Mysterious and impregnable ancient hill fort
Little is known about the origins of Castell Cawr (Giant’s Castle). Standing on the summit of Coed y Gopa overlooking the town of Abergele, the area today is largely overgrown, but extensive paths around the hill are maintained by the Woodland Trust.
Castell Cawr would appear to have been a small but well-defended hillfort. It is built on a natural limestone outcrop with sheer cliffs to the north-east and substantial earth ramparts to the west and south. Even today, some of these rise up to 10 metres (33 feet) in height. A timber rampart on top of the earth bank would have made the defences at this hill fort formidable.
Though no excavation has ever been carried out, a recent survey by the Woodland Trust indicates a number of platforms where roundhouses may have once existed. In its day, the position would have commanded extensive views over the lower Clwyd Valley.
Follow minor road uphill at Junction of B5443 at entrance gate to Gwrych Castle. Parking after 0.7 miles.
Abergele - 1 mile
Nearest bus stop at Elden Drive near Gwrych Castle entrance
40 minute walk to hillfort
Footpaths to summit. Moderate walking uphill. There is no signage making it difficult to find correct path. OS map recommended.
Full Figure Grid Reference: SH 935767 OS Landranger map sheet: 116