Are you interested in exploring historic castles? These are the must-see castles in Wales:
1
Caernarfon Castle
CaernarfonCaernarfon Castle is part of a collection of castles and walls built by King Edward in Gwynedd. This collection was recognized as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1986. This designation highlights the global cultural significance of these structures and adds to the appeal of Caernarfon Castle for tourists from around the world. 2
Conwy Castle
ConwyPlas Mawr, which translates to 'Great Hall' in Welsh, is a significant historical site in Conwy, Wales. This Elizabethan townhouse was constructed between the years 1576 and 1585 by Robert Wynn, a member of a wealthy family. The architectural style of the building is a blend of Renaissance influences and North German Gothic elements, particularly noticeable in the facade's gable and window design. 3
Castell Coch
TongwynlaisFairytale turrets peeping our of beech woods… there's a lot more to Castell Coch than meets the eye. 4
Caerphilly Castle
CaerphillyOne of the unique features of Caerphilly Castle is its extensive water defence system. The castle is surrounded by an artificially created lake, which British historian Allen Brown has described as the most extensive water defence in all of Britain. This impressive feature adds to the castle's historical significance and provides a unique visual spectacle for visitors. 5
Beaumaris Castle
BeaumarisBeaumaris Castle is a museum in Beaumaris. The museum features exhibits related to Architecture. 6
Powis Castle and Garden
WelshpoolThe garden, overhung with enormous clipped yews, shelters rare and tender plants. Laid out under the influence of Italian and French styles it retains its original lead statues, orangery and aviary on the terraces. The castle, originally built around 1200 began life as a fortress of the Welsh prin 7
Harlech Castle
HarlechHarlech Castle is a museum in Harlech. The museum features exhibits related to Architecture. 8
Erddig
WrexhamErddig Hall, located in Wrexham, Wales, is a Grade I listed property under the National Trust. The estate spans 1,900 acres and includes a country house constructed in the 17th and 18th centuries. The property also features a 1,200-acre landscaped pleasure park and the earthworks of a Norman motte and bailey castle, offering visitors a glimpse into the past. 9
Tredegar House
DuffrynTredegar House is a significant historical site in Newport, Wales. This mansion, built during the Charles II era in the 17th century, was the residence of the influential Morgan family, who later became the Lords Tredegar, for more than half a millennium. The house's rich history and architectural grandeur make it a fascinating destination for visitors interested in Welsh history and heritage. 10
Chirk Castle
ChirkChirk Castle is a Grade I listed castle situated in Chirk, Wrexham County Borough, Wales. The castle, which was built in 1295, is now owned and managed by the National Trust. It was part of King Edward I's chain of fortresses across the north of Wales and served as the administrative centre for the Marcher Lordship of Chirkland. 11
Penrhyn Castle
BangorThe Penrhyn Castle Railway Museum is a unique destination for those interested in industrial railway equipment. Located within the historic Penrhyn Castle near Bangor in Wales, the museum offers a fascinating insight into the history and development of industrial railways. Visitors can explore a variety of exhibits, including a range of narrow-gauge locomotives and other railway artifacts. 12
Chepstow Castle
ChepstowChepstow Museum is conveniently located near the town centre, making it easily accessible for tourists. It is situated opposite Chepstow Castle on Bridge Street, and is also near the River Wye. This location not only provides easy access, but also offers a scenic view of the surrounding area. 13
Raglan Castle
RaglanRaglan Castle was one of the last medieval castles to be built in England and Wales. Although it was designed with comfort and luxury in mind, the castle was pretty formidable too. 14
Dinefwr Castle
LlandeiloDinefwr Castle is a museum in Llandeilo. The museum features exhibits related to: architecture, archaeology, social history and agriculture. 15
Picton Castle and Gardens
