The official opening event of Ruthin Gaol was held recently following two years of flood recovery work.
The event was organised to celebrate the whole host of restorations made at the historic site, including a new cell, dedicated to share the story of the prisoners who were shipped off to Australia from Ruthin Gaol.
Visitors were greeted by staff dressed up in traditional outfits, and welcomed with cupcakes and coffee on arrival before local councillors made their speeches.
Following the speeches, visitors were offered a guided tour of the newly restored gaol. Audio guides were provided as the tour began in the basement and continued upstairs to the main cell block area that housed Coch Bach y Bala, who famously escaped the Gaol by digging a hole in the wall with a spoon in 1913.
The tour ended on the courtyard, which has also recently been developed for visitors to explore more of the historic grounds, outside the cell of the only man to be hung in Ruthin Gaol, William Hughes in 1903.
The Gaol is open throughout the season, up until the 30th of September. It opens daily (Except Tuesdays) from 10:30am until 5pm, with last entry at 4pm.
Councillor Emrys Wynne, Lead Member for Welsh Language, Culture & Heritage said:
“It is great to have everyone down here today to celebrate the re-opening of Ruthin Gaol following two long years of renovation. It is an important part of the town’s rich history, and despite the weather it was good to see locals enjoy the new additions which are well worth the visit”.