Pontcysyllte Aqueduct: Engineering Marvel of the Dee Valley
Walk or boat across the world’s longest and highest navigable aqueduct, a stunning UNESCO World Heritage Site in North Wales.
The Pontcysyllte Aqueduct, a UNESCO World Heritage Site near Llangollen in North Wales, is the world's longest and highest navigable aqueduct. Completed in 1805 by Thomas Telford, it carries the Llangollen Canal 307 meters across the River Dee valley, standing 38 meters tall on 19 slender stone piers. Visitors can walk or boat across this spectacular cast-iron and stone structure, enjoying breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside and the Dee Valley.
A brief summary to Pontcysyllte Aqueduct
- Station Rd, Llangollen, Trevor, LL20 7TY, GB
- +441978822912
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit the Trevor Basin Visitor Centre for free interactive exhibits and to learn about the aqueduct’s engineering history.
- Try a canal boat ride across the aqueduct for a unique perspective and serene experience over the Dee Valley.
- Bring a camera to capture breathtaking panoramic views from the aqueduct’s towpath.
- Explore nearby Ty Mawr Country Park for excellent picnic spots and distant views of the aqueduct and surrounding hills.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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By Car
Access Pontcysyllte Aqueduct via the A539 from the M53 or M56 (North West) or M54 (Midlands). Official car parks are available near Cefn Mawr and Station Road, with designated disabled parking. Avoid parking at Froncysyllte Basin due to limited spaces. Travel time varies from 1 to 2 hours depending on origin. Parking is free.
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By Train and Bus
Take a train to Chirk or Ruabon stations, then catch the Arriva Bus Wales number 5 service, which runs hourly between 7am and 10pm to stops near the aqueduct and Llangollen. The bus journey from the stations takes approximately 20-30 minutes. Tickets cost around £3-£6.
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By Heritage Railway
Ride the Llangollen Heritage Steam Railway, which runs a scenic 10-mile route between Llangollen and Corwen. The railway offers a nostalgic travel experience with connections to local bus services for onward travel to the aqueduct. Train tickets range from £10 to £20.
Pontcysyllte Aqueduct location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Pontcysyllte Aqueduct
A Masterpiece of Industrial Revolution Engineering
The Pontcysyllte Aqueduct stands as a testament to the ingenuity and ambition of the Industrial Revolution. Designed by the renowned civil engineer Thomas Telford and completed in 1805, this aqueduct was a pioneering use of cast iron in large-scale construction. Stretching 307 meters (1,007 feet) in length and soaring 38 meters (126 feet) above the River Dee, it carries the Llangollen Canal across the Dee Valley on 19 slender stone piers. Its construction involved innovative techniques, including cast iron arches supporting a watertight iron trough, which was left filled with water for six months to ensure durability. The aqueduct’s design balances monumental strength with elegant lightness, making it an enduring symbol of engineering excellence.Historic and Cultural Significance
The aqueduct is not only an engineering landmark but also a cultural icon deeply connected to the local community. Its name, Pontcysyllte, means "Bridge of Cysyllte," referencing the nearby township of Cysyllte in the old parish of Llangollen. The aqueduct and the Llangollen Canal, originally part of the Ellesmere Canal, have played a vital role in regional transport and industry since the early 19th century. Today, the site is managed by the Canal and River Trust, which ensures its preservation as a Scheduled Ancient Monument and an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The aqueduct’s UNESCO World Heritage status recognizes its universal value as a masterpiece of creative genius and a landmark of industrial heritage.Visitor Experience and Surroundings
Visitors to Pontcysyllte Aqueduct can enjoy multiple ways to experience this iconic structure. Walking across the narrow towpath offers exhilarating views of the Dee Valley and the surrounding Clwydian Mountain Range. For a more leisurely experience, canal boat rides traverse the aqueduct, allowing you to glide serenely above the river below. Kayaking and paddleboarding are also popular, with the recommendation to kneel on paddleboards for stability. Nearby, the Trevor Basin Visitor Centre provides free interactive exhibits, videos, and puzzles that bring the aqueduct’s history and engineering to life. The surrounding landscape offers picnic spots, scenic walks along the Llangollen Canal, and panoramic viewpoints such as Ty Mawr Country Park.Engineering Details and Unique Features
