Penarth Fawr
Gwynedd, Wales
Key facts
- Operator
- Cadw
- Condition
- Intact
- Access
- Free, open access
Pinpoint
Chwilog, Pwllheli LL53 6PR
Telephone 01766 810880
Possible Opening Hours*
*Opening times change. Always check the official website before you travel.
| Monday | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Tuesday | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Wednesday | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Thursday | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Friday | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Saturday | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Sunday | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
Penarth Fawr is a 15th-century Welsh gentry hall-house, notable for a rare medieval timber roof that survives intact, and it is free to visit on open access in season. Reviewers describe a small, quiet building signposted off the main road, where the beams and the sense of age do the work. Most treat it as a short stop on a longer journey rather than a destination in itself.
Worth the trip
The medieval roof timbers and hall - the feature reviewers consistently remember, in a building that costs nothing to enter.
Before you go
Reviewers mention free parking opposite the site just off the A497 and open access during the season, though at least one arrived to find the building locked.
Reviewers treat this as a short, free stop rather than a day out: a small medieval hall just off the A497 with free parking opposite, worth a brief diversion if you are passing. The timber beams and general state of preservation are what visitors comment on, along with the peaceful setting. Opening is not guaranteed, and one reviewer found the building closed and had to settle for photographing the exterior, while another reports it open most days until 5pm. One reviewer notes a family lives in the attached property and asks visitors to respect the private drive alongside.
15th-century Welsh gentry hall-house with a rare surviving intact medieval timber roof, free open access in season.
“amazing huge wonderful surprise just off the main road well worth a diversion to see this beauty”- Ann Kristina Hammond, visitor review
Practical notes from visitors
Quoted from individual Google reviews, not verified with the operator - treat as a steer, not gospel, and check before you travel.
- Parking
- “Free parking is available on the left opposite.” - Michael Collins
Common questions about Penarth Fawr
Where is Penarth Fawr?
Penarth Fawr is in Gwynedd, Wales, at Chwilog, Pwllheli LL53 6PR.
Is Penarth Fawr free to visit?
Yes - Penarth Fawr is a free, open-access site with no ticket booth, looked after by Cadw. There may still be a charge for nearby parking, and open-access arrangements can change, so it's worth a quick check before you travel.
What is the highlight of visiting Penarth Fawr?
The medieval roof timbers and hall - the feature reviewers consistently remember, in a building that costs nothing to enter.
Is Penarth Fawr a ruin or still intact?
Penarth Fawr is largely intact - 15th-century Welsh gentry hall-house with a rare surviving intact medieval timber roof, free open access in season.
