North Wales town home to one of the seven wonders is named top UK summer destination to visit
Tripadvisor has unveiled its Summer Travel Index for 2025, and a charming North Wales town has been hailed as one of the top spots to visit this summer.
Tucked away in Denbighshire, the scenic town of Llangollen has secured its spot among the UK's premier travel destinations. Whether you're a history buff, an outdoor adventurer, or a seeker of cultural richness, Llangollen offers a unique mix of allure and adventure that continues to enchant visitors year after year.
Encircled by the dramatic Berwyn Mountains and nestled along the banks of the swift-flowing River Dee, Llangollen's landscape encourages you to unwind and absorb its beauty - or, if you prefer, plunge into a variety of outdoor activities.
Hiking, mountain biking, and white-water rafting are favoured activities here, with trails and waterways that cater to both the adventurous and the relaxed traveller, reports Wales Online.
One of the most iconic ways to take in the scenery is aboard a horse-drawn canal boat, a peaceful cruise along the Llangollen Canal that includes a trip over the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an architectural marvel.
This towering 18-arched structure, built in the early 19th century, carries the Llangollen Canal 126 feet above the River Dee and remains the world's highest navigable aqueduct.
Just as impressive is the Llangollen Bridge, a centuries-old structure dubbed one of the Seven Wonders of Wales.
For history buffs, Llangollen delivers in abundance. The peaceful ruins of Valle Crucis Abbey, a 13th-century Cistercian monastery just outside the town, offer a reflective retreat and a glimpse into medieval monastic life.
Meanwhile, the Llangollen Railway provides a journey back in time. Hop aboard a steam train and wind through the scenic Dee Valley on one of the UK's most charming heritage railways.
Beyond its natural and cultural attractions, part of what makes Llangollen so beloved is its community feel.
The town centre is dotted with independent shops, cosy cafés, and welcoming pubs. Whether you're sipping Welsh ale beside the river or browsing local artisan crafts, Llangollen's warmth and authenticity shine through.
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Scottish Sun
2 hours ago
- Scottish Sun
Scots holiday park with golden sands & stunning marina wins Travellers' Choice Award
Three other Scottish resorts managed to bag the prestigious accolade Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) A SCOTTISH holiday park with golden sands and a stunning marina has won a prestigious Travellers' Choice Award. The caravan park is located in one of the most picturesque areas of Scotland and offers a little bit of something for everyone. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 5 Scots Nairn Lochloy Holiday Park has an incredible indoor pool Credit: Nairn Lochloy Holiday Park 5 It is located between a gorgeous beach and a stunning marina Credit: Nairn Lochloy Holiday Park 5 The resort has won a Travellers' Choice Award Credit: Nairn Lochloy Holiday Park Nairn Lochloy Holiday Park in the Highlands earned a spot in the awards after impressing with its stunning views and top entertainment. The accolade places it in the top 10 per cent of listings globally that consistently earn positive reviews. The Parkdean resort is situated between a gorgeous beach and a marina, where whales and dolphins are often seen peeking above the waves. It is also close to the Nairn Dunbar championship golf course and is just a 50-minute drive away from Loch Ness. Or for those who love to explore, there is also a trek to Fort George for a fascinating taste of Scottish history. The caravan park features excellent facilities that cater to all the essentials for a perfect getaway, and even has a range of pet-friendly accommodation. There are also plenty of attractions and activities to entertain families, including a bar, an indoor pool and a bustling arcade. Describing Nairn Lochloy after it scooped the Travellers' Choice Award, experts at TripAdvisor said the park is as beautiful as it is fun. They wrote: "Life's a beach at Nairn Lochloy Holiday Park, with golden sands set beside a marina; its beauty is only matched by its fun. 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Someone else said: "Nairn Lochloy was the most incredible site I've been to. It was so clean and the location was perfect, right next to the harbour and beach... The food in the restaurant was lovely and the service was also wonderful." A fourth posted: "Ideal location for exploring the Highlands. The caravan park is really clean and has a beautiful beach. Had a lovely meal in the restaurant, staff warm and welcoming." While a fifth chimed in: "From start to finish, it was excellent... The caravan was extremely clean, comfy and has everything you need. Perfect location, facilities and can't wait to return." Parkdean Resorts PARKDEAN Resorts is the leading operator of holiday parks in the UK, welcoming in excess of three million holidaymakers each year. The firm owns and operates 66 award-winning holiday parks, and have an freehold property footprint with 3,500 acres of land including forests, peatbogs, rivers, beaches and headlands in some of the UK's finest beauty spots. 