A day out in Welshpool

Ever wondered what a day-tripper thinks of Welshpool when they visit?

By Peter Westwood, from the West Midlands

Crossing over the border into Wales and through the scenic landscapes just four miles on you enter Welshpool, a little town with a population of just over 6,000.

Despite this small population, it is still a town which has much to behold for those that may be stopping on their journeys into Wales.

In both a cultural and historic sense, Welshpool has a lot to offer. When you first enter the town you are hit with a number of historical options. A train route historically passed through the town and it can be followed along to the new station at Welshpool.

The old railway line, which was opened in 1860, was closed in 1956 with only little remains of the track which made way for the new A483 road.

Welshpool is also known for its landmarks and although there aren’t many in numbers, the quality sure makes up for the quantity.

The main one of those being Powis Castle which is owned by the National Trust and is about a 20-minute walk from the town centre.

The castle itself is medieval and still has its unique look standing tall with its impressive landscape surrounds. It also has a vast collection of items with the Clive Museum alongside featuring many exhibits from India and the Far East.

It also features stunning gardens which hold the castle’s majesty together with an array of landscapes and lavish gardens and statues which add to the beauty.

The Castle also has famous visitors having once been visited by Queen Victoria who, at the time, was a child when her mother took her in 1832.

Another historical feature within Welshpool is Powysland Museum which was established by the local history society and contains collections which cover the archeological and social history of Montgomeryshire.

Its collections range from the early days of the Bronze Age through to the end of the Second World War to highlight the vast array of history throughout the area.

The canal offers scenic walks along with the backdrop of the mountain views. Boat trips are also available.

A landmark which may seem out of the ordinary is the Welshpool Cockpit located just off the town centre. It was originally built, as the name suggested, for cockfighting and is the only one in Wales that is still in its original form.

As a small town, you sense the community spirit and unity which you may not get in other towns. This sense of spirit makes the town welcoming and, along with its impressive attractions, is something that the town can be proud of.

PICTURE: Courtesy of Eye in the Sky Drone Shropshire.