Image: Andrew Woodvine (CC BY-SA 2.0) via Wikimedia Commons
Conwy, North Wales
Built by Edward I during his conquest of Wales in the late 13th century, Conwy Castle is one of the finest surviving medieval fortresses in Europe. Created as part of Edward's "Iron Ring" of castles designed to control North Wales, it was constructed alongside the walled town of Conwy and remains a powerful symbol of medieval military engineering.
Visitors can climb the castle's eight enormous towers, walk the battlements and enjoy spectacular views across the mountains of Snowdonia and the Conwy Estuary. The nearby town walls provide one of the best preserved medieval town experiences in Britain.
Its combination of scale, preservation and dramatic location makes Conwy one of Wales' essential historic attractions. It is also part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site covering Edward I's castles and town walls in Gwynedd.
Best for: UNESCO-listed towers, town walls and Snowdonia views.
Explore Conwy Castle → Image: Herbert Ortner (CC BY 4.0) via Wikimedia Commons
Gwynedd, North Wales
Caernarfon Castle is perhaps the most recognisable of all Welsh castles. Built by Edward I between 1283 and 1323, it was designed not only as a military fortress but also as a statement of English royal power after the defeat of Welsh prince Llywelyn ap Gruffudd.
The castle's huge polygonal towers, intimidating walls and colourful stonework were inspired partly by Roman architecture, reflecting Edward's desire to connect himself with the authority of ancient emperors.
Visitors can explore the Eagle Tower, walk the battlements and discover exhibitions explaining the castle's role in Welsh history. With the mountains of Eryri (Snowdonia) nearby, Caernarfon is ideal for travellers combining heritage with hiking, cycling and camping.
Best for: The Eagle Tower and a base for exploring Eryri (Snowdonia).
Explore Caernarfon Castle → Image: Cadw (OGL v1.0) via Wikimedia Commons
Harlech Castle
Gwynedd, North Wales
Standing dramatically on a rocky hill overlooking Cardigan Bay, Harlech Castle is one of Wales' most spectacular medieval fortresses. Another of Edward I's great castles, it was built during his campaign to dominate North Wales and became one of the most important military sites of the medieval period.
The castle played a major role during the Welsh rebellion of Owain Glyndŵr in the early 15th century, when it became his headquarters and briefly served as the centre of an independent Welsh administration.
Today visitors can explore its powerful gatehouse, climb the towers and enjoy some of the finest castle views in Wales, stretching from the mountains to the sea. Its location near beaches, mountain trails and campsites makes Harlech perfect for combining history with outdoor adventure.
Best for: Owain Glyndŵr history and views from the mountains to the sea.
Image: Cadw (OGL v1.0) via Wikimedia Commons
Caerphilly, South Wales
Caerphilly Castle is the largest castle in Wales and the second-largest in Britain after Windsor Castle. Built in the 13th century by Norman lord Gilbert de Clare, it was created to secure control over Glamorgan and defend against Welsh resistance.
The castle is famous for its enormous concentric walls, impressive water defences and unusual engineering features, including one of the largest leaning towers in Britain.
Visitors can explore vast courtyards, medieval halls and restored rooms while learning about the battles between Norman lords and Welsh princes. Located close to Cardiff and surrounded by countryside, Caerphilly works brilliantly as part of a South Wales road trip or cycling adventure.
Best for: Vast water defences and its famous leaning tower.
Explore Caerphilly Castle → Image: JKMMX (CC BY-SA 3.0) via Wikimedia Commons
Pembrokeshire, South Wales
Perched above the River Cleddau, Pembroke Castle is one of Wales' most historically important castles. Originally founded by the Normans, it became the birthplace of Henry Tudor, who later became King Henry VII and founded the Tudor dynasty.
The castle has witnessed centuries of warfare, political struggles and royal ambition. During the English Civil War it played a role in the conflicts between Parliamentarians and Royalists.
