Elan Valley Visitor Centre

Location

About

Elan Valley Visitor Centre is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Wales. Located in the heart of the stunning Elan Valley, this visitor center offers visitors an opportunity to explore the beautiful natural surroundings of Wales and learn about the fascinating history of the region.

From the moment you arrive at the visitor center, you will be struck by the breathtaking beauty of the Elan Valley. The center is situated in a tranquil and peaceful location, surrounded by stunning hills and forests, and offers a range of facilities and activities for visitors of all ages.

One of the main attractions of the visitor center is the exhibition area, which provides a fascinating insight into the history of the Elan Valley and its importance to the local community. The exhibition is filled with interactive displays, audio-visual presentations, and information panels that tell the story of the valley's development, including the creation of the magnificent dams and reservoirs that supply water to the nearby cities.

Another popular attraction is the shop, which offers a range of souvenirs, gifts, and locally-made products, including a selection of delicious Welsh food and drink. The shop is also an excellent place to pick up hiking maps and guides, as well as other essential items for exploring the beautiful countryside.

For those who want to explore the natural surroundings of the Elan Valley, there are several walking trails that start from the visitor center. These trails are well-signposted and vary in difficulty, ranging from gentle strolls to more challenging hikes. Each trail offers stunning views of the valley, with plenty of opportunities to spot local wildlife and admire the beautiful natural scenery.

One of the highlights of the Elan Valley Visitor Centre is the on-site café, which serves a range of delicious meals, snacks, and refreshments. The café is a great place to relax and enjoy a hot drink or a meal after a long walk, with plenty of seating both inside and outside.

Overall, the Elan Valley Visitor Centre is a fantastic destination for tourists looking to explore the beautiful Welsh countryside and learn about the history of the region. With its stunning natural surroundings, fascinating exhibitions, and range of facilities and activities, it is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Wales.

Gallery

Things to do nearby

Elan Valley Visitor Centre, located in the heart of the Elan Valley in Wales, offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience the natural beauty of the area. Surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, there are plenty of places to explore and things to do nearby for tourists who want to make the most of their visit to this picturesque part of Wales.

Here are some of the best places to visit and things to do near Elan Valley Visitor Centre:

1. Elan Valley Reservoirs: The Elan Valley Reservoirs are a series of six reservoirs, which are connected by a network of dams and pipelines. The reservoirs were built in the late 19th and early 20th centuries to provide water to the city of Birmingham, and today they provide a beautiful backdrop for hiking, cycling, and wildlife spotting.

2. Craig Goch Dam: Craig Goch Dam is the largest of the Elan Valley dams, and it's a popular spot for visitors to take photos of the stunning scenery. There are also plenty of hiking trails nearby, which offer stunning views of the reservoir and the surrounding mountains.

3. The Claerwen Valley: The Claerwen Valley is a stunning area of natural beauty, and it's a great place to explore for those who love hiking and cycling. There are several hiking trails in the area, including the Claerwen Trail, which follows the River Claerwen through the valley.

4. The Elan Valley Trail: The Elan Valley Trail is a popular route for cyclists and walkers, and it offers stunning views of the reservoirs and the surrounding mountains. The trail follows the old railway line that was used to transport materials to the dam sites, and it's a great way to explore the area.

5. Devil's Bridge: Devil's Bridge is a popular tourist attraction located about 10 miles from Elan Valley Visitor Centre. The bridge spans a deep gorge and is surrounded by stunning natural scenery. Visitors can also take a ride on the Devil's Bridge Railway, which offers stunning views of the area.

6. Aberystwyth: Aberystwyth is a popular seaside town located about 20 miles from Elan Valley Visitor Centre. It's a great place to visit for those who love the beach, and there are also plenty of shops, restaurants, and other attractions to explore.

7. The Hafod Estate: The Hafod Estate is a stunning area of natural beauty, located about 10 miles from Elan Valley Visitor Centre. It's a great place to explore for those who love hiking and cycling, and there are several trails in the area that offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

8. Red Kite Feeding Station: The Red Kite Feeding Station is a popular attraction located about 15 miles from Elan Valley Visitor Centre. Visitors can watch as red kites, a bird of prey, swoop down to feed on the provided meat. It's a great way to see these magnificent birds up close.

In conclusion, Elan Valley Visitor Centre is a great starting point for exploring the stunning natural beauty of the Elan Valley. There are plenty of places to visit and things to do nearby, whether you love hiking, cycling, wildlife spotting, or just taking in the beautiful scenery. From the Elan Valley Reservoirs to Devil's Bridge and Aberystwyth, there's something for everyone to enjoy in this beautiful part of Wales.