Things To Do in Denbighshire
Published on 9 Aug 2024 by Amy GreenwoodStretching from the edge of Eryri National Park to the shores of the Irish Sea, Denbighshire blends natural beauty and rich history. This charming county boasts historic towns, picturesque villages, and one of the UK’s smallest cities, St Asaph.
Outdoor enthusiasts will love The Clwydian Range and Dee Valley for hiking, white-water rafting, kayaking, gorge walking, and climbing. History lovers can immerse themselves in Denbighshire’s heritage with visits to Ruthin Gaol, Denbigh Castle, the evocative ruins of Castell Dinas Bran, and the charming town of Llangollen. Known for its picturesque setting, heritage railway, historic canal, and proximity to the Dee Valley and Berwyn mountain range, Llangollen is a vibrant town brimming with cafes, restaurants, bars, and a fantastic range of independent shops.
Denbighshire is predominantly rural, with many remote and unspoilt areas to explore. Besides Llangollen, the county’s main towns are Denbigh, Ruthin, Rhuddlan and Corwen, along with the coastal towns of Rhyl and Prestatyn.
Here’s our selection of our favourite things to do in Denbighshire.
WALKS & HIKES
Denbighshire has an extensive network of walking and hiking trails, with a range of routes suitable for all levels of fitness and experience from family strolls to serious hikes.
Offa’s Dyke Path
One of the most famous routes is the Offa’s Dyke Path, which roughly follows the border between Wales and England. This epic 177-mile route offers breathtaking views. It takes in the spectacular landscapes around Llangollen and the Eglwyseg Escarpment, crosses Ruabon Mountain and the Llandegla moors to follow the chain of hills that form the Clwydian Range, before finishing on the coast at Prestatyn.
National Trails have a brilliant selection of shorter circular and linear walks which make use of Offa’s Dyke Path.
Coed Moel Famau
The highest peak in the Clwydian Range, Moel Famau, on the Denbighshire / Flintshire border, is a favourite among hikers. There are several marked walking routes to choose from, from the ¼ mile Accessible Trail, a short woodland walk which runs alongside a stream, to the gentle Forest Tracker Trail, the popular 3.5 mile Jubilee Tower Circular, and the more strenuous Ffrith Mountain Circular, which takes around 5 hours.
Situated in the Clwydian Range and Dee Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, this range of walks offers fabulous, panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
The Llangollen History Trail / Castell Dinas Brân
This six mile round walk meanders through the countryside around Llangollen, taking in several historic landmarks including Horseshoe Falls, Llantysilio Church, Valle Crucis Abbey and the evocative ruins of Castell Dinas Brân. This 13th century mediaeval castle, ‘The Crow’s Fortress’, sits atop a craggy hill above Llangollen, it’s a steep hike up but worth it for the stirring atmosphere and spectacular panoramic views of the valley below.
North Berwyn Way
The North Berwyn Way is a 15 mile linear trail that climbs and traverses the North Berwyn Mountains to the south of the River Dee between Llangollen and Corwen. The route is split into five sections that start and finish at easily accessible points. This challenging waymarked route is suited to more experienced walkers.
Dee Valley Way
This path follows the course of the River Dee between the picturesque towns of Corwen and Llangollen. The route is clearly waymarked and split into five sections that start and finish at easily accessible points so you can walk as much or as little of the route as you choose.
You can find a great range of Denbighshire walking routes at Walking Britain, Denbighshire Countryside Service and AONB.org among others.
MOUNTAIN BIKING & CYCLING
With a mix of dedicated off road trails and cycle paths, and quiet country lanes, Denbighshire offers a varied choice of routes suitable for leisurely cyclists, families, or keen mountain bikers.