The aqueduct’s structure is composed of 19 stone piers, each supporting cast iron arches made of four ribs. The canal trough is formed from transverse cast iron plates bolted together and secured to the arches by lugs, allowing slight movement but maintaining watertight integrity. The aqueduct holds approximately 1.5 million litres of water, equivalent to about 18,750 bathtubs. An intriguing feature is a locked plug in the middle of the aqueduct, which is removed every four years to drain the water, a spectacle often involving local schoolchildren. The design cleverly uses Archimedes’ principle, so the weight of boats crossing does not add extra load beyond the displaced water, ensuring structural stability.Community and Events
Pontcysyllte Aqueduct remains a vibrant part of local life and heritage. The Horse Drawn Boat Company continues a tradition of canal boating dating back over 135 years, offering authentic experiences on the water. The aqueduct has hosted special events, including the Olympic torch relay, adding to its historical tapestry. The nearby town of Llangollen complements the visit with its historic buildings, quaint cafes, and cultural attractions. The entire 11-mile stretch of the Llangollen Canal, including the aqueduct, is a designated World Heritage Site, celebrated for its outstanding industrial and natural heritage.Preservation and Accessibility
Managed by the Canal and River Trust, ongoing conservation efforts ensure the aqueduct’s structural integrity and its environment are protected. The site is accessible year-round, with free access to walk the aqueduct and surrounding towpaths. The Trevor Basin Visitor Centre operates seasonally with educational resources. The aqueduct’s setting within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty offers a tranquil and scenic experience, combining heritage with nature. Facilities nearby include parking, restrooms, and picnic areas, making it suitable for families and visitors of all ages.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Llangollen Bridge
5.5 km
A medieval stone bridge spanning the River Dee, blending centuries of history with stunning river valley views in the heart of Llangollen.
Cae-Llywd Bunker
6.5 km
Explore the Cold War era at Cae-Llywd Bunker, a hidden historical landmark nestled in the scenic landscapes of Llangollen, Wales.
Derwen Churchyard Cross
21.8 km
Explore the intricately carved 15th-century Derwen Churchyard Cross, a rare medieval Welsh monument set in a serene circular churchyard near Corwen.
Tom Pryce Memorial
21.9 km
A poignant tribute in Ruthin to Tom Pryce, Wales’ only Formula 1 Grand Prix winner and a motorsport legend remembered for his talent and tragic fate.
Dyfed Drive
26.1 km
Discover Deeside with ease from Dyfed Drive, your essential bus stop connecting you to local attractions and scenic landscapes.
Overleigh Water Tower
26.9 km
Discover the Overleigh Water Tower, a stunning historical landmark in Chester, offering a blend of rich heritage and scenic beauty for all visitors.
Bridge Gate and Old Dee Bridge
27.4 km
Historic medieval gateway and ancient stone bridge spanning the scenic tidal River Dee in Chester’s charming riverside setting.
The Grosvenor Museum
27.4 km
Explore Chester's history at The Grosvenor Museum, where art, culture, and fascinating stories intertwine in an exquisite setting.
Chester History & Heritage
27.4 km
Explore Chester's history and heritage at the Grosvenor Museum, a treasure trove of artifacts and stories from the past.
Stanley Palace
27.5 km
Experience the historic charm of Stanley Palace, an iconic events venue in Chester offering a perfect blend of heritage and modern functionality.
Churchill House
27.6 km
A vibrant academic landmark on Chester’s Queen’s Park campus, blending historic charm with modern learning and scenic riverside views.
Wishing Steps
27.6 km
Historic stone steps at Chester’s medieval walls where wishes come true through a charming local tradition.
Sick To Death
27.6 km
Discover the intriguing world of medicine, death, and history at Sick To Death Museum in Chester, a unique tourist attraction rich in captivating exhibits.
Deva Roman Experience
27.6 km
Discover Chester's rich Roman heritage at Deva Roman Experience, a captivating museum filled with interactive exhibits and historical artifacts.
Moel y Gaer
27.7 km
Explore the ancient fortifications of Moel y Gaer, a historical landmark with breathtaking views in the heart of Halkyn, North Wales.
Unmissable attractions to see
Tŷ Mawr Country Park
1.4 km
A tranquil 35-acre riverside retreat beneath Cefn Viaduct, blending scenic walks, farm animals, and family-friendly charm in North Wales.
National Trust - Chirk Castle
3.9 km
Explore a majestic 13th-century fortress with stunning gardens and 480 acres of scenic parkland in the heart of the Welsh Marches.
Castell Dinas Brân
4.9 km
Explore the majestic hilltop ruins of Castell Dinas Brân, where history meets breathtaking views over the Dee Valley.
Chirk Aqueduct
5.0 km
Experience the breathtaking Victorian engineering marvel that bridges England and Wales over the River Ceiriog.
