Wrexham factfile

How to get to Wrexham
Wrexham is a large town in north-east Wales. It's situated between the Welsh mountains and the lower Dee valley, close to the border with Cheshire in England. The principal route to the town is via the A483 which has connections with all major motorways. Its train station also provides direct rail services to UK cities.

Wrexham through the ages
Wrexham was transformed by the Industrial Revolution. It went from a small market town to an economic powerhouse with industries in coal mining, steelmaking, brewing and tanning.

In later years this traditional industry was replaced by one of high-tech manufacture—it now has one of the largest industrial parks in Europe. The town has also enjoyed a good deal of regeneration in many civic areas.

Things to see and do in Wrexham
If you're feeling energetic, put on a pair of sturdy walking boots and follow the Clywedog Trail, a tour of Wrexham's industrial heritage. It starts at Minera Lead Mines and heads through the ancient Plas Power Woods and alongside the River Clywedog down to Bersham Ironworks. The trail takes you through some of Wrexham's most scenic countryside.

The 17th-century National Trust building Erddig Hall is one of the country's finest stately homes and only two miles south of Wrexham town centre. If you fancy seeing how the other half lived, there are guided tours available year-round.

The ruin of Holt Castle on the River Dee is also worth a visit. It was built in 1282 by the Earl of Surrey, following the defeat of Llywelyn ap Gruffydd, the last independent Prince of Wales. Nearby, you'll also find a famous medieval bridge that spans the English-Welsh border.

Famous landmarks in Wrexham
The 45 m (155 ft) steeple of the Parish Church of St Giles has graced Wrexham's skyline for centuries. The church shows an eclectic mixture of architectural and religious art styles, since building work began in the first half of the 14th century.

Shopping in Wrexham
Each week in Queens Square, Wrexham hosts North Wales' largest open-air market, dating back to medieval times. It also has three covered markets located in listed historic buildings.

If you fancy something more modern, the shops along Bank Street, Temple Row and the Overton and Central arcades vary from high-street stores to small boutiques.

Arts and culture in Wrexham
Wrexham County Borough Museum is housed in the former local Constabulary, with the present exhibition space situated in old prison cells. The Museum has two galleries devoted to the history of the town and its surrounding communities. There's also a programme of temporary exhibitions.

Entertainment in Wrexham
The town has built a lively music scene in recent years. The main venue is Central Station, which attracts bands from all over the country. The William Aston Hall also hosts concerts and live entertainment.