*Panorama of Dinas Brân

Dinas Brân Castle

There's a rewarding walk to dramatic ruins of the castle and magnificent views

Little remains of this once magnificent fortress, but the dramatic ruins crown the hill above Llangollen, and the effort needed for the steep climb up the pathway is more than rewarded by the spectacular views.

This seemingly impregnable and once-magnificent stronghold was built in the 1260s by the local Welsh ruler, Prince Gruffudd ap Madoc, on the site of a prehistoric hillfort. It had a very short active life, being burnt by its Welsh defenders in 1277 in the face of threatened English attack. It was then held briefly by English forces, but was finally abandoned soon after 1282.

Since then, it has been the focus of many legends, and a magnet for adventurous visitors. There’s a well-signed path up from the canal in Llangollen.

  • *Walk to Dinas Brân
  • *Arch of Dinas Brân Castle

Location

Nearest car park + postcode: Llangollen carparks:
The Royal International Pavilion, Llangollen – Pay & Display -LL20 8SW
Market Street Car Park, Llangollen – Pay & Display – LL20 8PS
East Street Car Park, Llangollen – Pay & Display – LL20 8RB
Mill Street Car Park, Llangollen – Pay & Display – LL20 8RQ
Nearest rail station: Chirk or Ruabon
Nearest town: Llangollen

Location

Dinas Brân Castle, Llangollen, Denbighshire