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the horseshoe pass, bala and the dee valley

Llangollen is a popular tourist centre well-known for its annual International Musical Eisteddfod In the town is Plas Newydd, former home of the famous 'Ladies of Llangollen' renowned in the late 18th and early 19th centuries for riding in the town on horseback wearing long frock coats and tall black hats. Stop for a break at the Plas Newydd Tea Rooms.

The 12th century bridge is one of the traditional 'Seven Wonders of Wales'. Adjacent to the bridge is the restored railway station, home to the Llangollen Steam Railway which operates services 8 miles to Carrog. To the north is the hill of Dinas Bran (1,062ft) surmounted by a ruined castle and fine viewpoint and to the west lies the Horseshoe Falls.

The drive leaves by the Ruthin road, A542 and follows the Eglwyseg Valley to pass the ruined Valle Crucis Abbey. Ascent is then made of the spectacular Horseshoe Pass (1,367ft).

Two and half miles beyond the summit go forward at the roundabout then in ½ mile turn left onto the A525. Descend the wooded Nant-y-Garth Pass into the Vale of Clwyd and continue to Ruthin. Proceed into the town centre and at the roundabout go forward, signed Cerrigydrudion. Descend, then keep forward again onto the B5105.


Cross rolling countryside and pass through Clawdd Newydd. Enter the Clocaenog Forest where a picnic site lies to the left. Later descend to Llanfihangel Glyn Myfyr and cross the Afon Alwen. At Cerrigydrudion turn left onto the Llangollen road then left again on to the A5. In ½ mile turn right onto the B4501, signed Bala. Cross more high ground then after 7 miles turn left into the A4212 signed Bala.

Leave by the B4391 signed Llangynog and pass the northernmost end of Bala Lake. Cross the River Dee and follow the valley then in 3¼ miles turn left onto the B4402, signed Corwen. In 1 mile turn right onto the B4401 for Llandrillo. Continue through pleasant countryside and after 7¼ miles turn right on to the A5, signed Llangollen to reach the small market town of Corwen.

Remain on the A5 through the beautiful wooded Dee Valley for the return to Llangollen.

 
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