Place: North Wales Castles

A road trip through Northern Wales provided the perfect opportunity to explore some of the most impressive medieval castles in the region, with Conwy Castle and Caernarfon Castle as the highlights.

Conwy Castle – A Perfectly Preserved Medieval Stronghold

Perched on a rocky hill overlooking the River Conwy, Conwy Castle stands as one of the most well-preserved medieval fortresses in Wales. Walking along its high curtain walls and eight massive towers provided stunning panoramic views of the town and surrounding landscape. The castle interiors, though largely ruined, still retain an imposing atmosphere, offering a glimpse into Edward I’s ambitious castle-building campaign in the late 13th century.

Caernarfon Castle – A Symbol of Royal Power

Further west, Caernarfon Castle impresses with its mighty polygonal towers, strategic position along the Menai Strait, and historical significance as the site of the Prince of Wales’ investiture. Its unique architecture, inspired by Byzantine and Roman influences, sets it apart from other Welsh castles. Walking through its massive gatehouses and along the thick walls, it’s easy to see why this castle was designed as a seat of English royal power in Wales.

Beaumaris Castle – An Unfinished Masterpiece

On Anglesey Island, Beaumaris Castle was another stop along the way. Despite never being fully completed, its concentric walls and symmetrical design make it one of the most aesthetically pleasing castles in Wales. The peaceful setting and well-preserved outer fortifications give insight into what could have been one of Edward I’s most formidable strongholds.

Harlech Castle – Overlooking the Welsh Coast

Perched dramatically on a rocky outcrop near the sea, Harlech Castle offers breathtaking views of the Welsh coast and Snowdonia mountains. The steep approach up to the Gatehouse, combined with its robust design, highlights its defensive strength. Though smaller than Conwy or Caernarfon, Harlech Castle’s setting and history—particularly its role in the Wars of the Roses—make it a worthwhile stop.

A Journey Through Welsh History

Exploring these UNESCO-listed castles provided a fascinating insight into Wales’ medieval history, the conflicts between the Welsh and English, and the sheer architectural ambition of King Edward I’s castle-building campaign. Each fortress had its own character, from Conwy’s towering walls to Caernarfon’s royal grandeur, making the round trip a rewarding journey through some of Britain’s most iconic medieval sites.