Scenic Campervan Road Trip Through Pontcysyllte Aqueduct
Read Time: About 19 minutes
Pontcysyllte Aqueduct
Hello, and welcome back to our campervan road trip through North Wales. Gear up for brand new adventures and memories as we stop to explore the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct.
Pronounced Pont – ker – sulth – tay, Pontcysyllte means bridge that connects in Welsh and is a stunning engineering marvel of the 18th century. Join us as we dive into the intriguing history of this incredible aqueduct and explore the spectacular sights at this UNESCO World Heritage Site. As always, we’ll answer your FAQs about this attraction, highlight our top campsites near Pontcysyllte Aqueduct, and provide pointers on where to find the closest private campervan owners in and around the stunning canal. Our campervan road trip itinerary through North Wales is not rigid, so go ahead and pick the attractions and activities you think will best suit the duration of your stay. We recommend booking campervans and campsites early, especially in the peak seasons, to avoid disappointment.
Pontcysyllte Aqueduct contains 11 miles of glittering canal and countryside extending across two countries via viaducts, aqueducts, and canals. UNESCO has described this stunning structure as a 'masterpiece of creative genius' and an exceptional industrial and engineering heritage display. Come along and explore the highest navigable aqueduct in the world, constructed during the Industrial Revolution and dating back to the early 19th century. Whether you find it terrifying or the most incredible thing you've ever seen remains to be discovered.
- Why is Pontcysyllte Aqueduct Famous?
- How Long Does it Take To Cross Pontcysyllte Aqueduct?
- Can You Walk On The Pontcysyllte Aqueduct?
- Can You Cycle Over Pontcysyllte Aqueduct?
- Can You Kayak Over Pontcysyllte Aqueduct?
- What is The Nearest Town To The Pontcysyllte Aqueduct ?
- How Deep is Pontcysyllte Aqueduct?
- Best Campsites at Pontcysyllte Aqueduct
- Campsites Near Pontcysyllte Aqueduct
- Tent Camping at Pontcysyllte Aqueduct
- Caravan Camping at Pontcysyllte Aqueduct
- Campervan Road Trip Pontcysyllte Aqueduct Price
- Roadtrip From Pontcysyllte Aqueduct To the Clwydian Range and Dee Valley Area of Natural Beauty
Why is Pontcysyllte Aqueduct Famous?

Pontcysyllte Aqueduct. Lolojujusadventures
The aqueduct represents the bold civil engineering of celebrated civil engineer Thomas Telford. A combination of cast and wrought iron (quite innovative at the time) in the structure helped craft light and strong arches, creating a stunning and elegant result. There are plenty of exciting things to explore, including underpowered or horse-drawn canal boating, walks, cycling, and discovering castles, plus other attractions along its 11 stunning miles, spanning the River Dee.
The area brims with stunning vistas, and you'll have the opportunity to hop on a boat and cross the aqueduct. You'll marvel at the panoramic views and the fact that jackdaws and other birds roost under the arches, often swooping out from under the boat as it passes. It's not every day you get to observe birds flying under boats, suspended some 126 feet in the air.
After soaking in the jaw-dropping views of the Dee Valley, you can also opt to cross the aqueduct on foot, stopping at the Aqueduct Inn for tipples and snacks while enjoying the scenery from an elevated position on a hill overlooking the sparkling canal in Froncysyllte. The Pontcysyllte Chapel Tea Rooms is another great eatery serving hearty breakfasts, lunches, and cream teas, and is well worth a visit after a long walk. To get a real taste of the structure's size and engineering feats, walk down the steps to the valley's end and see the aqueduct from below. Our readers can also head up the hill in their campervan hire Wales to the lovely village of Cefn Mawr to admire the aqueduct from above.
