Plas Brondanw

Surrounded by mountain peaks, Plas Brondanw is one of the best-kept secrets in North Wales. Although less well known than his village and gardens at Portmeirion, the Grade I listed gardens of Plas Brondanw are nevertheless considered by many to be Clough Williams-Ellis’ most important creation. Sir Clough created a unique and distinctive garden landscape that provides a series of superb views and romantic prospects set within Snowdonia National Park.

The gardens are laid out as a series of enclosed rooms, linked by axial views leading to distant peaks. Within the garden rooms, pieces of sculpture are carefully arranged. Inspired by the gardens of Renaissance Italy, strong architectural influences are evident within the gardens; stone walls, topiary, pools, fountains and avenues of trees lead the eye to the dramatic backdrop of the mountains beyond. Other features include a woodland walk with several ‘eye-catchers’ set at the end of beautiful avenues of trees, a cascade and a pool built into a disused quarry. The walk concludes at a folly tower, built to honour Williams-Ellis’s marriage in 1915, offering impressive 360° views of the surrounding mountains and sea.

Oriel Brondanw is an art gallery and cultural centre, located within the Plas Brondanw house, hosting exhibitions, residencies and workshops by new and recognised artists as well as literary, music and other art-oriented events. A charming café serves homemade food, using local produce in a relaxing atmosphere between April and September. All proceeds and donations go towards maintaining the gardens.