Open Doors - The Old Courthouse, Ruthin

The Old Courthouse in St Peter’s Square Ruthin was built as a purpose built courthouse in the early 1400s. Dendrochronology has dated the building to 1421. It was replaced as a courthouse in the late 1770s when the Library building (Courthouse) was built in Record Street. For the next 150 years or so it was used as a commercial premises for several businesses, including Aldrich’s Ironmongers. In the 1920s the National Provincial bank took over the whole building and undertook a complete restoration. The bank, now the NatWest, closed in 2017 and has since been purchased by Ruthin Town Council and it is now used as a community hub, council offices and a venue for exhibitions and events. 

Interpretation panels about the building and the other historic sites in Ruthin can be seen during the Open Doors weekend. In addition there will be a rare opportunity for the public to see some interesting historic objects belonging to the Council. These will include a casket commemorating the award as a Freeman of Ruthin, hand bells and old paintings of Ruthin. Volunteers will be on hand to answer questions.

No booking required. 

Address - The Old Courthouse, St Peter's Square, Ruthin, LL15 1AA.

The Old Courthouse is central to Ruthin, between the Church and the Medieval Castle. Ruthin is well served by buses from Chester, Corwen, Denbigh, Rhyl and beyond. Castle Street is a short walk from the bus stops in Wynnstay Road and Market Street.