Castles in Wales

Conwy Castle, begun in 1283 by Edward I, is one of Wales’ most complete Edwardian fortresses. Its eight great towers, concentric walls, and town defences secured the Conwy valley after Llywelyn’s fall. Today this UNESCO World Heritage Site remains a breathtaking symbol of medieval conquest and architectural genius.

Conwy's majestic town walls are one of the finest examples of medieval defensive architecture in all of Wales. A visit to Conwy’s walls allows for a step back in time, offering a powerful reminder of the past while celebrating the resilience of a town that has grown and thrived within its ancient walls.

North Wales has so many castles because it was fiercely contested ground. Its mountains and coastline demanded fortification, while Edward I’s conquest produced monumental strongholds such as Caernarfon and Conwy. These castles secured power, symbolised authority, and transformed the region’s landscape, economy and identity for centuries.