Famous gates

These wonderful early 18th century gates are the work of the highly talented Davies Brothers from Bersham near Wrexham.

These beautiful gates are topped with a red hand. The Red Hand of Chirk commemorates a rather gruesome race. The Lord of Chirk died without naming his successor. His two sons agreed to a swimming race across the lake. The winner would inherit all. Alas for the stronger swimmer - his brother's enthusiastic supporters cut off his hand just before he could touch the shore, so his brother won the race and gained the Estate.

See them close-up