The Pontcysyllte Aqueduct, (SV) a stunning feat of engineering, is a must-visit for any traveler interested in history, architecture, and natural beauty. Spanning the River Dee Valley in North Wales, this UNESCO World Heritage Site stands as the longest and highest aqueduct in Britain, offering breathtaking views and a unique experience for visitors.
The aqueduct, often referred to as the “Stream in the Sky,” was conceived to improve the transport of goods during the Industrial Revolution. Completed in 1805, the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct was designed by the renowned civil engineer Thomas Telford. It carries the Llangollen Canal over the valley, stretching 307 meters in length and standing 38 meters above the river. The aqueduct’s cast iron trough and stone pillars represent a remarkable achievement in the Industrial Revolution, making it an iconic symbol of innovation and engineering prowess.
Construction
- Design: The aqueduct’s design was groundbreaking. It features a cast iron trough supported by 18 stone piers, each standing at 38 meters tall. The trough is 3.7 meters wide and holds about 1.4 meters of water, allowing narrowboats to pass through.
- Materials: Cast iron was chosen for its strength and durability. The joints of the iron plates were sealed with Welsh flannel soaked in boiling sugar to make the structure watertight.
- Timeframe: Construction began in 1795 and was completed in 1805, taking ten years and costing approximately £47,000, a significant sum at the time.
Significance
- Innovation: The use of cast iron in such a large and prominent structure was innovative, showcasing the material’s potential in engineering.
- World Heritage Site: In 2009, the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct and its surrounding canal system were designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognizing its international importance and outstanding universal value.
How to Get There
The Pontcysyllte Aqueduct is located near the village of Trevor, close to Llangollen in Denbighshire, North Wales. Here’s how to reach it:
- By Car: Use the postcode LL20 7TY for GPS. There are parking facilities at the Trevor Basin Visitor Centre. (Satnav LL14 3SG. Please look out for the brown signs in the area to avoid narrow and steep routes. It is now pay and display parking at Pontcysyllte Aqueduct and Trevor Basin. Please note that our car parks are open 8am –8pm, there is no overnight parking permitted and the gates will be locked outside our opening times.)
- By Train: The nearest station is Ruabon, from where you can take a bus or taxi to Trevor. Llangollen, although without a direct train service, can be accessed via bus from nearby stations.
- By Bus: Bus services from Wrexham, Llangollen, and other nearby towns will take you to the aqueduct.
Several Hotels and Accommodations are conveniently located near the aqueduct, offering comfortable stays for visitors:
- The Wild Pheasant Hotel & Spa: Located in Llangollen, this hotel offers modern amenities, a spa, and beautiful views of the surrounding countryside.
- Gales of Llangollen: This charming hotel is situated in a historic building in the heart of Llangollen, providing cozy rooms and a wine bar.
- Chainbridge Hotel: Nestled along the River Dee, this hotel offers scenic views and easy access to local attractions, including the aqueduct.
Navigating The Aqueduct
For the adventurous traveler, kayaking across the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct provides a thrilling way to experience this architectural marvel. Several tour companies offer kayaking trips that include the aqueduct as part of their itinerary:
Kayaking
- Llangollen Outdoors: This company offers guided kayaking tours that include the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct, allowing you to paddle across the aqueduct and enjoy the stunning views from the water.
- Stand Up Paddle Board UK: While primarily focused on paddleboarding, this company also offers kayaking experiences on the Llangollen Canal, including trips across the aqueduct.
- TNR Outdoors: Based in Llangollen, TNR Outdoors provides a range of water-based activities, including kayaking tours that cover the aqueduct and surrounding areas.
Walking and Cycling
- Towpath: Visitors can walk along the towpath, which runs alongside the aqueduct, providing stunning views of the valley below. The towpath is accessible and offers a pleasant walk through the countryside.
- Cycling: The Llangollen Canal towpath is also popular with cyclists. You can ride from Llangollen to the aqueduct and beyond, enjoying scenic views along the way.
Boat Trips
- Canal Boats: Several companies offer boat trips across the aqueduct. These trips provide a leisurely way to experience the structure from the water and learn more about its history from knowledgeable guides.
- Self-Drive Boats: For those who prefer a more hands-on experience, self-drive narrowboats can be hired. This option allows you to navigate the canal and aqueduct at your own pace.
Nearby Attractions
- Trevor Basin Visitor Centre: Located at the aqueduct’s end, the visitor center offers exhibits on the history and construction of the aqueduct, as well as a gift shop and café.
- Chirk Aqueduct: Another impressive structure nearby, the Chirk Aqueduct is slightly smaller but equally picturesque. It is also a part of the same canal system and can be visited on a longer canal trip. Location: Chirk, Wrexham LL14 5DA, United Kingdom
- Llangollen Town: Just a short drive away, Llangollen is a charming town with attractions such as the Llangollen Railway, Plas Newydd historic house, and the beautiful Horseshoe Falls.
Nearby Accommodations
The Wild Pheasant Hotel & Spa
Gales of Llangollen
The Chainbridge Hotel
