‘Hidden Gem’ award for Ruthin historic house and gardens

Nantclwyd y Dre has been accredited as a Quality Assured Visitor Attraction and awarded Hidden Gem status following an assessment by Visit Wales.

The historic house offers a unique exploration of over 500 years of history, from medieval up to the 20th century. The hidden and extensive gardens are described as ‘immaculate, with attractive flower beds and fruit and vegetable plots, provide a tranquil space right in the heart of Ruthin’.

Nantclwyd y Dre also offers visitors the opportunity to observe the house’s special maternity roost of Lesser Horseshoe Bats via a ‘Bat Cam’!

Following the assessment Visit Wales granted the house the Hidden Gem award for 2023, an accolade the historic site has won before in 2017, 2018 and 2022. The assessor stated that the attraction provides ‘an excellent welcome with the highest standards of customer care and information provided’ and that Hidden Gem status is ‘deservedly awarded once again this year’.

Kate Thomson Manager of Nantclwyd y Dre, said: “We are really pleased to receive the accreditation and the Hidden Gem award from Visit Wales. Our staff here work really hard to help and support visitors to the house and it’s great that Visit Wales have recognised their contribution in the assessment.

“We are also grateful for the support from the Ruthin community that inspires us to share this fantastic house that’s full of history with all ages who come through the door.”

Councillor Emrys Wynne, Denbighshire’s Lead Member for Welsh Language, Culture and Heritage, said: “This is great news for Nantclwyd y Dre, it is a fantastic attraction to visit in Ruthin, backed by a hard working team of staff and volunteers. It is a hidden gem that we want to celebrate and also encourage many people to come through the doors to experience its wide range of history.”