Pontcysyllte Aqueduct
Pontcysyllte Aqueduct
4.5
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Monday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Tuesday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Wednesday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Thursday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Friday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Saturday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Sunday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
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- jlLiverpool, United Kingdom27 contributionsBeautiful ViewsWhat a beautiful place to visit. Amazing views from the walk way, just be aware the path is quite narrow but there is enough room to pass anyone on the way. We parked in the Trevor Basin car park which is a pay and display. You get amazing views across the River Dee - we even saw a group canoeing past us. Highly recommend.Visited March 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten March 30, 2024
- crakajaxxMaidstone, United Kingdom95 contributionsImpressive but dangerousIt was really good to see for ourselves. Impressive architecture & workmanship of its time. Stunning views & the novelty of canal boats being able to cross. Need to be aware the foot path is only wide enough for 1 adult & a young child. If you have people coming the other way you have to put your back up against the railings to let them past really. Also railings have quite a wide gap which a young child could fit through. So on one side you have wide gaps in railings & the other is deep canal water with nothing there to stop people falling in. It's a mother's worst nightmare. Pushchairs at busy times are just a NO as nobody can pass you safely. Lovely little walk. Parking was fine P&D. We didn't get the boat trip so can't comment on that but I'm glad I saw it.Visited April 2024Traveled with familyWritten April 24, 2024
- Karen2529Gillingham, United Kingdom3 contributionsPontcysyllte AqueductWe went on a canal boat over the aqueduct with Little Star Boat Tours and really enjoyed it. We were running late due to trying to download the parking app with limited signal. We found out after that there was another car park we could have used that was closer and free! We thought we'd missed the boat but the two lovely ladies, Chelsea and Roo had waited for us! The ride was amazing - such stunning views. The boat was steered expertly by Chelsea, particularly when she had to jump off and physically pull the boat over to the side to allow another boat through. Roo made us a cup of tea before we started and was very knowledgeable about the area, answering my husbands many questions! Would highly recommend.Visited April 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten May 6, 2024
- FyingKiwiChristchurch, New Zealand1,130 contributionsPicturesqueWell worth visiting, for whatever reason. If it is a canal ride, then this is the place to get one. If you wish to walk over the aqueduct, then here you can do so. If you simply wish to take a picture, then head down the stairs next to the aqueduct on the visitor center’s side. Visitor Centre itself is small and caters largely to provide information regarding the local area rather than sell souvenirs.Visited May 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten May 7, 2024
- BigJeff L2,114 contributionsPerfect experienceWe visited this impressive Aqueduct many years ago so it was now time for another visit. We decided to book a canal boat trip to cross the Aqueduct as it meant no walking for my elderly mother. The guide was excellent and we literally glided across, admiring the views and the people around us; walkers, other boats and canoe's. The £10 fee was good value. This is the longest aqueduct in Great Britain as well as the highest canal aqueduct in the world.Visited April 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten May 13, 2024
- J B18 contributionsBeautiful, informative and relaxing visitA lovely calm boat trip across this stunning feat of engineering. The commentary by Ruben (apologies if mis-spelt) was perfect. She pitched it exactly with humour and information but didn't bombard with facts. The beautiful views as you cross are wonderful and it was a very relaxing time, although husband insisted we then walk across and back!Visited May 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten May 22, 2024
- Tom from CardiffCardiff, United Kingdom160 contributionsSpectacular aqueductThis aqueduct is spectacular and no wonder it is a world heritage site. You can walk across it, but you need a very good head for heights and good balance as the footpath is very narrow (only wide enough for one person), a small barrier to the one side with a sheer drop and the canal right there on the other. Make sure no one is coming the other way. The view is worth it though. One of the best views is from the underneath and side where you can marvel at the engineering and scale of it. You may only want to spend an hour here though, unless you have planned a walk around the area. The site itself is free, but signposted parking nearby isn't and is a bit of a distance away. You may be able to park free on local roads depending upon time and date if visit.Visited March 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten May 28, 2024
- Richard BTodmorden, United Kingdom685 contributionsHoliday with friends 2024This is a great place to visit if only for a couple of hours as we did. The aqueduct is fabulous with great views up & down the valley. Its a bit narrow on the footpath so can be scary for vertigo sufferers. Nice set up around the canal basin.Visited June 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten June 17, 2024
- dellangelo54Turin, Italy17,804 contributionsThe highest and longest aqueduct in the whole of BritainIt is the highest and longest aqueduct in the whole of Britain. Built in the early nineteenth century by engineer Thomas Telford, it has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2009. The aqueduct is navigable and has now become a tourist attraction with flat-bottomed boats carrying tourists.Visited June 2024Traveled with friendsWritten June 24, 2024
- BärnerGielOstermundigen, Switzerland362 contributions200-year-old aquaduct with flairThe aquaduct is located in a rural area. Fortunately, in addition to the houseboats and kayaks, you can also cross the bridge on foot and watch the hustle and bustle in peace. Tourist shop and nice cafes are also available.Visited July 2024Traveled with familyWritten July 13, 2024
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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LesleyM66
Manchester, UK67 contributions
Jul 2023
Overall, well worth a visit whether it’s your first visit or, like us, you’ve been a few times before. There is ample car parking for a flat fee of £3 for the day and then it’s a short walk to the aqueduct. There’s also a nearer car park for Blue Badge holders (both car parks are signposted from the main road) and it’s here you’ll find the toilets. The toilets weren’t great but were still usable. As you approach the aqueduct, there’s a little Canal & River Trust shop and museum and there’s plenty of information boards dotted around. It’s fascinating to just sit and watch the boats manoeuvring. Whilst the rest of the family set off to walk across the aqueduct and back (it’s not for the faint-hearted!), I set off to walk down to the river that flows underneath the aqueduct. There are several paths signposted with viewpoints of this amazing structure.
