Rhuddlan is a town with a rich history and one of the most impressive castles in North Wales. A delightful circular walk can be followed past the castle and around via the old town ditch. An equally good extension to the walk can be made along the side of Afon Clwyd and back via the remains of a medieval cross. Be sure to visit St Mary’s church on the edge of Rhuddlan town centre – the churchyard has numerous intriguing monuments and tombstones.
Rhuddlan Castle was built by Edward I in 1277; the castle played an important strategic role in various disputes and uprisings during the following centuries, but then gradually fell into disrepair, before a section of it was dismantled in the 17th century to limit its future use for military purposes. What remains today is still quite imposing; it is certainly easy to imagine what life would have been like here during its hey day.
Just beyond the castle is Twyt Hill, the site of the original Norman fortress. The views of the surrounding landscape from this vantage point are superb.
Approach:
There is a car park opposite the community hall in Rhuddlan, plus some roadside parking.
Terrain:
Mostly good footpaths, but some muddy sections, particularly during rainy periods. The town ditch may be impassable at certain times of the year.