Plas Mawr
Plas Mawr, which translates into English as 'Great Mansion' is located at the heart of medieval Conwy's narrow streets.
Plas Mawr's gatehouse, stepped gables and lookout tower dominate Conwy's narrow main street. An architectural gem, it is one of the best preserved Elizabethan town houses in the country and perhaps the most visited building in Conway after the castle.
The house was built for the merchant Robert Wynn between 1576 and 1585. Robert was the son of Sir John Wynne of Gwydir, a member of the wealthy and influential Wynn family, whose family seat was at nearby Gwydir Castle. Robert Wynn was a courtier who rose to emminence amongst the Welsh gentry and lived at the house with his wife Dorothy.
Plas Mawr is entered today through what was once the gatehouse, although the original entrance faced Crown Lane. The building's interior boasts decorated plaster ceilings and colourful coats of arms reflecting the wealth and influence of its Tudor founder. The ornamental plasterwork in the hall, now painted in its original vivid colours, is particularly exquisite.
Plas Mawr also contains much fine period furniture. The house's Lantern Room is reputed to be haunted and local legend relates the tale of a tragic series of events which once took place there involving the death of a family.
The house has been restored as Wynn's Elizabethan Town House and reopened to the public. It is presently in the care of CADW, the agency entrusted with preserving the heritage of Wales. Exhibitions include audio visual displays which chart the restoration of the building and about the health and hygiene practices of the Tudor and Stuart periods.
Well stocked gift shop.
Opening Times
June - Aug Tues - Sun, 9.30am - 6.00pm
April, May and Sept Tues - Sun 9.30am - 5pm
Oct Tues - Sun, 9.30am - 4pm.