TRAVEL & TOURISM
Welcome to our Everbright Group Hotels location website, where we highlight the best local activities to enjoy during your stay in North Wales and North-West England.
This stunning part of the world boasts abundant natural beauty, rich history and cultural experiences, making it the perfect destination for travellers looking to explore and unwind. Whether you're seeking a thrilling adventure, relaxing escape, or combination, our carefully curated list of local activities will inspire and delight you. So, grab your hiking boots, camera, and sense of adventure, and let's explore the wonders of North Wales and North-West England together.
NORTH WALES
Llangollen on the River Dee, in Denbighshire, Wales.
Dee Valley Walks
This series of waymarked and graded routes take in the beautiful scenery, wildlife and history of this stunning area of North East Wales. The Dee Valley Way and The North Berwyn Way link the two towns of Corwen and Llangollen. The routes are 15 miles/24km in total but if you prefer to pace yourself it can be walked in separate sections.
Berwyn Mountains
The Brecon Beacons National Park is a stunning mountain range that spans over 500 square miles in the heart of South Wales. It is made up of four distinct areas, each with its own unique character and charm. The highest peak in the park
is Pen y Fan, standing at 886 metres tall, but there are plenty of other mountains that are worth exploring.
Castell Dinas Brân
Castell Dinas Brân is a spectacular medieval castle situated atop hill overlooking town of Llangollen in Denbighshire, North Wales. Castle's name translates to "Crow Castle" in Welsh. It is believed to have been built in 1260s by Gruffudd ap Madog, Lord of Powys Fadog.
Castle was built within earthworks of earlier Iron Age hillfort. It is thought that site was chosen for strategic location and defensive capabilities. Castle consisted of keep, great hall, and other buildings. Castell Dinas Brân was surrounded by curtain wall with towers and moat.
Unfortunately, castle's existence as stronghold was short-lived, as it was burned down by Welsh during Edward I's campaign to conquer Wales in late 13th century. Castle was abandoned shortly afterwards, and it fell into disrepair.
Despite ruined state, Castell Dinas Brân remains popular tourist attraction and favourite spot for hikers and walkers. Visitors can climb to top of hill to explore castle's ruins, which offer stunning views of surrounding countryside.
The Llangollen Steam Railway
Heritage railway located in North Wales, UK. Railway offers visitors chance to experience golden age of steam travel with beautifully restored steam engines and carriages. Journey takes passengers through picturesque Dee Valley, with stunning views of Welsh countryside. Along way, train passes over Dee River on historic Chain Bridge and stops at number of quaint stations, including charming town of Llangollen. Llangollen Steam Railway is must-visit attraction for anyone interested in railway history or looking for unique and memorable day out.
Llangollen Horse-Drawn Boat Trips
Offer unique and unforgettable experience of exploring beautiful Welsh countryside. Visitors can enjoy leisurely cruise along Llangollen Canal aboard traditional narrowboat, pulled by majestic shire horses. As boat glides along water, passengers can sit back, relax and take in stunning scenery, including famous Pontcysyllte Aqueduct, UNESCO World Heritage Site. Friendly crew provides fascinating commentary about local history and wildlife, making journey even more enriching. Whether you're family, couple or solo traveller, Llangollen Horse Drawn Boat Trips are must-do activity for anyone visiting area.
Llangollen Museum
Hidden gem in heart of beautiful town of Llangollen, Wales. Museum showcases rich history and culture of local area through fascinating collection of artefacts, exhibits and interactive displays. From prehistoric times to present day, visitors can explore town's past, including impact of Industrial Revolution, growth of tourism and influence of Eisteddfod arts festival. Knowledgeable and friendly staff are always on hand to answer questions and share interesting facts about exhibits. With free entry and something for all ages, Llangollen Museum is must-visit destination for anyone looking to learn more about history and heritage of charming Welsh town.
Llangollen Motor Museum
Llangollen Motor Car and Motor Cycle Museum houses nostalgic collection of cars and bikes dating from 1912 to 1975.
Plas Newydd and The Ladies of Llangollen
Fascinating part of Welsh history. Plas Newydd, located in town of Llangollen, was home of Eleanor Butler and Sarah Ponsonby, two wealthy and unconventional women who famously lived together as a couple in late 18th century. Known as The Ladies of Llangollen, they became famous for their intellectual pursuits, love of nature, and unique lifestyle. Plas Newydd, house they lived in, is now open to public as museum and offers visitors glimpse into lives of these remarkable women and their remarkable homes.
