Welcome to St Asaph

Cadwyn Clwyd Logo

Welcome to St Asaph

St Asaph, between the rivers Elwy and Clwyd, has been a centre of Christianity since Kentigern reputedly established a cell here c.560AD, followed by Asa (later known as Asaph). The small city, centred on the cathedral, has attracted or produced many writers, linguists and musicians over the centuries. As you wander around Llanelwy (as St Asaph is known in Welsh), look out for green HistoryPoints labels in windows or beside features of historical interest, which we call HiPoints. Scan the QR codes for information about each HiPoint.

Here are some HiPoints we think you’ll like – click on the name for information. If you’re unsure where a HiPoint is, click “Where is this HiPoint?” below each HiPoint text for a tailored map.

St Asaph Cathedral – founded in 1143
‘Pack Up Your Troubles’ house – birthplace of the popular wartime song’s writers
The Dean’s Library – refurbished by a dean who once escorted Japan’s emperor to ruined Hiroshima
HM Stanley sculpture – tells life story of local man famed for “Dr Livingstone, I presume?”
Elwy Bank – where old paintings of celebrities were hidden by wallpaper for decades
Black Poplars at Roe Plas – this type of tree, now rare, was once linked to superstition
War memorial – read details of the local people who died in the world wars
Dic Aberdaron’s grave – final resting place since 1843 of a wanderer who knew 15 languages

Click here for a map of St Asaph