On the outskirts of Bangor in North Wales, just off the banks of the Menai Straights, stands the awe-inspiring Penrhyn Castle. If you are planning a holiday in the area then a great choice of accommodation is available in the form of Ty’n Rhos hotel Caernarfon.
Originally it was a medieval fortified country house which was founded by Ednyfed Fychan. Since 1438, when a licence was granted to add defensive crenels to the house, there have been many modifications to the property.
The renowned architect Thomas Hopper expanded and transformed the castle between 1820 and 1833 on behalf of the 2nd Baron Penrhyn, George Hay Dawkins Pennant. What we see today is a much larger castle with the original spiral staircase and some of the masonry features that date back to the 15th century.
In lieu of death duties from Lady Janet Dougles-Pennant, niece of the 4th Lord Penrhyn, the land and castle were passed and accepted by the Treasury in 1951. Penrhyn Castle now belongs to the National Trust.
Since it was taken under the wing of the fantastic charity that is the National Trust, much work has been carried out and today it is quite a spectacle. As well as its awe inspiring turrets and interiors, the grounds it sits on are considered some of the most diverse and beautiful in all of Wales.
The enormous neo-Norman castle boasts many interesting features and many fascinating rooms. There is something for everyone at Penrhyn Castle. It heralds many fascinating intricacies such as the one-ton slate bed that was constructed for Queen Victoria’s stay. It houses elaborate carvings, a selection of mock-Norman furniture and a phenomenal collection of paintings – one of the finest collections of art in Wales. You can peruse the Lord Penrhyn sitting room or wander the warren of workrooms in the servants’ quarters. In the stable block there is both a railway museum and a delightful dolls’ museum. They both warrant a thorough investigation.
On top of this glorious building there are some 60 acres of grounds which includes a delicate Victorian walled garden and an exotic tree and shrub collection and the unique water garden. Throughout the year, the grounds and parklands are strikingly beautiful. With wild flowers and wildlife dotted all around, there is always something new around every corner. There is a plethora of birds to be spotted in this area such as buzzards, kestrels, barn owls and jays and badgers and foxes are regularly seen. The ponds are also brimming with life in the form of newts, toads and stunning dragonflies.
It is easy to spend a whole day at Penrhyn Castle, wandering the grounds and learning about the history of this heritage rich building. But on top of all of that there are regular events such as woodland walks, photography exhibitions and family fun days.
You are sure to have a great day out as you delve in to the rich past of North Wales. But beware after dark… there are some stories of ghosts lurking within the walls of this great edifice!