Wales is the land of castles, with more castles per square mile than anywhere in the world! This unique claim to fame makes visiting a castle one of the best attractions in Wales. With over 600 castles in Wales, it can be hard to know which ones to visit.
As a local to Wales and a castle fan, I will share with you the best castles to see. From Chepstow Castle, the oldest castle in Wales, to Roch Castle which was recently renovated into a luxury hotel, I’ll give you the castle low-down.
So, let this magical castle journey commence!
Notification: Travel Lemming is an independent reader-supported blog. You can support us by purchasing via the affiliate links on this page, which may earn us commissions. See our Advertising Policy for further explanation. Thank you!
21 Best Welsh Castles
Caernarfon Castle
Step out onto a modern rooftop deck in this iconic seven-hundred-year-old fortress with stunning views.
📍 Google Maps | Hours: 9.30 am – 5 pm daily, changes seasonally | Entrance: £12.50, adults, £8.80 aged 5 -17 and students
Caernarfon Castle in North Wales is considered one of the greatest buildings of the Middle Ages. The iconic fortification took over 47 years to build and stands on the banks of the picturesque River Seiont.
Caernarfon Castle forms part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site along with Conwy Castle, Harlech Castle, and Beaumaris Castle. These four castles were some of the many castles built by English King Edward I after invading Wales in 1282.
Don’t miss the incredible rooftop deck in the gatehouse towers! The recent development includes lift access to the upper levels of the castle, making Caernarfon Castle accessible to all.
👉 Pro Tip:Cadw is the organisation that preserves many historic sites in Wales. Consider becoming a member of Cadw for a small annual fee and enjoy free access to many castles.
Cardiff Castle
In the heart of the Welsh capital, Cardiff Castle takes its visitors through centuries of history and stories.
📍 Google Maps | Hours: 10 am – 5 pm daily, changes seasonally | Entrance: £14.50 adults, £10 children 5-16
Cardiff Castle has over two thousand years of history to tell. Visitors can explore lots, from the Norman Keep to exquisite Victorian interiors. Don’t miss exploring the tunnels which were once used as air-raid shelters.
There’s plenty to see and do at Cardiff Castle for people of all ages. You can even go ice skating on the grounds of Cardiff Castle at Christmas!
Remember to look out for the famous animal wall outside the castle. And after you’ve finished your visit, be sure to check out more of Cardiff’s attractions.
Caerphilly Castle
The biggest castle in Wales is an impressive sight with 30 acres of water defences, towers and gatehouses.
📍 Google Maps | Hours: 9.30 pm – 5 pm daily, changes seasonally | Entrance: £10.60, adults, £7.50 aged 5-17 and students | 👉 Book The Wandering Bard’s Tour of South Wales on Viator
Caerphilly Castle is the second-biggest castle in Britain and the biggest in Wales. Feast your eyes on the leaning tower, the impressive water defences, and the backdrop of Caerphilly Mountain.
This 13th-century fortification in South Wales is a popular tourist attraction for people of all ages. There is a visitor centre nearby, decent parking and public transport options.
You can visit Caerphilly Castle, Chepstow Castle and Tintern Abbey all in one trip on The Wandering Bard’s Tour of South Wales, which has raving reviews!
👉 Pro Tip: Always check the facilities and accessibility of castles in advance. Castles are old and often undergo renovations, which means access to facilities is subject to change.
Conwy Castle
Discover one of Europe’s most impressive and well-preserved medieval castles in a breathtaking setting.
📍 Google Maps | Hours: 9.30 am – 5 pm daily, changes seasonally | Entrance: £11.70, adults, £8.20 aged 5 -17 and students
Conwy Castle stands in the heart of Conwy, a medieval walled town in North Wales. Conwy Castle has survived over seven hundred years and is one of the finest examples of medieval fortification in Europe.
Conwy Castles boasts eight towers and views of the Conwy River and the mountains of Eryri (Snowdonia) National Park.
Don’t miss climbing up the staircases in the great towers to explore every corner of the castle and appreciate the beautiful views!
