Llangollen

Llangollen is host to the International Musical Eisteddfod and attracts thousands of visitors from around the world. This small picturesque town is full of surprises. It is an absolute must if you've never visited the area before. It is everything that you would expect from a traditional Welsh town.

Llangollen River Dee

The town stands on the river Dee, has ancient monuments like Valle Crucis Abbey, Castell Dinas Bran, many Welsh souvenir shops, traditional steam locomotives (which run through the valley), competitive canoeing on the river, scenic walks and the canal wharf which is close to the world famous aqueduct. Top this off with some of the most beautiful scenery in Wales and Llangollen provides an excellent stopping point for even the most novice of photographers.

The Eisteddfod has long been a Welsh musical tradition but it was in 1947 that this tradition was first shared with the world. An idea by Harold Tudor of Coedpoeth was envisaged with the help of music publisher Gwynn Williams and Llangollen council leader George Northing. Choirs and artists from fourteen different countries descended on this north Wales town to compete in the first International Musical Eisteddfod. Pavarotti's talents were recognised at Llangollen in 1955 when he sang as part of the Chorale Rossini Italian male voice choir which won first prize in the male chorus competition. Nowadays the Eisteddfod is a truly massive event attracting many celebrities and VIP's. Thousands of performers along with a hundred thousand music fans and festival lovers will visit Llangollen in the space of a week.

Useful numbers:
Llangollen Town Hall (Tourist Info) 01978 860828
Eisteddfod Office 01978 862 000