The North Wales Coastal
The North Wales Coastal Route stretches from Holyhead to Chester, passing through Denbighshire’s coastal towns along the way, providing stunning sea views, traffic-free cycle paths and relatively flat terrain suitable for families and casual cyclists. At Rhyl you can detour inland to St Asaph, the home of Britain’s smallest cathedral, or go up to Dyserth and return to the coast on the Prestatyn to Dyserth Way Railway Path.
Llandegla Forest
For mountain biking enthusiasts, Llandegla Forest offers purpose-built trails catering to various skill levels, complete with jumps, berms, and technical sections. The trails are well-maintained and provide thrilling rides through diverse terrain, including dense woodlands and open moorlands. Bikes can be hired through OnePlanet Adventure.
Llyn Brenig
Llyn Brenig reservoir, on the border of Denbighshire and Conwy, offers a range of cycle routes of varying difficulty with a network of waymarked trails which offer stunning views of the reservoir and surrounding landscape. Many of the trails are suitable for families and casual cyclists. The area also features picnic spots and a visitor centre where bikes can be hired.
Clwydian Range Trails
The Clwydian Range is not only great for walking but also for cycling. The range offers several cycling routes that vary in difficulty and terrain including the Ffrith Mountain Circular which is both a walking and mountain biking trail. Cyclists can enjoy the breathtaking scenery while navigating woodland, hills and valleys.
WATERSPORTS & ADVENTURE
With its varied landscape of rolling hills, lush forests, coastline, rivers and waterfalls, Denbighshire is made for adventure. Along with walking and cycling, outdoors companies offer a huge range of activities including white water rafting, canoeing, kayaking, gorge walking, rock climbing, abseiling, archery and even axe throwing.
Loggerheads Country Park and the limestone escarpments near Llangollen offer numerous climbing routes, suitable for both beginners and experienced climbers.
The River Dee is a hotspot for watersports. Kayaking and canoeing are popular, with several providers offering equipment hire and guided tours. The river rapids near Llangollen are popular with white-water enthusiasts, however if you prefer a slower pace you can explore the surrounding countryside by canoe and even paddle across the impressive Pontcysyllte Aqueduct to a local lake with a half day tour by Bearded Men Adventures (https://www.beardedmenadventures.com/).
Nearby Llyn Tegid (Bala Lake), at the edge of Eryri (Snowdonia National Park), is Wales’ largest natural lake and provides opportunities for sailing, windsurfing, powerboating, paddleboarding and more in a stunning setting. Bala Watersports offer a wide range of activities including all of the above along with kayaking, white-water rafting, raft building, gorge walking, climbing and abseiling.
The National White Water Centre, just a short drive from Corwen, offers a wild day out that even the rain can’t spoil with various kayaking, rafting and canyoning activities on offer come rain or shine.
DAYS OUT
There is plenty to see and do throughout Denbighshire, along with a wealth of outdoor activities there are many smaller places to visit including several castles and historic houses, quirky museums, and more. Here’s a selection of some of Denbighshire’s best days out.
1950s Museum, Denbigh
In the beautiful setting of a working farm in the Vale of Clwyd, The 1950’s Museum is home to an eclectic collection of vintage memorabilia. The museum is filled to the brim with everything from vintage electronics, including cameras, TVs and radios, to toys, prams and household items. There’s even a replica 1950s living room and kitchen and a wonderful collection of period vehicles including the lorry used in the Great Train Robbery.
Denbigh Castle
Denbigh Castle is all about drama. Cross the drawbridge into the triple-towered gatehouse and you’ll hear the portcullis thundering down, chains rattling and the din of horses and marching soldiers. But don’t be too alarmed, it’s all down to the wonders of modern technology. Explore the impressive gatehouse, towers, and walls while learning about the history of this once great fortress which crowns a rocky outcrop above the Vale of Clwyd.
Loggerheads Country Park, Ruthin
Loggerheads Country Park with its beautiful wooded river valley, dramatic cliffs and outcrops is great for a short stroll or an ideal place to start exploring the Clwydian Range. With a Visitor Centre, cafe and plenty of open space for children to play, it’s an ideal spot for a family day out.