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"We continue to record excellent visitor reviews with a 2025 year-to-date Tripadvisor score of 4.6/5, and 2024 feedback scores of 4.1/5 on Google and 4/5 on Facebook, while 77% of people who visited Parkdean Resorts would recommend us." Alongside Nairn Lochloy Holiday Park,e, three other Scots Parkdean resorts managed to bag a Tripadvisor Traveller's Choice Award. Eyemouth, Grannie's Heilan Ham, and Sundrum Castle Holiday Parks were all crowned with the prestigious award, too. Steve Richards, CEO at Parkdean Resorts, said: 'Winning the TripAdvisor Travellers' Choice Award is a testament to the hard work our teams put in every day, allowing our guests to make amazing memories with their families and loved ones. "We're extremely proud of our parks and always strive to improve the overall guest experience. "The feedback we receive from our visitors is very important to us. "We're delighted to see such a high proportion of our parks win this prestigious award.' 5 The caravan park also has plenty of attractions and activities to entertain families Credit: Nairn Lochloy Holiday Park
North Wales Live
2 hours ago
- North Wales Live
Unsung market town in Wales that's great for hiking, biking and epic Sunday lunches
As I navigated the rolling hills of Mid Wales, the scenery began to subtly transform. The narrow roads meandered through steep valleys, alongside dense forests, and over historic stone bridges that crossed swift streams. After journeying past farmlands and small clusters of homes, I found myself in Rhayader, the first town on the River Wye. Rhayader is a hidden gem, home to the stunning dams and reservoirs of the Elan and Claerwen Valleys. This underrated market town is a perfect base for biking, hiking and wildlife spotting. It has stayed true to its agricultural heritage and remains a vital hub for the farming community, with a bustling livestock market serving a large rural area. Historically, Rhayader has been a rest stop for weary travellers in Mid Wales, serving as a staging post for drovers and those journeying the lengthy route from London to Aberystwyth, reports Wales Online. Today, it's known as the gateway to the Elan Valley, located just outside the expansive estate. It's a handy base with a variety of independent shops, cafés, and pubs, and also brands itself as the 'outdoors capital of Wales'. This spot is certainly one of my favourite places in Wales for an exhilarating bike ride followed by a hearty Sunday lunch at one of the many local pubs. Join the North Wales Live WhatsApp community group where you can get the latest stories delivered straight to your phone Here's how to make the most of a visit to Rhayader. Shopping The main street hosts a compact shopping area where you can peruse a range of antiques, local crafts, prints, pottery, upcycled clothing, and local souvenirs. Hafod Hardware, a family-run hardware store with a vintage feel that has been in operation since 1895, is one of the more unique shopping experiences available here. In addition to standard DIY items and kitchenware, you can also find vintage-style tourism prints of Wales and, rather more predictably, specially-made Elan Valley mugs and chocolate bars. Quillies, a local craft shop, is worth a visit for its beautiful locally-made crafts including pottery, textiles, jewellery and fused glass. Family-run No 8 Clothing offers a retail fix with men's, women's, and children's clothing, accessories and gifts across two floors. It stocks well-known brands such as Joules, Brakeburn, Seasalt, Soya Concept, Mistral, Joe Browns, Wrangler, Pachamama, Jellycat, and Powder. River Wood is a glorious place - the UK's only gallery-bookshop dedicated solely to wildlife and wild places, filled with original paintings, prints, cards, and books. Upstairs, there's a working artist's studio and space for creative workshops. For outdoor gear, Hill Walking provides a good selection of clothing, boots, and accessories from brands like Urban Road, Game, Regatta, Trespass, and Craghoppers, all suitable for walking in Wales' unpredictable weather conditions. Explore the dams Rhayader serves as the entrance to the stunning Elan Valley, home to the area's Victorian dams nestled amongst rolling green hills. Constructed over a century ago to quench the thirst of a rapidly urbanising Birmingham, these unique gravity dams attract photographers from far and wide, eager to capture their cascading waters. The