There are plenty of attractions to explore nearby, so don’t dash off to your campsite after your boat ride, walk, and meal. Hop over to the Llangollen Tourist Information Centre for a list of attractions and activities in and around Llangollen and the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct. Llangollen itself is a picturesque town in the heart of the World Heritage Site, overlooked by the stunning remains of Castell Dinas Bran. The settlement is also home to the River Dee and Llangollen Canal, creating a fab space for riverside walks, canoeing, and kayaking. If you prefer taking in the scenery from a different angle, book tickets on the Llangollen Steam Railway and drift over the river. Llangollen Wharf is a fab spot for days out with the family and is the best spot for readers keen to experience a horse-drawn boat trip through the heart of Llangollen.
Offas Dyke Farm Campsite is a delightful site for returning to nature and admiring the stunning English countryside as soon as you step outside your tent or glamping pitch each morning.
The duration of the boat trip will range between 45 minutes and two hours, but day hire of a private boat is also possible. Head over to the Trevor basin in the village of Trevor, an essential mooring point on the Llangollen canal, and you’ll find private boat hires and boats for day trips on the canal. Boat trips usually operate from the end of March until the end of October, and departure timings vary depending on your boating company of choice. We also highly recommend a stop at the beautiful mediaeval Valle Crucis Abbey, just outside Llangollen. The legendary structure was founded in 1201 and hosted a working community that farmed the land for three centuries.
Our readers may also enjoy pottering around Cefn Mawr, a new town that flourished alongside the canal. Explore shops or stop for a light snack at local eateries or supermarkets. Walkers can hop on the gentle 2-mile Old Railway Line Walk, beginning at the top of Station Road, which falls under the Community Miles Route. We recommend wearing hardy shoes and bringing waterproofs while following this route. If you enjoy alfresco nibbles, pack a hamper with your preferred snacks and skip to Llantysilio, a quiet community located on the western end of the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct and Canal. Spread your blanket and picnic at Horseshoe Falls, perhaps working up an appetite on walks cutting through the Clwydian Range.
Explore more green open spaces and stunning views at Tŷ Mawr Country Park, a World Heritage Site on the banks of the River Dee, right beneath the Cefn Viaduct. Soak in the area's beauty and explore walks suited for all ages. Sit back and watch salmon jumping in the water, or explore organic wildflower meadows, and say hey to chickens, Guinea pigs, goats, sheep, pigs, and the occasional llama with the kids. There is a playground for alfresco frolics and open green spaces for picnic breaks. We also recommend getting a peek at the Cefn Viaduct from Ty Mawr Country Park, admiring the majestic viaduct from below. Pop over to the small Welsh town of Chirk, home to a thriving community and rich history dating back to the 11th century. Take a trip to Chirk Castle, a stunning mediaeval fortress boasting over 700 years of history, spectacular award-winning gardens, and lush parkland designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest. Browse the restaurants, cafes, shops, and businesses at your own pace, or take a stroll from the car park at the town centre to the Chirk aqueduct and viaduct. Readers from Shropshire can enter the World Heritage Site via Gledrid Bridge, located just off Chirk Road.
Read on as we answer your FAQ’s about the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct.
How Long Does it Take To Cross Pontcysyllte Aqueduct?
Crossing the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct by boat generally takes 30 - 45 minutes; however, this may vary depending on the boat ride you wish to take. Longer rides can last up to two hours. Crossing the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct on foot usually takes 5 - 10 minutes. The aqueduct is approximately 1,007 feet (307 metres) long, so walking across is relatively easy and quick. We do not ask our readers to rush through the boat rides or walks. Instead, take your time to soak in the scenery and savour the unique experience of walking over such a high and historic structure.
Lady Margaret's Park Caravan Club Site is a spacious, friendly certificated site that holds a range of generous plots evenly spread out in secluded grassed areas.
Can You Walk On The Pontcysyllte Aqueduct?
Yes, you are free to walk along the towpath and aqueduct. There is a narrow walkway on one side of the aqueduct, which allows pedestrians to traverse at a leisurely pace, admiring views of the River Dee and the enclosing landscapes. The walkway is approximately 1.2 metres ( 4 feet) wide and is unprotected by barriers, creating a feel of being entirely exposed, especially given the towering height of the aqueduct. Despite this, walking is an exhilarating experience and a must for visitors.
