Wales, a land of mist-shrouded mountains, lush valleys, and ancient myths, boasts more castles per square mile than any other country in the world. These magnificent structures, from imposing military fortresses to romantic ruins, tell the story of a nation shaped by conquest, resistance, and cultural resilience. Whether you're a history enthusiast, architecture buff, or simply in search of stunning views, Wales's castles offer an unforgettable journey through time.
The Legacy of Edward I
Many of Wales's most impressive castles were built during the reign of King Edward I of England, who, in the late 13th century, embarked on an ambitious campaign to conquer Wales. His "Iron Ring" of castles – massive stone fortifications designed by master architect James of St. George – represented the cutting edge of medieval military architecture. These fortresses were not just military installations but statements of power, designed to awe and intimidate the Welsh population.
The Magnificent Seven: Must-Visit Welsh Castles
1. Caernarfon Castle
A UNESCO World Heritage site and perhaps the most famous of Edward I's castles, Caernarfon was designed to echo the walls of Constantinople, with its distinctive polygonal towers and color-banded stonework. More than just a military stronghold, it was a royal palace and the site where the current Prince of Wales was invested with his title in 1969. The castle's Eagle Tower offers spectacular views across the Menai Strait to Anglesey.
Don't miss: The regimental museum of the Royal Welch Fusiliers, housed within the castle walls, which tells the story of Wales's oldest infantry regiment.
2. Conwy Castle
With its eight massive towers and high curtain wall, Conwy is one of the finest examples of 13th-century military architecture in Europe. The castle's position is spectacular, perched on a rocky outcrop overlooking the Conwy Estuary. What makes Conwy particularly special is that the medieval town walls are still largely intact, allowing visitors to walk a complete circuit around the old town.
Don't miss: Climbing to the top of the towers for breathtaking views of Conwy town, its suspension bridge designed by Thomas Telford, and the surrounding mountains of Snowdonia.
3. Caerphilly Castle
The largest castle in Wales and the second-largest in Britain (after Windsor), Caerphilly is a masterpiece of medieval defensive architecture. Built by Gilbert de Clare in the 13th century to secure his conquest of Glamorgan, its most striking feature is its elaborate system of moats and water defenses. The castle is famous for its leaning tower, which leans at a greater angle than the Tower of Pisa.
Don't miss: The working replicas of medieval siege engines on display in the castle grounds, including trebuchets capable of hurling projectiles over 300 meters.
4. Raglan Castle
Unlike many Welsh castles, Raglan was not primarily a military fortress but a luxurious late medieval castle-palace built to impress. Constructed in the 15th century by Sir William ap Thomas and later expanded by his son, the Earl of Pembroke, Raglan combines defensive strength with Renaissance-style comfort and grandeur. Its distinctive Great Tower, known as the Yellow Tower of Gwent, stands on a separate mound connected to the main castle by a drawbridge.
Don't miss: The elaborate carved stonework around the windows and doorways, showing the influence of Renaissance design on late medieval Welsh architecture.
5. Harlech Castle
Dramatically positioned atop a cliff overlooking Cardigan Bay, Harlech is another of Edward I's masterpieces. Despite its seemingly impregnable position, the castle has seen more than its share of military action through the centuries. It was the last Lancastrian stronghold to fall during the Wars of the Roses and inspired the stirring Welsh song "Men of Harlech."
Don't miss: The new floating footbridge that recreates the original entrance to the castle from the sea – a reminder that Harlech was once lapped by the waves, before the coastline receded.
6. Pembroke Castle
Birthplace of Henry VII, the first Tudor king, Pembroke is one of the few Welsh castles that remains largely intact despite centuries of warfare. Founded in 1093, its current form dates mainly from the late 12th and early 13th centuries. The castle's position on a rocky promontory surrounded by the Pembroke River on three sides made it naturally defensible.
Don't miss: The massive circular keep, rising 75 feet from the ground, is one of the most impressive in Britain. Also remarkable is the huge natural cavern beneath the castle known as the Wogan.
7. Carreg Cennen Castle
Perched atop a 300-foot limestone cliff in the Brecon Beacons National Park, Carreg Cennen is perhaps the most dramatically situated of all Welsh castles. Though not as large as some others, its breathtaking location more than compensates. The current ruins date from the 13th century, though the site has been fortified since prehistoric times.
Don't miss: The natural cave beneath the castle, accessible via a dark, vaulted passageway – bring a flashlight for exploration!
Beyond the Famous Seven: Hidden Gems
While the castles above attract most visitors, Wales has dozens more fortifications worth exploring:
Dolwyddelan Castle
Built by Llywelyn the Great, Prince of Gwynedd, in the early 13th century, this native Welsh castle stands in stark contrast to the English fortresses. Its simple, rectangular keep on a mountain ridge overlooking Snowdonia represents the more practical approach of Welsh castle building.
