10 Amazing Castles Worth Visiting In Wales This Summer
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Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. All opinions remain my own.
There are so many castles in Wales that you could probably visit a different one every day for a year and still not see them all.
The exact number of castles in Wales is unknown, but it is estimated to be over 600.
There are numerous abandoned castles, tower houses, and medieval ruins scattered throughout the country, but there are also several fully-restored castles that you can visit if you’re feeling adventurous and want to delve into their history.
Wales is one of my favourite places to visit – from the historical ruins to the myths and legends, which you can read about in my post on King Arthur’s Eryri (Snowdonia).
I simply had to write this post so that you are able to have wonderful days out in Wales, just as I did growing up.
These Welsh castles range from old fortifications built by the Romans to modern estates constructed by the 19th-century gentry.
They’re all well worth visiting, either as part of a larger tour of Wales or as a separate day trip away from Cardiff or other major cities to see ruins to visit near me.
Many are owned by the wonderful National Trust, so they are perfect for members who get discounted entry.
Here is my list of 10 of the best castles in Wales and the most famous Welsh castles worth visiting, including both North Wales castles and South Wales castles!
Caerphilly Castle
This imposing castle, located just outside the city of Cardiff, is one of the largest and most important fortifications in Wales.
It was built in the 13th century by Gilbert De Clare, who controlled the area after the fall of the native Welsh princes. For centuries, it served as an important defensive stronghold for the region, with its impressive curtain wall and gatehouse.
It continued to be a stronghold during the various battles between the Welsh and English, and therefore befell a lot of damage.
Castle Caerphilly is one of the few castle ruins in Wales that have been restored and converted into a tourist attraction.
Visitors can tour the grounds and explore the extensive gardens and the castle’s many architectural features, which include a moat, a drawbridge, and a reconstructed Keep.
This is definitely one of the best Wales castles to visit.
Chirk Castle
Located just outside the market town of Wrexham, Chirk Castle is one of Wales’s oldest and most important castles. It was first built by the Norman lords of England in the 13th century as a defensive fortress against the Welsh during the Norman invasion.
The castle has been owned by the Myddleton family since the 17th century and has been passed down through generations until coming into the care of the National Trust.
The castle boasts several unique architectural features, including the “Chirk Pyx”, a rare Medieval method of collecting taxes. It was also the first castle in Wales to be lit by electricity in 1887.
Today, it is one of Wales’s most popular tourist attractions, with several special events and exhibitions throughout the year.
It is most acknowledged for its wonderful gardens and parklands that surround it.
Head here on a sunny day so you can fully enjoy the beautiful outside space and learn some interesting Wales castle facts.
Conwy Castle
Conwy Castle‘s impregnable fortress is one of the most famous castles in Wales and the best-preserved castles in Wales.
It was first constructed by the Norman lords, who controlled much of Wales after the conquest of 1066, but was later expanded and converted into a mighty stone fortress.
It was the centrepiece of a massive defensive structure designed to keep the native Welsh out of the region.
Conwy Castle was used for defensive purposes for centuries, and it played an important role during the War of the Roses (when the rival houses of York and Lancaster fought for control of the English throne).
Its first major restoration work began in the early 20th century, when the castle was taken over by the British government and turned into a tourist attraction.
Today visitors can explore the castle’s many rooms, including the Great Tower, the royal apartments, and the “queen’s apartments”.
This castle contains the best-preserved set of medieval architecture in all of Wales.
So, if well-preserved insights into history are more your thing than ancient ruins, then this is the place to go.
Check Out This Conwy Castle Video From The Ultimate Bucket List
The Ultimate Bucket List has made this beautiful video exploring Conwy Castle. Have a watch to find out why this is a bucket list visit!
Denbigh Castle
Denbigh Castle‘s medieval fortress is one of the most impressive historic ruins near me in all of Wales. It was built by the English between 1283 and 1289 and controlled the lands of north-east Wales for centuries after.
Denbigh Castle is considered to be one of the most important surviving examples of 13th-century military architecture in the UK, and during its long and storied history, it has served as everything from a defensive fortress to a royal palace.
Today, the castle ruins are maintained by the Welsh government. Visitors can tour the castle grounds, explore the extensive gardens, and even attend special events like medieval banquets and re-enactments.
While much of the building is crumbling and ruined, the impressive and imposing structures still stand – making for an impressive and beautiful sight.
This striking and characterful castle should not be missed!
Dryslwyn Castle
This 13th-century castle, located on a rocky hill between Llandeilo and Carmarthen, is a simple structure in a stunning location.
Dryslwyn Castle was built by the Welsh in the 1220s as a defensive structure meant to fight back against the invading English.
There is evidence that there was an even older ringwork structure on the location before this one was built. However, the 13th-century structure is the one that stands today.
It is a perfect example of a Welsh defensive castle – perched on a hilltop with stunning views around.
Its crumbling walls have been somewhat restored in recent years. However, the jagged ruins and stunning views that surround the castle make for a moving and poetic sight in one of Wales’s best castles.
For an insight into the native Welsh history, Dryslwyn Castle is the perfect place to visit.
Harlech Castle
Harlech Castle is one of the most famous and iconic Welsh castles. It is located in Gwynedd, up in the amazing Eryri (Snowdonia). Go and read my post here to discover more legendary spots to visit in the area.
Harlech Castle was first built in the 1280s by the English King Edward I. He was also responsible for building many of the other best Welsh castles on this list.
It was used as a defensive structure and prison for centuries. However, it is perhaps best known for its role during the War of the Roses.