Victoria Promenade and Children's Park
Two popular attractions in city, offering visitors chance to enjoy outdoors and take in some of city's natural beauty. Victoria Promenade is scenic walking path along North Saskatchewan River, providing stunning views of river valley and city skyline. Children's Park, located at south end of promenade, is popular spot for families with young children, featuring playgrounds, picnic areas, and plenty of space to run and play. Together, these two attractions make for wonderful day out in city, offering something for everyone to enjoy.
Outdoors Adventures
If you're looking for adventure in the great outdoors, Llangollen has plenty to offer. Outdoors Advetures in North Wales provides activities to suit all interests and skill levels, including popular canoeing, rafting, and kayaking options. Scenic days paddling along the canal offer stunning views of the Welsh countryside, and multi-day wilderness canoe camping trips are available for a more immersive experience. Rock climbing and gorge walking are great options for those who love a challenge, and Llangollen's rugged terrain provides the perfect setting.
Indoor target sports like archery, axe throwing, and air rifles are available for those who prefer to stay on solid ground, under the guidance of experienced instructors.
NORTH-WEST ENGLAND
Penrith a town in Cumbria’s Eden Valley
Penrith is a charming market town located in the north of the beautiful Lake District National Park, Cumbria. With its rich history, picturesque architecture, and stunning natural surroundings, Penrith is a popular destination for visitors looking to explore the beauty of the Lake District.
Penrith Castle
A ruined fortress located in the historic market town of Penrith, Cumbria, was built in the late 14th century by Ralph Neville, a powerful medieval nobleman. The castle's walls and towers, including the impressive Keep and the striking Gatehouse, have been preserved as a testament to the area's rich history and cultural heritage, and visitors can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding countryside from the castle's elevated position.
Penrith Museum
A fascinating local history museum located in the heart of historic market town Penrith, Cumbria. The museum showcases the rich cultural heritage of the town and wider Eden Valley area through interactive exhibits, artefacts, and displays. Visitors can learn about the area's prehistoric past, the impact of Romans and Vikings, and the development of Penrith as a medieval market town. Exhibits also feature the town's social and economic history, including its importance as a centre of trade and industry in the 19th and 20th centuries. With free admission and a wealth of interesting exhibits, Penrith Museum is a must-visit destination for history and culture enthusiasts of the Cumbrian region.
Long Meg and her Daughters
This fascinating ancient monument is located near Penrith, Cumbria. The site consists of a circle of standing stones, thought to date back to the Bronze Age, with the central stone known as Long Meg towering over others. The site is steeped in legend and mystery, with local folklore suggesting that Long Meg was a witch turned to stone and that her daughters were once local maidens turned to stone for dancing on Sabbath. Visitors can explore the site and marvel at the impressive size and unique features of the stones, which are thought to have been brought to the area from as far as Scotland. Long Meg and her Daughters is a popular destination for visitors to the Lake District, providing a unique glimpse into the ancient history and folklore of the region.
Lowther Castle and Gardens
Is a magnificent historic estate located in the heart of stunning Lake District National Park, Cumbria. The castle, built in the early 19th century, blends Gothic and Baroque architecture with stunning interiors and intricate details. The estate's gardens are equally impressive, with over 130 acres of beautifully landscaped grounds, including the stunning Parterre and tranquil River Garden. Visitors can explore the castle's fascinating history and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding countryside from the tower. The estate also offers family-friendly activities, such as a woodland adventure playground and cycle trail. With its stunning architecture, beautiful gardens, and fascinating history, Lowther Castle and Gardens is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the Lake District.
Hutton in the Forest
A magnificent historic house and gardens located near Penrith, Cumbria. The house, owned by the same family for over 400 years, features a unique blend of architectural styles, including medieval, Tudor, and Georgian. Visitors can explore beautifully preserved interiors, including the striking Great Hall and ornate Drawing Room with its stunning 17th-century plaster ceiling. The estate's gardens are equally impressive, featuring a range of beautifully landscaped areas, including the walled garden, topiary garden, and peaceful woodland garden. With a fascinating history, stunning architecture, and breathtaking gardens, Hutton in the Forest is a must-visit for anyone exploring the Cumbrian region.