History of Ruthin Castle

…afternoon tea with a dash of conquest

One of the crown jewels here at Oak View Lodge Park is that we find ourselves surrounded by centuries of local history. And the History of Ruthin Castle is one not to be missed.

The castle and its gardens are a beautiful place to explore and are just a 10-minute drive whilst visiting your holiday home in North Wales.

Castell Coch yn yr Gwernfor

Descendant of William of Normandy, King Edward I ordered the creation of Ruthin castle under Dafydd, brother of Prince Llewellyn ap Gruffydd. Dafydd had committed treason against his brother, creating a castle in 1277 in which Edward Longshanks could consolidate his rule during the conquest of Wales.

It was originally known by the Welsh name of Castell Coch yn yr Gwernfor or The Red Castle in the Great Marsh. Reminiscent of the early Motte and Bailey design, Ruthin castle possessed a pentagonal upper bailey measuring around 350ft long and 250ft in width. The castle boasted an impressive deep and wide dry moat to ward off intruders.

The de Grey Family

Fast forward to the 1500’s, we find the impressive lodgings in possession of the ‘de Grey’ family. The castle became a symbol of power amidst the throes of the War of the Roses. The ‘de Grey’ family held high positions within the military and in affairs of state; regarded in high esteem by both houses of Lancaster and York.

By the time we reach the Civil war period, the castle was in poor condition and required serious repair. In 1642, the castle received some long over-due at Crown’s expense and it was garrisoned against the Parliamentarian forces. The castle withstood a siege lasting 11 weeks, eventually falling to the threat of mining underneath the castle walls. By 1648, the castle was partially dismantled to deter groups from commandeering the buildings as military bases.

Welsh castle steeped in gossip and intrigue

Amidst the industrial period, the castle found itself central to gossip and intrigue. The land became owned by the Cornwallis-West family, thus becoming involved in a maelstrom of scandal and passion. Colonel Cornwallis-West was rumoured to have been involved in a love affair with the future King Edward VII, plummeting the castle into prominence in the rumour mills.

Following the decline of the family’s social standing, the castle became a private clinic in which to investigate rare diseases, leaving its mark on the histories of British medical development.

Ruthin Castle Hotel and Spa

During the 1960’s, Ruthin Castle becomes a hotel; beginning to resemble the site we know and love. Today, Ruthin Castle is a renowned wedding venue and luxury spa. You will find fine dining and luxury experiences on offer such as a variety of relaxing spa treatments, and Summer Gin Afternoon Tea.

The next time you find yourself enjoying a scone amidst the idyllic views Ruthin Castle has to offer, your experience has been almost 750 years in the making.

Ruthin Castle is located within several acres of parkland in the heart of the Medieval town of Ruthin. The Castle is located on Castle Street, just off the main Town Square in the direction of Corwen.  As you drive through the town centre look out for the stone entrance archway.  If you are lucky, you might even be greeted by one of the resident peacocks as you proceed along the driveway.

For more information – https://www.ruthincastle.co.uk/