During this conflict, the forces of the Welsh-backed House of York held out against the House of Lancaster.
They were led by the future king Henry VII, and held for two years before finally surrendering in 1409.
Today Harlech Castle is a popular tourist attraction and is open to visitors year-round. Visitors can tour the castle and explore its grounds, including the “Rhyfel Tower”.
This was used as a prison during the War of the Roses. Make sure to combine your visit with the gorgeous, sandy Harlech Beach.
Views over the ocean can be seen from the Castle towers, making it one of the most stunning North Wales castles.
Kidwelly Castle
This stunning castle, located in the town of Kidwelly, is one of the most impressive and well-preserved castles in Wales.
Kidwelly Castle was originally built by the Bishop Roger of Salisbury in the late 13th century. Originally, it was used as a defensive fortress for several centuries after.
It was passed back and forth between the English and Welsh sides due to invasions and consequent counterattacks.
It is a beautiful sight, rising up above the River Gwendraeth.
Visitors can tour the castle and its grounds, which feature a moat, drawbridge, and several towers.
There are also guided tours available that explore the history of the castle in detail.
Due to it’s conflict riddled history, there are plenty of stories associated with the castle. One is that it is haunted by the ghost of the wife of Rys ap Gruffudd.
Rys was a Welshman who took the castle in battle and was later executed by the English
This is also a great castle to visit for Python fans, who may recognise it from the film Monty Python and The Holy Grail.
Neath Castle
This stunning and expansive medieval fortress is one of the minor Norman castles in Wales that was built during the English invasion.
Neath Castle was built in the early 12th century by the English as a defensive structure against the native Welsh. The castle was in residence until the 1700s and has since been used for recreational activities for the town.
Today it is a popular tourist attraction and is owned by the local government. Neath Castle is open to visitors year-round.
Despite being one of the smaller castles, the ruins are very pretty. They have a striking silhouette in the middle of the town. The ivy growing up the stone walls give it a mythic, fairytale feel.
This one won’t take long to look around, so it can also be combined on the way to/from the nearby Swansea Castle.
Swansea Castle
This impressive castle is one of Wales’s best-preserved medieval fortifications. Swansea Castle was built by the English in the 12th century and controlled the surrounding lands for centuries.
Swansea Castle is steeped in history, having been used by a number of different groups and individuals throughout the ages.
During the Wars of the Roses, it was held by the House of York. However, by the time of the Civil War, the castle was already fallen into disrepair and was not practically used by either side.
Today, Swansea Castle is a popular tourist attraction, with stunning medieval fortresses.
Visitors can explore the crumbling castle walls, and discover this impressive mediaeval artefact in the heart of one of Wales’ most modern cities.
Cardiff Castle
The capital’s castle is a medieval fortress and Victorian Gothic revival house located in the city centre of Cardiff, Wales.
Cardiff Castle is one of the most important buildings in Welsh history, having been the site of the Council of Wales and the Marches, which created a unified legal system for Wales and the Marches.
It was remodelled in the 12th century with walls, towers and a large central keep. By the 15th century, the castle had lost its importance and fell into disrepair.
Much of it was destroyed in the 16th century to make way for town walls.
This castle as it stands today is largely Victorian Gothic revival. It is owned by Cardiff Council, who run it as a tourist attraction.
It’s most unique feature is the immersive experience offered, where you can explore the sounds and sights of the castle from it’s creation to the 20th century.
There are also now concerts and events held in the castle grounds. It remains an epicentre of Cardiff even in the modern day.
Have A Look Around Cardiff Castle
Castles & Legends has made a beautiful video tour around Cardiff Castle, so you can have a look around before you visit.
Frequently Asked Quesions
How many castles are in Wales?
There are over 600 castles in Wales, meaning there are plenty to keep you busy visiting.
What are the big 4 castles in Wales?
Beaumaris, Caernarfon, Conwy, and Harlech are often considered to be the big 4 castles in Wales as they are the most complete castles in the country. However, with 600 castles across the country there are tons of other amazing castles for you to visit too.
What is the best castle in Wales to visit?
Some of the best castles to visit in Wales include Harlech Castle, Conwy Castles and Caerphilly Castle. There are loads of great castles to visit on this list, but some extras I haven’t included here are Raglan Castle, Chepstow Castle, Criccieth Castle, and Cardigan Castle. As you can see, there are tons of amazing Welsh castles to visit!
Which is the oldest castle in Wales?
Chepstow Castle is the oldest castle in Wales at almost 1000 years old.
What is the biggest castle in Wales?
The biggest castle in Wales is Caerphilly Castle. With tons to do there, this is a great place to have a day out for all the family.
Why is Wales full of castles?
Wales spent a lot of time being invaded by British forces, meaning there are a lot of castles along the Welsh-English border. Not only that, but taking up a large portion of the west coast of the island, there were also many castles built to defend themselves from overseas invaders.
Conclusion
Castles are not just fascinating architectural structures — they also play an important role in the history of any given region.
Many of the Wales castles listed were built by the English lords who controlled Wales and its neighbouring regions after the Norman conquest of 1066.
Others were built and controlled by the Welsh princes who ruled the area before the Normans came, such as Llywelyn the Great and Owain Glyndŵr.
A visit to one of these Welsh castles can not only offer an insight into their architectural history, but into the history of Wales as a nation.
Why not incorporate them all into a Wales castle tour? Or to do a Wales castle tour of castles in North Wales or castles in South Wales?
Whether wanting something to do for history fans, or families looking for fun day trips, Wales castles are one of the best things you can do to enjoy the history of this wonderful country.
