Our Pick Of Things To Do In Wrexham

 

Close to the lush Dee Valley, Wrexham is surrounded by historic sites and scenic North Wales countryside. It’s also North East Wales’ largest town, meaning that there are plenty of attractions to visit here.

From UNESCO World Heritage sites to independent shops and a lively science centre – plus hidden gems like Nant Mill Country Park and its scenic walking routes – here are our top picks for things to do in Wrexham.

Looking to camp in the local area? We’ve put together a handy guide containing everything you need to know about camping in Wrexham.

Visit Chirk Castle

For medieval might, visit Chirk Castle, a 20-minute drive away from Wrexham. The castle was completed in 1310 to bolster Edward I’s power in both England and Wales, and had a turbulent history throughout the Middle Ages – no fewer than five of its owners were executed for treason. As times grew more peaceful, so did the castle: it belonged to the Myddleton family for some 400 years, and slowly became a comfortable family home. 

In 1981, Chirk Castle was acquired by the National Trust, and today it displays artwork and historical items from the Middle Ages up to the 20th century. Learn about the English Civil War, medieval garrisons and aristocratic life as you wander through everything from grand state rooms to dark dungeons. Roam through award-winning formal gardens, or pick up a treat at the farm shop.  

See all of our campsites in Wrexham, or browse accommodation close to Chirk Castle.

Learn about Wrexham’s history

Did you know that the first Miss World came from Wrexham? Or that pints of Wrexham Lager were served aboard the Titanic? Once you leave the Wrexham County Borough Museum, your brain will be a treasure trove of fascinating facts like these, ranging from the Neolithic period to the present day. 

The museum (free entry) is housed in an elegant 19th-century brick building in the town centre and also has a rather good café serving up local produce.

Walk the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct

You don’t have to walk along the Pontcysyllte (pronounced pont-ker-sulth-teh) aqueduct: you could kayak over it, cycle, or take a boat ride. Go up it you must, however – an engineering marvel which took 10 years to complete, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best things to see in the region.

Make this the start of a longer adventure along the river Dee by following the Llangollen Canal through the Dee Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, or simply ascend to see the views from the top and marvel at the sight of a canal suspended high in the air.

Spend the day at Xplore! Science Discovery Centre

It’s wise to plan for a rainy day in Wales. Enter Xplore! Science Discovery Centre, where you can easily while away an afternoon or more. As many of the interactive exhibits, live science demos and workshops are aimed at kids, it’s a great pick for family days out. Continue the learning by picking up a science experiment or two from the well-stocked museum shop.

Climb a medieval church

Built in the 16th century, the parish church of St Giles is the biggest medieval church in Wales. Its gorgeous ecclesiastical architecture means that it’s often considered one of the ‘Wonders of Wales’. 

You’ll need to book your trip up to its roof in advance, but those who plan ahead will be rewarded with a birds-eye view of the town and the surrounding hills. Look out for the grave of Elihu Yale in the church grounds – this well-known local philanthropist was the greatest benefactor of America’s Yale University, and gave the institution its name.

Explore Erddig

Fancy visiting one of Britain’s best stately homes? National Trust-run Erddig has history galore, splendid architecture and 1,200 acres of grounds to explore. 

In the Grade I-listed house, you can learn more about Elihu Yale and find out what life was like below stairs (unusually for the time, Erddig’s servants were preserved for posterity in portraits, photographs and documents), and see personal effects such as nursery toys, ornaments and artworks. In the grounds, you can visit one of Britain’s most important formal walled gardens, let off steam in the kids’ play areas or poke around the many and varied estate buildings.

Stroll through the Nant Mill Country Park

Nant Mill Country Park is covered with ancient woodland and criss-crossed with walking paths. Hike up to Nant Wood and Plas Power Wood to catch a glimpse of historic Offa’s Dyke. If you’d like a longer jaunt, continue along the Clywedog Valley Trail to pass through some of the region’s loveliest countryside. Or check out our guide to the best walking routes in Wrexham for more outdoor inspiration.

Coming with kids? Head towards the old mill building for a big children’s play area and giant reconstruction of a mole tunnel.

Shop ‘til you drop in Wrexham’s independent quarter

Don’t be swayed by the siren call of Eagles Meadow, where you’ll find big-name brands like H&M, M&S and River Island. Instead, head further into the centre of Wrexham (around Hope Street and Queen Street is a good place to start) and discover the town’s independent outlets and boutiques. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, there are plenty of great eateries in town, from friendly gastropubs to fancy contemporary restaurants. 

Hungry for more recommendations? Here’s our guide to the best places to eat in Wrexham.