Llanymynech Canal Wharf is a community-run facility which welcomes visitors and tourists to the “international parish” of Llanymynech. Besides light refreshments, the centre provides displays and exhibitions about the canal, Heritage Area and other local places of interest to the visitor. Guided tours can be arranged, there is a picnic area and the village has a variety of places to eat.
Historic interest
Llanymynech Wharf was an important transhipment point for coal, used in the flourishing local lime industry and for domestic use, and for exporting limestone and farm produce. It is surrounded by the Heritage Area where you can walk the footpaths and discover the remains of inclined tramways and kilns, especially the magnificent and unusual Hoffman lime kiln – one of only three remaining in this country and the best preserved.
Wildlife
The site is rich in wildlife. Interesting nature trails lead through the scrubland surrounding the industrial sites and the old wood of Llwyn Goch. The woodland spring flowers and the meadows in summer are worth visiting. At the top of the inclines, you enter the old quarries, now a local Wildlife Trust reserve, with extensive views over the surrounding English and Welsh countryside. This was one of the first Sites of Special Scientific Interest designated as such in Britain.
The visitor centre is open on Saturdays & Sundays from Easter to end of September from 1.00 – 4.00 for light refreshments, canal based exhibition and small gift shop.