Chepstow Castle
Built on a limestone cliff overlooking the River Wye, Chepstow Castle is an impressive sight.
📍 Google Maps | Hours: 9.30 am – 5 pm daily, changes seasonally | Entrance: £8.70, adults, £6.10, aged 5 – 17 and students
Chepstow Castle stands on the edge of a clifftop on the River Wye and offers great views.
Chepstow Castle is the oldest surviving post-Roman stone castle in Britain and has the oldest castle doors in Europe. Chepstow Castle is very well preserved and shows different stages of development through time.
Are you a music fan? I highly recommend checking out Castell Roc, an annual music festival held in Chepstow Castle!
Beaumaris Castle
Known as ‘the greatest castle never built’, Beaumaris Castle stands by the Menai Strait on the beautiful Isle of Anglesey.
📍 Google Maps | Hours: 9.30 am – 5 pm daily, changes seasonally | Entrance: £8.70, adults, £6.10 aged 5 – 17 and students
King Edward I and his architect had big plans for Beaumaris Castle. Having built royal strongholds in Harlech, Caernarfon, and Conwy, this was set to be the ‘castle to end all castles’. Beaumaris Castle was never completed, but the ambitious plans are visible!
Beaumaris is almost nearly perfectly symmetrical and boasts formidable defences. Beaumaris Castle is by the Menai Strait on the beautiful Isle of Anglesey (Ynys Môn), an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The views from Beaumaris Castle are spectacular!
Pembroke Castle
The birthplace of King Henry VII, Pembroke Castle is full of character and history.
📍 Google Maps | Hours: 10 am – 5 pm daily, changes seasonally | Entrance: £10, adults, £7 aged 3 – 15
Pembroke Castle overlooks Milford Haven and the scenic countryside of Pembrokeshire.
Pembroke Castle is the only castle in Britain built over a natural cave, called Wogan Cavern. You can explore the exhibitions, Great Keep, and even a Dungeon Tower!
Pembroke Castle is a great family day out. There are regular events for everyone to enjoy, from falconry shows to a knight school!
Castell Coch
This fairytale castle perches among woodland on a hillside just outside of Cardiff.
📍 Google Maps | Hours: 9.30 am – 5 pm daily, changes seasonally | Entrance: £8.70, adults, £6.10 aged 5 – 17 and students
Castell Coch, meaning ‘red castle’, was built for the third Marquess of Bute around the ruins of a 13th-century castle.
Castell Coch looks like a fairytale castle with its perfect turrets and drawbridge. The interior of Castell Coch is exquisitely decorated and furnished.
The surrounding woodland is beautiful – I especially like visiting in bluebell season! Castell Coch is a family-friendly castle to visit, and there are regular seasonal activities on offer.
A visit to Castell Coch is one of the best day trips from Cardiff.
Roch Castle
Have a unique stay in this 12th-century castle turned-luxury hotel in Pembrokeshire.
📍 Google Maps | Website | 👉 Book a stay at Roch Castle
Roch Castle was built in the late 12th century and its first known inhabitant was a Norman knight. Over 800 years later, Roch Castle re-opened its doors to a new wave of inhabitants!
Following extensive renovation, Roch Castle is now a luxury hotel. You’re sure to sleep well in the unique rooms, built inside a castle with five-foot thick walls.
You can stay at Roch Castle and enjoy the spectacular views of the Pembrokeshire Coast from the fourth-floor viewing platform! Couples especially will love this romantic setting.
Carreg Cennen Castle
This iconic castle built on a limestone crag is considered one of Wales’ most romantic places.
📍 Google Maps | Hours: 9.30 am – 5 pm daily, changes seasonally | Entrance: £6.50, adults, £4 aged 5 – 17
Carreg Cennen Castle was built by the Welsh Princes of Deheubarth on a limestone crag in Carmarthenshire.
Carreg Cennen Castle, with its lush views, has inspired many artists and is considered one of the most romantic places in Wales. You can even get married with a view of the castle!
Carreg Cennen Castle is reached by walking 15 minutes through a working farm.
