Floating market, music and historic trails planned at iconic aqueduct site
A MAJOR community celebration is set to take place this weekend to mark the success of a two-year heritage project at one of Wales’ most iconic canal landmarks.
The event, on Sunday (March 22), will be held along the Llangollen Canal in Chirk, centred around the historic Chirk Aqueduct—part of the wider UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Built in 1801 by renowned engineers Thomas Telford and William Jessop, the 700-foot aqueduct carries the canal 70 feet above the River Ceiriog and remains one of the most striking feats of industrial engineering in Wales.
Sunday’s free event will celebrate the culmination of a community and heritage-led initiative delivered by Glandŵr Cymru, with support from the UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund via Wrexham County Borough Council.
Visitors can enjoy a packed programme of activities, including a floating market featuring local traders, live music, and a free water taxi service provided by Anglo-Welsh Waterway Holidays, transporting passengers between Chirk Bank and the aqueduct.
A self-guided history trail will also allow visitors to explore lesser-known landmarks along the canal and through the town, while families can take part in building their own LEGO model inspired by a newly unveiled six-foot display at the local museum.
The day will begin at 10am with the ringing of six bells at St Mary’s Church—bells that were originally transported to Chirk via the River Severn and the canal itself in the 19th century.
Organisers say the project has worked closely with communities in Chirk, Trevor, Froncysyllte and Cefn Mawr to celebrate the rich industrial heritage of the area and inspire future generations.
Anna Finn, community development manager for Glandŵr Cymru, said: “It’s fantastic to have the community coming together to celebrate their local canal heritage.
“The aqueduct is a remarkable feat of engineering that still connects people, places and histories along the canal today. Events like this help bring that story to life.”
Project director Claire Farrell added that the initiative has helped uncover and share the “enormity of industrial heritage” still visible across the region.
Local councillor Keith Sinclair said the event would give visitors the opportunity to explore the wider impact of the canal on surrounding communities and landscapes.
A free heritage bus service will operate between Chirk and the aqueduct throughout the day, while those who register in advance will be entered into a prize draw, including vouchers and a canal boat trip.
The celebration also forms part of wider plans throughout 2026 to mark the 225th anniversary of the Chirk Aqueduct, with further events expected later in the year.
Organisers say the event promises to showcase not only the area’s rich history, but also the strong community spirit that continues to keep it alive today.
