Despite its rural location on the banks of the River Dee, Llangollen has long been known for its freewheeling, independent spirit. Famously, the Ladies of Llangollen eloped here from Ireland to live in Plas Newydd (a substantial Gothic mansion, now a museum) in the 18th century – attracting visitors such as Byron, Shelley and Wordsworth.
"It still has an impressive calendar of arts events. There's also the option of a narrowboat trip over Pontcysyllte, the highest canal aqueduct in the world at 38m, or a trip on the steam railway – which trundles through the valley whistling cheerfully as it goes."
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With the announcement that Llangollen ranks so highly on the list, we have put together a list of five things you need to see when you pay a visit to the town and its surrounding area ...
Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod
The PERFECT excuse to pay a visit to the town and experience and incredible festival at the same time.
The town's Eisteddfod is an annual, unique celebration of global peace and harmony which features some of the most prestigious artists from around the world.
The annual International Eisteddfod, which takes place at the town's pavilion, is home to over 4,000 performers during the weeklong programme and is an exquisite celebration of international music, culture, creativity and collaboration.
It is now a key driver of cultural tourism to North Wales and attracts over 35,000 visitors every year.
Well worth a visit!
Pontcysyllte Aqueduct
Another incredible feature of the Llangollen area which draws in thousands of visitors every year.
Pontcysyllte is a navigable aqueduct that carries the Llangollen Canal across the River Dee.
The 18-arched stone and cast iron structure is for use by narrowboats and was completed in 1805 having taken ten years to design and build.
It is 12 feet (3.7 metres) wide and is the longest aqueduct in Great Britain as well as the highest canal aqueduct in the world, as well as being part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
A footpath runs alongside the watercourse on one side, making it a great place to visit on a beautiful summer's day.
Llangollen Railway
The railway allows its guests to enjoy the wonderful sights of the picturesque Dee Valley and the sounds of yesteryear.
Llangollen Railway is the only standard gauge railway in North Wales, situated within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) and runs alongside the River Dee for its entire length.
There are plenty of events taking place throughout the year at the venue - including specials at Christmas time. So, you're never short on options of when to visit!
Castell Dinas Bran
Castell Dinas Brân is a medieval castle located within the earthworks of an earlier Iron Age hillfort.
The ancient structure was believed to have been built in the 1260's by Gruffudd ap Madog, Lord of Powys Fadog.
Its existence as a castle was short-lived as it was burned down by the Welsh at the time of Edward I's campaign, to prevent it being taken by the English, and abandoned in 1282.
These days, it offers spectacular views of Llangollen and the surrounding area and is a must visit.
Llangollen Bridge
Last but not least is the stunning bridge which is located right in the heart of the town.
Listed as one of the 'Seven Wonders of Wales', Llangollen Bridge is built across the River Dee at the North end of the high street.
There has been a bridge across the Dee at Llangollen since at least 1284, though the current bridge appears to date to the 16th or 17th century when an earlier bridge was rebuilt.
The current bridge has been enlarged numerous times since then, doubling in width, and is used by thousands of locals and visitors every year.
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