St Pabo's Church

Tref Alaw Church is a rectangular stone building with rubble walls dressed in freestone, measuring roughly 45 feet long and 14 feet wide at its main section. The structure displays the plain, sturdy style typical of medieval village churches in Wales.

The church originated in the 12th century and holds a 14th-century tombstone slab showing a king holding a crown and scepter, linked to Pabo Post Prydain. This royal connection hints at the site's importance in medieval Welsh history.

The interior holds a 12th-century circular font and several 18th-century memorials with inscriptions in both Welsh and English, reflecting the religious practice and communities that gathered here over the centuries.

The church sits near Llyn Alaw reservoir and remains locked outside of scheduled services, so visitors should arrange access in advance. The best time to visit is during regular worship services or after contacting the local clergy beforehand.

The churchyard once housed a Celtic deity stone called 'The Llanbabo Devil', now kept inside the church for preservation, representing a rare blend of pagan and Christian elements in Welsh religious sites.

Location: Tref Alaw

Inception: 12 century

Elevation above the sea: 57 m

GPS coordinates: 53.35290,-4.43839

Latest update: December 15, 2025 07:49