Deanery of Arllechwedd
St Gwyddelan, Dolwyddelan
Map Reference
Nearest Town
Betws-y-coed
Items of Interest
Grade 1 building. Handsome roof and barrel- vaulted chancel with a carving of the Dolwyddelan Dragon.
The present church replaced an earlier one and was named after a Celtic missionary, 'Gwyddelan' (the Little Irishman). It was built about 1500 by Meredith Wynne and the south chapel was added later in the 16th century by Robert Wynne, the same Wynne family of Gwydir Castle, Llanrwst and Plas Mawr, Conwy. The memorial in the nave, to members of his family, was erected in the 17th century.
Pews, pulpit and lectern date from the early 18th century. A Celtic hand bell of cast bronze, hanging in the church, has been dated to 800AD and is by far the oldest item in the building.
This small church is one of the best examples of its age in North Wales. It has great atmosphere and is a charming place for worship. A visit is strongly recommended.