Chirk and the Ceiriog Valley

Written by Administrator

Chirk and the Ceiriog Valley
...a brief guide following the River Ceiriog from high in the Berwyn Mountains to the historic border town of Chirk including part of a World Heritage Site

the Ceiriog flows through history...

The Ceiriog trickles out of the lofty Berwyn mountain range and rapidly becomes Wales’ fastest flowing river before breaking out of the hills to join the River Dee near Chirk. It flows close by a Roman camp, a prehistoric fort, medieval mills, old quarries, Offa's Dyke, a Marcher Castle and under Chirk’s magnificent aqueduct and viaduct.
Its journey begins under the Berwyn ridge which rises to 830 metres at Cadair Berwyn. Downstream the river powered mills that turned loose weaves made on farmhouse looms into firm woollen cloth. It flowed near mines and quarries where slate, silica, dolerite, china-stone, coal and limestone were extracted. These activities ceased over 50 years ago, but have left a rich heritage which includes the Glyn Valley Tramway that ran from Chirk to Hendre Quarry and the spectacular aqueduct and canal at Chirk’s World Heritage Site built by Telford one year before his aqueduct at Froncysyllte.
Centuries of history, farming and industry are woven into the Ceiriog Valley’s beautiful landscape. So beautiful that prime minister Lloyd George called it...

dipyn bach o’r nefoedd a’r y ddaear
a little piece of heaven fallen to earth.

.... and the changing seasons
This valley and mountain area provide excellent walking and horse-riding where you can get closer to the natural Ceiriog Valley and enjoy its seasonal delights.
In spring blossoms burst on the wild cherry trees and wild garlic, primrose and bluebell spread over the woodland floor. In summer neat violets and strawberry give way to tangling rose, honeysuckle and crowds of flowers that draw bees and butterflies. In autumn woodland leaves ignite in blazes of yellow, orange and red.
The Ceiriog Valley boasts the oldest oak in Britain, one of several ancient trees living here. A diverse range of animals and birds thrive in the valley’s rich natural heritage.   
Peregrine falcon, red kite, buzzard and smaller birds of prey hunt and glide above the valley. Polecats, stoats and weasel are frequently seen and pheasants, rabbits and grey squirrels are always in view. The River Ceiriog’s fish attract heron, kingfishers and otters.

If you take a dog with you please keep it on the lead at all times when walking in sight of sheep or cattle.

Guides to Chirk and the Ceiriog Valley
We also have publications on heritage, walking, cycling and equestrian trails.These are on sale at Post Offices at Chirk, Pontfadog and Glyn Ceiriog, Tourist Information Centres, hotels, shops and other outlets. Other accommodation is available - check with Tourist Information Centres.
Published by the Chirk and Ceiriog Valley Partnership