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

Harlech Castle, Harlech

4.5

#1 of 20 in Historic Sites in Snowdonia National Park

World heritage site · Castle · Historic Site

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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. Using our online itinerary creator, Harlech attractions like Harlech Castle can form part of a personalized travel itinerary.

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Tours to Harlech Castle

BOOK WITH VIATOR 5-Day Discover Wales Small-Group Tour from London

4.9

Tours from $1,045 ›

Likely to sell out BOOK WITH VIATOR 3-Day North Wales & Chester Tour from Manchester Incl Admissions

5.0

Tours from $544 ›

Harlech Castle reviews

TripAdvisor traveler rating

1,876 reviews

Google

4.6

By Brian S

Day we went happened to be medieval reconstruction and learnt all about archery, cooking, defending the castle, cannon fire and history . very informative and lovely castle

Day we went happened to be medieval reconstruction and learnt all about archery, cooking, defending the castle, cannon fire and history . very informative and lovely castle more »
By golfscore57

We did the 30 min train ride from criccieth and had a nice walk up to the main village area before calling in at the castle cafe thats very nice we are now members at the castle and we are looking...

We did the 30 min train ride from criccieth and had a nice walk up to the main village area before calling in at the castle cafe thats very nice we are now members at the castle and we are looking... more »
By VetteVoyager

Well worth a visit! One of the vest in North Wales. There was a re-enactment group there on this early May Bank Holiday weekend which was an unexpected bonus, brought history to life with sights and..... more

Well worth a visit! One of the vest in North Wales. There was a re-enactment group there on this early May Bank Holiday weekend which was an unexpected bonus, brought history to life with sights and..... more »

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Google

By Adam

We're staying not far from here and planned to visit this castle as a part of our trip. With an initial trouble to find a parking spot, then climbing the steepest road in the UK, we managed to get there. The castle is a well maintained with, at the time of our visit, volunteers dressed for the atmosphere and teaching kids some medieval arts. We enjoyed the views and walks.

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By Susan Yates

A lovely old castle with plenty to see. Stunning views if you can climb the narrow stairs. Plenty of information boards around giving the history of the castle and how people lived there. There's limited parking that belongs to the council not the castle. The road to reach the castle is very narrow and has a few sharp uphill turns!!

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By Martin Hollingworth

Enjoyed the walks around the castle. Dogs welcome but only ground floor. Stunning views from the top. Small car park got busy quickly. Best to go early. Nice cafe and gift shop.

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By Gill Jones

Great place to visit. So much of the castle is still intact too. Stunning views all around, being so close to Snowdon. Staff very helpful and friendly. Easily accessed for disabled although would not be able to visit battlements. A Great fun place for children to explore.

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By Rachel Oliver

Really loved this castle; great place, great views, awesome reenactment and period costumes when we went. Great atmosphere and sense of history you can touch and see. Be careful with children here, low barriers on high walls!

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