Pontcysyllte Aqueduct: Canoe Tour Llangollen with Pub Finish

Summary

Canoeing the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct to a classic Welsh pub

You’ll paddle across North Wales’ iconic Pontcysyllte Aqueduct with local guides, taking in wild views and playful challenges along historic canals before landing at a classic Welsh pub for food and drinks. Feel your nerves give way to laughter—and maybe even find yourself wishing that last stretch lasted just a bit longer.

What’s the experience like?

“Don’t look down unless you want to,” our guide Gareth grinned as we nudged our canoes out onto the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct. I laughed, but honestly, my hands were gripping the paddle tighter than I’d admit. The air up there was cool and smelled faintly of wet stone and grass—kind of sharp, like morning after rain. You could hear sheep somewhere below, but mostly it was just water slapping gently against the hull. I didn’t expect to feel so high above everything; 126 feet is no joke when you’re floating on a narrow stretch of canal with nothing but sky on either side. Gareth kept chatting about how locals used to walk this route for work, which made me glance at the footpath and wonder if I’d have had the nerve back then.

Once we crossed, things loosened up. The canal felt wider somehow, or maybe it was just my nerves settling. We drifted past mossy banks and old stone bridges, sometimes racing each other (badly—I spun in a circle once), sometimes just drifting while Gareth pointed out bits of history or called out little challenges. At one point he got us playing a game where you had to paddle backwards without looking over your shoulder—my friend nearly ended up in the reeds and we all cracked up. There was this earthy smell from the water mixed with wood smoke from somewhere nearby; it reminded me of camping trips as a kid.

I didn’t realize how hungry paddling would make me until we spotted Sun Trevor pub at the end—a proper old place with creaky floors and staff who smiled like they’d seen plenty of soggy paddlers before us. My hands were still tingling from gripping the paddle, but that first sip of cold cider tasted better than anything I’ve had in ages. We sat outside watching boats drift by, shoes drying in the sun. It’s funny—I keep thinking about that moment on the aqueduct when everything went quiet except for wind and water below us. Not sure I’ll ever forget it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Canoe across Pontcysyllte Aqueduct

• Start at south end of aqueduct
• Paddle across the aqueduct
• Enjoy views over Dee River
• Follow safe footpath on side
• Continue canoeing down the canal
• Play games and challenges
• End at Sun Trevor pub
• Relax with food and drinks

Top questions

How high is the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct during the canoe tour?

The aqueduct stands 126 feet above the River Dee during the canoe tour.

Where does the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct canoe tour start and end?

The tour starts at the south end of Pontcysyllte Aqueduct near Llangollen and ends at Sun Trevor pub.

Is all canoeing equipment provided on this tour?

Yes, all equipment including canoes, paddles, and buoyancy aids are provided.

Are guides included on this day trip?

Yes, local guides accompany you throughout the canoe tour for safety and fun activities.

Is there food or drink included on this tour?

The endpoint is Sun Trevor pub where you can buy food and drinks; these are not included in the tour price.

Is this canoe trip suitable for beginners or families?

Yes, it’s suitable for all fitness levels and families; guides help you learn as you go.

What’s the maximum weight allowed per person?

The maximum weight per participant is 120kg.

Can service animals join this activity?

Yes, service animals are allowed on this canoe tour.

Are public transport options available nearby?

Yes, public transportation options are available near both start and finish points.

What’s included

Your day includes all essential equipment—canoes, paddles, buoyancy aids—and guidance from friendly local staff as you paddle from Llangollen across Pontcysyllte Aqueduct to Sun Trevor pub. Food and drinks at the pub are available for purchase after your journey ends.