Can You Cycle Over Pontcysyllte Aqueduct?

Pontcysyllte Aqueduct. Isalski
Cycling across the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct is generally not permitted. The narrowness of the walkway, paired with the lack of barriers and high elevation, creates an unsafe environment for cycling. The walkway is intended for pedestrians only to ensure safety due to the limited space and the need for careful navigation. If you visit on a bicycle, it's best to dismount and walk across the aqueduct.
Several beautiful cycling routes around the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct and Canal are safe for bikers and offer stunning landscape scenery.
Can You Kayak Over Pontcysyllte Aqueduct
Yes, you can kayak on the Llangollen Canal, which runs through the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct, but guests are not permitted to kayak directly over the aqueduct itself. The canal passes through the aqueduct in a trough, with kayaks and other narrowboats navigating the canal within the trough.
If you are interested in kayaking in this area, you would typically launch your vessel at designated points along the canal and travel through the aqueduct, savouring the unique paddling experience through an iconic structure. We advise our water sport enthusiasts to stay vigilant, as the aqueduct is a busy waterway, and follow any local guidelines.
What is The Nearest Town To The Pontcysyllte Aqueduct ?
The nearest town to Pontcysyllte Aqueduct is Llangollen, located about 3 miles to the west. Llangollen is a picturesque town famed for its scenic beauty and cultural heritage, and it serves as a popular base for visitors exploring the aqueduct and the local area.
How Deep is Pontcysyllte Aqueduct?
The Pontcysyllte Aqueduct does not have a uniform depth; instead, it has a trough that carries canal water. The depth of this trough varies, but it is generally around 3 to 4 feet deep. This depth allows for safe passage between narrow boats and other canal vessels.
Best Campsites at Pontcysyllte Aqueduct

Pontcysyllte Aqueduct. capturedxky
Hey ho! and it's down to the last part of your journey - sorting the best campsites along your routes. Take a peek at our campsites in Wales, Rhuddlan, Dyserth, and Rhyl. Not only are they fab locations for quiet camping holidays, but they are all within easy driving distance of Pontcysyllte Aqueduct and a wealth of attractions. Read on to determine if your journey will take you past these scenic settlements. Just a heads up - some of the best campsites in Denbighshire fill up quickly because word travels fast among regular campers about the gems. Visit our campsites page more campsites in UK.
If you prefer to do your own research, use the icons at the start of the page to filter out campsites near you by accommodation types. If you want to find more campsites near a specific location, scroll to the end of the page for more nearby campsite suggestions. There are plenty of campsites in Pontcysyllte Aqueduct, so go ahead and find the perfect spot to rest your head for a couple of nights. Fellow travelers often mention good things about some of the campsites in Liverpool for those who want to combine their nature trip with a bit of urban exploring.
Combine history and natural beauty when you stay at a campsite in Rhuddlan and fall in love with the big skies and rolling landscapes. Set against the backdrop of impressive Rhuddlan Castle and miles of picturesque countryside in every direction, these campsites are a peaceful base for exploring historical landmarks and scenic trails. Find campervans offering tent and touring pitches, or kick back at a glamping site with swish abodes. With amenities ranging from well-maintained facilities and quick access to local attractions, camping in Rhuddlan creates a relaxing and immersive experience for exploring this enchanting part of North Wales. We have 42 campervans and motorhomes within 120 miles of Rhuddlan, and more campsites in St Asaph, campsites in Tremeirchion and campsites in Caerwys.