Visitors can explore the massive round tower, medieval halls and underground passages while enjoying views over the surrounding countryside. Its location makes it an ideal stop for walkers exploring the Pembrokeshire Coast Path.
Nearby: The Pembrokeshire Coast Path and western Wales beaches.
Explore Pembroke Castle → Image: Iphrit (CC BY-SA 3.0) via Wikimedia Commons
Kidwelly Castle
Carmarthenshire, South Wales
Kidwelly Castle is one of Wales' most impressive Norman castles, with a history stretching back almost 900 years. Built to dominate the surrounding lands, it was repeatedly attacked during Welsh uprisings, including the famous rebellion led by Princess Gwenllian in 1136.
Legend tells how Gwenllian led Welsh forces into battle near the castle and became one of the most famous female figures in Welsh medieval history.
The castle's huge gatehouse, towers and defensive walls remain remarkably impressive today. Nearby countryside, rivers and walking routes make Kidwelly a rewarding stop for travellers exploring Wales beyond the better-known tourist sites.
Best for: A well-preserved gatehouse away from the crowds.
Image: Julie Anne Workman (CC BY-SA 3.0) via Wikimedia Commons
Rhuddlan Castle
Denbighshire, North Wales
Rhuddlan Castle was one of Edward I's earliest Welsh fortresses and played a key role in his campaign to control North Wales. Built beside the River Clwyd, it introduced advanced military designs that influenced later castles such as Conwy and Caernarfon.
The castle was also connected with the controversial Statute of Rhuddlan in 1284, which formally brought Wales under English rule.
Visitors can walk around the impressive remains, explore the defensive layout and learn about the political changes that reshaped medieval Wales. Its riverside setting makes it a peaceful stop for walkers and cyclists exploring North Wales.
Nearby: The River Clwyd and North Wales cycling routes.
Image: Cadw (OGL v1.0) via Wikimedia Commons
Gwynedd, North Wales
Hidden beneath the mountains of Snowdonia, Dolbadarn Castle was built by Welsh prince Llywelyn ap Iorwerth in the 13th century. Unlike many Welsh castles, it was built by the native Welsh rulers rather than invading Norman forces.
Its round tower stands dramatically beside Llyn Padarn and represents the power and independence of medieval Welsh princes.
Visitors can climb the tower, enjoy views over the lake and mountains, and combine the visit with some of Wales' finest walking routes. For outdoor travellers, Dolbadarn is one of the best examples of a castle experience combined with spectacular natural scenery.
Best for: A native Welsh castle beside Llyn Padarn in Snowdonia.
Explore Dolbadarn Castle → Image: Ken Day (CC BY-SA 4.0) via Wikimedia Commons
Carreg Cennen Castle
Carmarthenshire, South Wales
Carreg Cennen is one of Wales' most atmospheric castles, dramatically positioned on top of a limestone cliff overlooking the Brecon Beacons landscape.
Although Norman in origin, the castle became associated with Welsh rulers and later played a role in regional conflicts. Its isolated location gives it a wild and romantic atmosphere unlike many larger fortresses.
Visitors can climb the steep approach, explore the ruins and discover the legendary underground passage beneath the castle. Its remote setting makes it especially appealing for walkers, photographers and campers looking for historic sites away from the crowds.
Best for: A dramatic clifftop ruin and its underground passage.
Image: Llywelyn2000 (CC BY-SA 4.0) via Wikimedia Commons
Anglesey, North Wales
Beaumaris Castle was intended to be Edward I's greatest Welsh fortress, although it was never fully completed. Despite this, its symmetrical design and advanced defensive layout make it one of the finest examples of medieval castle architecture.
The castle was designed with multiple layers of defence, including concentric walls and water defences connected to the nearby sea.
Visitors can explore the unfinished towers, walk the walls and enjoy views across the Menai Strait. Combined with Anglesey's beaches, coastal paths and campsites, Beaumaris offers one of Wales' best heritage-and-outdoors experiences.
Best for: Textbook concentric design and the Menai Strait.
Explore Beaumaris Castle → 