Nantclwyd Y Dre Historic House and Gardens, Ruthin
Nantclwyd y Dre is a restored Grade I listed house dating back to 1435. Each room represents a different time period, offering a unique glimpse into life over the centuries. The beautifully tranquil Lord’s Garden offers stunning views of the Clwydian Range and Ruthin Castle. Children can become ‘Young Explorers’ with specially designed trails to help them discover more about Nantclwyd y Dre’s history and nature.
Ruthin Gaol
Ruthin gaol is the only purpose-built Pentonville style prison open to the public as a heritage attraction. Spend time exploring its nooks and crannies and learn about life in a Victorian prison, see how the prisoners lived their daily lives, what they ate, how they worked, and the punishments they suffered.
Ruthin Craft Centre
Ruthin Craft Centre is a contemporary art space that celebrates the best of modern crafts with a wide variety of regularly changing exhibits, artist studios, and a craft-focused shop. There’s also a lovely cafe with a courtyard terrace.
Rhuddlan Castle
One of Edward I’s many Welsh castles, Rhuddlan was designed by master architect James of St George, the first of his revolutionary concentric, or ‘walls within walls’, designs. This awesome feat of 13th century engineering still towers above the River Clwyd; explore the ruins and take in the amazing countryside views from the higher levels. Events held throughout the year.
St. Asaph Cathedral
One of the smallest cathedrals in Britain, this 13th century building holds historical and architectural significance and houses the William Morgan Bible, the first complete translation of the Bible into Welsh. Admire the cathedral’s stunning architecture, beautiful stained glass windows, and tranquil setting.
SC2, Rhyl
SC2 Rhyl is a state-of-the-art leisure complex featuring an indoor water park, soft play area, and a variety of family-friendly activities. The water park includes thrilling slides, a lazy river, and a splash pad for younger children. With an adventure zone and climbing wall, SC2 Rhyl is perfect for a fun-filled day out with the family.
Llangollen Motor Museum
A small, quirky museum featuring a privately owned collection of cars, motorcycles, and motoring memorabilia. With more than 60 vehicles including classic cars, invalid carriages, an Isetta bubble car and a Sinclair C5, the Llangollen Motor Museum makes an interesting visit for motoring enthusiasts.
Plas Newydd House and Gardens, Llangollen
Plas Newydd is a beautiful open garden and historic house, once home to Lady Eleanor Butler and Miss Sarah Ponsonby, ‘The Ladies of Llangollen’. These Regency ladies lived at Plas Newydd for 50 years and welcomed a stream of visitors including Sir Walter Scott, Josiah Wedgewood, The Duke of Wellington, and writers Wordsworth and Shelley. Today, the house and gardens are open to visitors who can enjoy an exhibition that brings the Ladies’ story to life, followed by a stroll in the gardens and refreshment in the tearooms.
Valle Crucis Abbey, Llangollen
Once one of the richest abbeys in Wales, this much-photographed building is now mostly ruined, but still has the power to capture the imagination. Combine a visit with the Llangollen History Trail walk.
LOCAL ACTIVITIES AND ADVENTURES
GYG Karting, Corwen
Voted Redbull’s No.1 go kart track in the UK, this championship kart track is open to the public for family fun with ‘arrive and drive’ suitable for ages 11 years upwards. Open all year round and all weathers – a first class go karting adventure facility with onsite cafe, viewing area and balcony surrounded by the most picturesque views.
Llangollen Canal
Llangollen Canal offers a unique and relaxing way to explore the surrounding area with 11 miles of canal taking in stunning countryside, aqueducts, tunnels and viaducts. Visitors can rent a narrowboat or take a leisurely horse-drawn boat trip from Llangollen Wharf. The journey takes you through stunning scenery in the Vale of Llangollen and across the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct.