Written July 23, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Caroline S
Cheshire, UK84 contributions
Sep 2024 • Couples
The Pontcysyllte Aqueduct is truly a marvel of engineering and a must-visit for anyone who appreciates history, architecture, or simply breathtaking landscapes. Spanning over 1,000 feet across the River Dee Valley in North Wales, this UNESCO World Heritage site is the longest and highest aqueduct in Britain. Designed by Thomas Telford and completed in 1805, it's an impressive blend of function and beauty, with its slender iron arches soaring above the lush, green valley below.
Walking across the aqueduct is an experience like no other. On one side, you have the serene canal, and on the other, there's a sheer drop of over 120 feet, offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. If you're lucky enough to take a canal boat ride over the aqueduct, it feels almost surreal, as if you’re floating on air.
Beyond the aqueduct itself, the surrounding area is perfect for exploring. There are picturesque walking and cycling paths along the Llangollen Canal, making it an ideal spot for a peaceful afternoon outdoors. Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or just someone looking for a scenic escape, Pontcysyllte Aqueduct won't disappoint.
The best time to visit is on a clear day when the sun illuminates the valley and enhances the beauty of this striking structure. It’s a place that leaves a lasting impression, a true testament to human ingenuity and nature's grandeur intertwined.
Walking across the aqueduct is an experience like no other. On one side, you have the serene canal, and on the other, there's a sheer drop of over 120 feet, offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. If you're lucky enough to take a canal boat ride over the aqueduct, it feels almost surreal, as if you’re floating on air.
Beyond the aqueduct itself, the surrounding area is perfect for exploring. There are picturesque walking and cycling paths along the Llangollen Canal, making it an ideal spot for a peaceful afternoon outdoors. Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or just someone looking for a scenic escape, Pontcysyllte Aqueduct won't disappoint.
The best time to visit is on a clear day when the sun illuminates the valley and enhances the beauty of this striking structure. It’s a place that leaves a lasting impression, a true testament to human ingenuity and nature's grandeur intertwined.
Written September 15, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
liverpool1023
London, UK1,256 contributions
Nov 2023 • Solo
You have to hand it to the engineers of the Industrial Revolution - they new how to produce engineering that was both functional and beautiful. A narrow 10 foot wide trough of water is suspended 100 feet above a narrow wooded gorge. I visited on a rare sunny weekday in November. There were not too many other visitors and I practically had the place to my self. There didn’t appear to be any boat trips going. The visitors centre is a bit incidental - it has a few bits of information but could be much better. There is a great tea shop in a converted chapel in Trevor which is the place to go for a relaxing coffee.
It is either a site where you can spend an hour or so -(especially do in the off season) or with planning, spend the entire day with a walk to Llangollen.
It is either a site where you can spend an hour or so -(especially do in the off season) or with planning, spend the entire day with a walk to Llangollen.
Written November 11, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Theresa
Banbury, UK3 contributions
Jul 2022 • Family
Trying to find somewhere to park was a nightmare as no clear signage. The website didn’t let you book but when we got there you could scan the QR code to book, but you couldn’t book for that day !!!! 😡🤬🤬 We Waited for an hour for the narrowboat, only to be told dogs not allowed (didn’t mention this on the website or the board where you wait, which only gave prices😡) so a wasted trip. They really need to get their act together, as this could have been a really nice experience- shame it was ruined
Written July 14, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
FiftyFifty5050
Montgomery, UK921 contributions
Oct 2023 • Couples
Such a stunning achievement of engineering, and a thing of beauty to boot. Somehow the Victorians managed the double whammy which, sometimes, modern concrete structures just can't achieve.
