Built by Eilseg, Prince of Powys, it was later abandoned by De Warenne, who decided to build a new castle at Holt near the River Dee. The ruins remain stark against the skyline, the walk is worth it for those who have the stamina.
Castle on the Llangollen Canal
Guide To Castell Dinas Bran
Half a mile north of Llangollen, on top of a 1100 ft. mountain, Castell Dinas Bran was a vital fortress defending Wales from the English.
Castell Dinas Bran Pictures
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Castell Dinas Bran Reviews
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Review from Google Places
5 May 2025
13th century ruins of a castle sit on top of a steep hill. It offers a 360 degree panoramic view of the valley. It takes approximately 30 min to get to the top and it is definitely worth the climb cause the views are spectacular.
Review from Google Places
10 April 2025
If you enjoy a hike up a steep slope or two you will no doubt enjoy this experience. The views on the way up and down and along with those on top are well worth the effort. Only moderate fitness is needed for this walk which can be accessed from near the Tea Room on the canal in Llangollen or from the Sun Trevor Bar further east on the main A road. The old castle is in ruins but still holds great charm from its commanding situation on the Bryn y Brân hill.
Review from Google Places
1 April 2025
Such a beautiful walk. We arrived Sunday morning around 9am and had the whole castle to ourselves for a while. It definitely got busier as the morning progressed.
Review from Google Places
28 March 2025
A lovely walk on a sunny day to take in the surrounding vista, plenty of places to sit, we saw people picnicking. Only a short walk if you drive up the hill and park on the roadside, no charges for parking or entry. It’s a bit steep and there are no railings do take care with small children.
Review from Google Places
26 December 2024
Had wanted to walk to the top for some time and so glad I finally made it. The views were 10x as good as I had thought they’d be.
The hike itself is steep and we had to stop often on the way up. But, there are no boggy spots, some of it is roughly paved and almost all the rest has stones and gravel. There are a few slippy spots where there are large flat stones set as steps but in all, take your time and you’ll make it with no problems.
