Jubilee Tower on Moel Famau: Historic Landmark and Panoramic Vista
Historic Georgian monument atop Moel Famau offering sweeping Welsh countryside views and evocative ruins.
Jubilee Tower, perched atop Moel Famau in the Clwydian Range of Wales, is a striking historic monument built to commemorate King George III’s Golden Jubilee in 1810. Though never completed and partially ruined by storm damage, it remains an iconic viewpoint offering sweeping panoramas across Flintshire, Denbighshire, and beyond. The tower’s Egyptian-inspired design and dramatic ruins evoke Georgian-era ambition amidst the tranquil beauty of the surrounding countryside.
A brief summary to Jubilee Tower
- Ffordd Y Llan, Mold, Cilcain, GB
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes as the trails to Jubilee Tower involve uneven and uphill terrain.
- Visit early in the day for clearer views and a quieter experience at the summit.
- Bring a camera to capture panoramic vistas stretching across Wales and into England.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy at the peaceful summit while taking in the scenic surroundings.
- Check the weather forecast before your visit to ensure optimal visibility and safety.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
Getting There
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Bus and Walk
Take a local bus from Mold to the village of Cilcain, with journey times typically between 20 to 30 minutes. From Cilcain, prepare for a 20-30 minute uphill walk to Jubilee Tower along Ffordd Y Llan. The path includes some steep sections, so wear suitable footwear. Bus fares range from £3 to £5 one way.
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Car and Walk
Drive to Cilcain village where limited parking is available near the start of the trail to Jubilee Tower. The walk from the parking area to the tower takes about 20-30 minutes on uneven terrain with moderate incline. Parking is free but spaces are limited during peak times.
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Hiking
For those nearby or staying in the area, hiking from surrounding parts of the Clwydian Range is possible. Trails vary in length and difficulty, with some routes taking 1-2 hours to reach the tower. Terrain is moorland and hillside, suitable for moderately fit walkers.
Jubilee Tower location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Windy Conditions
Discover more about Jubilee Tower
A Monument Rooted in Georgian Ambition
Jubilee Tower was conceived and constructed between 1810 and 1817 to celebrate the 50th anniversary of King George III’s reign. Designed by architect Thomas Harrison in an Egyptian style, the tower featured a rectangular base with four bastions and a towering obelisk above. The foundation stone was laid with great ceremony in October 1810 by George Kenyon, 2nd Baron Kenyon, attracting thousands of spectators. However, due to financial difficulties and construction challenges, the tower was never fully completed to its original grand design.The Tower's Dramatic Decline and Preservation Efforts
By the mid-19th century, the structure had begun to deteriorate significantly. A fierce gale in 1862 caused the collapse of the obelisk with a crash heard miles away, leaving only the base and some bastions intact. Subsequent decades saw failed attempts at restoration, but the ruins remained a prominent feature of Moel Famau’s summit. In the late 20th century, local conservation groups and councils undertook efforts to stabilize and preserve the remaining stonework, including uncovering and repointing an original bastion with its cylindrical stairway.Moel Famau and Its Natural Majesty
Moel Famau, the highest hill in the Clwydian Range and Flintshire, offers a dramatic setting for the tower. The hill is part of an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, characterized by rolling moorland, lush greenery, and panoramic views stretching across North East Wales and into North West England. On clear days, visitors can see Snowdonia to the west, the Irish Sea to the north, and landmarks such as Liverpool and Chester to the east. The summit and surrounding trails are popular with hikers and nature lovers alike.A Destination for History and Scenic Exploration
Visitors to Jubilee Tower can explore the evocative ruins and enjoy the peaceful countryside atmosphere. Informative panels on the tower help pinpoint visible landmarks across the landscape, enriching the experience. The walk to the tower from the nearby village of Cilcain involves gentle to moderate slopes through diverse flora and occasional wildlife sightings. The site is family-friendly and suitable for casual walkers, with picnic spots to relax while soaking in the views.Community Celebrations and Cultural Significance
The tower remains a powerful cultural symbol for the local communities of Flintshire and Denbighshire. In 2010, the bicentenary of the foundation stone was commemorated with fireworks, lasers, and music, drawing thousands to the summit. The site’s designation as a Grade II listed building and its location within a protected country park underscore its architectural and historical importance. Jubilee Tower continues to inspire visitors with its blend of heritage, natural beauty, and evocative ruins.Practical Insights for Visitors
The tower is accessible year-round, with no formal opening hours as it is an outdoor landmark. Visitors are advised to wear sturdy footwear for the uneven paths and to check weather conditions for the best visibility. Public transport options include local buses from Mold to Cilcain, followed by a 20-30 minute walk uphill to the tower. Walking routes offer scenic and tranquil experiences, making Jubilee Tower a rewarding destination for history enthusiasts, photographers, and outdoor adventurers.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Unmissable attractions to see
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St Mary's Church
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Clwydian Range
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Loggerheads Country Park
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Clwyd Gate Manor
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Ruthin Craft Centre
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Resource scrapstore
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Essential places to dine
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The Farmers Arms
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Primo Amore Italian Restaurant Mold
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Just Steak
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The Cherry Pie Inn
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Belvedere
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The Fat Boar Mold
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Three Pigeons Inn
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Edenshine Restaurant
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The Celtic Arms
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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CeFfi
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Gayla House
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Cottagecore
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Castle Bell
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Relaxing
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunrise Spots
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Nature Reserve
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Photowalk
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
