The Church of St. Mary

St. Mary’s was founded in about 1300 to serve the new community. 

Some two centuries later it was doubled in size by the addition of a second nave – turning it into a typical double-naved ‘Vale of Clwyd’ church – and the tower was added.

Later still, in 1820, a kind of fortified mausoleum was attached to the north side, as a secure burial place for the family of Bodrhyddan Hall (Site 37). Though much restored in 1868, the spacious interior of the church preserves earlier features, including the 17th century Welsh texts painted high on the north and south walls.

There are 13th and 14th-century monuments (mainly at the back of the south nave) brought here from the old friary at Abbey Farm. The most remarkable of these (by the altar) is the engraved slab to Friar William de Freney, wearing his full regalia as Titular Archbishop of ‘Rages’ or Edessa (in modern Turkey).

An excellent Cadw guide to the castle and town is available at the castle and a comprehensive guide to the church at St. Mary’s.

The Church is open Thursday afternoons during the summer months.

Also possible to visit around service times.

Castle open May - September, 10.00 am - 5.00 pm daily. Entrance charge.