Close to a busy hub on the canal, with hire boats and the Trevor Basin Visitor Centre at one end and, if you walk a little way, the town of Llangollen at the other.
The aqueduct is high up, naturally, since it spans a valley, and the path by the side is quite narrow; those of a nervous disposition might find themselves feeling a tad anxious whenever a need to pass another visitor coming from the opposite direction arises.
Think of a long, thin, tin bath atop stone pillars, which makes for excellent photo opportunities when coming across long boats and/or canoes coming across.
We enjoyed our visit. I don't think there is enough here for a full day out, but definitely an hour or two.
Close to a busy hub on the canal, with hire boats and the Trevor Basin Visitor Centre at one end and, if you walk a little way, the town of Llangollen at the other.
The aqueduct is high up, naturally, since it spans a valley, and the path by the side is quite narrow; those of a nervous disposition might find themselves feeling a tad anxious whenever a need to pass another visitor coming from the opposite direction arises.
Think of a long, thin, tin bath atop stone pillars, which makes for excellent photo opportunities when coming across long boats and/or canoes coming across.
We enjoyed our visit. I don't think there is enough here for a full day out, but definitely an hour or two.
Written October 21, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Tony H
Cardiff, UK161 contributions
Aug 2021
Great for walking, views and not so good if your afraid of heights. There are a few parking places, the one we used was the coach and car park and was only £3 for the whole day *the machine is a bit of a pain and you only need to press the button marked). There is a short walk unless you park in the close car park, there are some lovely barges on the canal, there is a café and toilets, and then you come across what you came for- the Aqueduct.
Before you start, take a good look at the architecture, and you can pop partly under it is you wish.
When you start crossing, you do have to be careful of people coming towards you, to your right is the canal itself and depending on when you go you can see some wonderful boats. It is a long way up or down, have no fear though it is safe. It is a long walk over and I would probably suggest leaving it if it's blowing and wet.
Once you get over, there is a small pathway down on the right which allows you to see the underside and the arches, very nice.
Carry on walking you come to a few barge shops with various on sale. pass those and a little further the canal curves tot he right, there are some seats here if you need to rest. Carry on to the manually operated canal walk bridge. If you go a little further on there is a corrugated roof shed set down on the right, if you look over the roof of the shed, there is a fantastic view of the Aqueduct (would suggest a camera with a good zoom though).
You can carry on walking which will take you on to the railway viaduct or you can turn round back over Tedford's Bridge and go to the café.
If you want to go on other walks you will be greatly pleased. Take a picnic and you could be out here for hours. and great scenery as well.
Before you start, take a good look at the architecture, and you can pop partly under it is you wish.
When you start crossing, you do have to be careful of people coming towards you, to your right is the canal itself and depending on when you go you can see some wonderful boats. It is a long way up or down, have no fear though it is safe. It is a long walk over and I would probably suggest leaving it if it's blowing and wet.
Once you get over, there is a small pathway down on the right which allows you to see the underside and the arches, very nice.
Carry on walking you come to a few barge shops with various on sale. pass those and a little further the canal curves tot he right, there are some seats here if you need to rest. Carry on to the manually operated canal walk bridge. If you go a little further on there is a corrugated roof shed set down on the right, if you look over the roof of the shed, there is a fantastic view of the Aqueduct (would suggest a camera with a good zoom though).
You can carry on walking which will take you on to the railway viaduct or you can turn round back over Tedford's Bridge and go to the café.
If you want to go on other walks you will be greatly pleased. Take a picnic and you could be out here for hours. and great scenery as well.
Written September 2, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Steve_of_N21
London, UK3,646 contributions
Jul 2022 • Couples
We were lucky enough to go across it in a narrow boat by taking the organised trip from Llangollen Wharf and then chose to walk back to Llangollen along the tow path (takes about 2 hours) rather than the provided coach back into town, which gave us the opportunity to walk back across it.
The canal side famously has no wall or fence and is a sheer drop into the valley below so if you are on a narrow boat make sure you sit or are able to look over the side with the sheer drop. The other side is the walkway across which does have a metal railing but it may not be tall enough to stop those who suffer from vertigo having a serious attack of the heebeegeebies…
One issue with walking across is that Pontcysyllte Aqueduct is a major tourist attraction and does attract crowds and the walkway gets very busy with walkers and as it is a narrow walkway passing people is fun. And then in the summer school holidays on fine weather days you even get inconsiderate parents walking across with buggies ffs…
However I would still totally recommend a walk across even for those with vertigo who will have to cling to the metal railing or their fellow accompanists all the way across, because the views from the middle are truly stunning.
