North-east Wales itinerary

For centuries, Rhuddlan had been a fiercely contested strategic location leading to much bloodshed.

Edward’s power triumphed long enough to build a muscle-bound symmetrical castle, showcasing the latest in ‘walls-within-walls’ technology.

The castle also played a seminal role in Welsh history: it was here that a new system of English government was established over much of Wales by the Statute of Rhuddlan (1284) – a settlement that lasted until the Act of Union in 1536.

After the Civil War the castle was rendered untenable – hence its present condition.

Crowning the summit of a prominent outcrop overlooking the Vale of Clwyd, the principal feature of the spectacular Denbigh Castle and Town Walls is the triple-towered great gatehouse dating back to the thirteenth-century. 

Along with over half a mile of town walls, Denbigh Castle is a classic fortress of Edwardian proportions. 

Henry de Lacy, one of the king’s loyal commanders, was given control of the area and had the task of building the new castle.

He couldn’t go far wrong with the king’s master mason, James of St George, at his side. It wasn’t all plain sailing however. A Welsh rebellion, led by Madog ap Llywelyn, captured the partly-built castle in 1294, but Edward’s dominance and the castle-building programme were soon restored. 

You can see for yourself the two phases of building work. The post rebellion work is marked by different colour stone, thicker curtain walls and a hint of Caernarfon-style angular towers. 

Also, don’t miss Leicester’s Church, Denbigh Friary and the Burgess Gate.

Prettily set in a wooded landscape, Rug Chapel’s exterior gives little hint of the highly decorative and colourful wonders within. 

Never judge a chapel by its exterior! Step inside this seventeenth-century building and prepare to be wowed by its decorative flourishes.

Llangar Old Parish Church, a mile or so away, is a few centuries older and retains its charming early Georgian furnishings and an important series of wall paintings.

Set in a beautiful valley location, a visit to the fascinating Valle Crucis Abbey evokes the lives of the Cistercian monks. 

The best–preserved medieval monastery in north Wales, enhanced by the only surviving monastic fish pond in Wales, the remote yet magical location must have raised a smile or two amongst the serious-minded monks.