North Wales' Top 5 Castles
North Wales is home to a great many castles, as a result of the turbulent military history that has taken place here, mainly in battles between the Welsh and the English. All of the castles listed here were built by Edward 1 of Wales. They are reasonably priced and well worth a visit.
1. Caernarfon Castle
On the banks of the Menai Strait is possibly the most famous of Wales' many castles and one of the world’s great medieval fortresses. It was constructed not only as a military stronghold but also as a seat of government and royal palace. The castle was built on the shoreline because supplies came in from England by sea due to the Welsh ability to ambush any overland convoys.
2. Conwy Castle
This UNESCO World Heritage site evokes a real medieval atmosphere. Soaring curtain walls and eight huge round towers give the castle an intimidating presence undimmed by the passage of time. The views from the battlements look out across mountains and sea are truly breathtaking.
3. Beaumaris Castle
The last of the Welsh castles built by Edward I in 1295 was never actually completed. The great towers of the inner ward never got their top storeys and turrets, but despite not dominating the way Harlech and Conwy castles do, it is possibly the most stylish example of medieval military architecture in Britain and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. From here you can also visit the Beaumaris Courthouse.
4. Harlech Castle
Built by Edward I in the late 13th century, the castle was to keep watch over the Irish Sea to the west, Snowdonia to the East and contain the Welsh in their villages. The fortress's massive inner walls and towers still stand almost to their full height. The views from its lofty battlements are truly panoramic, extending from the dunes at its feet to Snowdonia in the distance.
Image copyright Jeffrey L. Thomas
Image copyright Jeffrey L. Thomas
5. Criccieth Castle
Sitting high and looking out over Tremadog Bay. Built at the beginning of the 13th Century, the castle's most notable feature is its twin-towered gatehouse, rare among Welsh-built castles. Originally a stronghold of the native Welsh princes, the castle was later annexed and added to by the English monarch, Edward I.
