Wrexham

Wrexham is the largest town in North Wales, and is a busy shopping centre. The town is well-known for its many markets, including the Butcher's Market, the General Market and the People's Market.  The town is also home to a large number of male voice choirs, has a multi-cinema, several nightclubs and many inns and pubs. St Giles's Parish Church is widely regarded as the finest example of Gothic architecture in North Wales. A replica of the 136ft tower has been built onto Yale University in America. Elihu Yale, whose money was behind the establishment of the famous American University was born in America, but lived in Wrexham for many years, and is buried in St Giles Churchyard.

The 21 tall, dark yew trees in the churchyard at Overton date from early mediaeval times. The village itself is mentioned in the Domesday Book, whilst the church houses a rare collection of 13th century items.

All Saints Church, Gresford, is one of the finest churches in Wales, and the famous bells may be heard on Tuesday evenings, and Sundays.

A few miles outside Wrexham, stands the 17th century country house of Erddig, now in the care of the National Trust. Set in over 200 acres of parkland, Erddig contains a splendid collection of valuable furniture and ornaments plus a joiners shop, smithy, stables, vintage cars, bakehouse, and servants hall. There is also a National Trust shop and tea room.

Nearby is Farmworld, a visitor centre and working dairy farm. Ideal for children, it has lamb feeding in season, tractor tours, pony rides, puppet shows, milking, a nature trail, and many other fun activities. Special environmental shows are held during the year. Allow 4 hours for your visit. The gates at Chirk Castle (National trust)

The Clywedog Valley follows a small river through the area, and has a series of visitor centres including Minera Lead Mines, Nant Mill, Bersham Iron Works and Kings Mill. All where reliant on the small river for operation, and now tell a story of a valley in the last century. The area has 2 superb swimming pools, a variety of gyms and some special leisure features like the North Wales Tennis Centre, which has both indoor and outdoor courts. The Ceiriog Valley is located south of Wrexham, and offers a tranquil setting, as it nestles into the Welsh hills.