These Welsh castles were built for royalty, and now you can visit them for a fairy-tale vacation.
Sometimes called the “Land of Castles” and “Castle Capital of the World,” Wales once had about 600 castles. Many of these Welsh castles are now in ruins, while others are open for tours or even overnight stays. Visitors to Wales might notice the seemingly unusual spellings of the castle and city names, which speaks to the fascinating ancient language of the country.
The Welsh language (Cymraeg in Welsh) is Celtic in origin and dates back to 600 B.C. The alphabet uses 29 letters, including “ll,” “ff,” and “dd,” explaining their frequency in Welsh words, including castle names (“castells” in Welsh). The language is still spoken in Wales, along with English, and is taught in most Welsh schools to ensure its survival. When you travel to Wales to enjoy its stunning scenery, pristine beaches, lush forests, and, of course, its historic castles, you might also notice the national emblem of daffodils.
Castell Coch
Thought to have been constructed by the Normans in the late 11th century to defend Cardiff, Castell Coch (“Red Castle”) overlooks the Taff Gorge on the northern boundary of the city. The original castle was destroyed, likely during the Welsh rebellion of 1314. Many centuries later, it was rebuilt in the Victorian style on its medieval site. Today, visitors can explore the restored interior of the castle and surrounding areas on the Taff Trail, surrounded by ancient beech trees of the Fforest Fawr.
Cardigan Castle
This 11th-century castle, located on the River Teifi, combines ten centuries of history with the present day. Visitors can tour the remains of the original castle and dine on traditional Welsh dishes in its restaurant, Cegin 1176 Kitchen, built into the castle walls. The first National Eisteddfod, now an annual celebration of Welsh culture, was held in 1176 to mark the completion of the castle by Lord Rhys.
Caerphilly Castle
Set on an expansive 30-acre site, Caerphilly Castle is the largest castle in Wales and the second-largest in Britain after Windsor. Built during the 13th century by Norman nobleman Gilbert de Clare to protect his land from Welsh Prince Llewellyn Gruffudd, this castle features a concentric ring of walls, including gatehouses, towers, a maze, a dragon’s den, and a great hall, giving visitors much to explore during tours of the castle and grounds.
Conwy Castle
This well-preserved castle, built in the late 13th century for England’s King Edward I, is located on the north coast of Wales on a hill overlooking the Conwy Estuary. The walls surrounding the town remain standing, and guided tours are available. Climbing to the top of the towers offers stunning views of the mountains, river, and medieval town.
Caernarfon Castle
This magnificent castle was built in the 13th century on the site of a Roman fort at the mouth of the River Seiont. Much of the outer wall that surrounded the town still stands, along with several towers, including two that house The Royal Welch Fusiliers Museum. King Edward’s son was born in the castle and named the Prince of Wales, a title given to the eldest son of the reigning monarch since that time. In 1969, Prince Charles’ investiture was held in Caernarfon Castle.
Cardiff Castle
One of the most popular tourist attractions in Wales, Cardiff Castle dates back to ancient Rome, with archaeological remains from that era visible. Over the years, additions and redesigns transformed it into a Norman keep (fortified tower), a medieval fortress, and a Gothic Revival-style residence. Located on the Taff River, the castle lies in the heart of the city, allowing visitors to enjoy guided tours or a leisurely stroll through the town.
Kidwelly Castle
Overlooking the River Gwendraeth in southwest Wales, Kidwelly Castle was first constructed in the early 12th century by the Normans and later rebuilt in stone. One legend tells of the brave Princess Gwenllian, who battled against the Normans, and whose headless ghost is said to haunt the castle grounds. A monument to the princess stands near the castle gatehouse. The castle has the distinction of appearing in the first scene of “Monty Python and the Holy Grail.”
Laugharne Castle
Located in South Wales in Carmarthenshire, the castle has been destroyed and rebuilt several times since it was founded by the Normans in 1116. The castle was captured by Lord Rhys of Wales and has changed hands multiple times before being rebuilt as a Tudor manor house in the 16th century. Visitors can see the original stone wall remains and towers, as well as the gardens that inspired writer Dylan Thomas.
Raglan Castle
Welsh nobleman Sir William ap Thomas is credited with building the moated Great Tower of the castle in 1435. His son, Sir William Herbert, created the gatehouse. Sadly, much of the castle was destroyed in battles, but it was later transformed into an opulent residence. Today, visitors can still see the restored Grand Staircase, medieval wood carvings, hidden rooms, a moat, a garden, and stunning views of the countryside.
Dinefwr Castle
A visit to the ruins of Dinefwr Castle set along the River Tywi offers beautiful views of the Tywi Valley. Thought to have been built under the rule of Lord Rhys during the 12th century, the castle was mostly destroyed by the end of the Middle Ages but later partially restored. Today, the area houses the historic Newton House, surrounded by a National Nature Reserve and an 18th-century deer park.
Pembroke Castle
Located in Pembrokeshire in South Wales, the castle was originally built of wood, but when William Marshal became Earl of Pembroke in 1189, he reconstructed it in stone. Today, visitors can explore the grounds, towers, battlements, and a prison in the subterranean cave under the castle, while enjoying the view from the top after ascending a narrow staircase. Known as the birthplace of King Henry VII, the castle stages historic reenactments, falconry displays, and hosts a Christmas market.
Roch Castle
Also in Pembrokeshire, Roch Castle was built in the late 12th century. Norman Knight Adam de Rupe was the first named inhabitant, with his name in French being “de la Roche,” hence the castle’s title. After various ownership changes through the years, the castle underwent extensive renovations and reopened in 2013 as a six-bedroom luxury hotel. Its original footprint remains intact, offering guests rooms named after de Rupe, ap Gruffydd, and other historic inhabitants. The art-filled property features stunning views, a dining room, and a reception team to arrange local experiences.
Chepstow Castle
Construction on this castle (Castell Cas-gwent in Welsh) began in 1067 by Norman Lord William Fitz Osbern, who was closely aligned with William the Conqueror. As one of the first Norman castles built in Wales, it is the oldest surviving post-Roman stone fortification in Britain. Set on a limestone cliff above the River Wye in Monmouthshire, the castle is well preserved, open for tours, and offers lovely views of the surrounding area.
Harlech Castle
One of Edward I’s four World Heritage Site castles in North Wales, Harlech exemplifies the “walls within walls” designs by architect Master James of St. George. Its numerous battles throughout the centuries inspired the popular rugby anthem, “Men of Harlech.” Today, visitors can tour the castle, entering through a floating footbridge.
Llancaiach Fawr
Actually a Tudor manor house built on the site of an earlier medieval structure in South Wales, Llancaiach Fawr has been restored, creating an experience that represents life during the 17th century. Costumed servants enhance the experience, immersing guests in the manor’s history and allowing them to learn about lives during the Civil Wars.
Bodelwyddan Castle
Guests can stay in a historic manor house at Bodelwyddan Castle, located near the North Wales coast and the Snowdonia region. This regal hotel offers modern amenities, a spa, entertainment, dining, and romantic grounds for exploring.