Pontcysyllte Aqueduct
The 19 arches of the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct span the River Dee to create a ‘stream in the sky’. This incredible feat of engineering, described as ‘a masterpiece of creative genius’, was designed by Thomas Telford and took ten years to complete, opening in 1805. Today, it has UNESCO World Heritage Site status and is open to visitors who can enjoy a walk, canoe or even take a canal boat trip over this famous landmark. Enjoy fantastic scenery along the way and wonderful panoramic views from the aqueduct itself.
Llangollen Railway
Take a trip back in time on Llangollen Railway’s heritage line which follows the River Dee through the Dee Valley for 10 miles, between Llangollen and Corwen. There are five stations along the line all with their own special charm and hidden gems. Each station has local walks that all have stunning scenery.
Llangollen Festivals
Held in early July, the Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod is a world-renowned event which brings together performers from around the globe to celebrate music, dance, and culture. In late July the town hosts the Llangollen fringe; October sees the annual Llangollen Food Festival while the last weekend of November is Llangollen Christmas Festival.
Dyserth Waterfalls, Prestatyn
A short walk from the centre of Prestatyn is a very pretty area with a waterfall, caves, streams, woodland trails and a small picnic area. Easily accessible and family friendly.
FOOD & DRINK
There are so many great places to enjoy good food and drink in Denbighshire, we couldn’t possibly list them all here. Instead, here is a selection of some of our favourites – enjoy!
Riverbanc, Llangollen.
Coffee shop in the heart of Llangollen overlooking the famous bridge and weir. Great coffee, loose leaf teas, breakfast and brunch menus.
S&G Bistro, Llangollen.
Highly rated bistro and pizzeria with a varied menu.
The Corn Mill , Llangollen.
Situated on the banks of the River Dee, The Corn Mill is a popular pub and restaurant offering beautiful views and excellent food. The riverside deck is a perfect spot for a leisurely meal or drink, overlooking the river rapids and Llangollen Station.
Gales Wine Bar, Llangollen.
This long established, award-winning wine bar and restaurant is located on one of Llangollen’s oldest streets and is full of character and charm.
Small Plates, Ruthin.
Small plates, big flavours and artistic presentation. This excellent restaurant serves tapas style food, with nibbles, small plates, sharing platters and yummy cocktails.
No11., Ruthin.
Small, characterful restaurant serving lunch, light bites and dinner. A hidden gem.
Vale Street Kitchen, Denbigh.
A cosy Italian restaurant with a small menu, the Vale Street Kitchen serves simple but delicious Italian inspired food. Popular with regulars, this place has a great atmosphere.
Tyddyn Llan, Llandrillo.
Known for its charming setting and exquisite food, this exceptional restaurant has recently been taken over by chef Gareth Stevenson, formerly of Pale Hall, and is well worth a visit for enthusiastic foodies.
The White Horse Inn, Hendrerwydd.
The White Horse is a characterful 16th century inn that’s the perfect blend of traditional country pub and outstanding restaurant. The traditional, cosy interior and friendly atmosphere make it a great place to relax and unwind. The food is fantastic and there’s a big emphasis on locally sourced ingredients.
Rhug Farm Shop, Corwen.
With over 3000 hand picked Welsh products, including organic produce from the Rhug Estate, this award-winning organic farm shop and cafe is well worth a visit. The deli selection includes a wide range of Welsh, British, and continental cheeses, charcuterie, and homemade pies and quiches. Cafe Rhug serves breakfasts, light lunches and afternoon tea.
The Berwyn Arms, Glyndyfrdwy, Corwen.
This charming, 17th century gastro pub offers a modern, seasonal menu and a variety of local craft ales along with the usual wines and spirits. Known for its great food this is a real gem, just a short drive from Corwen.
Chilly Cow Ice Cream, Llanychan.
