Two of Denbighshire’s popular heritage attractions, Ruthin Gaol and Nantclwyd y Dre, have each received a 2025 ‘Hidden Gem’ award.
Awarded annually by Visit Wales, the ‘Hidden Gem’ scheme celebrates destinations that might fall outside of the normal tourist spots, but which are well worth a slight detour to visit, thanks to the memorable visits they offer.
Offering a Victorian prison experience, Ruthin Gaol provides visitors with an exploration of life behind bars in the 19th century, discovering stories of infamous inmates such as the Welsh Houdini, Coch Bach y Bala, while visitors to Nantclwyd y Dre can step through over 500 years of history, from the medieval to WWII eras, and wander in its beautifully kept gardens.
Filled with interactive trails and activities that allow visitors of all ages to discover the stories they have to tell, the unique histories both each attraction is brought to life through audio guided tours, fascinating exhibitions, and immersive soundscapes.
Carly Davies, Heritage Lead Officer, said:
“We are incredibly proud that Ruthin Gaol and Nantclwyd y Dre have been awarded Hidden Gem status for another year. We are always looking for new and exciting ways to bring the history of our historic attractions to life, so it is wonderful to receive this recognition from Visit Wales.”
Councillor Emrys Wynne, Lead Member for Welsh Language, Culture and Heritage, added:
“It is fantastic that Ruthin Gaol and Nantclwyd y Dre have been recognised as Hidden Gems by Visit Wales. These sites offer visitors an authentic, engaging journey into our local heritage and play a vital role in sharing Denbighshire’s unique stories.
“Ruthin is a town steeped in history, and we hope that these recent awards will reinforce what a destination it is for locals and visitors to the area to explore”.