Situated in what could soon be declared Wales’ newest national park, Llanarmon-yn-Iâl offers everything you’d expect from a quaint, picturesque village and more. Its pristine streets exude such charm that you may feel like you’ve stumbled upon a secret you’re reluctant to share with the world.
Tucked away in Denbighshire, it’s not the most accessible location, and there are no major tourist attractions to draw in large crowds. However, its authentic village atmosphere provides an idyllic setting for a tranquil weekend getaway. It’s the kind of place that seems as though it’s been lifted straight from the pages of a fairytale book, making it a perfect spot for capturing some memorable photos.
With its Cotswolds-esque stone cottages, welcoming village pub, and winding lanes that seem to stretch endlessly into the hills, you’ll quickly realise you’ve discovered something truly special.
Unlike the bustling towns of Llangollen or Ruthin, Llanarmon-yn-Iâl ‘s slightly off-the-beaten-path location helps maintain its status as a hidden gem.
Despite its size, the quaint village of Llanarmon-yn-Iâl boasts a rich history. The local St Garmon’s church, standing since the ninth century, houses several notable artefacts, including a memorial to Gruffydd ap Llywelyn ap Ynyr from 1320 and one to Sir Evan Lloyd from 1586, both featuring rare Welsh inscriptions located in the south aisle.
The village pub, the Raven Inn, is more than just a watering hole. It’s a labour of love that serves as a hub for community interaction.
Since 2009, it has been operated by locals for locals to prevent its closure. Initial attempts by villagers to purchase the pub fell through due to insufficient funds, but they later managed to run it voluntarily.
Fast forward to today, and the Raven Inn embodies the quintessential no-frills country pub, where newcomers are always greeted with warmth.
Whether you’re popping in for a pint, a meal, or a relaxed conversation, the positive online reviews suggest you’ll be eager to return.
If you love a cosy pub atmosphere, it’s also worth visiting The Hand at Llanarmon.
Built in the 16th-century as a farmstead, it’s now a quaint but stylish hotel, with a bar area featuring an open fireplace and a restaurant with two AA Rosettes.
Once named among the Telegraph’s thirty cosiest pubs in the UK, it’s the ideal spot to finish a country walk.
There are certainly are plenty of walks to choose from around Llanarmon-yn-Iâl.
From leisurely strolls along ancient drovers’ roads to challenging ascents up Moel Famau, or meandering footpaths leading to concealed caves and historical ruins, the landscape offers the very best of natural beauty.
For those with a taste for adventure, the area offers more than what first meets the eye. Nestled in the nearby hills are overlooked caves and age-old paths that seem untouched by time.
Some trails lead to decaying ruins, while others offer views so stunning they could easily belong to a film set.
The area around Llanarmon-yn-Iâl could soon be named Wales’ fourth national park.
The Welsh Government is attempting to turn the Clwydian Range and Dee Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty into a designated national park, which would make it the first new one in Wales since 1957.
Natural Resources Wales (NRW) is currently reviewing the proposal. T
he organisation is tasked with collecting evidence and making recommendations to the Welsh Government, based on what’s most beneficial for nature, people, and communities.