Our funding of £2.2million to Gwrych Castle Preservation Trust has been awarded to protect and preserve the nationally important heritage site for future generations.
The main building of the 19th century Grade I listed castle was at risk of collapse. Our funding will support urgent repairs including the return of roofs and floors to the main building, that had to be halted during the pandemic.
Gwrych Castle was built in the Gothic style in the 1800s. The site was extended in 1845 and a chapel added in the 1870s. Much of the gardens were planted during this time, including Monkey Puzzle and Yew trees which remain today. During the Second World War, the castle was requisitioned to house around 200 Jewish children seeking safety.
The site has been identified by Cadw (the Welsh government’s historic environment service) as an irreplaceable cultural asset. The impressive Italian marble staircase inside is considered one of the Seven Wonders of Wales. Public attention gathered as the castle became the home of ITV’s I’m A Celebrity Get Me Out Of Here in 2020 and 2021.