Walking Through Time: The Ruthin Town Trail
Nestled amid the emerald folds of the Vale of Clwyd, Ruthin is a compact Welsh jewel, bursting with history as layered as its stunning architecture. Described by Simon Jenkins as “the most charming small town in Wales,” a stroll through Ruthin isn’t merely a walk—it’s a step through centuries.
Trail Overview
- Distance: 1.5 miles (2.4 km)
- Time: 90 minutes
- Route: Circular
- Start Point: Cae Ddôl car park (LL15 1HN)
- Style: Some steep sections—comfortable shoes recommended.
1. Cae Ddôl – Gateway to the Meadowlands
Begin at the tranquil Cae Ddôl, a lovely water meadow beside the River Clwyd. Ducks, swans, a playground, and a skate park welcome visitors before you step into Ruthin’s rich past.
2. Ruthin Gaol – Echoes of the Past
At the base of Clwyd Street, the gaol stands in grim elegance. Originally built in 1654, its Pentonville-style wing from 1868 is the only one of its kind open to visitors in Britain. Creep through cells immerse yourself in the grim history, and maybe muster courage for a peek into the condemned man’s cell.
3. The Old Courthouse – Half-Timbered History
Climb Upper Clwyd Street to the half-timbered Old Courthouse, built around 1421 after the previous one was destroyed during Owain Glyndŵr’s revolt. A haunting gibbet perches ominously on its gable, a relic of darker times. Nearby, King Arthur’s legend lives on via a massive stone, Maen Huail—said to be where he beheaded a love rival.
4. Nantclwyd y Dre – Wales’ Timbered Treasure
On Castle Street lies Nantclwyd y Dre, Wales’s oldest timbered townhouse, dating from 1435. Thoughtfully restored interiors walk you through “Seven Ages” of Welsh life, while its peaceful Lord’s Garden offers a serene stroll.
5. Ruthin Castle – Gothic Illusion
The dramatic sandstone gateway and lodge you’ll pass is actually Victorian, created in 1826 by Henry Clutton. But behind lies the bones of a 13th-century castle. Wander into the ruins—steeped in both myth and history or why not treat yourself to a stay or an afternoon tea at the luxury hotel and spa.
6. Ruthin Library – From Courts to Quiet Study
Once a court where official records and punishment lingered, this 1785 building transitioned from Assize to Magistrates Court until 1986. Now it houses the library—where the only sentence is a small fine for late books.
7. Ruthin Craft Centre – Creativity Amid History
On reaching the craft centre via Well Street, you enter one of Wales’s most prestigious venues for applied arts. Opened in 2008, it features galleries, workshops, residencies, a café, and a tourist info hub—all housed in a striking building that blends modern design with its historic surroundings.
8. Town & Market Halls – Gothic Civic Pride
Cross into Market Street to see where livestock markets once bustled. Today the Market Hall sells has been reborn as a boutique market for artisans and ethical traders, while the adjacent Town Hall stands as a grand Victorian Gothic landmark.
9. St Peter’s Church – Spiritual Heart of Ruthin
Built in 1310 and later reshaped by Victorian restoration, the double-naved St Peter’s is rich with Tudor timber ceilings, finely carved metal gates from 1727, and memorials of local luminaries like Gabriel Goodman who endowed the almshouses.
10. Tom Pryce Memorial – Racing Spirit
Pay homage to Thomas Maldwyn Pryce, Ruthin’s beloved F1 driver who tragically died at 27 while competing in the 1977 South African Grand Prix. A bronze relief by local sculptor Neil Dalrymple marks his legacy and hometown pride.
Spy Holes & Art Trail – Adventure in the Streets
Beyond architecture, Ruthin has a playful side—the Art Trail launched in 2014. It features ten “spy holes” embedded in walls and 22 hidden figures across the town. Created to inspire exploration, each spy hole illustrates tales from local legend and history. Red waymarkers, benches, new trees, and audio guides bring the experience to life so keep a look out for them as you walk through Ruthin.
The Ruthin Town Trail is journey through time, blending peaceful nature, dark history, artistry, architecture, and local pride in under two miles. Ideal for families, history lovers, art enthusiasts, or anyone seeking a magical microcosm of Welsh heritage.
You can download the town trail here.