Harlech Castle
A dramatic backdrop and impressive design make Harlech Castle a special sight to behold.
📍 Google Maps | Hours: 9.30 am – 5 pm daily, changes seasonally | Entrance: £8.70, adults, £6.10 aged 5 -17 and students
Cross the floating bridge and walk through the immense gatehouse to enter Harlech Castle. Harlech Castle was constructed in a ‘walls in walls’ style and has an impressive defensive design.
Harlech Castle stands on a craggy rock and has stunning views of the mountains of Eryri (Snowdonia) National Park.
Stop for a cup of tea in Caffi Castell Harlech for unrivaled views of the castle and its surroundings.
Denbigh Castle
Set foot in this dramatic castle with a bitter history that shaped Wales and offers panoramic views of rolling hills.
📍 Google Maps | Hours: 10 am – 5 pm, closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays, opening days and times change seasonally | Entrance: £5, adults, £3.60 aged 5 – 17 and students
Denbigh Castle looks out across the Vale of Clwyd and rolling hills. You need to cross a drawbridge and enter through a triple-towered gatehouse to get into the castle.
The imposing gatehouse was added by the English after they took control of Denbigh Castle. But Denbigh Castle was soon captured by the Welsh despite the additional defences!
Denbigh Castle has great views, toilets, parking, and a small shop. During school holidays there are sometimes child-friendly activities on offer.
Raglan Castle
Climb the steps up the well-preserved towers in this majestic castle and look out across Monmouthshire.
📍 Google Maps | Hours: 9.30 am – 5 pm daily, changes seasonally | Entrance: £8.70, adults, £6.10 aged 5 – 17 and students
Raglan Castle is a grand, beautiful castle in South East Wales built by Welshmen. Raglan Castle has an iconic silhouette and many turrets. I love the view of the Monmouthshire countryside from the tower!
You can explore the moat, water defences, and surrounding countryside too. Raglan Castle is great for families as there’s so much to explore.
Kidwelly Castle
This imposing castle has survived a long and bitter history and multiple transformations.
📍 Google Maps | Hours: 9.30 am – 5 pm daily, changes seasonally | Entrance: £6.80, adults, £4.80 aged 5 – 17 and students
Kidwelly Castle is an imposing castle in Carmarthenshire looking over the River Gwendraeth. It’s easy to visit Kidwelly now compared to centuries ago. You don’t have to worry about safely crossing the drawbridge before your enemies spot you!
Look out for the monument near the gatehouse dedicated to Princess Gwenllian, a warrior Princess and Welsh history heroine.
Parking is available but limited in Kidwelly, a small medieval town.
Dolbadarn Castle
Built by a Welsh Prince, Dolbadarn Castle proudly stands among the lakes and mountains of Eryri National Park.
📍 Google Maps | Hours: All Day | Entrance: Free
Dolbadarn Castle is one of the finest castles in Wales built by a Welsh Prince. Dolbadarn Castle was built in a strategic position to defend the ancient kingdom of Gwynedd.
Dolbadarn Castle’s round tower overlooks Llyn Padarn in a very scenic location on the edges of Eryri (Snowdonia) National Park. You won’t need long to explore the castle, but take your time admiring the views!
Note that there are no facilities here and the ground is uneven.
Laugharne Castle
Be inspired by this impressive medieval castle overlooking the Taf estuary, a view which inspired a legendary Welsh poet.
📍 Google Maps | Hours: 10 am – 5 pm daily in the Summer, opening days and times change seasonally | Entrance: £5, adults, £3.60 aged 5 – 17 and students
Laugharne Castle overlooks the picturesque Taf estuary in Carmarthenshire. The medieval castle turned Tudor mansion has been the site of many battles.
Laugharne Castle has also been the site of more peaceful history. The famous Welsh poet Dylan Thomas lived in Laugharne and wrote poems in the castle summerhouse looking at the views. Maybe you’ll be inspired to get creative too!
Note that Laugharne is pronounced ‘Larn’.
