I know that it's easy to criticise when making seemingly casual observations but it would seem that others share the following opinions: everyone who these days strays into Ruthin Castle reports that things are falling apart.
They've at last started to strip the vegetation from part of the medieval Castle walls. This follows a £100,00 grant. So, that's good, right? Well, it is, but this job
started in October 2017. Back then, out went ivy and other destructive vegetation but, after that, the Castle allowed it all to grow back... hence the second attempt. That was a three year waste, it seems. We know that the job is too big for the Castle but, even so, it's a case of two steps forward and one back. Progress has been wiped out and the Castle's had to start again.
What about the rest of the site? There are a few hot tubs installed towards the entrance to the beauty parlour. And, it's good to report that the wooden footbridge is now back in service, having been substantially replaced.
On the debit side, though, the gatehouse itself is not being treated, with coping stones apparently loose and the window overlooking Castle Street deteriorating and now probably beyond repair. The conservation garden is obviously in winter hibernation just now but, in truth, looks sorry for itself even in spring and hasn't been well tended for several years. Parts of the property are in a dangerous condition and the whole site appears to have a run-down air to it. Chunks of masonry continue to fall.
Future not bright for what looks like an old pump
And, it perhaps wasn't the perfect time to
launch Tafarn y Ddraig but the then management (which continues to rotate, which doesn't help) felt there was an under-tapped local market for food, even when other establishments weren't open. From those we know who've sampled Tafarn y Ddriad, we understand that service is slow and not up to what you might expect at such a venue.
Three years ago, the pigeon loft was due for treatment... but, instead, three years later, it's close to collapse
All in all, very disappointing and, indeed, depressing, really. It needs someone to win a lottery rollover.
