Welshpool is a historic market town set on the River Severn and brimming with Welsh charm. The town is a gateway to Powys, a picturesque pocket of the country where you can visit centuries-old castles, walk along the banks of a historic canal and ride a heritage railway.
Things to do in Welshpool
Stroll along Broad Street and admire handsome Georgian buildings with red-brick facades. Just off the main street is the hexagon-shaped Welshpool Cockpit. Built in the 18th century, the heritage-listed building is one of the only cockfighting rings left in the United Kingdom.
Walk in the footsteps of Welsh princes at Powis Castle and Garden. The National Trust property dates back to medieval times and has been lovingly renovated over the centuries. Tour the magnificent interior and walk around the Italian Renaissance gardens. The courtyard café serves scrumptious scones and “cacen gri” Welsh griddle cakes.
Learn about everything from ancient agricultural techniques to the town’s railroad heritage at Powysland. Set on the canal and housed in a restored warehouse, the museum gets you up to speed on local history. Don’t miss the impressive collection of archeological artefacts on the upper floor.
Climb aboard the Welshpool & Llanfair Light Railway and enjoy a scenic ride through the Welsh countryside. The narrow-gauge heritage railway opened in the early 1900s and features handsome forest-green carriages. One-way trips from Raven Square to Llanfair Caereinion take around 45 minutes.
Enjoy a scenic walk along the Montgomery Canal. Built in the 18th century, the canal flows past Welshpool and is a haven for aquatic animals like otters. Lace up your hiking shoes and tackle a section of the Glyndŵr's Way for more of a challenge. The trail winds through the Welsh countryside and past a constellation of charming towns and villages.
Getting around Welshpool
Welshpool is compact and easy to get around on foot. The town is in Powys, a one-hour drive from Birmingham and 1.5 hours from Liverpool. Rental cars offer the freedom to visit Welshpool and explore Mid Wales at your own pace.