Look forward to a relaxing escape in North Wales, where you can experience natural splendor and oodles of rustic charm with our campsites in Dyserth. Located near the stunning Dyserth Waterfall and winding routes through Offa’s Dyke Path, our Dyserth campsites combine a blend of outdoor adventure and tranquillity. Let out a sigh of contentment as you kick back amid the lush greenery and gentle sounds of nature while being close to lovely local attractions like the historic Dyserth Castle and the lively market town of Prestatyn. With stunning trails and landscapes, camping in Dyserth is a great way to enjoy a refreshing escape. You can also find more, campsites in Holywell, campsites in Meliden, and campsites in Towyn.
Tent, Motorhome and Caravan from £30
Llyn Rhys Campsite is a peaceful and picturesque base close to Llandegla, a designated Area of Oustanding Natural Beauty, providing campers with beautiful views of open countryside and forest.
Look forward to a vibrant coastal camping experience with quick access to a range of local attractions at our campsites in Rhyl. Situated along the stunning North Wales Coast, these campsites create a perfect blend of seaside escapades and relaxing days by the ocean. With Rhyl’s sandy beaches and bustling promenade located a stone’s throw away, there is plenty to explore for all ages. Pop over to local attractions like Rhyl SeaQuarium, or stock up on nibbles and treats to sample by your pitch at the lively weekend markets. Wander along scenic coastal paths, explore nature reserves, indulge in family-friendly facilities and experience a dynamic camping atmosphere. You can find more nearby campsites in Prestatyn, campsites in Abergele and campsites in Betws yn Rhos.
Campsites Near Pontcysyllte Aqueduct
Wondering which campsites blend views, amenities and access to local attractions? Take a look at our recommended campsites near the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct, and perhaps add these peaceful sites to your road trip in North Wales. Read on to see why Abbey Grange Campsite, Llandyn Holiday Park, and Ceiriog Valley Park are our top picks.
Abbey Grange Campsite, Llangollen
Enclosed by mountains and fields, Abbey Grange Campsite is a five-acre family farm overlooking the vale of Llangollen and an easy 5-minute drive outside Llangollen town. Snowdonia is approximately 40 minutes away, and the thrills of Pontcysyllte Aqueduct are a quick drive or stroll away. The campsite rests on the grounds of Abbey Grange Campsite, surrounded by fields and mountains, creating a stunning backdrop for eyeing. At the same time, you unwind on a spacious, optional electric grass pitch for tents and touring vehicles. Horseshoe Pass is only half a mile away, and the site is an excellent base for the hilly surroundings, which brim with the promise of walks, cycling and fishing. The site offers standard amenities like showers, toilets, a washing-up area, and chemical disposal. Barbecues are encouraged, and pets are welcome.
Ceiriog Valley Park, Llangollen
Ceiriog Valley Park is a fab base for exploring lush landscapes, big skies and rolling mountains. Make this quiet riverside park your home away from home, and wake up to stunning views of the Berwyn mountains. Llangollen is only 5 miles away, making this an excellent base for exploring Pontcysyllte Aqueduct and stunning open green spaces like North Berwyn Way and the Dee Valley Way. Wake up to the sounds of nature and the rushing river nearby, and admire Welsh mountain views as you start your day and explore the local area. Head out for scenic walks through the valley of Glyn Ceiriog in which the site rests, follow scenic walks through the North Berwyn Way, or opt to sit back on an outdoor chair and laze, firing up the grill for alfresco meals when needed. Pick a grass or hardstanding base with optional electric metres, and camp next to a beautiful river.
Llandyn Holiday Park, Llangollen
Llandyn Holiday Park is a quiet riverside outdoor park near the Llangollen Canal and Pontcysyllte Aqueduct, creating an incredible space for quickly accessing attractions like the world-famous Pontcysyllte Aqueduct. The campsite rests at the foot of the crumbling Castell Dinas Brân right next to the River Dee and rests within the lush Clwydian Range and Dee Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. This small rural site enjoys direct access to the Llangollen Canal, ensuring stunning walking and biking paths for outdoorsy adventurers. Find a quiet corner on a six-acre woodland spot, and enjoy stretching out on an all-weather, fully-serviced gravel pitch. Campers can access amenities like toilets, showers, a washing-up area, and chemical disposal.
