NEWS

The Rescue of Gwrych Castle September 2026

A £4,500,000 Project to Secure the Future

Gwrych Castle is currently undergoing one of the largest conservation projects of its kind in Britain. In March 2026, a major programme of works began to restore the Castle Core and East Wing, marking a significant step forward in the recovery of this historic building.

This £4,500,000 project focuses on reinstating the essential structure of the castle, from floors to roofs, ensuring that large parts of the building can be protected and brought back into use.

The works are centred on stabilising and weatherproofing the castle:

  • Reinstating floors and roof structures across the Castle Core and East Wing

  • Making the building weather tight for the first time in decades

  • Protecting historic stonework using traditional lime mortars and conservation methods

  • Installing new rainwater systems designed to cope with modern conditions

  • Preparing interiors for future restoration and public access

By the end of this phase, approximately 75% of the main house will once again have floors and roofs in place. This will be the first time this has been achieved since 1985! 

What lies beneath

During investigations for these works, the remains of a late medieval house were discovered within the East Wing. These important remains are being carefully protected and have influenced the design and scope of the current project.

Opening the castle again

The areas currently under restoration, including the East Wing and principal interiors, have been closed to the public since 1985.

As this phase progresses, these spaces will be opened to visitors for the first time in over 40 years, allowing people to experience parts of the castle that have long been lost.

Project timeline

  • Start on site: March 2026

  • Duration: Approximately 80 weeks

This work forms the foundation for future phases, which will complete the restoration of the remaining sections of the castle.

Supported by

This project has been made possible through the generous support of:

  • National Heritage Memorial Fund

  • Garfield Weston Foundation

  • Wolfson Foundation

  • The Pilgrim Trust

  • The Richard Broyd Charitable Trust

  • Rhyl Flats Wind Farm

  • Gwynt y Môr Wind Farm

  • Architectural Heritage Fund

  • Swire Trust

  • Historic Houses Foundation

  • Ironmongers’ Foundation

  • Vinehill Trust

  • The Georgian Group Cleary Fund

  • Mr and Mrs North

Alongside these major funders, the restoration is supported by donations from individuals, trusts and supporters who share the vision of securing Gwrych Castle for future generations.

Looking ahead

This is a vital stage in the long term restoration of Gwrych Castle. By securing the structure from floors to roofs, the project protects the building from further decay and creates the conditions needed to restore and reopen its historic interiors.

The work you see today is part of a much larger journey, returning Gwrych Castle from ruin to a living and accessible historic place.