It doesn’t get more local than this. Chilly Cow ice cream is made on a family farm in the foothills of the Clwydian Range. The farm is home to a herd of Brown Swiss cows who produce delicious milk which is turned into delicious ice cream and sold just down the road at the Chilly Cow honesty box.
THE PRACTICAL STUFF
For medical help
Dial 999 to call for an ambulance if you require urgent medical attention.
You can find your nearest urgent care health services provider by searching the NHS online directory at https://www.nhs.uk/service-search/other-services/
For non-urgent medical advice dial ‘111’ to speak to an operator at the NHS telephone advice service, or visit www.111.nhs.uk
WELSH LANGUAGE
The welsh alphabet is phonetic so once you know how to say the letters, the theory is that reading the words is straightforward; you say what you see. A little time spent familiarising yourself with the alphabet will help no end when you’re trying to navigate your way around the area…
a short, as in ‘hat’, never as in ‘ball’
b as in ‘bag’. Although is there really any other way?
c always hard as in ‘cat’, never an s as in ‘precise’
ch like the ch in the Scottish word ‘loch’, but with more phlegm
d as in ‘dog’, never as in ‘djinn’
dd a buzzy ‘th’ sound, as in ‘this’. Think angry bees with a lisp
e short, as in pen
f v. This is very, very simple, and when you get really used to it, f will play hafock with your spelling
ff f. Equally, you can ffind yourselff getting too used to ff as well
g always hard as in ‘get’, never a ‘j’ sound as in the last g in garage
ng as in ‘song’, where the g isn’t hard, like in ‘gig’, but a soft glottal stop made in your throat
h as in hat, always sounded and never silent
i as in ‘pin’
j accepted now because of the loan words from English that use it, like ‘garej’
l a ‘luh’ as in ‘lava’, but never an ‘ul’ sound as in ‘milk’
ll not as hard a sound to make as some would have you think. Raise your tongue to the top of your mouth as if you were going to say ‘el’, then make the ‘ell’ sound by blowing air round the sides of your raised tongue, instead of by using your voice. You should sound like an annoyed cat
m as in ‘mithridatize’. Or as in ‘mum’, if you want to be boring
n as in ‘nanobot’
o short as in ‘hot’, not round as in ‘hotel’
p can I have a p please Bob?
ph an English f, or Welsh ff sound, as in ‘phase’
r rolled. Some people just can’t get a rolled ‘r’ – their tongues are unable to vibrate in the right way. It’s a genetic thing, apparently,
similar to being able to roll your tongue into a tube, or turn the end upside down. Honestly, some people can, but my tongue’s not that prehensile. Roll if you can, don’t if you can’t
rh hr. Make a huffy, breathy sound before your rolled ‘r’
s always soft as in ‘sit’, never a ‘z’ sound as in ‘juxtapose’
t as in ‘top’. Can it get any simpler?
th as in ‘think’, softer and less buzzy than dd
u If you had stepped in something disgusting and made a kind of ‘eugh’ noise, the vowel ‘eu’ sound would about approximate
w oooooo
y ok, y breaks the rule that Welsh is phonetic. As a single syllable word, y is like ‘uh’, on the last syllable of a multisyllabic word it’ an‘u’ or ‘ee’, and anywhere else it’s like the unstressed, indeterminate noise of the final e in ‘garden’ or ‘letter’. Ysbyty (hospital) is the perfect example.
USEFUL PHRASES
Welcome: Croeso
How are you? Sut mae / Ti’n iawn
Good morning: Bore da
Good Afternoon: P.nawn da, prynhawn da
Good evening: Noswaith dda
Good night: Nos da
Cheers / Good Health! Iechyd da!
Do you speak welsh? Ydych chi’n siarad Cymraeg?
How do you say…. in welsh? Beth ydy….yn Cymraeg?
Thank you: Diolch
I love you: Dw i’n dy garu di
Happy Birthday: Penblwdd Hapus
and a couple of funny ones….
Microwave: popty ping
‘Might as well’: Man a man a mwnci
