THINGS TO DO

Once home to petty criminals and infamous inmates, Ruthin Gaol is a unique attraction that blends storytelling with heritage. Walk the original cells, see the punishment block and hear real stories of former inmates to get a fascinating glimpse into Victorian prison life in North Wales. This is a must-visit for families, history lovers and curious visitors wanting to understand the town’s darker past. Learn more.

Ruthin’s oldest timbered townhouse Nantclwyd y Dre offers a beautifully preserved journey through centuries of Welsh history. Each room reflects a different era, with charming gardens to explore outside. It’s a captivating place to experience the evolution of daily life, architecture and design in the heart of this historic town. Learn more.

Ruthin Craft Centre is a hub of contemporary applied art, showcasing the work of talented makers from across the UK. With ever-changing exhibitions, a stylish gallery and a welcoming café, it’s an inspiring space for art lovers and curious visitors alike to explore creativity, discover unique pieces and enjoy a relaxed cultural experience in North Wales. Learn more.

Set in the Vale of Clwyd, a true walker’s paradise, the hotel is surrounded by stunning scenery from rolling valleys to dramatic hills. Explore routes for all abilities, including Moel Famau’s rewarding summit views or sections of the historic Offa’s Dyke Path, one of the UK’s most iconic long-distance trails. A selection of maps with a variety of interesting local walks can be collected from Reception.

Just a 40-minute drive from the hotel, Pontcysyllte Aqueduct is a breathtaking feat of engineering and an UNESCO World Heritage Site, carrying the Llangollen Canal high above the River Dee. Walk across the towpath or take a boat trip across for stunning panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. It’s an unforgettable experience that combines history, adventure and some of North Wales’ most dramatic scenery. Find out more.

Snowdonia National Park is a living working area, located on the west coast of Britain covering 823 square miles of diverse and unique landscapes. Along with being the largest National Park in Wales, Snowdonia is home to the largest natural lake in Wales and the highest mountain in England and Wales, as well as a wealth of picturesque villages including Betws y Coed, Beddgelert and Llanberis. Steeped in culture and rich history, where more than half its population speak their native Welsh language. Find out more.

Historic and vibrant Wrexham is just 18 miles from Ruthin, reachable via the stunning Horseshoe Pass, Denbighshire.

The city is home to the world-famous Wrexham AFC, a club that boasts not only the world’s oldest international football stadium, but also celebrity owners. The area has witnessed a boom in popularity since the release of the Netflix documentary ‘Welcome to Wrexham’, a docu-series that follows the fascinating story of the purchase and stewardship of Wrexham AFC, by Hollywood A-Listers Rob McElhenney and Ryan Reynolds. A rise up the league tables and a huge growth in visitors and celebrities visiting the town, has resulted in Wrexham becoming one of the most talked about locations in the country.