Did you know that Wales has its own Seven Wonders? As a native of Wales, I have always been fascinated by the Seven Wonders of Wales. These are the seven most iconic and historic landmarks that have defined the country’s rich heritage and culture. These wonders have a unique story and significance and are worth visiting.
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Wales Wonders of the World
You may have heard of the seven wonders of the ancient world and the 7 wonders of the world, but what about the seven wonders of Wales?
The Seven Wonders of Wales is a magical mix of man-made and natural sites with stunning scenery and rich history. You won’t regret visiting these Welsh wonders on your next staycation. These are the most incredible and awe-inspiring spots the country has to offer. Explore these natural treasures, from ancient trees to the tallest waterfall in Britain.
All these places are free to enter, but there may be a small fee to park or a suggested donation. Keep an eye out for regular or annual events too.
1. Gresford Bells of All Saints’ Church
All Saints’ Church is found in Wrexham in North Wales. The church bells are listed because of the purity of the tone. The church is also remarkable and is noted for its size, beauty, interior monuments and yew-filled churchyard.
The earliest record of the peal of the Gresford Bells dates back to 1714. Apparatus was installed in the belfry in 1877 so one person can chime all eight bells. The bells are rung regularly for church services and on 5 November annually, an old tradition. This is believed to commemorate the successful landing of William of Orange in 1688 or the Gunpowder Plot of Guy Fawkes in 1605. During World War II, the bells only rang as an invasion warning.
2. Llangollen Bridge
Built across the River Dee, Llangollen Bridge is in the county of Denbighshire in North East Wales. It is thought to have been the first stone bridge across the river. The attractive monument features three beautiful arches, allowing water to flow beneath it. Built in the 16th Century, it has had some upgrades to preserve its beauty.
The scenic water winds through the stunning Welsh countryside. It offers a peaceful and tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, and it is a popular destination for boating enthusiasts. It is a picture postcard setting.
3. Overton Yew Trees
The Overton Yew Trees are so old that they even predate the church. It’s alleged that they have been around for nearly 2,000 years. The 21 decorative trees are found in Overton-on-Dee, Wrexham, in the churchyard of St Mary the Virgin. They are a much-beloved part of the village, with the residents celebrating the 700th anniversary in 1992 of the granting of a Royal Charter of Overton by Edward I in 1292. It included a royal visit from Queen Elizabeth II, who planted a new yew tree.
4. Pistyll Rhaeadr
Pistyll Rhaeadr is the tallest single-drop waterfall in the UK, and it is also considerably higher than Niagara Falls, at a staggering 240 feet tall. Water gushes down the side of the jagged face of the Berwyn Mountains near Rhayader in Mid Wales. It is a beautiful part of Wales, and there is plenty of things to do in Rhayader, including visiting the Elan Valley.
Generations have used it as a community site to take in the spirit and presence of this remarkable place. It is a great place to explore, with many walks through the surrounding hills.
5. Snowdon
The most famous of the Seven Wonders of Wales is Snowdon. Now known by its Welsh name of Yr Wyddfa. Snowdon is the highest peak in Wales, found in Snowdonia National Park. It is a popular destination for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts exploring its rugged terrain and stunning vistas.
The summit can be reached by six different difficult paths, or you can take the Snowdon Mountain Railway and enjoy the views from a vintage steam train. The Snowdonia National Park has a wealth of treasures to discover and enjoy, including hidden lakes, waterfalls and medieval history.
6. St Giles’ Church
The Wrexham Steeple, which is actually a tower, is found at St Giles’ Church. It is over 130 feet high, and the views from the top of the building are truly wonderful. This historic church is the largest in Wales and is renowned for its stunning architecture and intricate stained-glass windows.
You can climb to the top of the 15th Century tower and look across the rooftops of the houses hidden in the valley. There are also stunning views of the mountains. Just an 11-minute drive from the church is Erddig. The house and gardens were handed over to the National Trust in 1973 as spiralling costs were too much for the owner. It’s
7. St Winefride’s Well
Today, St Winefride’s Well is looked after by CADW and is found in Holywell in North West Wales. The holy well has been a pilgrimage site since 1115. The 7th Century Welsh abbot St Beuno brought his niece back to life, though this story may have much older, pagan origins. However, it is said that St Winefride ran from her seducer, who caught up with her and cut off her head. A spring came up where she fell. People still visit to bathe in the waters, which are claimed to have healing properties.
The chapel, set into the hillside, dates from the late 15th Century. It was financed by Lady Margaret Beaufort, mother to King Henry VII. The unusual building is richly decorated. It has had many royal visitors, including Richard I the Lionheart in 1189.
The Seven Wonders of Wales Poem
“Pistyll Rhaeadr and Wrexham Steeple,
Snowdon’s Mountain, without its people,
Overton yew trees, St Winifred’s Well,
Llangollen’s Bridge and Gresford’s Bells.”
7 Wonders of Wales
In conclusion, Wales has a rich history and culture, and its Seven Wonders of Wales is a testament to its unique heritage. From stunning natural landscapes to historic fortresses and engineering feats, these wonders are all worth exploring and experiencing.
Eat Out and Save Money
Once you’re done exploring the Seven Wonders of Wales, refuel and rehydrate. If you love food and drink, do you have a Tastecard? You get 50% off the food bill or two meals for the price of one. There are over six thousand participating restaurants across the UK. Get a 60-day free trial here:
Getting around Wales
Wales is a great country to explore and travel through by train on Transport for Wales. Not only are many of the routes stunning, but the public transport system in Wales is reliable and perfectly capable of supporting your trip through the region.
Transport for Wales now offers Multiflex, which gives you 12 journeys for the same price as 5 returns. And who doesn’t want to save money? Especially when you can spend the savings on your staycation. There’s also a pretty excellent Capacity Checker tool that helps indicate the often full trains and the ones with plenty of seats available, so you can decide the best time for your journey.
Stay the Night
If you know when you’d like to travel, try to book in advance and as soon as possible. Prices rise the closer you get to the travel date. However, there is a vast array to accommodate all budgets.
Llyndir Hall Hotel
The Best Western Llyndir Hall Hotel in Wrexham is in the prestigious Signature Collection. The hotel is surrounded by stunning countryside. With gardens, a swimming pool, a gym and a beauty salon. There’s high-speed free WiFi and free parking. Pets are welcome too.
Sykes Holiday Cottages
The award-winning business has cottages across the UK, and the ones in Wales are beautiful. From cosy lodges with traditional woodburning stoves to contemporary accommodation with a hot tub. With all the amenities you could need, including parking, WiFi and many dog-friendly places, check out Sykes Holiday Cottages.
🐾 Dogs welcome
National Trust Holidays
National Trust Holidays offer a selection of holiday cottages, campsites and bunkhouses set in spectacular locations. They have everything you need for a night away, from kitchen facilities to cosy gardens to relax in during warmer weather.
Get 15% off selected cottages for bookings made and taken between 1 June and 12 December 2023. Use discount code NTAF.
Last Minute Deals
You can also plan with LastMinute.com. Stay at great hotels at a fraction of the price.
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