tale of the Elan Valley originates in the late 19th century when Birmingham, a bustling city at the peak of the industrial revolution, was expanding at an unprecedented rate. In desperate need of a reliable and clean water source, engineers turned their attention to the remote Elan Valley. With its high rainfall and steep, narrow landscape, the valley was the ideal location for a series of reservoirs. In 1892, one of the most ambitious water supply projects of its era commenced. Over 3,000 workers were employed to construct dams, reservoirs and aqueducts by hand, aided by steam-powered machinery. By the time the project was completed in 1904, the Elan Valley had undergone a significant transformation. Four main dams were built – Caban Coch, Garreg Ddu, Pen y Garreg, and Craig Goch. Each dam is a feat of engineering, constructed from local stone and designed to blend seamlessly into the landscape. For instance, the Caban Coch Dam, viewed from afar, appears to be a natural cliff face. However, up close, its sheer size and the sound of water tumbling over its edge are nothing short of breathtaking. The reservoirs themselves, vast and deep bodies of water, mirror the surrounding hills and sky, creating a picturesque spot. A map of the estate can be obtained from the Elan Valley Visitor Centre, where staff are also on hand to suggest scenic routes to view the dams. The optimal time to leisurely drive around the estate is after heavy rainfall - a common occurrence in Wales - when the reservoir water cascades over the steep, 'Birmingham Baroque'-style structures. Fancy being guided by a local expert? You can arrange a custom tour of the Elan Valley and the Cambrian Mountains area with Cambrian Safaris and discover all the hidden nooks with a local guide. Stay updated Cycle the Elan Valley trail One of the top ways to explore Elan Valley is by walking or cycling along the Elan Valley Trail. This 13-mile (21km) path traces the route of the old railway that transported materials to the valley during the dam's construction. Today, a well-kept trail meanders through some of the valley's most scenic spots. Starting in the quaint village of Cwmdeuddwr, just west of Rhayader, you'll follow the old Birmingham Corporation Railway line, perfectly situated to showcase Elan's finest Victorian dams. The linear trail is mostly level, save for a few inclines, with several tarmacked stretches making it suitable for cyclists of all skill levels, including older children. If you fancy a bit of assistance on your journey, why not hire an E-bike in Rhayader and glide through the valley with ease? For those without their own bikes, the market town of Rhayader offers rental services from Neil's Wheels or Clive Powell Mountain Bikes. With the trail taking approximately three hours to complete, a half-day bike hire should provide ample time for photo opportunities and coffee breaks. The route ascends 165ft from the Elan Valley Visitor Centre, passing the awe-inspiring Caban Coch and Garreg Ddu reservoirs. When full, millions of gallons of water tumble over the historic 120ft-high dam walls of Cabin Coch – a sight worth capturing on camera. Go Wildlife watching Rhayader is ideally situated for wildlife spotting, being adjacent to the wildlife-rich Elan Valley where red kites can often be seen soaring above the town. The nearby Elan Estate is owned by Dŵr Cymru Welsh Water, but a significant portion is vested in the Elan Valley Trust. While its primary function is to provide clean water, it also serves as a meticulously managed beauty spot for visitors. Over 80% of the valley is designated a site of special scientific interest (SSSI), teeming with wildlife and boasting remarkable landscapes. The Elan Valley is a sanctuary for an array of wildlife, thanks to its varied habitats and meticulous management. The valley's forests, moorlands, and wetlands are home to a diverse range of species including birds, mammals, insects and plants. Bird enthusiasts will be thrilled by the variety of species that can be spotted here. Waterfowl such as tufted ducks, great crested grebes, and goosanders are drawn to the reservoirs, while woodpeckers and nuthatches inhabit the surrounding woods. The expansive moorland serves as a hunting ground for birds of prey, with red kites, buzzards, and occasionally peregrine falcons seen soaring high above. For a closer view of the resident red kites, head to Gigrin Farm, renowned for its red kite feeding. Situated half a mile from Rhayader, hundreds of red kites feed here, making it the best spot in the UK to see and photograph these magnificent birds (including the rare leucistic red kites). Small-scale cattle farming also plays a vital role in the Elan Valley. Today, only a few farms continue this practice. Keep your eyes peeled and you'll spot cattle grazing freely on the open hills and in some enclosed habitats. The flora of the Elan