The continuation of so much industrial activity within a predominately rural setting represents one of the defining characteristics of the region. Prominent towns such as Corwen, Denbigh, Mold, Llangollen, Rhyl, Ruthin and Wrexham enjoy backdrops of outstanding natural beauty, including the Clwydian Range, Dee Valley, Denbigh Moors and Vale of Clwyd. Here, agriculture was forever the order of the day with landed estates such as Gwysaney, Kinmel, Lleweni, Mostyn, Trevalyn and Wynnstay exerting considerable influence on local affairs from the late-medieval period through to the 20th century.