Rhuddlan Castle

Rhuddlan Castle is a striking ruined medieval fortress standing on the banks of the River Clwyd in the small town of Rhuddlan, Denbighshire. Built by King Edward I from 1277, it was one of the first of his great ring of castles constructed to secure English control over North Wales, and it played a key role in the wars against Llywelyn ap Gruffudd.

The castle has a distinctive concentric plan, with a diamond-shaped inner ward defended by twin-towered gatehouses and surrounded by a lower outer wall. Just as remarkable as the stonework is the engineering feat that supported it: Edward's workmen straightened and deepened nearly three miles of the River Clwyd to create a navigable channel, allowing supply ships to reach the castle's own dock gate directly from the sea.

Visitors can climb sections of the walls and towers for views across the river valley and the surrounding countryside. The castle is in the care of Cadw and sits within easy reach of Rhyl, Prestatyn and the wider North Wales coast, making it a rewarding stop for anyone interested in medieval military architecture.