Open Doors — Rhuddlan Castle

For centuries Rhuddlan Castle had been a fiercely contested strategic location leading to much bloodshed. Edward I's muscle power triumphed long enough to build a muscle-bound symmetrical castle, showcasing the latest 'walls within walls' technology. Edward I needed access to the sea to keep his castle supplied, so he diverted the River Clwyd for over two miles to provide a deep-water channel for ships. The remains of a defended river gate still exist in the outer ring of the walls. The castle also played a seminal role in Welsh history: it was here that a new system of English government was established over much of Wales by the Statute of Rhuddlan (1284) - a settlement that lasted until the Act of Union in 1536. After the Civil War the castle was rendered untenable - hence its present condition.

Getting there - Road: Rhuddlan via A525 or A547. Rail 4mls/6kms Rhyl, Chester - Prestatyn/Llandudno route. Bus 250 yards/220m Services 35/36 Rhyl - Rhuddlan/Prestatyn and service 51, Denbigh - Rhyl.