Trip Planner: Europe / UK / Wales / North Wales / Snowdonia National Park / Harlech / Historic Sites / Harlech Castle

Harlech Castle, Harlech

4.6

#1 of 20 in Sightseeing in Snowdonia National Park

Castle Historic Site

Edward I built the formidable Harlech Castle during his invasion of Wales between 1282 and 1289. Today, UNESCO calls this remarkably well-preserved World Heritage site one of "the finest examples of late 13th century and early 14th century military architecture in Europe." This medieval fortification stands proudly on top of a spur of rock close to the Irish Sea, to which it was once connected. Hike up the castle’s tallest tower to enjoy magnificent views of the coast and beautiful Snowdonia. Read the display boards dotted around the castle to get an understanding of its history, and the lives of those who lived there. Wales’ unofficial anthem, "Men of Harlech," describes the siege of Harlech during the War of the Roses. The walk up to the castle and the steps up the towers are steep and may not be suitable for those with limited mobility. Plan your Harlech Castle visit and explore what else you can see and do in Harlech using our Harlech trip generator.

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Reviews

TripAdvisor Traveler Rating

1,070 reviews

Google

4.7

j82anderson

The views are amazing and the castle is well looked after. Nice cafe and gift shop too. We visited on a Wednesday but it was still quiet busy and buzzing. more »
RachyWoo40

We visited last October on a grey day, which I think made the castle look more imposing. We parked in the town and walked to the castle which took us about 5 minutes. We were greeted by nice, friendly... more »
Peter M

As far as getting there by car goes I would say don't, find some other form of transport! The road through the village is narrow and steep and there are tourists hiding behind every corner. When you e... more »

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Google

Westedk Productions

Very interesting castle. Very windy and rain at the time but the weather didn't deter our visit. We got a wrist band to visit as much as on and off for the day. Well worth the admission fee.

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George Styles

It looks awesome, but where the hell do you park? Some of the smallest roads which were more like bike paths all around. Wish we could've found parking so that we could have seen it. Looked good from the outside though.

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Nick James

Wow this place has had a massive refit. Can't believe how much it's changed. Kids loved it and enjoyed looking for the clues to win a prize!

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Lew Wilde

A small castle, with a modern cafe and bridge linking the 2. We paid £6.50 each ( full paying adults) to get in, although we only spent around an hour in the castle. I went a bit woozy at the top of the turret as it was quite windy and I'm not keane on rope banisters. But the there are good views from out the back ( of a golf course ). We also had a pot of tea and a scone at the café which was nice.

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Iain MacVicar

Fabulous views from this historic castle! See the dragon inside. Nice cafe on site serving drinks, cake and light lunches. Steep hill walk if parking on the lower part of town, but definitely worth it. Looks beautiful lit at night too.

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