Plas Newydd Historic House & Gardens Llangollen
5.2 km
Explore the Gothic fantasy home and serene gardens of the Ladies of Llangollen, a unique historic retreat in North Wales.
Safe and Sound Outdoors
5.5 km
Experience thrilling whitewater rafting adventures on the scenic River Dee with expert guides at Safe and Sound Outdoors in Llangollen.
Llangollen Museum
5.6 km
Discover the rich heritage of North Wales through engaging exhibits and local stories at Llangollen Museum.
Llangollen
5.6 km
Discover Llangollen’s enchanting blend of medieval history, scenic river valley beauty, and charming heritage railway adventures in North Wales.
Llangollen Motor Museum
6.6 km
Discover a packed private collection of vintage cars and motoring memorabilia in the scenic Welsh countryside at Llangollen Motor Museum.
World's End
6.9 km
Discover the dramatic cliffs, historic limekilns, and tranquil valley of World's End, a nature reserve rich in heritage and natural beauty near Wrexham.
Abaty Glyn Y Groes / Valle Crucis Abbey
6.9 km
Explore the atmospheric ruins of Valle Crucis Abbey, a majestic medieval monastery famed for lavish feasts and serene Welsh valley setting.
Llangollen Canal Towpath Llangollen
7.0 km
A serene towpath along a historic Welsh canal, blending iconic engineering with peaceful countryside walks and family-friendly outdoor fun.
Eliseg's Pillar
7.2 km
A 9th-century memorial cross atop a Bronze Age cairn, celebrating Welsh royal heritage and historic victories in tranquil North Wales farmland.
Horseshoe Falls
7.6 km
Discover the historic Horseshoe Falls, a stunning horseshoe-shaped weir blending industrial heritage with tranquil Welsh countryside charm.
National Trust - Erddig
8.3 km
Discover Erddig’s historic house, Dutch-inspired gardens, and sprawling Welsh parkland—a perfect blend of heritage and natural beauty.
Essential places to dine
Dee Side Cafe Bistro
5.5 km
Riverside bistro in Llangollen serving hearty home-cooked meals with generous portions and a welcoming, casual atmosphere.
Tollgate Cafe
9.3 km
Charming countryside café near Glyndyfrdwy offering fresh home-cooked meals, scenic views, and warm Welsh hospitality.
Ponderosa Cafe
9.8 km
Classic British cafe with hearty fare and breathtaking views at the Horseshoe Pass, a beloved stop for travelers and bikers alike.
Prezzo Italian Restaurant Oswestry
12.6 km
Authentic Italian dining in Oswestry with fresh ingredients, diverse menus, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere for every occasion.
Croes Howell Restaurant & Bar
16.4 km
A welcoming British restaurant and bar in Llay, blending hearty cuisine, scenic surroundings, and versatile event spaces.
Three Pigeons Inn
17.5 km
Historic Welsh inn offering hearty meals, warm hospitality, and scenic views in the charming village of Graig-fechan.
The Leyland Arms
18.1 km
Historic stone-built pub in Llanelidan offering traditional Welsh hospitality, local cuisine, and cozy self-catering accommodation.
The Millstone
19.9 km
A family-owned gem in Penyffordd serving modern British dishes crafted from the freshest local produce in a warm, historic setting.
Druid Inn
20.2 km
A cozy country pub and guesthouse in Llanferres offering hearty Welsh fare, local ales, and warm hospitality amid stunning rural landscapes.
Belvedere
21.8 km
Authentic Italian flavors and warm ambiance await you at Belvedere, Mold’s cherished Italian restaurant on Wrexham Street.
Small Plates Ruthin
21.9 km
Discover Small Plates Ruthin, where intimate sharing plates meet warm ambiance in the heart of historic North Wales.
The Farmers Arms
22.0 km
A charming Welsh pub and restaurant in Ruthin offering traditional cuisine, local ales, and a warm, lively atmosphere.
The Vines at Carden Park
22.0 km
Award-winning fine dining at Carden Park with seasonal British cuisine, an onsite vineyard, and an intimate, elegant atmosphere near Chester.
Primo Amore Italian Restaurant Mold
22.1 km
Authentic Southern Italian flavors and lively ambiance await at Primo Amore, Mold’s beloved Italian dining destination.
The Fat Boar Mold
22.2 km
A stylish gastro pub in Mold blending hearty British fare with a lively atmosphere and friendly service in a cozy, contemporary setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Fine Things
4.8 km
Discover unique local crafts and artisan treasures in the heart of Chirk at Fine Things gift shop.