The canal side famously has no wall or fence and is a sheer drop into the valley below so if you are on a narrow boat make sure you sit or are able to look over the side with the sheer drop. The other side is the walkway across which does have a metal railing but it may not be tall enough to stop those who suffer from vertigo having a serious attack of the heebeegeebies…
One issue with walking across is that Pontcysyllte Aqueduct is a major tourist attraction and does attract crowds and the walkway gets very busy with walkers and as it is a narrow walkway passing people is fun. And then in the summer school holidays on fine weather days you even get inconsiderate parents walking across with buggies ffs…
However I would still totally recommend a walk across even for those with vertigo who will have to cling to the metal railing or their fellow accompanists all the way across, because the views from the middle are truly stunning.
Written August 9, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Michael K
London, UK550 contributions
Sep 2021
Yes, it's as good as it looks in the pictures. A wonderful and pioneering piece of architecture by Thomas Telford dating from 1795, it is about 1000 long and takes the Ellesmere Canal across the River Dee, 127 feet below. It was new technology at the time. The canal is 5ft 3 inches deep. It is possible to book narrowboat trips across and back over the aqueduct, or of course you can walk. I do not have a good head for heights, but I did manage it. I did feel a bit insecure, though, as you are only protected by railings, not a solid wall. On the canal side, there is no wall at all! If you have time, you can extend the walk along the canal. I believe there are great views, but I could not fully relax into them!
Written September 15, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Rob121618
West Malling, UK569 contributions
Jul 2020
We had seen this marked on the map so decided to go and take a look. An amazing structure - you have to walk across it for the views but also take a walk down to the river below and look up. An amazing structure. Would recommend going on a day when the weather is good (not sure what it would be like on a poor weather day!) Watching the narrow boats go through and across the aqueduct was wonderful. Car park is a short walk away and a bit pricey!
Written August 1, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
claccer
Hull162 contributions
Aug 2020
there is free parking next to it but gets busy very early. another free is a walk away but the cafe across the road charges £2 to park, which is what we did.
Beautiful views, be aware if walking across it is very narrow, especially when passing people, so not for those with a fear of heights!
Info centre is great to give a good insight to the area, however do not take the walk to the viewing point, it takes you on a long, beautiful walk around fields and through woods, but you arrive at the same point you could access from the aqeduct itself!
Please visit it is a spectacular fete of engineering.
Beautiful views, be aware if walking across it is very narrow, especially when passing people, so not for those with a fear of heights!
Info centre is great to give a good insight to the area, however do not take the walk to the viewing point, it takes you on a long, beautiful walk around fields and through woods, but you arrive at the same point you could access from the aqeduct itself!
Please visit it is a spectacular fete of engineering.
Written August 12, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Are you allowed to ride across the viaduct on either a motorbike or a cycle?
Written February 17, 2020
I don't know, but whether they are banned or not riding either would be extremely unwise, and would be dangerous to other users because the towpath is far too narrow.
Written February 20, 2020
Hi, I'm planning a walk with friends that includes the Aqueduct, however I am really scared of heights. Is there an alternative route (road, footpath, etc) below so that I could meet my friends at the other side if I can't face going across? Thank you!
Written August 20, 2019
You can walk through the township and not over the acquduct but it is a long way around
Written August 20, 2019
As the viaduct is only wide enough for one boat, how is the one way system operated?
Written July 28, 2019
Just as the folks above said. We’ve been back and forth twice, and it’s closest boat enters and others wait. Sometimes you’ll see two or three go together because they’re near one another, but no one seems to care. It’s life in the slow lane.
Written July 30, 2019
Hi can you walk along the aqueduct into Llangollen along the canal side? Apologies if stupid question but I can’t tell from photos/map etc... walking with 2 dogs. Thanks.
Written February 24, 2019
Yes you can. You just need a head for heights but the views are great.
Written February 26, 2019
What trips across the aqueduct would be running on Thursday, 21st March?
Written February 2, 2019
Contact jones tbe boat or visitor centre fodful! Info but believe the.boats run Daily and ca. Ba e cream tea too
Written June 22, 2019
Hi,
Would you say it is accessible for a pram?
Written December 30, 2018
To walk across the aqueduct not ideal for pram but you can walk round on road or go on boat. Also you can hire boat from jones Trevor
Written February 11, 2019
Hi sounds lovely. How far/ how long was the circular walk?
Written December 10, 2018
You can walk from Trevor to other side of bridge aqueduct to fron a nice walk the canal both sides of aqueduct nice walk good pathways Llangollen do a canal boat pulled by horse. You can also go to fron aqueduct and from fron end go under bridge to other side of canal.
Written February 11, 2019
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