Ruthin Cottages with Hot Tubs

Get More From Your Ruthin Hot Tub Cottage Break

Sightseeing

Ruthin packs in plenty of attractions despite its small size. The town centre features well-preserved medieval architecture including half-timbered buildings and narrow streets. Ruthin Craft Centre (LL15 1BB) showcases Welsh crafts with free entry and opens Tuesday-Saturday 10am-5:30pm, Sunday 11am-4pm.

Ruthin Castle (LL15 2NU) combines medieval ruins with a Victorian mansion now operating as a hotel. The grounds are worth exploring even if you're not staying there. It scores 4.5/5 on TripAdvisor. Ruthin Gaol (LL15 1HP) offers a fascinating look at Victorian prison life, also rated 4.5/5 on TripAdvisor. Open April-September, Wednesday-Sunday, 10am-5pm.

Nantclwyd y Dre (LL15 1RG) dates back to 1435 and has been restored to show how people lived through different periods. TripAdvisor users rate it 4.5/5. The Lord's Garden behind the house has been recreated as a 17th-century garden. Open April-September, Wednesday-Sunday, 10am-5pm.

I recommend driving 20 minutes to Loggerheads Country Park (CH7 5LH) for excellent walking trails through limestone gorges. The park has a café and visitor centre. Open daily with free entry but paid parking.

Pet Friendly

Many Ruthin cottages welcome dogs, making it easy to bring your four-legged family members along. The surrounding countryside offers endless walking opportunities where dogs can run free. The Clwydian Range has numerous trails suitable for dogs of all fitness levels.

Loggerheads Country Park welcomes dogs on leads, with water available at the café. Moel Famau Country Park (CH7 5SH) is another excellent spot for dog walking with miles of paths through heathland and forest.

In town, The Castle Hotel (LL15 2NU) allows dogs in the bar area where you can enjoy a meal without leaving your pet behind. Ruthin's outdoor market (Saturdays) is also dog-friendly. We've found most shops in Ruthin will let well-behaved dogs in - just ask first.

Remember to pack poo bags, a towel for muddy paws after walks and your dog's bed to help them settle in the cottage. After a day exploring, they'll appreciate lounging near you while you enjoy the hot tub!

Top 3 attractions you have to see in Ruthin

Ruthin Gaol (LL15 1HP) offers a fascinating glimpse into Victorian prison life. As Wales' only purpose-built prison open to the public, it tells stories of former inmates through interactive exhibits. The punishment cells are particularly eye-opening. A visitor recently wrote: "Such an interesting place with lots of information about the prisoners and their crimes. The kids loved the interactive elements."

St Peter's Square forms the heart of Ruthin with its distinctive timber-framed buildings. The Myddelton Arms building dates from 1590 and features a clock installed in 1883. Around the square, you'll find independent shops, cafés and Ruthin's 13th-century church. It's perfect for people-watching with a coffee from one of the local cafés.

Ruthin Craft Centre (LL15 1BB) is Wales' most important craft gallery with changing exhibitions showcasing the best in contemporary craft. The three galleries feature work from national and international artists. The on-site craft studios let you watch craftspeople at work and the shop sells handmade items. A recent visitor commented: "Always something new and interesting to see. The café serves excellent homemade food too."

Is Ruthin suitable for a weekend break?

Yes! Ruthin works brilliantly for a weekend. The compact town centre means you can explore the main attractions in a day, leaving time to enjoy your cottage's hot tub. Add a day trip to nearby Llangollen or a walk in the Clwydian Range and you've got a perfect weekend.

When is the best time to visit Ruthin?

Spring and summer offer the best weather for exploring, but autumn brings stunning colours to the surrounding hills. Winter can be magical, especially if you're staying in a cottage with a hot tub and wood burner. Ruthin hosts a music festival in June and a food festival in September worth planning around.

Do I need a car in Ruthin?

While you can reach Ruthin by bus from Denbigh, Chester or Wrexham, a car gives you much more freedom to explore the countryside and nearby attractions. Many cottages are located outside the town centre, making a car essential.

Are there good restaurants in Ruthin?

For a small town, Ruthin has excellent dining options. On The Hill (LL15 1DW) serves modern British food using local ingredients. The Castle Hotel (LL15 2NU) offers traditional pub meals with a Welsh twist. Café R at the Craft Centre (LL15 1BB) is perfect for lunch with homemade soups and cakes.

What's the nearest beach to Ruthin?

The nearest beaches are about 30 minutes drive away. Prestatyn has a sandy beach with good facilities, while Talacre Beach offers sand dunes and a lighthouse. Both make good day trips from your Ruthin base.

Can I go walking directly from Ruthin?

Yes! Several footpaths start from the town. The Clwydian Way passes through Ruthin and there's a pleasant riverside walk along the River Clwyd. For more challenging hikes, drive to Moel Famau (15 minutes away) for spectacular views across North Wales.

Helpful links:

1. Visit Wales - Things to do in Ruthin
2. Denbighshire County Council - Ruthin Tourism
3. TripAdvisor - Top Attractions in Ruthin