The best castles in North Wales – the 2020 guide

Discover the Finest North Wales Castles! North Wales is famous for many reasons. The first thing you might think of is Snowdonia National Park, but while this attracts thousands of visitors each year, many visitors also head for some of the area’s castles. If you’re passionate about the history and drama within those walls, there are some stunning castles in North Wales to visit.

Conwy Castle

If you arrive in Conwy via the Conwy Suspension Bridge, you cannot fail to miss Conwy Castle. The fortress dates from the 13th century and is beautifully preserved. Offering spectacular views over the heart of Conwy, this is the ideal place to begin your exploration and understanding of the area.

Use the postcode LL32 8AY to reach the castle. Buses stop nearby, or you can catch a train to Conwy Station, giving less than half a mile to walk to the castle itself.

Caernarfon Castle

Situated at the rather appropriate Castle Ditch address in Caernarfon, LL55 2AY, Caernarfon Castle occupies a spot overlooking Afon Seiont. Easily one of the highlights of Caernarfon itself, you can appreciate the work that went into the 47-year building project to create the castle.

It forms part of a World Heritage Site with three other castles (Conwy Castle being one of them). It is open throughout the year and offers a gift shop, museum, and superb views over the harbour and town.

Penrhyn Castle

This National Trust property is a neo-Norman castle dating from the 19th century. While nowhere near as old as the other castles on our list, it offers an intriguing window into Victorian times and beyond. The gardens are also worth a visit, offering wooded areas and a trail around the grounds. Dogs are welcome, providing they are kept on a lead and stay within the dog-friendly areas. Other appealing areas include the walled garden, Elysian Fields, the ruined chapel, and the Lime Grove.

The castle is in Bangor, Gwynedd at LL57 4HT. Bangor Station is three miles from the castle. If arriving by car via the A55 or the A5, you’ll see signs for the castle at junction 11. Follow these to find the free parking a few hundred yards from the entrance.

Dolbadarn Castle

If ruins are your heart’s desire, head for Dolbadarn Castle. As settings go, this one takes the breath away. Llyn Padarn, a great expanse of lake, sits beneath the castle, offering a superb vantage point for photographers and daydreamers alike. This 13th century castle may be in ruins, but a good portion of the original tower remains.

This is the ideal day out for those visiting with dogs, providing they are kept on leads and do not ascend the tower. Open all year round, the castle is free to enter. Use the postcode LL55 4UB to locate the castle, situated off the A406 in Llanberis.