Tent Camping at Pontcysyllte Aqueduct
Are you looking for quiet, tent friendly campsites near the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct? Offa’s Dyke Farm Campsite is a family-friendly four-acre grassed site overlooking Chirk Castle and Ceiriog Valley. Located just over the border, in Oswestry, Shropshire, the site is a lovely little spot for our readers who wish to include a few adventures in England to a road trip in North Wales. Stretch out on spacious grass pitches on a lush Shropshire Farm with gorgeous views over the valley, and explore a range of local attractions, like Offa’s Dyke Path and the lively town of Llangollen, just 25 minutes away. There is an enclosed grass area for the kids to scamper and have fun. Pitches are all on the grass with no electric metres, creating a peaceful space for unplugging and reconnecting with nature.
The quiet family-run Wern Isaf Caravan and Camping Park site lies on a working farm, just a half-mile from the town of Llangollen.
Wern Isaf Caravan and Camping Park, a quiet camping site on a working farm, is located an easy half mile from the town centre of Llangollen. Wake up to glorious views across the stunning Dee Valley. The site has excellent amenities for tents, campervans, and motorhomes. Campers can access super pitches with hardstanding and amenities like toilets, showers and a kid's play area.
Newnes Touring Caravan Park is a gorgeous space for quiet, adults-only camping, on the fringes of Ellesmere in the beautiful Lake District area. The site rests an easy 25-minute drive from Llangollen, and 35 from Shrewsbury , offering campers a wonderful base for exploring attractions in both North Wales and England. Your hosts, Robin and Jane, are often praised for their warm welcome, and they welcome canine companions with open arms. Follow excellent walks straight from the campsite, ir take a short walk into town to find excellent places to eat and drink. Amenities are spotless, and campers are welcome to hire barbecue grills on-site.
Caravan Camping at Pontcysyllte Aqueduct

Pontcysyllte Aqueduct. R~P~M
Are you keen to leave your caravan behind as you explore the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct and the surrounding attractions? Penddol Farm Caravan Park is a fab caravan-friendly campsite located near Llangollen. Owners Angie and Steve are friendly and full of information about the local area, so feel free to ask them for pointers for your itinerary. Sit back and admire the stunning vistas over the Dee Valley, or take quiet walks along the sparkling canal nearby. Spacious pitches are ideal for caravans, motorhomes, and campervans. Penddol Farm is an adults-only site perfect for quiet caravan stays.
Margaret's Park Caravan Club Site is an excellent space in a picturesque wooded parkland, a literal stroll from the lush Chirk Castle in the heart of Manchester Country. The site has a new shower block, dishwashing facilities, hardstanding, and premium pitches for touring vehicles of all sizes. Spend lazy afternoons exploring attractions like Ceiriog Valley, Berwyn Mountains and Pistyll Rhaeadr. We hope you enjoy our selection of caravan friendly camping in Pontcysyllte Aqueduct.
Campervan Road Trip Pontcysyllte Aqueduct Price
A Wales campervan hire around Pontcysyllte Aqueduct will cost you around £65 per night. This price may vary depending on the season of hire, the duration of your holiday, and the make or model of choice. Simple campers with limited amenities are ideal for keeping costs low, especially if you travel in the summer, and do not require heating. The more decked out your campervan or motorhome, the higher the rental fee. If you are adventuring with a large group and need a host of facilities plus space, the larger models are the best bet and will be a handy option if the cost is split between the passengers. Most campervan hire Denbighshire owners are pretty flexible about pickup times if you give them a heads up about your travel plans.
Age: 25-70
Travel: Uk and Europe
Gearbox: Manual
Wilma has low mileage and she's no trouble whatsoever. Her rock and roll bed is M1 tested - which means it's as safe as any other car seat for passengers sat in the back seats.
