Castell Ewloe — Attraction in Hawarden

As I made my way to the awe-inspiring Ewloe Castle, tucked away in the lush woodlands of North Wales, the beauty of the surroundings was only eclipsed by the warm welcome I received at the delightful café en route. With friendly staff and delicious, golden chips that perfectly complemented the serene atmosphere, the café became an unforgettable part of my journey.

A haven for nature enthusiasts, Ewloe Castle's grounds are home to the enchanting greater crested newts - a protected species which only adds to the area's charm. As I wandered the winding paths towards the castle, I found myself captivated by the harmonious coexistence of history and wildlife.

Ewloe Castle, or "Castell Ewlo" in Welsh, stands proudly as a testament to the ancient Welsh architecture of the 13th century. Built by Llywelyn ap Gruffydd, known as Llywelyn the Last, the castle's unique design of a D-shaped tower (tŵr D-siap) reflects the blend of native Welsh and English influences of the time.

As I explored the well-preserved ruins, I felt a deep connection to the past and the proud Welsh heritage it represents. Ewloe Castle serves as a reminder of the resilience of Welsh culture in the face of historical adversity. I left with a renewed sense of appreciation for the history, people, and natural beauty that makes Ewloe Castle and its surroundings a truly...

Wow, what a great tour of a very old castle in Wales. We walked from the parking area to the castle in about 15 minutes. The trails are well established and although it was raining, it was quite easy to walk.

On our approach we crossed a nice stream/river and the path is very accommodating all ages. We were quite winded after climbing about 25 elongated steps but we were out of shape and needed much exercise anyway.

The castle was quite sturdy and there is evidence of restructuring and stabilization work from 2015. Although the steps within the castle were quite slippery and wet, we were able to climb them no problem.

Another great aspect was the awe inspiring history on the information sign they placed at the front. So much history makes you feel so insignificant. Even the thickness of the walls make you wonder just how they managed to build such a structure long ago with primitive tools.

We strongly recommend any and all visit this wonderful castle hidden in the hills of Wales. You’re sure to love the entire walk and nature of This...

Ewloe Castle is a fascinating and atmospheric ruin tucked away in the heart of Wepre Park. Unlike many castles in North Wales, this one was built by the Welsh princes — probably by Llywelyn ap Gruffudd in the 13th century — rather than by the English crown. Its history makes it a rare example of native Welsh castle design, and the distinctive D-shaped tower still stands proudly among the trees. The setting is unusual and enchanting, as the castle lies deep within the forest and is reached by a lovely walk through woodland paths. You can also take a path and walk by the nearby river at the feet of the ruins. Entry is completely free, and you can climb part of the tower for views over the site. The area has a calm, almost hidden charm, perfect for a peaceful walk or a bit of historical exploration. Do note that after rain the ground can become quite muddy and slippery in places, so sturdy shoes are...