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Visiting the garden at Penrhyn Castle

View along the Fuchsia Arch in the Walled Garden at Penrhyn Castle
The walled garden at Penrhyn Castle and garden is covered in frost. | ©National Trust Images/Paul Harris | © ©National Trust Images/Paul Harris

Like the castle itself, Penrhyn’s gardens are extensive and offer something for everyone. Make sure you pack your sense of adventure and expect the unexpected.

Autumn Highlights in the Garden

Penrhyn Castle looks spectacular in the autumn as the red Virginia Creeper covers the castle walls and the trees turn golden. Look out for fruits and seed heads appearing on the trees, shrubs, and flowers. In the Walled Garden, look out for the last of the summer colour, especially the Fuchsia Arch which continues to flower well into September.

The Bog Garden 

Monstrous Gunnera plants dominate the jungle like Bog Garden. Lose yourself amongst its leaves during the spring and summer or head up to the lookout point by the thatched hut for an elevated view. Take a moment to sit on a garden bench and soak up the sights and sounds the Bog Garden has to offer.  

The Walled Garden 

Peace and tranquillity can be found in the precise topiary, geometric lines, symmetric ponds and meticulous planting of the Walled Garden. Here, Walter Speed’s 19th-century vision for one of Britain’s top three gardens of the time can really be appreciated. 

Picnic with a view at Penrhyn 

With views over Conwy Bay and Eryri (Snowdonia), the unfussy lawns at Penrhyn are a perfect spot for a picnic. Young explorers can run, roll and cartwheel to their heart's content.  

A garden with a view 

From 'Maple Lawn' and the back of the castle you can enjoy clear views down the North Wales coast to Llandudno, the Great Orme and Puffin Island. 

The front of the castle and gardens face Snowdonia and have far reaching views of Carnedd Llewelyn peak on a clear day.

The castle itself was strategically placed to give an uninterrupted view of the Penrhyn Quarry at Bethesda. 

 

 

Visitor looking at the mountains of Snowdonia from Penrhyn Castle's garden at sunset

Discover more at Penrhyn Castle and Garden

Find out when Penrhyn Castle and Garden is open, how to get here, the things to see and do and more.

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Visiting Penrhyn Castle 

The castle exterior hides an opulent and lavishly decorated interior. A much-loved home to the Pennant family, learn about some of the glorious rooms you can see on your visit.

The grand dome of the Grand Staircase at Penrhyn Castle with skylight and plasterwork

Explore the estate at Penrhyn Castle 

Why not take a stroll off the beaten track and visit the hide down by the River Ogwen. Families will also enjoy the natural play area. Remember to bring your wellies.

An aerial view of the Penrhyn estate in autumn

Coming soon: Industrial Penrhyn 

Penrhyn Castle's Stable block is currently closed whilst we develop a new experience arriving later in 2024. Find out what's happening here.

Two visitors inside a steam locomotive looking at the engine at Penrhyn Castle

Eating and shopping at Penrhyn Castle 

Visit the Castle Café for delicious lunches and tempting cakes whilst the shop offers a range of locally sourced gifts. Browse the second-hand books for a bargain.

A close up of a scone covered in cream and jam