The Friary

SUNDAY


It was a dull and drizzly day, and it would have been easy to stay indoors, but we made the effort to get out and headed to Denbigh for Day 2 of the "Open Doors" weekend.

Our first stop was the Twm O'r Nant community theatre, which is owned by the local community and run by a group of trustees. The theatre hosts plays throughout the year and also holds monthly film screenings organised by the local film club.

Next, we visited Denbigh Friary (pictured). Founded by the Carmelites (also known as White Friars) in the 13th century, the Friary served as a place of worship for both holy men and unordained laypeople. During services, the congregation was divided—friars sat in ornate choir stalls on the eastern side, while the laity occupied a separate space to the west.

The Friary was suppressed by the orders of Henry VIII in 1538, and today, only the church walls remain. After its dissolution, the site found various uses, including as a dwelling, wool store, and malt house. The remains are  under the care of Cadw, the historic environment service of the Welsh government.