Have you ever visited an abandoned castle? Near the England border in North Wales, you’ll find the ominous abandoned castle called Ewloe Castle. While it’s not as spectacular as something like Neuschwanstein in Germany, it’s pretty cool. And most definitely a hidden gem in North Wales. Check it out.

Abandoned Ewloe Castle, a hidden gem in the Wepre Woods of Northern Wales.

Once a remarkable 13th century castle, all that remains today is ruins. Nowadays, locals and avid explorers seek out the abandoned castle to take a step back in time and wander the mystical structure which once stood strong.

With an eerie and otherworldly sort of atmosphere, this place is nothing short of captivating.

One might expect a lingering ghost to be around the corner whilst wandering the crevices of Ewloe Castle. Hiding in the shadows; waiting and watching for visitors to come across this abandoned fortress.

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Though, with so many abandoned castles — maybe known but most no doubt hidden from society — dotted throughout Wales and the UK, it makes you wonder… what used to be?

Who used to walk the foyers and eat in the great hall?

What was the purpose of this abandoned castle before it was forsaken?

Why was it left behind in the dust?

Read More: Road Tripping Through Southern England and The Often Forgotten Country of Wales

Yet, surprisingly, most experts who’ve studied the history behind Ewloe Castle are still a little puzzled. There remains many unanswered questions about this abandoned castle.

For example, some evidence suggests part of the castle was built in the middle of the 12th century; a Welsh tower surrounded by a filled motte.

Though, there’s a distinct lack of evidence to support this… as this sort of construction wouldn’t make sense with the lay of the land.

Additionally, there’s been some clashing of opinions over the phasing of the construction of the Ewloe Castle. Some think the castle was built entirely by Llywelyn ap Gruffydd, dating back to 1257.

Though, recent interpretations say part of the castle was built by Llywelyn ap Iorwerth, sometime around 1210.

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Although there remains a little uncertainty, a few mysteries behind the castle in the woods near Ewloe have been uncovered.

Long ago, Ewloe Castle was one of the last built by the native Welsh princes. Though, they didn’t inhabit the castle for long.

During the First War of Welsh Independence, Edward I invaded Wales in 1276, seizing all territory east of the River Conwy including Ewloe. The castle, which was once part of Wales, now belonged to the English.

Though the English inhabited the castle after the battle, its use was short-lived. Thus, as they left for more coastal locations where the army could more easily be resupplied, Ewloe Castle was abandoned.

Who knew something which was once strong and steady could be forsaken so easily?

As time passed, the abandoned castle was battered by weather and its stonework sadly stolen for other purposes. Now all that’s left are the ruins visitors see today. A beat-up and crumbling abandoned castle, yet it remains marvelous, if not a bit eerie.

If you like this, you might like: Abandoned Waterpark Hunting: Hue, Vietnam

How to Visit Ewloe Castle Ruins

You can enter Wepre Woods (aka Wepre Park) through two different places.

Whilst visiting, we decided to enter through the closer gate, which is near Ewloe-Northrop Hall Road. Just a short 5-10 minute walk, curious wanderers stroll past a pleasant field, pass through some gates, and come across the tucked-away Ewloe Castle.

The 2nd entrance is near the Wepre Park Kids Play Area and carpark. From there it’s about a 15-20 minute walk. A pleasant stroll through Wepre Park, which is filled with lush greenery, a beautiful river, and relaxing scenery.

But… is there more?

Heck ya! If an abandoned castle and beautiful scenery isn’t enough to get you here, that’s not all the Wepre Woods have to offer.

Fables and folklores say the castle is haunted by the ghost of ‘marching men‘ and, in the surrounding 160 acre woodland between Connah’s Quay and Ewloe, Nora the Nun is said to stroll and bewilder curious wanderers.

So, if you happen to hear a soft whisper in your ear, a rustle in the woods, or spot a ghostly shadow hiding behind a tree, just know you’re not alone…

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Need some inspiration on where to visit in the neighboring countries of England and Scotland? Check out this post on the 10 exceptional places to visit in England and this post on 15 crazy awesome places to visit in Scotland!

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Have you ever visited Ewloe Castle? Or another abandoned castle somewhere in the world? Tell me, tell me, tell me! I’d love to check it out. Let me know in the comments!

Sophie xx

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