Rhuddlan. What’s in a name? ‘Rhudd’ is the old Welsh word for ‘red’ and ‘glan’ means ‘bank’. The Normans left us with ‘roe’, a word derived from the French ‘le rous’, meaning redhead. ‘Roeland’ is first mentioned in 1086 but by 1277 it was known as Rhuddlan and Edward I’s chosen location for a mighty scary castle.
For centuries, Rhuddlan had been a fiercely contested strategic location leading to much bloodshed. Edward’s muscle power triumphed long enough to build a muscle-bound symmetrical castle, showcasing the latest in ‘walls-within-walls’ technology. Edward I needed access to the sea to keep his castle supplied so he diverted the River Clwyd for over 2 miles (3.5km) to provide a deep-water channel for ships. The remains of a defended river gate still exist in the outer ring of the walls.
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.
Please note, families of children with disabilities can obtain free admission for one disabled visitor and one carer as standard. Proof of DLA may be requested.
Access Information: Grounds are level, 1 dedicated disabled parking space, disabled toilet, guide dogs welcome.
Free admission for foster families.
How to Redeem: Foster families must produce a valid Max Card on the day of visit. Terms and Conditions: • Foster families entitled to free admission for up to two adults and all accompanying children.
• Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer.
• Management reserves the right to refuse admission.
