Latest news with #GwrychCastlePreservationTrust
Rhyl Journal
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- Rhyl Journal
I'm a Celeb castle eyes 1am music events and a Russell Watson return
Gwrych Castle, near Abergele, which hosted ITV's I'm A Celebrity in 2020 and 2021, has applied to Conwy County Borough Council for a premises licence variation. The Gwrych Castle Preservation Trust, which purchased the imposing Gothic ruin in 2018, has requested permission to play live music indoors and outdoors from 10am to 1am on Saturdays and Sundays. They are also seeking approval for recorded music and other performances similar to live music, recorded music, or dance - indoors or outdoors - during the same hours. The application states there would be no more than four daytime musical events per year, each with a capacity of more than 500 people. The trust say the application is part of their ambition to welcome Watson back to the castle for a special classical concert - an event that would be made possible through the proposed variation to the castle's existing premises licence. Russell Watson with Lloyd who is a resident of the castle grounds! (Image: Gwrych Castle / submitted) A spokesperson for the trust said: "Russell Watson was one of the stars of ITV's 2020 series of I'm A Celebrity…Get Me Out Of Here! which was famously based at Gwrych Castle for two consecutive years during the Covid-19 pandemic. "His return for a live performance would celebrate that shared history and offer a truly memorable evening for audiences in North Wales. RELATED NEWS Last chance to visit I'm A Celeb 'Clink' at Gwrych Castle Chair of Gwrych Castle trust on how I'm a Celeb 2020 came about and why ITV were taken with the Disney-esque 'crumbling but tough' building Vernon Kay reveals he has family living next door to I'm A Celebrity's Gwrych Castle "The variation, currently under review by Conwy County Borough Council, would allow the castle to host up to four large-scale daytime events per year with attendance exceeding 500 guests - bringing it in line with other local venues locally." Speaking about the possibility of returning to Gwrych Castle, Russell Watson said: 'Gwrych Castle holds a very special place in my heart after filming I'm A Celebrity there. The thought of returning to perform in such a spectacular setting would be incredible. "I'd love to be part of bringing live music and culture to this iconic place once again.' Watson was a contestant on the 2020 series of I'm a Celeb. He entered the castle alongside Ruthie Henshall as a late addition to the show. The castle spokesperson added: "Gwrych Castle has a strong track record of hosting inclusive, well-managed events that support heritage, community engagement, and the local economy. 'Whether it's classical concerts or Cliff Richard, being able to host just four large-scale events a year would be a huge cultural and economic boost for the region." Gwrych Castle is a Grade I listed country house in Abergele, North Wales, built between 1812 and 1822. The castle is currently open every day until the end of August. Visit: for full details.
Rhyl Journal
10-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Rhyl Journal
Paul Martin visits Bodysgallen Hall and Gwrych Castle
Paul Martin, the presenter of 'Flog It!, carried out a valuation and lunchtime talk at Bodysgallen Hall in Llandudno on June 4. The event was followed by an 'Antiques Day with Paul Martin' at Gwrych Castle near Abergele on Thursday, June 4. During the event, Paul shared stories from his life in television, hosted a Q&A session and signed copies of his book, My World of Antiques. The day was hosted by Dr Mark Baker and his team. More than 50 people attended, including the Mayor of Abergele, cllr Tracey Brennan. Paul Martin, the Mayor of Abergele, Mr Parry of Dodds Auctions (Mold) & Dr Mark Baker, Chair of Gwrych Castle Preservation Trust on June 5 (Image: Pippa Jane Wielgos) Paul said: "The valuation and talks at these historic venues have provided me with fascinating insights into antiques, and I have enjoyed meeting the Welsh people and appreciated their kind hospitality. "Thank you to Bodysgallen Hall and Gwrych Castle." Paul Martin inspects an item (Image: Combat Wombat Inc) A spokesperson for the Gwrych Castle Preservation Trust said: "It was an honour to welcome Paul Martin to Gwrych Castle. His knowledge and passion for antiques are truly inspiring, and his latest book proved a great hit with our visitors. Visitors were able to bring their items to Paul for valuation (Image: Submitted by Gwrych Castle) "Fans had a unique opportunity to spend time with him, have their copies signed, and receive valuations of their items before heading off to explore our visitor route.' The 'Antiques Day with Paul Martin' at Gwrych Castle (Image: Submitted by Gwrych Castle) Paul is set to return to North Wales in 2026 and will conduct a talk and valuation at Bodelwyddan Castle.
Rhyl Journal
12-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Rhyl Journal
New Colour Run event at Gwrych Castle, Abergele, announced
St Kentigern Hospice has announced the Colour Run 2025 at Gwrych Castle as part of its 30th-anniversary celebrations. The event, which is the first of its kind in the area, will take place on Saturday, June 21, 2025, at the castle, which was made famous as a filming location for ITV's I'm a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here! The event will see participants run, jog, dance, or walk through a course while being doused in bright powders. The route will be set against the backdrop of the castle and the surrounding scenery. The event will start at 11am, with registration opening at 10am. Tickets cost £20 for adults and £12 for children, with under 3s going free. All funds raised from the event will support the services provided by St Kentigern Hospice, which include specialist palliative care and support for patients and their loved ones across North East Wales. The event will also support the preservation and restoration work of the Gwrych Castle Preservation Trust. Courtney Harris, event organiser, said: "We are so excited to work with the team at Gwrych Castle and bring the Colour Run to North Wales. "What better way to celebrate St Kentigern Hospice's 30th anniversary than by teaming up with the team at Gwrych Castle for a day full of colour, laughter, and community spirit. "We have been completely overwhelmed by the initial response and we're so grateful to have such a supportive local community. "Thank you so much for your support – we can't wait to see you there, covered in colour and full of joy." Participants are encouraged to register as soon as possible as tickets are selling fast. To sign up, visit the Gwrych Castle website.
