North Wales is home to what UNESCO describes as the finest examples of late 13th-century and early 14th-century military architecture in Europe. Edward I’s ring of iron – a chain of massive fortresses built to subdue Wales – includes four UNESCO World Heritage castles, all within an hour’s drive of Trearddur Bay. Add in the native Welsh castles and later fortifications, and you have enough to fill a week of exploring.
Beaumaris Castle
The closest of the great castles to Anglesey – because it is on Anglesey. Beaumaris was the last and largest of Edward I’s Welsh castles, begun in 1295. It is often described as the most technically perfect castle in Britain, with its concentric rings of walls and a water-filled moat that once connected to the sea. Despite never being finished, it remains an imposing sight. The pretty town of Beaumaris around it is well worth exploring too – excellent restaurants, a Victorian pier, and views across the Menai Strait to Snowdonia.
Caernarfon Castle
Perhaps the most famous castle in Wales, Caernarfon is a statement of imperial power. Its distinctive polygonal towers and banded masonry were deliberately designed to echo the walls of Constantinople. This is where the investiture of the Prince of Wales has taken place since 1911. The castle dominates the town, which sits at the western end of the Menai Strait. Allow at least a couple of hours to explore the towers, wall walks and exhibitions. The town itself has a wonderful food scene – try the Anglesey Arms or the Hole in the Wall for lunch.
Conwy Castle
Conwy is arguably the most atmospheric of all the North Wales castles. Its eight massive towers rise above the medieval walled town, which itself is one of the best-preserved in Europe. You can walk the complete circuit of the town walls – three-quarters of a mile of battlements with views over the estuary, the castle, and the mountains beyond. The town is full of character, with independent shops, excellent fish and chips at The Fisherman’s, and the smallest house in Great Britain on the quayside.
Harlech Castle
A little further south but absolutely worth the drive. Harlech Castle sits on a dramatic rocky crag overlooking Cardigan Bay, with Snowdonia rising behind it. The song ‘Men of Harlech’ commemorates one of the many sieges this fortress endured. The views from the upper towers are among the finest from any castle in Britain.
Dolwyddelan Castle
Smaller and less visited than the Edwardian giants, Dolwyddelan was built by Llywelyn the Great – a Welsh prince, not an English king. It sits on a rocky knoll in the Lledr Valley and is said to be the birthplace of Llywelyn’s grandson, Llywelyn the Last. The setting is spectacular and you will often have the place to yourself.
Penrhyn Castle
Not a medieval fortress but a 19th-century fantasy built on the profits of the slate industry. Penrhyn is a National Trust property near Bangor, and its sheer scale and opulence are staggering. The Norman-revival architecture, the Grand Hall, and the art collection are all impressive, and the grounds offer lovely walks with views across the Menai Strait.
Planning Your Castle Tour
- Cadw (the Welsh government’s historic environment service) manages most of the castles. An Explorer Pass gives unlimited access and is excellent value if you plan to visit more than two.
- Beaumaris is a 30-minute drive from Trearddur Bay. Caernarfon is 35 minutes. Conwy is about 50 minutes.
- Most castles are open year-round, though winter hours are shorter.
- Combine a castle visit with lunch in the town – each castle town has its own character and excellent food.
A holiday on Anglesey puts you right at the heart of castle country. Browse our holiday properties and start planning your trip.