Activities
It’s not just the walkers and cyclists that get to enjoy the AONB – there are lots of other activities that you can take part in, which will give you the opportunity to see the Clwydian Range and Dee Valley AONB from a different perspective. Here are some ideas.
Horse riding
With an incredible choice of landscapes and hundreds of kilometres of bridleways and byways, The Clwydian Range and Dee Valley AONB is the perfect destination for horse riding. Imagine riding along leafy lanes, splashing through streams, exploring forests and crossing windswept mountains, we have something to suit everyone. Not surprisingly we have plenty of riding centres to give you advice on when and where to ride – and of course provide a horse and instruction if required. Some even offer equine B&B if your own four-legged friend comes along on holiday.
Fell running
The AONB is made for fell running, with lots of hillside paths traversing superb scenery. It’s home to Excalibur, one of the UK’s toughest off-road marathons, and the popular Cilcain Mountain Race every August Bank Holiday. Why not join the Clwydian Range Runners who regularly run the paths of the area and raise money for local causes through their events.
Social gatherings
From festivals and eisteddfodau to farmers markets and comedy nights, there are events happening all over the Clwydian Range and Dee Valley AONB, all through the year. Come along to sample local produce, or spend an evening listening to a Welsh Male Voice Choir. Take part in one of the increasing number of national organised events that take place on our beautiful mountains and moors or why not pick up our own events guide, Out and About. For more information, see our events.
Food and Drink
The communities within the AONB are rediscovering the joy of producing artisan food and drink from the fantastic quality of produce that we have in the area. You too can discover world class dishes and products throughout the Clwydian Range and Dee Valley – to eat here or take away! To find out more about these companies or to find a food and drink event, follow the links below.
On the water
From the world famous canal boats at Llangollen to the relatively new sport of stand -up paddle boarding, you can find a wide choice of water based activities along our rivers and canal. Canoeing and rafting as well as gorge walking and kayaking can all be found locally, and don’t go home without experiencing an unforgettable trip across the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct.
Education
The Clwydian Range and Dee Valley AONB is one of the world’s biggest school rooms. By getting out in the fresh air and close to nature, children can learn more about why the landscape looks like it does, how our ancestors lived and why the plants and animals that share our world need to be looked after.
The AONB Team run regular events aimed at teaching youngsters about the natural world and their place in it. Instead of being stuck indoors they can get their hands dirty (and clothes!) with minibeast safaris, bilberry hunts, pond dipping and all sorts of other messy, splashy fun.