Castell Dinas Brân

Sightseeing attraction | Llangollen | Wales | United Kingdom

"Castell Dinas Brân" is a historic castle ruin near Llangollen, Wales, and a significant landmark of the region. The ruin majestically sits atop a steep hill, offering a spectacular view of the Llangollen Valley and the surrounding Welsh countryside. The castle ruin is of great interest from both an archaeological and historical perspective, attracting numerous visitors who wish to experience the connection between the history of Wales and its impressive nature.

The origins of Castell Dinas Brân date back to the 13th century. The castle was likely built by Gruffudd ap Madog, a Welsh prince, to control the valley and neighboring mountain passes. Its location on the high hill was strategically chosen, providing an excellent view of the surrounding valleys and a natural defense. At that time, the region was a contested area, and the castle was meant to help Welsh princes resist English expansion.

The structure of Castell Dinas Brân underwent constant changes over the centuries. In the 16th century, the castle was abandoned and fell into ruins. Today, only parts of the walls and towers remain, but these remnants still convey an impressive impression of the former greatness and importance of the fortress. Particularly striking is the central tower, which still dominates much of the castle structure and offers an ideal view of the surrounding land.

The path to the castle leads through a scenic area that highlights the nature and beauty of the Welsh landscape. The hike to the ruin is a popular activity, allowing visitors to enjoy the untouched nature of forests, meadows, and hills. The climb to the castle is a bit challenging, but the reward is one of the most beautiful views in the region. From the top of the hill, one has a panoramic view of the Llangollen Valley, the surrounding mountains, and the Dee Valley, which gracefully blends into the landscape.

Castell Dinas Brân not only has historical significance but also plays a role in Welsh culture and folklore. The castle ruin is rooted in various legends and stories and has a place in Welsh history as a symbol of resistance against English rule. The ruin remains a fascinating destination for those interested in the history and culture of Wales, and a place deeply rooted in the collective memories of the region.

For many visitors, Castell Dinas Brân is not only a place of historical interest, but also an idyllic retreat where they can enjoy the peace and tranquility of the Welsh countryside. The ruins themselves exude a certain mystique, especially in fog or twilight, inviting visitors to delve into the history and legends of the place. The impressive backdrop and peaceful atmosphere make the ruin an ideal place for contemplation and exploration.

Overall, Castell Dinas Brân is a fascinating example of medieval architecture and the tumultuous history of Wales. The ruin is not only a significant historical monument, but also a place that celebrates the natural beauty and heritage of the region. Those who visit the castle can delve into the past of Wales while enjoying the stunning landscape of the surroundings.

Contact details

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Address
Llangollen, Denbighshire, Wales
LL20 8D Llangollen

Map view

Opening hours

Sunday0:00 - 0:00
Monday0:00 - 0:00
Tuesday0:00 - 0:00
Wednesday0:00 - 0:00
Thursday0:00 - 0:00
Friday0:00 - 0:00
Saturday0:00 - 0:00

Reviews

1152 Reviews

Maciej Luboiński
04.02.2025

Świetne miejsce. Bardzo przestrzenne
Matilda Sutcliffe
01.02.2025

Really cool castle. Best for a new years party with dramatic night views. Maybe tone down the wind sometimes haha.
Paul Humphries
01.02.2025

Love this walk!! Fabulous views
Daniel Van Fed
22.01.2025

Great walk up, nice view.
David Rogers
11.01.2025

Always amazing to visit, fantastic views and a long history, it is a bit of a walk up from Llangollen but well worth it.
Dion J
08.01.2025

Wanted to visit, but not accessible during the snowy season. Looked quite pretty covered in snow when looking up from Llangollen.
Tom Shore
26.12.2024

Had wanted to walk to the top for some time and so glad I finally made it. The views were 10x as good as I had thought they'd be. The hike itself is steep and we had to stop often on the way up. But, there are no boggy spots, some of it is roughly paved and almost all the rest has stones and gravel. There are a few slippy spots where there are large flat stones set as steps but in all, take your time and you'll make it with no problems.
Byron Owens
22.12.2024

Magical Welsh Castle. Can't wait to come back!
Robbie Scott
03.12.2024

One of the most unique ruined buildings in Wales, steeped in history, you have to be reasonably fit and have good legs to get to the top of the hill, but once you reach it the view is magnificent. There is a footpath from Llangollen, from the canal to the summit, and it is also possible to drive to the panorama cliffs and walk up the steeper path to the rear. I would recommend coming on a clear and still day though!
Nick Jackson
01.12.2024

Such a great place to visit the ruins and the views are incredible
Elen Jones
14.11.2024

Not as difficult to climb as we expected. Steep in places requireing good walking shoes. Unfortunately rather grey and cloudy that day but wonderful view.
Gareth Davies
10.11.2024

You can see this impressive structure against the skyline as you enter Llangollen. Took about 15 minutes to walk up and offers some great views from the top. Well defined trails on both sides. Wasn’t too busy, probably saw about a dozen people in total on the way up/down.
Leonie Witte
08.11.2024

Absolutely beautiful views over Llangollen and a great place even to have a little picnic or just sit for a while at the top. We drove around the mountain and found some off road parking, not sure if there is an actual proper starting and parking point but from where we parked it took only about 15/20 minutes to walk up. The ruins themselves are beautiful as well and mostly clear of rubbish.
Lukasz Chruszcz
26.10.2024

Short walk from small car park down te hill, not to miss
Maggie Creighton
21.10.2024

Wonderful spot
Lorna Beer
20.10.2024

amazing views
Adriano Mania
15.10.2024

It’s just a ruins of the castle but situated on the top of the hill with stunning views. Worth checking
Andrew Caunt
12.10.2024

Great views, nice walk. Few ruins of a 12th Century castle. That's about it!
Barbara Arrowsmith
10.10.2024

Lovely walk …..great views when you reach the top
Graham Birtwell
28.09.2024

Good menu and fabulous spot on the river
Phil Simmonds
19.09.2024

We walked up as a group. The walk is short and steep but some great views at the top and cool views worth an explore. A picnic at the top is nice too as there are areas to shield from the wind. Nice pub near the car park.
Shaya Grosskopf
02.09.2024

A decent slog up the hill to sit amongst the scattered ruins and sheep excreta and enjoy excellent views.
Greta
01.09.2024

Hermoso lugar, increíble vista y paisajes, lo disfrutamos mucho con nuestro perro, es un poco cansado subir pero vale la pena. Y el pequeño pueblo abajo es muy lindo. Solo em parking es muy pequeño.
Hilary Gay
01.09.2024

Steep walk in places, take your time but there is a windy path also. The path is made of state shale in places so good footwear needed!! Views from the top are amazing. There is good parking at the Pavilion parking and a nice short walk along the canal to the base of the clima. Also a cafe and toilets at the base if you use that approach!!

 

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