Llangollen Pavilion, Abbey Road, Llangollen

button-theme-canallink_to_welsh_translationlink_to_portuguese_translation link_to_french_translation link_to_mandarin_translation

 

The large building just below the canal towpath was opened by Queen Elizabeth II in 1992 and originally named the Royal International Pavilion. It provides the main venue for the annual Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod, where musicians and dancers from across the world compete in a spirit of friendship and harmony.

The pavilion was designed by DY Davies Associates as a venue which could be expanded to accommodate the large Eisteddfod audiences, while at other times of the year providing a smaller auditorium for performances and other events. The building features an eye-catching main entrance, with offices and the stage area enclosed in a structure clad with stone and roofed with slate. Canvas is used to enclose a grassed area for the larger Eisteddfod auditorium, retaining the atmosphere of the Eisteddfod’s original marquee. The pavilion is operated by Denbighshire County Council.

The Eisteddfod was first held in 1947 as Wales’ response to the horrors of two world wars. The theory was that music is an international language, and bringing together people from countries around the world would foster tolerance, understanding and peace.

In 1955 the eisteddfod ground was enlarged by the addition of a field bought from Penddol farm. The cowsheds still stand, by the northern entrance to the ground.

More than 4,000 performers travel to Llangollen each July to compete in c.25 competitions. The experience of performing at Llangollen has inspired some contestants to follow musical careers including Luciano Pavarotti, who sang at Llangollen with his local choir from Modena in 1955.

The Eisteddfod traditionally involves the whole town, with performers undertaking impromptu performances in open spaces. Concerts are held at St John’s Church, near the pavilion.

The pavilion is used throughout the year for concerts and other entertainment, and for conferences, fairs and classes. For details, follow the link below to the pavilion’s website.

Postcode: LL20 8SW     View Location Map

Website of Llangollen pavilion

Website of Llangollen Eisteddfod

button_tour_canal3-E Navigation up stream buttonNavigation downstream button