Corwen Travel Guide

A complete travel guide to Corwen in North Wales, including places to visit, activities, accommodations, local culture, safety information, transportation options, and nearby destinations. Plan your trip with this helpful guide.


Introduction to Corwen

Corwen is a charming town located in Clwyd, North Wales, in the United Kingdom. Known for its stunning scenery and rich history, Corwen is a popular tourist destination for those looking to explore the Welsh countryside. There are plenty of things to see and do in Corwen, from visiting ancient ruins to hiking through scenic landscapes. This guide will help you plan your trip to Corwen with information on places to visit, where to stay, what to eat, and more.

List of Places to Visit in Corwen

Corwen is home to several culturally important attractions and natural landmarks that are worth visiting. Here are some of the must-see places in Corwen:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Corwen Museum - Learn about the history of the town and its people at this small but informative museum. The museum covers a variety of topics, including local industry, farming, and the life of Owain Glyndwr, a Welsh hero who fought for independence from England.
  • Llangar Church - Visit one of the oldest churches in Wales and see the beautiful stained glass windows and historic graveyard.
  • Carrog Railway Station - Take a ride on the Llangollen Railway, a preserved steam train that travels through the stunning Dee Valley. The Carrog Station is an excellent stop for coffee, souvenir shopping, or simply to enjoy the scenery.

Natural Attractions of Corwen: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Cynwyd Forest - Embark on a mountain biking or hiking adventure in this beautiful forest. The trails vary in difficulty and offer experiences for all types of explorers.
  • Horseshoe Pass - Drive through the scenic route of Horseshoe Pass and relish breathtaking views of the Dee Valley. There are numerous spots for photo taking and sightseeing.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Corwen

Corwen is a fantastic destination for nature enthusiasts who enjoy hiking or biking. Here are some of the best hiking and biking routes in Corwen:

  • The Berwyn Mountains - This mountain range offers a variety of hiking trails that range in difficulty levels from easy to challenging. The routes take you through the beautiful panoramic views of mountains and valleys.
  • Llangollen Canal - Hire a bike or take a leisurely walk along the canal and enjoy the tranquil scenic views of the Welsh countryside.

Best Things to Do in Corwen: Activities and Tours

  • White Water Rafting - Paddling through the rapids of the River Dee makes for an exciting experience, exhilarating your adrenaline. Many local adventure sports companies offer guided rafting trips through the river.
  • Glyndwr’s Way - A long distance walking trail named after Owain Glyndwr, that takes you through his birthplace, scenic views of Welsh countryside and ancient ruins.

Week-Long Itinerary for Corwen

Here’s a suggested itinerary for spending a week in Corwen:

Day Activity
1 Explore the town of Corwen, visit Corwen Museum and Llangar Church
2 Take a trip on the Llangollen Railway and have lunch at Carrog Station before continuing on to Llangollen
3 Go hiking in Cynwyd Forest or mountain biking in the Berwyn Mountains
4 Take a day trip to Snowdonia National Park and climb Mount Snowdon
5 Enjoy white water rafting on the River Dee
6 Visit the historic ruins of Valle Crucis Abbey and drive through Horseshoe Pass
7 Relax and unwind with a leisurely walk along the Llangollen Canal followed by a local cider tasting experience

Food and Drink Scene of Corwen

Corwen has a fantastic range of food and drink options to satisfy all of your taste buds:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Welsh Rarebit - A traditional dish in Wales that is made up of melted cheese mixed with ale and served on toast.
  • Cawl - A famous Welsh soup containing traditional winter vegetables and Welsh lamb.
  • Bara Brith - A traditional Welsh fruit cake that is made of dried fruit and spices.

Local Beverages

  • Cider - Local ciders made from the apples of nearby orchards, is a popular drink in Corwen.
  • Ale -The Denbighshire Brewery in Llandegla, close by Corwen, is known for producing great ales that have won several awards.

Where to Stay in Corwen: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Corwen has a range of accommodation options to fit all budgets and needs. Some of the popular places to stay include:

  • Plas Derwen - A luxury bed and breakfast in a converted Victorian country house that offers elegant rooms and scenic views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Lion Inn - A traditional Welsh inn located in the centre of Corwen, that provides cozy rooms and great food.
  • Rug Chapel Cottage - A picturesque cottage located close to the Corwen with beautiful interiors and a serene atmosphere.

What to Buy in Corwen: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Pottery - Corwen is known for its pottery and porcelain, and there are several shops that sell locally made plates, mugs, and other ceramics.
  • Local Cheese - As the town is close to many dairy farms, several shops sell locally made artisanal cheeses.
  • Slate Products - Wales is famous for its slate, and there are several shops in Corwen that sell anything from slate coasters to slate-encrusted jewelry.

Local Culture and Customs of Corwen

Corwen is a town rich in culture and tradition, and the residents are friendly and welcoming. Here are some customs worth knowing:

  • The Welsh Language - Welsh is the official language of Wales, and many residents speak it fluently.
  • Eisteddfodau - An Eisteddfod is a Welsh festival known for music, poetry, and dance that is celebrated throughout Wales, and Corwen hosts its Eisteddfod every year.

Best Time to Visit Corwen

Corwen is beautiful at any time of the year, but if you want to avoid crowds and get the best prices on accommodations and tours, consider visiting during the shoulder season from March to May or September to November. The summer months from June to August are the busiest time for tourism, while the winter months from December to February can be cold and snowy.

Do’s and Don’ts of Corwen

Do:

  • Try speaking Welsh if you can, the locals appreciate it.
  • Respect the privacy of the local community, who are known for their discreet way of life.
  • Tip appropriately, as tipping culture is prevalent in the UK and is appreciated by service staff.

Don’t:

  • Don’t expect 24/7 shopping or dining options as many places have limited hours of operation.
  • Don’t litter in public places as the Welsh countryside is prized asset of the region.
  • Don’t make inappropriate or insensitive remarks about Welsh culture or language.

Safety and Health

Safety in Corwen

Corwen is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, it is advisable to take general safety precautions, especially when hiking in the mountains, as weather conditions can be unpredictable.

Health in Corwen

Corwen offers basic medical facilities but major medical facilities can be found in nearby towns. It is advisable to have travel insurance before you visit in case of any medical emergencies.

Getting to Corwen: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Corwen

The nearest airports to Corwen are Manchester and Liverpool airports, which are located about two hours away by car or train.

Bus Stations Near Corwen

National Express and Megabus operate buses running from major UK cities to Wrexham, from where you can take a local bus or taxi to Corwen.

Other Options

It is easy to reach Corwen by car, and there are good road links with the rest of the UK. Car rental is available at Manchester and Liverpool airports.

How to Get Around in Corwen

Corwen is a small town that can be easily explored on foot. If you want to explore the surrounding areas or go on hiking trips, you may want to consider hiring a car or taking a taxi.

Where to Go Next from Corwen: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Snowdonia National Park

Snowdonia National Park, located less than an hour’s drive from Corwen, is a stunning destination with stunning mountain scenery, waterfalls, and lakes.

Llangollen

Llangollen is a charming town located about 20 minutes away from Corwen. It is home to the famous Pontcysyllte Aqueduct and offers beautiful riverside walks, historic ruins, and excellent shopping and dining options.

Conclusion

Corwen is a beautiful destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, hiking, dining, or simply relaxing, this charming town has plenty to offer. With this comprehensive guide, you should be able to plan your trip to Corwen confidently and immerse yourself in the Welsh countryside and culture.

Owain Glyndwr statue Owain Glyndwr statue