Canoe & Tunnel Tour at Chirk Aqueduct by Grizzly Adventurer
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
3.5 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should be comfortable on or near water and possess basic paddling skills; no advanced fitness level required.
Overview
Discover the engineering wonder of Chirk Aqueduct from a new perspective with a guided canoe and tunnel tour. Paddle across historic stone arches and through an 18th-century mountain tunnel for a truly memorable adventure in Wales.
Chirk Aqueduct & tunnel Tour
Ages 6+ • 3.5 Hourst• Canoe through the Chirk Tunnel & Aqueduct
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About This Adventure
Embark on a thrilling 3.5-hour adventure at the Chirk Aqueduct, where you can straddle the border between England and Wales. Experience a guided canoe tour through a stunning mountain tunnel, showcasing remarkable engineering from the 18th century. This unique journey promises breathtaking views and unforgettable memories for all fitness levels.
Duration: 3.5 Hours approx
Explore the Chirk Aqueduct, where you can stand with one foot in England and the other in Wales. Located just a short walk from the heart of Chirk, this impressive structure spans the border between the two countries and sits harmoniously beside the Chirk Viaduct. The tunnel tour through the mountain offers a magical and daunting experience canoeing through in the darkness, truly breathtaking there is light at the end of the tunnel!
The aqueduct was a remarkable feat of engineering, designed by William Jessop and Thomas Telford, and constructed between 1796 and 1801. Its innovative design features ten hollow, semi-circular masonry arches, which reduce weight, and an iron bed plate with brick sides for the water channel, sealed with hydraulic mortar.
Highlights
- Guided tour
- All fitness levels welcome
Included
- Canoe & Paddles
- All necessary safety equipment
Excluded
- Food & Drink
- Dry Bags
What to bring
- Weather appropriate clothing and shoes (Including a change of clothes.)
Check in details
- Please note that groups are required to arrive 15 minutes before their experience time.
- Groups arriving late forfeit their experience unless we can reschedule to other times/dates or have their experience altered. These options are entirely at the discretion of Grizzly Adventurer.
Weight limits apply 25-120kg call or email before booking if any participant is outside of this constraint.
Adventure Tips
Wear quick-drying clothing
Water may splash during crossings, so dress in clothes that dry quickly and keep you comfortable.
Bring waterproof gear
A waterproof jacket or pants will help keep you dry in case of splashes or sudden rain.
Check weather conditions
Weather can affect water levels and safety; ensure the forecast is suitable before booking.
Arrive early
Allow time to get fitted with gear and receive a safety briefing before launching.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Kingfishers
- Water voles
History
The Chirk Aqueduct was part of the famous Ellesmere Canal system, built in the late 18th century to facilitate industrial transport of coal and goods.
Conservation
Efforts in the area focus on preserving the historic structures and protecting local wildlife habitats along the waterways.
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Adventure Hotspots in Chester
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Life jacket
A proper life jacket is crucial for safety during canoeing activities.
Waterproof clothing
Helps keep you dry and comfortable through splashes or rain.
spring, summer, fall, winter specific
Sun protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat can guard against UV exposure during long daylight hours.
summer specific
Water shoes or sturdy sandals
Provides grip and protects your feet during water crossings and landings.