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A big inheritance
From elegant Victorian architecture to the crumbling walls and earth works of our ancient ancestors. Our rich legacy gives this corner of Wales its special character. And, with its own unique story to tell, each place gives a magical glimpse of the past.
Conwy town is a great place to start exploring the local history. The dramatic 13th century castle towers over one of the best examples of a medieval walled town in Europe. Aberconwy House, dating back to the 14th century, is believed to be the oldest surviving townhouse in Wales, and just a short walk away is Plas Mawr, the Elizabethan townhouse with its distinctive tower and beautiful interior plaster work.
Along the coast at Rhos-on-Sea are the remains of Bryn Euryn ancient hill fort, and the ruins of Llys Euryn built on the site of a 13th century palace. But our local history goes much further back. Excavation work at the Great Orme’s 4,000 year old copper mines has uncovered thousands of bone tools, as well as hundreds of metres of prehistoric passages.
Inland, the lonely remains of Dolwyddelan Castle can be seen for miles around on its Snowdonian ridge. Built by Llywelyn the Great, it’s one of the few officially Welsh castles. It’s well worth a visit for the fantastic views alone.
Gwydir Castle is set within fabulous gardens in the Conwy Valley. Famous for its peacocks and some truly spooky supernatural sightings, it’s one of Wales’ finest examples of a Tudor courtyard house.
From pristine country house lawns to public gardens, we have some of the country’s most beautiful examples right in our back yard. The celebrated Bodnant Garden is a must-see for serious gardeners, or those who enjoy life’s simple pleasures. It features terraced and wild gardens, perfect lawns and a colossal range of plants from all over the world. Camellias in spring, blue flowering hydrangeas in the summer and berrying trees during autumn are just some of the seasonal highlights.
From its sheltered spot on the Great Orme, the gardens at Happy Valley enjoy great views over Llandudno bay. Some faithful restoration at Haulfre Gardens on the Orme’s south face have returned this much-loved spot to its former glory.
From grand houses, to sublime gardens, our wonderful heritage is an integral part of our lives, carefully managed for our enjoyment today, and for years to come. And if you visit just one of our national treasures, you’re sure of an unforgettable day out.
In good hands
Our historic houses and gardens are lovingly looked after so we can all enjoy them. Visit www.cadw.wales.gov.uk and www.nationaltrust.org.uk for details of other heritage properties.
Did you know?
Alice Liddell (Alice in Wonderland) stayed with her family on Llandudno's West Shore.
The 'new' Llandudno was designed as a complete model town in the mid 19th century. It was originally a copper mining settlement.
The Summit Complex was once owned by boxing champion Randolph Turpin. Before that it was a telegraph station, signalling the approach of ships to Liverpool.