HaverfordwestA sixty acre garden surrounding a 13th century fairy tale castle. The gardens include a Walled Garden, a maze, a fern walk and an extensive traditional herb collection. Younger visitors will find things to do in the play area and adjacent jungle garden. A jungle boardwalk allows children and adults 16
Bodelwyddan Castle and Park
BodelwyddanBodelwyddan Castle and Park is a museum in Near Rhyl. The museum features exhibits related to Social History, Archives, Fine Art and Decorative and Applied Art. 17
Criccieth Castle
CricciethWhat a picture, what a view. Beguiling from afar, this castle is perched on a headland with the sea pounding below. Get close however and its gatehouse intimidates prospective attackers. 18
Cyfarthfa Castle Museum and Art Gallery
Merthyr TydfilCyfarthfa Castle Museum and Art Gallery is a museum in Merthyr Tydfil. The museum features exhibits related to Natural Sciences, Archives, Fine Art, Decorative and Applied Art, Personalities, World Cultures, Costume and Textiles, Social History, Science and Technology, Coins and Medals and Music. 19
Caldicot Castle Country Park
ChepstowCaldicot Castle is a significant historical site located in the town of Caldicot, Monmouthshire, in southeast Wales. The castle, built around 1100 by the Norman earls of Hereford, is an extensive stone structure that offers a glimpse into the medieval period. Its strategic location and architectural design make it a fascinating destination for history enthusiasts and tourists alike. 20
Laugharne Castle
LaugharneThink Laugharne, think Dylan Thomas, but think castle too. Both Dylan Thomas and author Richard Hughes put pen to paper in the castle's garden summer house. 21
Royal Welch Fusiliers Regimental Museum
CaernarfonCaernarfon Castle, located in the city of Caernarfon in North Wales, is a significant historical site. It was constructed by King Edward I of England following his successful campaign to subdue Wales. The castle served as a symbol of the final submission of the newly incorporated territory to his kingdom. This historical context provides a rich backdrop for visitors to the castle today. 22
Tretower Court and Castle
TretowerTretower Court is a medieval manor house located in Powys, Wales. It is recognized as one of the most beautiful medieval properties in the country. The manor house is a Grade I listed building, reflecting its historical and architectural significance. Visitors can explore the manor house and its grounds, which offer a glimpse into the past and the rich history of Wales.- 23
Kidwelly Castle
KidwellyKidwelly is everything a castle should be - Steep earthworks, high towers, tall walls and a great gatehouse which took at least a century to complete. 24
Abergavenny Museum
AbergavennyThe Abergavenny Museum is situated in the scenic grounds of Abergavenny Castle, right in the heart of the town of Abergavenny, Monmouthshire, in the south east of Wales. This location offers visitors the opportunity to explore both the museum and the castle grounds, providing a rich cultural and historical experience. 25
Cilgerran Castle
CardiganPerched on the edge of a steep gorge above the river Teifi, the Normans first built an earth-and-timber castle here around 900 years ago. Lost and won several times over, it was the Marshal family, earls of Pembroke, who raised the imposing stone castle seen today. 26
Rhuddlan Castle
RhuddlanAnother of Edwars I's North Wales fortresses not be to missed. Here he streightened the river Clwyd to make surew there was easy access to the sea. 27
Denbigh Castle
DenbighDenbigh Castle is a museum in Denbigh. The museum features exhibits related to Social History, Architecture, Weapons and War and Archaeology. 28
Firing Line: The Cardiff Castle Museum of the Welsh Soldier
CardiffThe Firing Line: Cardiff Castle Museum of the Welsh Soldier is a unique museum that showcases the collections of the 1st The Queen's Dragoon Guards and the Royal Welsh. These collections provide a deep insight into the history and heritage of these regiments, making it a fascinating destination for those interested in military history. 29
Gwrych Castle
AbergeleGwrych Castle is an imposing gothic ruin on the picturesque North Wales coastline, with spectacular sea views and impressive architecture around every corner. Gwrych Castle gained fame as the filming location for I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here! for two consecutive years. Discover the beauty of