Welcome to Llangollen

Llangollen is located on the River Dee, in the county of Denbighshire, approximately 187 miles north-west of London and 10 miles south-west of Wrexham.

The town has a population of around 3,000. Administratively it is within the local government district of Denbighshire (one of 22 principal areas of Wales) which covers an area of approximately 844 sq kms and which has a population of around 93,000.

Renowned for its International Music Eisteddfod which attracts thousands of visitors and competitors each year, it is an attractive town surrounded by hills and unspoilt by modern development. It has a long and fascinating heritage and there are some notable historic buildings, including the 14th-century stone bridge across the Dee which is known as one of the 'Seven Wonders of Wales'. It is a popular visitor destination and touring centre for the Dee Valley and surrounding area.

The town's history dates from the 7th century when it was founded by Saint Collen who built his hermitage here, together with a tiny church, hospice and outbuildings.The famous Dee Bridge was built in 1345 by Bishop Trevor of Trevor Hall. The famous Ladies of Llangollen, Lady Eleanor Butler and Miss Sarah Ponsonby, lived here from 1780 to 1829. They entertained many people from Regency Society here, and the house and gardens are one of Wales' most famous attractions. The town became important because of its position on the main London to Holyhead coaching road. The canal, opened in1805 to carry slate from the nearby quarries, brought considerable immigration into the town.

Historically the town's economy was based upon slate quarrying, milling and tanning, but today tourism is the biggest industry. As well the the many antiquities in the town, there is the annual International Musical Eisteddfod, and excellent angling in and around the town. 

The town is named after the Celtic St.Collen.