72 Hours in Wrexham: Things to Do In and Around Town

If you’re looking for exciting things to do in North East Wales, head to the charming market town of Wrexham. Nestled between the picturesque Welsh mountains and lower Dee Valley, it’s a prime destination for avid ramblers and wildlife enthusiasts.

A stone’s throw away, the National Trust owns more than 1,200 acres of open parkland, home to rare flora, insects and birds. There’s also plenty of historical attractions nearby sharing stories of the region’s fascinating past.

Even when the weather’s wet, there’s still lots of things to do in Wrexham. How about treating the kids to a day of discovery at the local science centre or refuelling with a mouth-watering meal? Nothing beats lovingly prepared, traditional fare like Pen-y-Lan pork and wild mushroom rarebit.

Keep reading as we reveal some unmissable activities to add to your itinerary during your visit. There’s a treasure chest of places to visit in Wrexham just waiting to be explored!

Day One

St Giles’ Parish Church

Hailed as one of the seven wonders of Wales, the Grade I listed St Giles’ Parish Church is a must-see for history buffs. The imposing 16th-century bell tower dominates the surrounding landscape, imbuing visitors with a lasting sense of wonder. Meanwhile, the hall remains one of the finest examples of ecclesiastical architecture in the country.

Inside, you’ll find a collection of precious stained glass windows and grand stone structures supporting the high ceilings. Another point of interest includes “The Doom Painting” – an original artwork depicting the Day of Judgement. Once you’ve feasted your eyes on biblical scenes, travel to the tower’s top and enjoy astonishing panoramic views of Wrexham’s bustling streets and rolling fields.

Erddig

Looking for places to visit near Wrexham? Just two miles south of Wrexham town centre sits Erddig. This Grade I listed building provides an unparalleled insight into the lives of 18th to 20th-century servants in Wales. The eccentric Yorke family (who owned the house until 1973, before passing it onto the National Trust) had an unusual relationship with their staff. Unlike their gentry contemporaries, they expressed their gratitude through an intimate collection of portraits and poems.

The outside is equally impressive, boasting a fully restored 18th-century garden with herbaceous borders, rows of pleached limes and a diverse collection of ivies. Beyond the perfectly manicured lawns lies an expansive park peppered with rivers and ancient earthworks for peaceful picnics in the sun.

The Bank Wine Bar and Bistro

The Bank Wine Bar and Bistro is an independent, family-run establishment that has been delighting residents and tourists since 2009. Its ethos is simple – serve home-cooked meals infused with love, using only the best locally-sourced ingredients. Most importantly, the chefs cook dishes to order, not a microwave in sight (Gordon Ramsay would be proud).

Tuck into dishes like maple-glazed gammon, pineapple salsa and quails egg, or goats cheese, hazelnut and pickled beets. Fortunately, there’s a comprehensive drinks list for tired travellers in need of refreshment, including Wrexham lager on draft.

Day Two

Chirk Castle

While many people think time travel is impossible, you can easily experience the world of yesteryear with a trip to Chirk Castle – a magnificent medieval fortress of the Welsh Marches. The building’s rich history manifests in lavish interiors and unique design styles, including a Neoclassical staircase hall, Tudor timber-framed walls and Gothic Revival alterations.

The estate’s parkland is located within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, with wildflower meadows enticing holiday-goers with heady aromas and kaleidoscopic colours. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of the elusive peregrine falcon and short-eared owl as you traverse the undisturbed countryside.

Bedlam Paintball

Although being chased with mock guns isn’t everyone’s idea of fun, some people can’t get enough of the thrill. Bedlam Paintball is renowned for its realistic, purpose-built zones and wacky game scenarios. You’re no longer a tired working professional, but a courageous film star fighting off bad guys with a flurry of fluorescent paint pellets! Of course, paintball is an acquired taste, which is why there’s also outside laser tag and low-velocity games for kids.

Anise

Indulge in spices and lip-smacking flavours at Wrexham’s finest Indian restaurant, Anise. On entry, knowledgeable staff will greet and seat you before recommending the most popular Indian and Bangladeshi dishes on the menu. Savour grilled meat straight from the tandoor, or try tequila and coriander marinated king prawns. The environmentally conscious will be in their element as there’s an extensive vegan spread, overflowing with vegetables and tangy tasting exotic fruits.

Day Three

Mountain Escapes

You can’t come to Wrexham without wandering its winding hiking trails, which is where Mountain Escapes step in – they have a team of accomplished guides leading excursions across Wales.

North Wales is an ideal setting for climbers, thanks to its rugged mountainsides and glacial valleys. Daring mountaineers flock to Castell Dinas Bran and Trevor Rocks, hoping to scale the dramatic limestone escarpments and quarried walls, while others prefer gentler multi-day expeditions, long-distance walks and navigation courses. The choice is yours!

Xplore! Science Discovery Centre

In September 2020, Xplore! Science Discovery Centre opened its new and improved hub to educate children and big kids alike. Now one of the most fun things to do in Wrexham, it offers everything from eye-opening science demonstrations to jam-packed games. Plus, there’s a wealth of engaging activities on offer to ignite the whole family’s curiosity.

Alongside baby, toddler and sensory sessions, you can even book an adult-only gin tasting experience under the stars! Here, you’ll have the opportunity to view over 65 interactive science exhibits while sampling artisan mixers and alcohol inspired by the Clwydian range.

Grove Park Theatre

Grove Park Theatre is Wrexham’s oldest amateur theatre, delighting visitors with unforgettable evenings of entertainment. After a long afternoon savouring the sights, round off the experience with a selection of comedy, drama and thriller shows with a tipple in hand. If you’re in the area around Christmas, you can’t miss the famous pantomime – little ones are sure to adore the lively costumes and songs!

Now you’ve uncovered some of the top places to visit in Wrexham, why not explore the surrounding areas for even more fun? Take a look at our blog for more information on things to do and places to stay on your next Welsh adventure.