Rhuddlan Castle

Rhuddlan, United Kingdom

Rhuddlan Castle was erected by Edward I in 1277, following the First Welsh War. The castle was completed prior to the rebellion of Llywelyn the Last in 1282. The remains of older Norman castle at Twthill, built in 1086, is just to the south of the current castle.

In 1294 the castle was attacked during the Welsh rising but was not taken. It was attacked again in the by forces of Owain Glyndŵr in 1400. This time the town was badly damaged but the castle held out. In the latter 15th and early 16th centuries the castle's condition deteriorated as its strategic and administrative importance waned.

Rhuddlan Castle was again garrisoned by Royalist troops during the English Civil War, and remained a stronghold of King Charles I of England until well after the Battle of Naseby, being taken by Parliamentary forces under Thomas Mytton after a siege in 1646. Two years later, Parliamentarians partially demolished the castle to prevent any further military use. By the time Pennant passed through in 1781, it was largely ruined.

Architecture

Rhuddlan was planned as a concentric castle. It has a unique 'diamond' in layout as the gatehouses are positioned at the corners of the square baileys instead of along the sides like at Flint, Harlech or Beaumaris. Records of construction costs show that it was the major piece of building work being carried out by the English during the late 1270s.

The inner ward has defensive walls with twin-tower gatehouses. The outer ward is surrounded by a curtain wall that has small towers and turrets. The castle had a three-sided moat, with the River Clwyd protecting its fourth side. Within the inner ward there was a great hall, kitchens, private apartments and a chapel. The outer bailey had a granary, stables and a smithy.

 

 

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Details

Founded: 1277-1282
Category: Castles and fortifications in United Kingdom

More Information

en.wikipedia.org

Rating

4.5/5 (based on Google user reviews)

User Reviews

Brain damaged war vet motorcycle instructor guy (2 years ago)
We camped close by to the castle so took the opportunity to check it out. It is well maintained with modern stairways installed so you can get to the top of some of the towers. Informative notice boards are scattered throughout the site giving a really good history of the castle and the important roll it played in protecting the river and trade shipping routes of the day. There was an activity laid on for younger visitors in the form of a sand pit with archaeological treasures hidden within and a small gift shop serving coffee and over priced snacks. Totally worth the visit though just for the views but would recommend bringing your own picnic and flask. The site is also dog friendly so the whole family can get to enjoy the day ??
Amanda Fletcher (2 years ago)
Great castle ruins. Lovely setting. There are staircases so You can climb the towers . Children's games were laid out on the grass near to the entrance hut. Shop and hot and cold drinks, ice creams are available. Reasonable entrance fees. Dog friendly except in the towers.
No Bs Reviews (Kirk) (2 years ago)
Beautiful castle to visit. There's not really much here to do other than see the sights. But plenty of space for a picnic. And the views are amazing. The castle isnt open everyday so please check the times and days on the image ive taken.
Michael Scott (2 years ago)
Lovely castle to visit and pleasantly surprised how important this castle was back in the 1200s. The whole site is immaculate with very nice staff a little souvenir shop and toilet. Adult price £4.80 bargain.
Michelle Royds (2 years ago)
A great castle to visit, walk around and photograph. Unusual that you can walk down the steps and walk in the moat. Entry price is good. Staff are very friendly.
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