Open Doors - Denbigh Castle

Denbigh Castle is one of the fortresses that formed King Edward I's "ring of castles", four of which (Caernarfon, Conwy, Harlech and Beaumaris) have been named World Heritage sites.

Construction of the castle began in 1282 by Henry de Lacy, one of Edward I's chief commanders. It was not the first stronghold to occupy this strategic site: it was built over the stronghold of Dafydd ap Gruffudd, the Welsh leader crushed by Edward in 1282.

During the Civil War (1642-1649), the then decaying castle was repaired by Colonel William Salesbury. In 1646 the castle endured a nine month siege.

When Denbigh finally surrendered on 26 October 1646, it was only after the king had personally ordered Salesbury to do so.

No booking required.

The 2026 Denbigh Open Doors Weekend launches on Friday 18th September 2026 with a self-drive Tour of the Vale followed by an evening lecture at Theatr Twm o'r Nant, “Restoring and repositioning Brookhouse Mill for the future”. Over the following two days, Saturday 19th and Sunday 20th September 2026, thirty historically important sites in the locale will be open to the public. This will be supplemented by children’s workshops, guided tours and an interactive show. A booking service for events with limited places will be available through Denbigh Library, closer to the weekend. Further information will be available www.darganfoddinbych.cymru and https://www.facebook.com/opendoorsdenbighshire

LL16 3NB

///what 3words: (Eng) ///denbigh.cries.book.ambushed (CYM) ///daeareg.gwenog.gwyntog  Bus stop in the High Street in Denbigh Town Centre, a signposted 200m walk up to the Castle. Bus services 51 from both Rhyl and Wrexham to Denbigh