Historical Society

THE 13th century Welsh castle, Castell y Bere, will be the focus for the next outdoor meeting of the Society next Saturday, 20 August.

The guided walk will be led by Siân Roberts, the Society’s secretary and a qualified Blue Badge tour guide for Wales. Set in stunning scenery of the upper Dysynni Valley, Castell y Bere was built by Llywelyn Fawr (Llywelyn the Great), as a result of a dispute with his son, Gruffudd.

His successors continued to use the castle after his death. It was the last stronghold of Dafydd ap Gruffudd after the death of his brother, Llywelyn, in December 1282.

Edward I’s forces took it over in April 1283, but it was abandoned after the Welsh rebellion of 1294.

The afternoon will also give people the chance to visit the nearby St Michael’s Church at Llanfihangel-y-Pennant which has an exhibition about Mari Jones, the young woman who walked from the area to Bala to buy a bible.

The ruins of her cottage and a memorial to her are a 15 minute walk from the church.

The event is open to non-members of the society.Meet in upper Bron-y-Graig car park at 12pm so that cars may be shared for the journey.

A packed lunch is advisable.

The castle walk will be on uneven ground and involves a steep walk from the car park, so strong footwear is recommended.