Dramatic ruins set in a stunning landscape.
Castell y Bere sits dramatically on a natural spur of rock that protrudes from the floor of the Dysynni Valley. A great mountain looms to the north-east: Cader Idris, ‘the seat of Idris,’ named after a mythical Welsh giant and astronomer. It is a remote spot and the views are spectacular.
One of the first of several castles built by Llywelyn the Great, Castell y Bere has a history of violence to match its dramatic setting. It was begun in 1221 after a dispute between Llywelyn and his son Gruffudd. Having been entrusted with the control of this part of Gwynedd, Gruffudd proved to be too independent for his father’s liking. Llywelyn imprisoned him and built this stronghold to defend the southern border of his territory.
Llywelyn packed a lot on to the projecting, almost triangular rock. There are the remains of several towers, including two built in a D-shape, a design that Llywelyn seems to have favoured. Uniquely the South Tower – thought to have been the prince’s private living quarters – is isolated from other buildings by a deep, rock-cut ditch. It would have been accessed by a wooden bridge.
Keep an eye out for the remains of the well, just inside the entrance. A medieval wooden bucket was found within this in the 19th century; it can now be seen in the National Museum of Wales in Cardiff.
Castell y Bere was the site of one of the last, doomed attempts by Dafydd ap Gruffudd, the last prince of Gwynedd, to hold off English invaders. On 25th April 1283, after a ten-day siege, a 3000-strong English force took the fortress and Dafydd fled.
Edward I extended Castell y Bere further and established a borough nearby. Only 11 years later, the castle was taken again in a Welsh uprising, and reduced to a ruin.
A wonderful, extensive ruin, perfect for exploring with the family
Free Entry
2 miles north-east of the B4405 at Abergynolwyn.
2½ miles from Abergynolwyn railway station.
No suitable bus service.
2 miles north-east of Abergynolwyn.
2 miles north-east of Abergynolwyn.
Medium. Walking boots required. Dogs allowed.