Best Campervan Road trip Pontcysyllte Aqueduct
If you plan to start your North Wales campervan road trip at Pontcysyllte Aqueduct, fear not! We have top locations nearby where you can browse various campervan options and find the best home on wheels that suits your budget and needs. Use our maps to find campsites by county, or type in a postcode or town and let the system filter the best campsites near you. We also offer a location service, and our system will find the closest campsite near you. It’s never been easier to browse through hundreds of campervan hires in Pontcysyllte Aqueduct. Our private owners look forward to hearing from you and are happy to answer any questions you may have. Speak to private campervan owners in Wrexham or Clawddnewydd and book a memorable campervan road trip in North Wales. Worth considering campervan hire Liverpool too, especially if you want to explore the city before heading out to the Welsh countryside. Visit our campervan hire page more campervans in UK.
Age: 25-70
Travel: Uk and Europe
Gearbox: Manual
Fred has everything you need for your next adventure. He's the perfect companion, whether you are looking for a family escape in the great outdoors or an overdue road trip with friends.
Hiring a campervan in Wrexham is a great way to unlock the thrills of outdoor adventures through North Wales. Combine convenience with the thrills of the open road and the comforts of home, and you've got yourself a fantastic road trip adventure. Picture yourself rumbling through this charming town, uncovering the delights of the Clwydian Range and the scenery of the Dee Valley, all from the comfort of your campervan hire in Wrexham. With a variety of campervan rentals available, we're sure you'll find the perfect campervan for your journey, be it a cosy two-person sleeper or a spacious family rig. Our vans feature modern amenities and are ideal for campervan adventures. Please review our selection of campervans and motorhomes in Wrexham. Are you looking to hire a camper near Wrexham? We have your back. Looking to hire a camper near Wrexham? Check out our nearby campervans for hire in Rhosddu, campervans for hire in Grosveno, campervans for hire in Brynyffynnon, campervans for hire in Stansty, campervans for hire in Garden Village, campervans for hire in Acton, campervans for hire in Maesydre, campervans for hire in Little Acton, campervans for hire in Pen Y Cae, campervans for hire in Coedpoeth, campervans for hire in Brymbo and campervans for hire in Minera.
Age: 25-75
Travel: UK Only
Gearbox: Manual
The van is our fun bus she is 43 years old and is a bay window pop top. she is great for families as the pop top has 2 bunks in the roof.
Hire a campervan in Clawddnewydd and kick-start your road trip through North Wales in a delightful setting of rustic charm and adventure in the heart of North Wales. Nestled in a quiet village, enclosed by lush countryside, Clawddnewydd is a stunning launching pad for exploring nearby attractions, like the historic town of Ruthin and the scenic trails of the Clwydian Range. Pontcysyllte Aqueduct and other breathtaking locations are all within an hour’s drive away, so feel free to explore as much as you please. With a range of campervans available, you can enjoy a cosy and well-equipped home on wheels and admire spectacular sceneries from sunset to sunrise. What’s better is the freedom to park your campervan amid these gorgeous settings. Our private campervan owner provides personalised advice and offers flexible rental packages, making your North Wales road trip seamless and memorable. You can also find campervans for hire in Ruthin, campervans for hire in Mold, campervans for hire in Corwen, campervans for hire in Llandegla, campervans for hire in Llanferres, campervans for hire in Cerrigydrudion and campervans for hire in Denbigh.
Roadtrip From Pontcysyllte Aqueduct To the Clwydian Range and Dee Valley Area of Natural Beauty

Pontcysyllte Aqueduct
And there you have it! A detailed itinerary with all the essential information for a road trip to the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct. We’ve included campervan-hire locations near Pontcysyllte Aqueduct and the best campsites around the World Heritage structure. It’s never been easier to plan a trip in one go. Book a campervan, hire a campsite, and plan the perfect Itinerary For A Campervan Roadtrip Through North Wales with Top Campsites from Mountains to Coast. Join us again as we explore the next North Wales road trip stop - the spectacular Clwydian Range and Dee Valley AONB.
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