Seven Wonders of Wales facts for kids
The Seven Wonders of Wales (which in Welsh is Saith Rhyfeddod Cymru) is a special list of famous places in North Wales. These places are so well-known that someone wrote a rhyme about them long ago!
Pistyll Rhaeadr and Wrexham steeple,
Snowdon's mountain without its people,
Overton yew trees, St Winefride's well,
Llangollen bridge and Gresford bells.
This fun rhyme was probably written by an English visitor to Wales. It is thought to have been created sometime in the late 1700s or early 1800s. The exact number of "wonders" might have changed over time. For example, in 1770, a writer named Daines Barrington mentioned only "five wonders of Wales."
What Are the Seven Wonders of Wales?
Let's explore each of these amazing places that make up the Seven Wonders of Wales!
Pistyll Rhaeadr: The Tall Waterfall
Pistyll Rhaeadr is a breathtaking waterfall located near Llanrhaeadr-ym-Mochnant in Powys. It is one of the tallest waterfalls in Wales. The water tumbles down 240 feet (73 meters) in three separate stages. It's a truly impressive sight to see!
Wrexham Steeple: A Towering Church
The "Wrexham steeple" refers to the tall tower of St Giles' Church in Wrexham. This church tower was built in the 16th century. It is so tall that you can see it from many miles away across the countryside.
Overton Yew Trees: Ancient Green Giants
In the village of Overton-on-Dee, you can find the famous Overton yew trees. These are 21 ancient yew trees growing around St Mary's Church. Some of these trees are incredibly old, possibly planted between the 3rd and 12th centuries!
St Winefride's Well: Healing Waters
St Winefride's Well is a historic pilgrimage site in Holywell, Flintshire. People have visited this well since AD 660. It is famous for its waters, which many people believed had healing powers. The beautiful buildings around the well were built during the medieval period.
Llangollen Bridge: Crossing the River Dee
Llangollen Bridge is a historic stone bridge in Llangollen, Denbighshire. The bridge you see today was built around the year 1500. It is important because it was the very first stone bridge to cross the River Dee in this area.
Gresford Bells: Sweet Sounds of History
The "Gresford bells" are the church bells of All Saints' Church in Gresford. This church dates back to the 13th century. The bells are especially famous for their clear and beautiful sound. They are known for their purity and tone.
Snowdon: Wales' Highest Mountain
Snowdon (known as Yr Wyddfa in Welsh) is the highest mountain in Wales. It stands tall at 3,560 feet (1,085 meters) within Snowdonia, Gwynedd. It is a popular spot for hikers and offers incredible views of the Welsh landscape.