Bryn Euryn, a hill located near Rhos-on-Sea in North Wales, might look like just another lush green hill at first glance, but it’s a site brimming with rich history, fascinating ruins, and legends that span centuries. A walk along its trails offers not just stunning views but also a journey back through time, from ancient hill forts to medieval mansions and even WWII history.
200 Years Ago: A Countryside Landscape
Two centuries ago, Bryn Euryn would have been surrounded by open countryside, dotted with small hamlets like Mochdre, Rhos, Llysfaen, and Colwyn. It was a much more rural scene than the one we see today, with the hill standing as a quiet, natural landmark overlooking the surrounding villages.
Today, though modern life has encroached on its borders, Bryn Euryn still holds onto its serene, historical charm. And if you take the Summit Trail, you’ll be rewarded with a deeper connection to the past, starting with the remains of a once grand 13th-century mansion known as **Llys Euryn**.
Llys Euryn: A Mansion of Welsh Nobility
While Llys Euryn is now in ruins, its stone walls still stand tall enough to give visitors a glimpse into what life might have been like in the 1200s. Built by Ednyfed Fychan, a key figure in Welsh history, the mansion was more than just a stately home—it was a symbol of power and prestige.
Ednyfed Fychan was a notable warrior and statesman, serving as the seneschal (chief officer) to the Prince of Gwynedd, Llywelyn the Great. He is remembered as a man who left a lasting mark on Wales. Perhaps most significantly, he’s the ancestor of the Tudor dynasty—his grandson was none other than Owain Tudor, the grandfather of Henry VII, the first Tudor king of England.
Llys Euryn, during its heyday, was known for hosting banquets and gatherings. According to written records, those who visited the mansion were treated exceptionally well, a reflection of Ednyfed’s status and generosity. You can almost imagine the grand feasts that took place here, with nobles and knights gathering to discuss politics, war, and the future of Wales.
The Summit: From Hill Fort to WWII Observation Post
But Bryn Euryn’s history goes back much further than the medieval period. At the summit of the hill, you’ll find the remains of an ancient **Romano-British hill fort**. It’s thought to have been built in the 5th or 6th century, possibly by Cynlas the Red, a figure steeped in myth and controversy.
Cynlas, often referred to as “the Bear” or “Red Butcher,” was a chieftain with a fearsome reputation. Historical sources accuse him of inciting civil war, and one of the more notorious stories about him involves dragging his sister-in-law from a nunnery and marrying her. This was a time of turmoil and power struggles in post-Roman Britain, and Cynlas certainly seems to have been at the center of it.
The location of the fort atop Bryn Euryn was no accident. The hill offers a commanding view of the surrounding area, making it a perfect vantage point to watch for approaching enemies. Standing at the summit today, it’s easy to see why it was chosen—on a clear day, the views stretch out over the coast and countryside, a strategic advantage for anyone defending the region.
WWII: A New Role for an Old Hill
Fast forward to the 20th century, and Bryn Euryn’s strategic importance was once again recognized. During World War II, the summit was transformed into an **RAF observation post**. In 1940, as the Battle of Britain raged, Bryn Euryn was used to help protect Liverpool from German bombers. The hill became a wireless station and observation point, where RAF personnel would scan the skies for enemy planes and relay crucial information to Liverpool’s defenses.
It’s a poignant reminder that even in modern times, this ancient hill continued to play a vital role in protecting the region, just as it had done in centuries past.
Why Visit Bryn Euryn?
Bryn Euryn is a treasure trove of history, combining natural beauty with ancient ruins and war-time relics. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a hiker, or just someone who enjoys exploring off-the-beaten-path locations, it’s a site that has something for everyone.
The Summit Trai lis an excellent way to experience the history of Bryn Euryn firsthand. Starting at the base, the trail takes you past the ruins of Llys Euryn, where you can pause to imagine the grand banquets and important figures who once walked these grounds. As you climb higher, you’ll reach the site of the old hill fort, where you can almost feel the presence of Cynlas the Red and his warriors, standing guard over their land.
And once you reach the summit, the sweeping views will take your breath away. Knowing that this same vantage point was used by Roman-British chieftains and RAF personnel alike adds a layer of depth to the experience. It’s not just a hill—it’s a place where centuries of history come together.
So next time you’re in Rhos On Sea, take a detour to Bryn Euryn. Whether you’re soaking in the stories of ancient chieftains or simply enjoying the view, it’s a place that offers a unique connection to the past and a peaceful escape from the present.
