Brynkinalt

About this place

Brynkinalt Hall stands near Chirk, close to the Ceiriog Valley, in Wales, with the wider estate reaching into neighbouring Shropshire.

The Grade II* listed house was built in 1612 by Sir Edward Trevor, and it remains home to the Trevor family who built it.

Its Jacobean oak-panelled hall survives at the core of the building, though the house gained new wings and a conservatory in the early 1800s.

Brynkinalt is covered by Historic Houses, and visits take place by private tour led by a member of the Trevor family.

History

The Trevor family's connection to the site is traced back to 942 AD, through a union between Tudor Trevor, King of Gloucester, and Angharad, daughter of Howel Dda, King of Wales. Sir Edward Trevor built the present house in 1612. In the early 1800s, Charlotte, Viscountess Dungannon, enclosed the original open courtyard to form the great hall. She also added gothic features and gate lodges, plus a double-walled kitchen garden with a tunnelled entrance.

Architecture

The house retains its original Jacobean oak-panelled hall. Early 19th-century additions, including enclosed wings and a conservatory, were made by Charlotte, Viscountess Dungannon.

Worth knowing

The Duke of Wellington's mother was a Trevor, and he is known to have visited his grandmother at Brynkinalt, travelling with her to nearby Llangollen to see the Ladies of Llangollen. Sir John Trevor, a family member, was one of the few Welsh speakers to serve in the House of Commons.

Gardens & grounds

The west garden has been restored with formal beds and herbaceous borders. An ornamental shrubbery includes mature redwoods and rhododendrons.