Valley is equally impressive. Dense forests house ancient oaks and the moorlands are blanketed in a mix of heather, bilberry, and mosses. In the spring and summer, the valley's meadows come alive with wildflowers, adding a burst of colour to the landscape. Sign up for the North Wales Live newsletter sent twice daily to your inbox Try stargazing Did you know that Rhyader and the Elan Valley boast some of the world's darkest, clearest, and least polluted skies? The Elan Valley, with its 45,000 acres of safeguarded land, has been at the forefront of this movement since it was awarded International Dark Sky Park status in 2015, becoming the first privately-owned yet publicly-accessible park globally to achieve this. This prestigious status now ensures that the Elan Valley is shielded from light pollution, providing a safe haven for the wealth of wildlife and nature found within the estate. Since receiving its dark sky designation, the Elan Valley is now acknowledged as one of the premier stargazing destinations worldwide and has been highlighted in numerous stargazing guides, talks, and books. But what does this mean in pactice? Simply put, it means minimal light pollution and such clear skies that you can see the Milky Way, meteor showers, and even the faint glow of neighbouring galaxies with the naked eye. The valley's secluded location and considerate conservation efforts make it an exceptional spot for those seeking a deeper connection with the cosmos. Here, you'll discover several prime locations for stargazing. Each offers a unique perspective on the night sky, whether you're a casual observer or a passionate astrophotographer. Craig Goch Dam car park: A popular spot with wide open views, it's ideal for seeing the Milky Way or setting up for long-exposure photography. Claerwen Dam: Known for its dramatic backdrop, this site combines the grandeur of Victorian engineering with the infinite beauty of the stars above. Teifi Pools: Remote and serene, these pools reflect the starlight, creating a mesmerising experience. Pont ar Elan: Easily accessible yet wonderfully secluded, it's a fantastic spot to gaze at constellations or catch a meteor shower. Bring a red-light torch to maintain your night vision and allow your eyes 20 minutes to adjust to the darkness for the full experience. For a more engaging experience, consider attending organised stargazing events in the area to connect with the cosmos or try your hand at astrophotography. The Elan Valley Trust and Dark Sky Wales regularly host guided tours and workshops offering expert insights and access to telescopes. For dark sky events, check out the Elan Valley's What's On webpage, Facebook (ElanValley), and Instagram (@elanvalley). Eating and drinking in Rhayader Pop into The Lost ARC for lunch and coffee in this quirky community café. Be sure to order my favourite – a delicious Welsh rarebit consisting of toasted bread covered in warm, mature cheddar, Welsh ale, and a touch of laverbread and mustard. They also offer coffee, cakes, light lunches, and a wide selection of vegan options. By evening, this trendy establishment transforms into a live music venue showcasing emerging acts and hosting popular pizza nights. The Old Swan Tea Rooms is a traditional family-run tea room and cake shop providing a lovely spot for homemade pasties, cakes, and lunches. Give their incredibly tasty chicken curry made from a family recipe a try. For a hearty Sunday lunch, make your way to The Crown for generous servings of meat and veg and a Yorkshire pudding. This is Sunday lunch as Mam would make it – no-nonsense, satisfying, and with plenty of gravy. You certainly won't leave hungry. The Historic Triangle, a beautiful 16th-century drover's inn located in Cwmdauddwr, is a short stroll away. Here you'll find a roaring fire, real cask ales on tap, and homemade food including several pub classics. Another good spot for ales, traditional bar meals, and Sunday carveries is The Lamb and Flag, while the bright green Elan Hotel also has a decent selection of drinks at their bar. Where to stay Mid Wales Holiday Lets These reasonably-priced holiday lets can sleep up to 44 people with Glandwr House, Afonwy House, The Old Drapers, The Bakehouse, and The Cwtch all available. The handsome red-brick converted townhouses are perfect for groups of friends or families travelling together in the Elan Valley area. They are also well-equipped for cyclists, offering secure bike storage to keep your gear safe. After a long day of hitting the trails you can unwind in the bubbly outdoor hot tub, which is perfect for soothing those aching muscles. Ty Morgans For a stay in the heart of Rhayader, Ty Morgans is a historic townhouse that blends traditional charm with a modern feel. This boutique and well-priced accommodation is situated at the crossroads of Rhayader, making it a perfect base for exploring the town and the