Gwrych Castle
Gwrych Castle (translates to Hedge Castle) is as large as it is impressive. Heading West along the A55 you cant miss its large imposing form as it stands out against its green wooded back ground. The castle is a Grade 1 listed building and sits on the edge of the town of AbeRgele.
Before we take a look at its past, its been made quite famous recently which has helped fund much needed renovations to the castle. The Covid epidemic meant that Australia was a no go for the famous duo of Ant and Dec. This time the star of I’m a celebrity was North Wales very own Gwrych Castle. A large and ambitous restoration was well underway before the castles TV fame. If anything the money raised and increased awareness has helped speed along the process.
As far as castle in North Wales go, Gwrych Castle is not very old. The castle itself was built between 1810 and 1825, though an original hall can be traced back to medieval times. Owners came an went through the years will nobility transferring ownership at times. The castle was highly renowned at one time and was said to have been visited by none other than Queen Victoria herself.
During the 1960’s Gwrych Castle become a show piece visitor attraction for North Wales. Events such as medieval re-enactments with jousting an banquets were common and the Motorcycle Dragon Rally used the venue. Its eventual decline has landed it in the ownership of the Gwrych Castle Preservation Trust.
The difference they have made in just a few short years is amazing and the castle is well worth visiting. Especially if you are a fan of the I’m a celebrity tv show, just to see the locations. The ground also contain history going back far further in time. The remains of two Iron age hill forts can be seen as well as a Roman shrine and old mines. Up on the castle walls the views of the north wales coast are awesome, you can see Llandudno’s famous Ormes off to the east. Moreover the entire coastline and the blue Irish sea too.
You can find the castle here – Llanddulas Road, Abergele, LL22 8ET