Castell Coch
A Victorian fantasy castle built on medieval ruins near Cardiff, Castell Coch (Red Castle) was designed by William Burges for the 3rd Marquess of Bute. Its conical towers and lavish interior decoration make it look like something from a fairy tale.
Kidwelly Castle
An impressive Norman castle in Carmarthenshire, Kidwelly demonstrates the evolution of castle design over several centuries. Its concentric defenses and great gatehouse make it a textbook example of medieval military architecture.
The Welsh Castles Trail: Planning Your Visit
When to Visit
Welsh castles are evocative in any season, but consider these seasonal advantages:
- Spring (March-May): Wildflowers bloom in castle grounds, and lambs dot the surrounding countryside. Visitor numbers are moderate.
- Summer (June-August): Peak season offers the best weather and the full range of activities and events, including medieval reenactments, but expect more crowds.
- Autumn (September-October): The changing colors of the surrounding landscapes provide a spectacular backdrop, especially for castles set among woodland.
- Winter (November-February): For atmospheric, misty views and near-solitude at many sites. Note that some facilities may have reduced hours, and smaller sites might close completely.
The Castles of Wales Pass
If you plan to visit multiple sites, consider purchasing a Cadw Explorer Pass, which offers access to most of Wales's state-managed castles and historic sites. Available for 3, 7, or 14 days, it can provide significant savings compared to individual entry fees.
Regional Castle Trails
Wales's castles are spread throughout the country, but several regions offer high concentrations for efficient exploration:
North Wales: The castles of Edward I's "Iron Ring" (Caernarfon, Conwy, Beaumaris, Harlech) can be visited in a 2-3 day circuit.
South Wales: Caerphilly, Castell Coch, Cardiff, and Raglan make an excellent weekend tour from Cardiff.
West Wales: Pembroke, Kidwelly, and Laugharne can be combined with visits to the beautiful Pembrokeshire coast.
Living History: Seasonal Events
Many Welsh castles host special events throughout the year that bring history to life:
- Medieval tournaments and battle reenactments
- Traditional Welsh music performances
- Falconry displays
- Historical craft demonstrations
- Night tours by torchlight
- Christmas markets and festive events
Check the Cadw website (the Welsh Government's historic environment service) for up-to-date event listings when planning your trip.
Beyond Stone Walls: The Cultural Context
Wales's castles exist within a rich cultural landscape of myth, legend, and national identity. The struggles between Welsh princes and English kings that prompted their construction also inspired the bardic traditions that kept Welsh culture alive through centuries of political domination.
To truly appreciate these magnificent structures, take time to learn about the broader historical context:
- Visit the National Museum of Wales in Cardiff, which tells the story of the nation's history
- Explore sites associated with Welsh princes like Llywelyn the Great
- Listen for the Welsh language – still spoken by around 20% of the population
- Sample traditional Welsh cuisine in castle-adjacent towns and villages
Photography Tips
Wales's castles offer incredible photographic opportunities for both amateur and professional photographers:
- Golden Hours: Early morning or late afternoon light creates dramatic shadows and warm tones on castle stonework.
- Weather Watching: Stormy skies can create atmospheric backdrops, particularly for coastal castles like Harlech.
- Seek Reflections: Castles with moats or riverside locations (like Caerphilly or Pembroke) offer beautiful reflection shots on still days.
- Include Scale: Incorporate people (with their permission) or familiar objects to convey the impressive size of these structures.
Accessibility Information
Many Welsh castles were designed to be difficult to access – that was their purpose! However, Cadw has worked to improve accessibility where possible. Most major castles have accessible parking, visitor centers, and some ground-floor access. Due to the historic nature of these sites, complete accessibility is not always possible, particularly for towers and ramparts.
Visitors with mobility challenges should check specific site information on the Cadw website before visiting. Some sites offer virtual tours of inaccessible areas.
Preserving the Past, Building the Future
Today, Wales's castles are not just historical monuments but vital components of national identity and crucial drivers of tourism. When you visit these magnificent structures, you're not only stepping back in time but contributing to their conservation for future generations.
From the military might of Edward I's fortresses to the romantic ruins that inspired painters and poets, Wales's castles offer something for every visitor. They stand as testament to a tumultuous history and the enduring Welsh spirit that has emerged from centuries of conflict to create a proud, distinctive nation with a rich cultural heritage.
As the Welsh saying goes: "Cadw'r hen, creu'r newydd" – "Keep the old, create the new." In Wales's magnificent castles, the past is always present, inspiring the future.
