Exciting Changes Ahead for Ruthin

11 March 2026

There’s a real buzz around Ruthin as major improvements begin to take shape across the town square and surrounding areas. Thanks to the UK Government’s Local Regeneration Fund (LRF) Denbighshire County Council is delivering a series of projects designed to protect Ruthin’s heritage, improve public spaces, and make it easier and safer to get around the town on foot or by bike.

In 2023, the UK Government confirmed their intention to provide £10.95 million of grant funding for 10 capital projects aimed at protecting Ruthin’s unique heritage, wellbeing, and rural communities. This funding has been awarded exclusively for successful projects included in Clwyd West and cannot be directed to other projects.

The proposed works will look to widen the scope for hosting events and revitalising historical buildings and landmarks to support local identity, whilst also promoting pride of place and boosting the image of the town.

While these works are underway, one message is more important than ever:

Ruthin is very much open for business.

Shops, cafés, markets, and attractions are trading as usual – and your continued support makes a huge difference.

What Improvements Are Coming?

St Peter’s Square Transformation

One of the biggest changes you’ll see is in St Peter’s Square, which is set for a thoughtful redesign to create a more welcoming, flexible, and pedestrian friendly space. This includes:

• Removing the roundabout to create a larger gathering area near the Clock Tower

• Space for outdoor café seating and community events

• Improved active travel links, including making Market Street one way for vehicles while keeping two-way cycle and walking routes

These upgrades are all about celebrating what makes Ruthin special while giving the centre a fresh, modern feel.

Market Street Enhancements

Market Street is also getting a lift, with new paving, making it safer for pedestrians. These changes are designed to make the Ruthin more inviting and accessible.

Public feedback has been positive, with most respondents saying the plans will make the town centre safer and more attractive.

Cae Ddol Park Improvements

The much-loved Cae Ddol Park will also see upgrades including:

• New wildflower planting

• Refurbished toilets

• New bridges and routes

• A new bike and scooter track

• Outdoor gym equipment

These changes aim to create a park even more enjoyable for families, walkers, and outdoor enthusiasts.

Clock Tower Restoration (already completed)

You may have already noticed the beautifully restored Ruthin Clock Tower, following refurbishment of its stonework, clock face and mechanism. This was one of the early LUF successes and has brought fresh life to this iconic landmark.

St Peter’s Church & Cloisters

Dyffryn Clwyd Mission are delivering this part of the project to improve the Church and Cloisters to preserve the heritage and history of the building while making it a more accessible space for everyone.

Supporting Local Businesses During the Changes

We know that construction periods can bring some disruption — but Ruthin’s businesses are open as always. The works are being completed by OBR Construction who are providing a liaison officer to support local businesses during the transition.

Here’s what you can expect:

• Shops and cafés remain open throughout the works

• Pedestrian access will be maintained, with clear signage

• Parking and delivery access will continue, though some routes may be adjusted

• Events and markets will still take place, making the most of the new flexible spaces

Are Ruthin’s Main Attractions Still Open?

Ruthin Craft Centre continues to operate normally and remains open to the public Tuesday–Sunday, 10:00–17:30, with free admission and onsite parking.Current exhibition, workshops and events are listed on their website.

Nantclwyd y Dre and Ruthin Gaol will reopen to the public on Saturday 28 March 2026. Look out on their social media for details of events. Part of the LRF grant will be to further improve the offer at Nantclwyd by renovating the west wing and a small, two-storey garden structure from the 18th century known as the summerhouse. At the Gaol ground floor of 46 Clwyd Street will become a prominent entrance to the Gaol with an enhanced ticket office and reception area, a café, additional exhibition spaces, and public research space for the North East Wales Archives.

Ruthin Castle– still open for business, the beautiful grounds are also worth a visit.

Looking Ahead

Ruthin’s character and charm remain at the heart of these plans, and we’re excited to see the transformation. In the meantime if you need some ideas for a walking route, please download our town trail. There are a number of independent shops and cafes in Ruthin making it an unique town with a interesting architecture from across the centuries giving it a real sense of the history. As you walk around look out for the little boxes which are part Ruthin’s Art Trail to see the town from a different perspective.

It has also been confirmed that Gwyl Ruthin Festival will continue as usual in July so everyone can enjoy their favourite get together on the square with bands and performers still to be confirmed.

By late 2026, St Peter’s Square, Market Street, and the wider townscape will have been transformed into safer, more flexible, more attractive spaces — and even better suited for events, community life, and everyday enjoyment.

Keep visiting and supporting Ruthin’s wonderful local businesses.

Grab a coffee, browse independent shops, meet friends in town, or enjoy a walk around Cae Ddol. Every visit helps to keep Ruthin thriving.