Elan Valley area. It is thoughtfully designed, incorporating original features like oak beams and stone fireplaces while offering all the modern amenities you'd expect including en suite bathrooms. Ty Morgans is a delightful spot that boasts an on-site bar and restaurant, serving everything from hearty Welsh breakfasts to evening meals. Its central location means you're just a stone's throw away from local shops, pubs, and the Riverside Walk. Elan Valley Hotel Just a short drive from the Elan Valley, the Elan Valley Hotel offers a perfect blend of comfort and convenience in a boutique hotel setting. Here, guests can enjoy well-furnished rooms with stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Each room is designed for comfort, featuring plush beds and modern amenities. The hotel's restaurant is famed for its exceptional menu, which uses locally-sourced ingredients to provide a truly authentic taste of Wales. It's the ideal location for easy access to the Elan Valley's numerous trails and reservoirs, all while enjoying a touch of luxury. Getting to Rhayader Rhayader, the gateway to the Elan Valley, is easily reachable from various parts of Wales and England. By car: If you're driving, Rhayader is well-connected via the A470 and A44, making it a scenic road trip from cities like Cardiff (around two and a half hours), Birmingham (just over two hours), or Shrewsbury (around 90 minutes). The roads into Mid Wales wind through picturesque countryside, so allow a little extra time for slower rural routes and photo stops. By public transport: Train and bus services are available, albeit limited due to the rural location. The closest train station is situated in Llandrindod Wells, approximately 12 miles away, with connections provided by Transport for Wales. From there, a local bus can be taken to reach Rhayader. For further details and timetables, consult Traveline Cymru or utilise transport apps to assist in planning your journey.
Daily Record
7 hours ago
- Daily Record
'I went to Benidorm on holiday and couldn't believe cost of a pint'
A man, who is known as the Benidorm Fanatic to his TikTok followers, recently headed to the popular holiday destination and was left gobsmacked by the price of a drink A Brit was gobsmacked by the cost of a pint in Benidorm, despite being a frequent visitor to Spain. Known amongst his TikTok followers as the Benidorm Fanatic, he recounts his visit to Uncle Ron's, a bar renowned for its affordably priced pints, where he found himself pleasantly surprised by just how much bang he got for his buck. In his popular video, he raves: "I tell you what, I believe it's actually a very, very nice pint as well, so it comes to the equivalent of about 84p in British money. Let's go and try it out, shall we? Let's give it a try." Upon reaching the bar, he continued: "So there you go, I'll give you a euro, a €1 pint, and I'll take that. Let's try this €1 pint. Look at that - a nice, clean, cold pint. It's got a nice, good head on it - let's try it." He enthusiastically shared his verdict, saying: "That is actually one of the best pints I've had in one of the popular bars. That is actually one of the best pints I've had in Benidorm to be honest with you. €1, I'll drink them all day." The video quickly gained traction, prompting viewers to share their impressions and even their own tales of Benidorm adventures. Among the comments, one user exclaimed: "Wow," while another who'd been there on holiday exclaimed: "I was there last week." Someone else who'd be there said: "Lovely pint. Had many." Whil a fellow TikToker simply added: "Bargain." Uncle Ron's, a hit with British holidaymakers in Benidorm, is famed for its budget-friendly tipples and hearty meals. TripAdvisor reviews boast of the establishment's offerings from breakfast through to dinner, with an average rating of 3.8 out of 5 on the platform, suggesting it's a must-visit for those seeking a decent meal and drinks while away. In the review section, one visitor commented: "Had a fantastic breakfast at Ron's today. Lovely English produce. Great service. Brilliant staff. "A massive group came in, but they were serviced promptly. Don't know how they manage with so few staff." Another shared their experience: "Last day we visited for some lunch before heading to airport. Left full, which is always a good thing. In all my times of going here, never left unhappy at the service nor the food - always really good." A third reviewer added: "We went many times during our two-week holiday. The staff are friendly and extremely hard working day and night. "Cheapest drinks you will find in town and food to suit everyone (daily deal only 6 euros). It's not a stylish 5* restaurant but then you wouldn't expect it. "For drinks just go to the bar like a normal bar. Always busy Sunday and Friday, so expect to book if you want a Sunday lunch. Would we go again? Certainly would!"
