The West Arms

Explore the wonders of North Wales

Things to do in North Wales

The West Arms experience is about much more than the warmth, comfort and welcome of the centuries-old building itself. It’s about the stunning beauty and natural variety of the surrounding landscape. There is a range of things to do in North Wales, from the surroundings of your room, you can enjoy plenty of country walks, mountain biking, horseback riding, golfing, fishing, canoeing and climbing in some of the most spectacular scenery the UK has to offer. The world famous Snowdonia National Park is close at hand, as are Chirk and Powis castles, the picturesque town of Llangollen and Pistyll Rhaeadr waterfall.

 

Walking trip in North Wales

The Ceiriog Valley is a haven for walkers.  There are six local walks which will take you around our village, Llanarmon DC, described as one of ‘6 must visit places in Wales you’ve probably never heard of’ by Rough Guides.

If that doesn’t satisfy your walking boots, then embark on the popular Ceiriog Valley Walk or challenge yourself to the infamous Wayfarer’s to make your walking trip in north wales extra memorable.

The surrounding Berwyn foothills and peaks are abundant with wildlife which can be enjoyed on your walks. Discover the oldest ‘longhouse’ farm and the birthplace of famous Welsh poet John Ceiriog Hughes. 

St Garmon's Church, Llanarmon DC

St Garmon’s Church, Llanarmon Dyffryn Ceiriog has reputedly been a site of Christian worship since the 5th century, when St Garmon may have preached here.  Llanarmon means the llan, or walled enclosure, of Garmon. Just moments from our country inn you can visi the Chruch and you will discover a  mound next to the Church gate which is said to have been a prehistoric burial mound and St Garmon stood on it to preach.

Visit National Trust's Erddig and Chirk Castle

Despite being completed in 1310, Chirk Castle is still lived in today, and is the last Welsh castle from the reign of Edward I which can make that claim. Within its walls, you’ll find a fascinating glimpse into 700 years of history, captured in the form of a medieval tower and dungeon, a 17th century long gallery, breath-taking 18th century apartments, a servant’s hall, a historic laundry and award winning gardens.

Erddig is an early 18th century country house which tells the story of 250 years of family living. It’s located just a 35 minute drive from the West Arms, conveniently close to the amenities of Wrexham town centre.

 

Wonderful Waterfalls

 

One of the most awe inspiring waterfalls you’ll find in Noreth Wales is Pistyll Rhaeadr. Chances are that you’ll think it looks familiar, and that is because there’s a chance you’ve seen it in the Timotei Shampoo adverts. It’s easy to see why they chose this wonderful waterfall, also known as one of the Seven Wonders of Wales. At 240ft (80m) high it is the tallest single drop fall in the UK and it’s located just a scenic 20 minute drive from the West Arms, amidst the spectacular scenery of the Berwyn Mountains. There’s even a café at the site so you can take some refreshments on board when you visit. So if you are looking for things to do in North Wales, defintely give this a try!

North Wales offers other hidden fairytale waterfalls to explore on walks and hikes. Plaspower may not be as spectacular as Pistyll but offers a great spot for wild swimming. If you don’t mind venturing a little further out, then Aber Falls in Gwyned is a must see or Conwy Falls in August where you could spot salmon travelling upstream.

Cross the stream in the sky - Chirk Aqueduct

Chirk Aqueduct is a stunning feat of engineering which was completed in 1801. It carries the Llangollen Canal across the leafy Ceiriog Valley at a height of seventy feet. At the north end of the aqueduct you can explore the Chirk Tunnel, but as it stretches for over 12,000 feet you’d better take a torch with you.

This ‘masterpiece of creative genius’ (as UNESCO refers to it) is not to be missed on your stay with us in Llanarmon DC. The first 11 miles of the Llangollen Canal is comprised of embankments, tunnels, viaducts and aqueducts – an outstanding attraction located on a Scheduled Ancient Monument of National Importance and an area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. 

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