Conwy
Conwy Castle, a striking stone structure alongside the Conwy estuary is a lookout for users of the estuary and river as a way of accessing the area as well as a stronghold of the local surroundings. It was built by King Edward Longshanks as part of his iron ring of castles of the oppressive regime over the people of Wales. Thankfully, the red dragon of Wales now flies above the castle walls.
Caernarfon
The current Edwardian castle was constructed as part of the iron ring, as Edward marched through North Wales he captured various parts of the land which needed reinforcing with fortresses. Legend has it that they found the body of Roman emperor Magnus Maximus under the ground where the castle now stands, which was built at a local church. Edward II was born at this castle and crowned Prince of Wales in 1301, with control over Wales and its incomes. This title is held to this day by the next in line for the throne. The castle was besieged by Owain Glyndwr during his rebellion. These castles fell out of use when hostilities towards the English were diminished by the Tudors taking the throne of England, who were a house of Welsh origin.
Beaumaris Castle
Often described as the most perfect example of concentric symmetrical planning, the fortification is built from local stone and features a maintained moat located just on the outer region of its outer wall. The inner ward was made to contain a range of domestic buildings and accommodation, that could sustain 2 major households. The castle was, alas, never fully completed despite having £15,000 spent on it in total, which was at the time an astronomical sum of money. A royal survey suggested that to complete the castle it would have needed a further £684, which was never raised.
Dolbadarn Castle
This is one of the original Welsh castles which looks over the valley which is its home with a commanding view of the surrounding scenery. This was built by the Welsh Prince, Llywelyn the Great during the early 13th century. It stands at the foot of the Llanberis pass and presents an important symbol of Llewellyn’s power and authority. It is described as the finest example of a Welsh round tower. It was taken over by King Edward I during his oppressive march of conquest on Wales. It was, following this, used as a manor house. Now, the only thing that remains is the foundations of the castle’s outer buildings, and it’s a monolithic tower that makes for an awesome picture, attracting photographers and painters alike from far and wide to capture its magnificence.
Dolwyddelan Castle
This Welsh castle was built back in the early 13th century and functioned as an important guard post along the main route through the North Wales region, it is even reputedly the birthplace of Llywelyn the Great. It was captured by Edward I as part of his Welsh conquest. It was used for outdoor shots of Ulrich’s castle during the making of the film Dragonslayer.
Gwyrch Castle
This manor house was constructed to be reminiscent of castles and is so named. It was famously the host of I’m a Celebrity Get Me Out of Here.
We hope this guide served you in telling you about some of Wales’ most fantastic castles!