Short Breaks in Welshpool
Welshpool is situated in the Welsh county of Powys and lies on the River Severn. Its name derives from the welsh 'Y Trallwng' or sinking land because of its close proximity to the river. The small market town - situated close to the English border - is a town associated with its agricultural heritage and still boasts the largest one-day sheep market in Europe at The Smithfield Livestock Market.
Within a short distance of the town is the impressive Powis Castle. The medieval fortress features some beautiful landscaped gardens, wonderful views and some of Wales' finest art and furnishings. Other examples of Welsh art can be found close to the town at the Andrew Logan Museum of Sculpture and Llansantffraid Pottery.
Welshpool is the starting point of the popular Welshpool and Llanfair Light Railway and the picturesque Montgomery Canal also passes through the town. The surrounding scenic area is very popular with walkers - including the Glyndwr's Way National Trail - and followers of countryside pursuits such as horse riding and fishing. The town is in close proximity to the Brecon Beacons national Park, the hill ranges of the Black Mountains and the historic Offa's Dyke. The region is also steeped in mythology and has evidence of Neolithic farming, celtic hill forts, and remnants of castles from the Middle Ages such as Montgomery Castle.
The town itself has much to offer with fine examples of Georgian architecture to see, many restaurants and bars to savour and several specialist shops selling fine examples of Welsh arts and crafts.