Llys Rhosyr

Llys Rhosyr stands on Anglesey near Newborough, a set of grass-covered ruins marking the former commotal court of Gwynedd. The site once formed a large enclosed space with stone and timber buildings, including a hall, living quarters and store barns. A sandstorm in 1332 buried much of the area, halting activity for centuries until Henry Rowlands noted traces in the early 18th century. Archaeologists from Gwynedd Archaeological Trust excavated the site from 1992, revealing walls and foundations of three main buildings. Finds such as silverware and pottery show it served high-status figures, while lead fishing weights hint at daily life. In 2023 Cadw took ownership, designating the remains a scheduled monument. Visitors see the exposed outlines of the main enclosure wall and foundations of the hall, chamber and store buildings. A reconstruction of the Great Hall now stands at St Fagan’s National Museum of History in Cardiff, built with Heritage Lottery Fund support. The hall, named Llys Llewelyn, rises nine metres and offers space for overnight stays, bringing the royal court back to life.