Shop Around The Corner
5.5 km
Discover unique gifts and local crafts in the heart of Llangollen at Shop Around The Corner, a charming boutique with friendly service and fresh finds daily.
Gifts From Wales Ltd
5.5 km
Discover authentic Welsh crafts and heritage gifts at Gifts From Wales Ltd, a charming family-run shop in historic Llangollen.
Chapel Emporium
5.6 km
Discover timeless treasures and vintage charm in a historic chapel turned antique emporium in the heart of Llangollen.
Plas Coch Retail Park
11.1 km
A vibrant retail hub in Wrexham offering diverse shopping, dining, and leisure options for a complete visitor experience.
Create Nostalgia Home of Mary Jane Collection
16.7 km
Discover timeless needlecraft treasures and the exclusive Mary Jane Collection in the heart of Mold, North Wales’ oldest craft shop.
Vintage Home Styles Emporium
19.1 km
Discover timeless vintage furniture and cozy café delights in the heart of Corwen at Vintage Home Styles Emporium.
Tialilly
21.0 km
Explore Tialilly, your go-to internet shop in Llanymynech for unique gifts, novelties, and exquisite pottery.
Retro Styler Ltd
21.1 km
Discover unique gifts, collectibles, and nostalgic fashion at Retro Styler Ltd in Mold’s Bromfield Industrial Estate.
The De-Part-Mental Store
21.2 km
Treasure hunting meets sustainability in Mold's premier secondhand and upcycled goods destination.
Dragons Gifts and Crafts
21.6 km
Discover authentic Welsh crafts and unique handmade gifts in a charming village shop full of local spirit and seasonal surprises.
CeFfi
21.6 km
Discover unique gifts, vibrant balloons, and heartfelt cards at CeFfi, Ruthin’s charming boutique for celebrations and special moments.
Jennings Antiques
21.7 km
British antique and vintage furniture specialists with export expertise and period pieces from Victorian to retro eras.
Siop Nain
21.8 km
Historic Welsh gift shop and café in Ruthin offering local crafts, warm hospitality, and a cozy atmosphere in a 15th-century listed building.
Castle Bell
21.9 km
Explore the charm of Castle Bell Gift Shop in Ruthin for unique souvenirs and local crafts that capture the essence of Welsh culture.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Corn Mill
5.6 km
A welcoming pub and restaurant in Llangollen offering diverse menu options, scenic riverside views, and a lively, friendly atmosphere.
Liberty Tavern & Wine Bar
5.6 km
A cosy and sophisticated tavern offering fine wines, local ales, and tapas in the heart of Llangollen’s Market Street.
Raven Inn
16.3 km
A welcoming village pub and cozy inn in Llanarmon-yn-Ial offering hearty food, local ales, and comfortable rooms amid scenic Welsh countryside.
The Bridge Inn
18.5 km
A welcoming traditional Welsh country pub in Pontblyddyn serving hearty meals and local ales in a cozy, family-friendly setting.
The White Horse
19.1 km
A friendly, quirky village pub in Llanfair Dyffryn Clwyd serving hearty food and great pints in a cozy Welsh countryside setting.
The Fox & Hounds
19.9 km
Cozy, traditional village pub in Pwll-glas offering evening drinks, local ales, and a warm community atmosphere near Ruthin.
Pen Y Bont Farm
21.8 km
Historic riverside pub in Mold blending 17th-century charm with modern comfort, family-friendly dining, and scenic outdoor spaces.
Griffin Inn
21.8 km
A traditional, family-friendly pub in Mynydd Isa serving classic British fare and a wide selection of drinks in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The Wine Vaults
21.9 km
A welcoming free house in Ruthin offering quality ales, cozy rooms, games, and outdoor seating in a historic market town setting.
Boars Head
21.9 km
A historic and friendly pub in Ruthin offering quality ales, local ghost stories, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere year-round.
Queens Head Inn
21.9 km
Classic Welsh pub charm with hearty food, diverse drinks, and lively entertainment in the heart of Mold.
Blue Anchor
22.0 km
A friendly and cosy pub in Buckley with great ales, a lively beer garden, and a welcoming atmosphere for all seasons.
The Ruthin Castle
22.0 km
A welcoming pub in Mold’s vibrant center, blending local history with lively community spirit and traditional charm.
Y Pentan
22.1 km
Experience the heart of Mold’s social life at Y Pentan, a traditional pub known for friendly vibes and classic British fare.
Mold Alehouse
22.2 km
Discover Mold Alehouse, a cozy micropub in Mold offering ever-changing cask ales and craft beers in a welcoming, conversation-friendly space.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunrise Spots
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