Powis Castle
An exquisitely decorated castle with collections of art and history, and a vast garden to explore
📍 Google Maps | Hours: 11 am – 4 pm daily, changes seasonally | Entrance: £15, adults, £7.50 children
Powis Castle was built by a Welsh prince in the mid-13th century and later remodeled into a noble residence.
You can explore the intricately painted and furnished rooms and lots of art and history. There are also hundreds of items from South and East Asia in The Clive Museum. These items were transported to Powis Castle during the British colonization of India.
There’s lots to discover in the world-famous gardens at Powis Castle, including stunning Italianate terraces.
Powis Castle is a good castle to visit on a rainy day!
White Castle
An impressive 13th-century castle and the best preserved of the ‘Three Castles’ in Monmouthshire.
📍 Google Maps | Hours: All day | Entrance: Free
White Castle is one of the ‘Three Castles’ in Monmouthshire built to defend the Wales – England border.
I recommend that keen walkers visit White Castle on foot and complete the ‘Three Castles Walk’. The 19-mile circular walk links White Castle with Skenfrith Castle and Grosmont Castle. Start and finish the hike in Grosmont so you can rest up afterward in the local pub, The Angel Inn.
Parking and facilities at White Castle and the rest of the Three Castles are limited.
Carew Castle
Explore this unique castle in Pembrokeshire set on a site with a 23-acre Millpond and lush landscape.
📍 Google Maps | Hours: 10 am – 4 pm daily, changes seasonally | Entrance: £6, adults, £4 aged 5 – 16
Carew Castle will keep history buffs, wildlife fans, keen walkers, and cake enthusiasts entertained.
Carew Castle is set in a scenic location overlooking a 23-acre Millpond. Carew Castle is architecturally interesting as it developed from a Norman fortress to an Elizabethan manor. The site is also home to the only restored Tidal Mill in Wales and lots of wildlife.
Enjoy great views of the castle and millpond from the wheelchair-accessible circular walk, and don’t miss the recently opened tearoom!
There are regular events here, such as child-friendly pirate trails and a popular car show.
Criccieth Castle
Feast your eyes on this spectacular coastal construction and the sweeping views of Cardigan Bay.
📍 Google Maps | Hours: 10 am – 5 pm, closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays, opening days and times change seasonally | Entrance: £6.80, adults, £4.80 aged 5 – 17 and students
Criccieth Castle stands on a rocky headland and has sweeping views across Cardigan Bay.
Criccieth Castle was built by Welsh Princes in North Wales and was eventually burnt down by Welsh Princes after it had fallen to English rule.
I recommend walking along the beach and up to Criccieth Castle. The castle site is quite small, but the views and coastal location will make your trip to Criccieth Castle memorable.
Abergavenny Castle
Get your camera ready for this picturesque castle in the Bannau Brycheiniog National Park.
📍 Google Maps | Hours: All day | Entrance: Free
Abergavenny Castle is in a very peaceful and scenic spot in South Wales. The castle ruins have a backdrop of the mountains in Bannau Brycheiniog National Park and Abergavenny town.
Check out the Abergavenny Museum, housed in a building on top of a Norman motte in the castle grounds.
There are regular events for foodies and families alike held at Abergavenny Castle, from music to theatre shows.
FAQs About Castles in Wales
What is the most visited castle in Wales?
Cardiff Castle is the most visited castle in Wales. Cardiff Castle is one of the most visited paid attractions in Wales and welcomes approximately 300,000 visitors per year.
What is the oldest castle in Wales?
Chepstow Castle is considered the oldest castle in Wales. Building for Chepstow Castle began in 1067. Chepstow Castle is the oldest surviving post-Roman castle and has the oldest castle doors in Europe, dating to no later than the 1190s.
What are the best castles in Wales to visit for free?
White Castle and Dolbadarn Castle are the best castles in Wales to visit for free. White Castle is a well-preserved castle with a moat in Monmouthshire. Dolbadarn Castle has a round tower that is surrounded by lakes and mountains of Eryri (Snowdonia) National Park.
***
I hope you enjoyed reading about the best castles in Wales! Check out my article on the best places to visit in Wales to see where else you could visit on your trip.
