Pontcysyllte Aqueduct, Llangollen

The Pontcysyllte Aqueduct, a feat of engineering and a testament to the industrial revolution, is a navigable aqueduct located near the town of Llangollen, in the county of Wrexham, Wales. Completed in 1805, this remarkable structure carries the Llangollen Canal over the valley of the River Dee.

With its 18 towering stone piers and 19 arches, the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct stands as the longest and highest aqueduct in Britain, soaring 38 meters (126 feet) above the river. Designed by Thomas Telford and William Jessop, the aqueduct spans an impressive 307 meters (1,007 feet) in length. It is often referred to as the "Stream in the Sky" due to the unique experience it offers to boaters navigating the canal, seemingly suspended in mid-air.

The aqueduct not only serves as a navigational route but has also become a popular tourist attraction. Visitors can walk across the aqueduct on a pedestrian walkway that runs parallel to the water channel, offering breathtaking views of the Dee Valley and the surrounding countryside. The walkway is secured with a handrail on one side, while the other side remains open, giving an unobstructed view of the sheer drop to the river below.

For those who prefer a more leisurely pace, narrowboat trips are available, providing a tranquil cruise across the aqueduct with commentary detailing its history and construction. The site is a testament to the ingenuity of the early 19th century and has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, an honor that underscores its historical and cultural significance.