Tan-Yr-Ogo Gatehouse Lodge

Tan-yr-Ogo Lodge is a rare historic gem, originally serving as the main and ceremonial entrance to Gwrych Castle estate. Built as part of a series of lodges for the castle, it is uniquely positioned beneath Lady Emily's Tower and near the great cave of Cefn Yr Ogof. The name translates to 'beneath the cave,' highlighting its scenic setting within the castle grounds. The space Tan-yr-Ogo Lodge is a monumental gate lodge built as the ceremonial entrance to Gwrych Castle, forming courtyards and an elaborate complex of structures. The rooms are in a recently refurbished elevated section of the complex providing a mini castle experience. The battlements contain four recessed sandstone inscription tablets. These commemorate various historical events which have taken place on this important strategic site over the past thousand years: 1) the battle between Harold II and Griffith ap Llewelyn 2) the routing of Hugh Lupus on his way to invade Anglesey 3) the repulsion of Henry II by Owain Gwynedd 4) the betrayal of Richard II by Henry Percy, Earl of Northumberland, as imortalised in Shakespeare's history play. Passing under a huge stone Tudor-arched entrance gateway, into an inner courtyard, the drive turns ninety degrees and rises past more towers and walls to reveal the lodge itself. There are least eleven towers set within the curtain walls and the accommodation is set within two of the largest towers which are linked by a long gallery. ACCOMMODATION: The heavy oak door leads into a single storey barbican Entrance Hall which contains the Kitchen and Dining Room, leading to the Drawing Room with two sofa beds and a feature fireplace with a wood burning stove. A ground floor twin room is located in the West Tower and an adjacent oak staircase that is built over the exposed bedrock takes you to the first floor. There is also a recently refurbished downstairs cloakroom with sink and toilet. The light and airy landing leads to the second bedroom which has bunk beds, along with the Art Deco bathroom with the benefit of an architect designed freestanding bath and walk-in shower. The long gallery leads to the Master Bedroom in the first floor of the East Tower, and provides breathtaking sea and countryside views. The master bedroom has an antique double four poster mahogany bed and the same spectacular views. To the front of the lodge are extensive and private gardens for the whole family to enjoy, consisting of a seating area, lawn and access to Gwrych Castle’s 9 miles of permissive woodland walks. A Polite Reminder: being a historic house, the drains are unable to cope with paper towels, sanitary products, or baby wipes down the toilet. PLEASE NOTE: We have The Gothic Bedroom which is a self-contained suite available within the complex, please see the last photo. This is available to let separately and has its own patio and parking space. GWRYCH CASTLE TICKETS: If you would like to visit Gwrych Castle, we’re able to offer discounted admission tickets. Once full payment has been made for your booking, please contact us to book your timeslot. Please check Gwrych Castle’s website for latest opening dates/times. Please ensure that you show proof of booking on arrival. Guest access Guests are welcome to drop off and pick up from outside the front door into the lodge but we ask that they park in the designated parking spaces marked out. During your stay Tan-yr-Ogo Lodge is part of the larger Gwrych Castle estate. It served as the main ceremonial entrance and was acquired by the charity to help restore this historic site. Gwrych Castle is currently involved in one of the UK’s most important heritage rescue projects. The extensive conservation programme aims to repair damage from decades of neglect and secure the castle’s future. This includes urgent structural repairs, reinstatement of roofs and floors, and safeguarding the remaining historic fabric from further deterioration. These efforts are crucial for restoring historic rooms and enabling more of the building to be reused, alongside ongoing work on the gardens and estate. Tan-yr-Ogo Lodge sits on land that was once part of the sprawling 19th-century Gothic Revival estate overlooking North Wales’ coastline. While the castle was built as a romantic tribute to lineage and imagination, the surrounding estate included woodlands, grazing land, and small dwellings that supported daily life at the castle. Tan-yr-Ogo was one of those dwellings, contributing to the estate’s historic character and charm. Other things to note We are very low key and suit private minded guests. We won't bother you but our team will be available if you need anything. Please feel free to message us with any queries before or during your stay. 💆 Holistic therapies are available to book during your stay. Please message in advance for details. 🍴Private dining/catering is available to book. Please message in advance for details.