A chilly day and looking for something local to do in the Wrexham area?
We may be able to help you with that! Our team have put together some ideas for a day out in Chirk, just a 10-minute train journey from Wrexham General station and the home some great hospitality alongside the Chirk Aqueduct and canal - part of the 11-mile Ponytcysyllte Aqueduct UNESCO World Heritage Site.
See what you think of our top 10 - and leave your comments below!
1. Catch the train to Chirk
There are regular trains throughout the day that stop in Chirk – jump on in Chester and be in Chirk in less than half an hour Chirk, or the train from Birmingham New Street which passes through Shrewsbury also runs hourly, making Chirk a super accessible option for a day out from Cheshire or Shropshire. Take a look at www.tfw.wales to see how easy it could be to plan your journey!
2. Coffee at Caffi Wylfa
Just a short walk from the train station, you’ll come across Caffi Wylfa, a lovely community café serving great artisan coffee, breakfasts, cakes and lunches. They serve great local produce, and always provide a warm friendly welcome. Dogs are welcome too, and there’s a heated outdoor terrace if you fancy enjoying the winter sun!
3. Walk along the canal
The Llangollen canal runs through Chirk, and the beautiful scenery is just not to be missed on a day out here. You can walk over the Chirk Aqueduct towards Shropshire, or head in the other direction, towards the famous Pontcysyllte Aqueduct and Llangollen. It’s simply stunning, meandering along past the canal boats, under a canopy of trees. Take a deep breath and enjoy the serenity it brings.
4. Visit the Castle
13th century Chirk Castle is most certainly worth planning into your itinerary if you’re in Chirk for the day. Once a marcher fortress, and then a family home, it’s a grand building, sat in the most beautiful surroundings and gardens. The National Trust now look after the property so you can be sure of a welcoming visit!
Walking to the Castle grounds takes about 5 minutes from the train station, or 10 from the town centre. Then it’s another 20 minutes or so to get to the castle itself. If you’ve come by car, it’s an impressive sight as you drive up to the carpark!
Chirk Castle | Wrexham | Wales | National Trust
5. Spot a train going over the viaduct
Chirk aqueduct and viaduct sit companionably next to one another, making quite the impression as you approach them! As you walk along the aqueduct, you’ll regularly see a train hurtling past on the viaduct, as a canal boat meanders along the water! Every so often, it might just be a steam train on a special journey. Magical!
6. Walk between England and Wales
Whilst enjoying the views up towards the Ceiriog Valley from Chirk aqueduct, framed by the viaduct, you’ll quietly, almost unknowingly, walk between England and Wales. Look out for the sign, and have one foot in each country!
7. Walk the darkie tunnel
The ‘Darkie’ tunnel runs from Chirk Train station through to Chirk aqueduct. Take your torch, and brave the walk along the towpath through the atmospheric surroundings! You can always see the light at the other end, so it’s not so bad!
8. Visit St Mary’s Church
The grade 1 listed Church of St Mary, in the town centre, is a beautiful building, offering a very warm welcome to visitors. There is regular worship on a Thursday and Sunday mornings, and visitors are welcome during opening hours (10am – 3pm in the winter months). The churchyard itself feels really peaceful, and offers a quiet place for reflexion and contemplation during a busy day.
9. Warm up in the Castle Bistro
Just a short walk down the pretty high street, past the gifts shops, cake shops, butchers and tearooms, you can get a great meal in the Castle Bistro. With a diverse menu, using loads of locally sourced ingredients, from light bites to delicious cuts of meats, pizzas and pasta dishes, and not-to-mention wonderful desserts, you can’t go wrong. Cosy up and refuel for your adventures!
10. Walk in the ancient woodland of Chirk Castle
The atmosphere in Chirk Castle woodland feels pretty special, the opportunities to explore endless. There’s 460 acres around the castle, with set circular walks you can find on the website. Otherwise just walk and explore. And if you’re lucky enough to be here on a snowy day, it’s truly like stepping into Narnia, without the Lions and witches!!
Explore Chirk Castle's estate | Wales | National Trust
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