Gwydir Uchaf Chapel

Sightseeing attraction | Llanrwst | Wales | United Kingdom

The Gwydir Uchaf Chapel in Llanrwst is a historic chapel located in the heart of the Welsh countryside, possessing a fascinating cultural and religious significance. It was built in 1673 on the grounds of the Gwydir Estate and is one of the most remarkable chapels in the region, both for its architecture and its religious history.

The chapel is an outstanding example of Welsh church architecture from the 17th century, impressing with its simple yet impressive design. Originally built as a private chapel for the Wynn family of Gwydir, one of the most prominent families in North Wales, the chapel served as a place of prayer and devotion for the family and their guests, as well as the local community living in the region.

A striking feature of the Gwydir Uchaf Chapel is its remarkable interior. The chapel preserves a variety of historical details, including intricately crafted woodwork and an exceptional organ, one of the oldest in Wales. Particularly noteworthy is the beautiful wooden altarpiece found in the chapel, as well as the numerous ancient religious artifacts that give the space a deep historical and spiritual atmosphere.

The chapel's architecture is in the traditional Welsh style, with the simple rectangular layout and sloping roofs standing out. The combination of traditional materials and elegant details makes the chapel an impressive example of sacred architecture of that time.

The Gwydir Uchaf Chapel is not only a place of worship, but also a significant monument to the history and cultural heritage of Llanrwst and its surroundings. It has a long history of religious use, serving generations of community members and family members as a place of reflection and prayer.

The chapel is a integral part of the historic Gwydir Estate, known for its magnificent gardens and buildings. The entire area surrounding the chapel is characterized by natural beauty, attracting numerous visitors interested in the history of the region and its architectural treasures. The peaceful atmosphere of the place and the spiritual significance of the chapel make it a popular destination for tourists and history enthusiasts.

The Gwydir Uchaf Chapel offers a unique insight into the religious and cultural heritage of Llanrwst, presenting a fascinating contrast to the often grand churches and cathedrals of the region. Its intimate, historical atmosphere and its long history make it a particularly significant landmark in the Welsh landscape. Visitors to the chapel will not only immerse themselves in the past, but also enjoy the tranquil and peaceful environment that makes this place a special destination for history and architecture enthusiasts.

Contact details

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Phone
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Address
1 Tyn Y Coed Gwydyr
LL26 0PN Llanrwst

Map view

Reviews

25 Reviews

Rachael Edwards
31.07.2023

After visiting Gwydir castle (which is amazing and like stepping back in time)we picked up a huge key from the gentleman on the gate , ready to have a look around the Chapel . What a gem and well worth the visit.The ceiling is rather special.
Naomi
24.06.2023

You need to call the nearby castle with 24 hours notice and collect the key to access the chapel from there. 🗝️
Jim Froud
29.05.2023

We were lucky to meet a couple who had the key (on loan) and so we did not have to wait or give contact details to the nearby Gwydir Castle. The chapel is extensively decorated in a style which seems incongruous but is charmingly naive, as it may well have been in the distant past.
Darwin Caubang
24.09.2022

Nice and tranquil place to reflect...
Andy Foster
19.09.2022

This is a wonderful little building. The plain exterior gives no hint of the glories within. The 1673 fittings are all complete, with pulpit, lectern, seating round the sides, Royal Arms of Charles II, and an altar with three-sided 'Laudian' rails. But the finest thing is the painted ceiling, rustic but splendid. It shows the Adoration of the Trinity, with God the Father, the Christ symbol, and the dove of the Holy Spirit surrounded by adoring angels. It must be the most Catholic interior of a seventeenth century Anglican church; there's even a Sacred Heart. The chapel is now open by appointment. It is free. You ring Gwydir Castle down the road to ask for the key. They need 24 hours notice.
Bucko
15.09.2022

Quiet
Asica Cyb
11.01.2020

Unfortunately we weren't able to get the key but we will come back and hopefully will have more luck next time... Surrounding nature is outstanding... Beautiful place
steven freeman
31.12.2019

Delightful
Rachel Finnegan
30.07.2019

You have to go down to the castle to get the key, it is closed Monday and Tuesday but the kind lady let us have the key.
Rose Stevenson
29.05.2019

. . A really stunning really place the paintings are beautiful. To view the Chapel you need to visit the castle to get the keys. The lock is difficult to open, but well worth the effort.
Anthony Lavery
12.05.2019

Very old and a little bit creepy. Only 2/3 services each year: Christmas, Easter & one other. On a hill with a severe gradient.
Ronald Holme
21.04.2019

A Beautiful and tranquil place I was.at the church service
Shane Moore
21.12.2018

Lovely Chapel keys are kept at the Castle if you would like a look inside.🤩
Samuel Hulse
15.05.2018

It was intresting
Russell Cederberg
10.10.2017

It was such a great hike to get there, the forest path and steps were not silent and stories were to be heard around every turn. The chapel is quite singular in my experience because of the paintings and the trek to get there. What a wonderful, enriching day it was. Don't forget to hang out in Llanrwst afterwards for a pint or a cupper. I love this place!
Kim Wiltshire
14.09.2017

Worth noting that if you want to have a look inside you'll need to collect the key from the nearby castle.

 

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