Harlech Castle: Everything You Need to Know
(Ad - I visited Harlech Castle as part of a press trip with Visit Wales, however, all opinions are my own)
Tucked into the outskirts of the Snowdonia (Eryri) National Park, Harlech Castle, which is also known by its Welsh name Castell Harlech, dates back to the 1200s when King Edward I invaded Wales.
The castle was fiercely defended across the centuries, having been attacked by several Welsh princes, and changing hands between the Welsh and the English numerous times. Today, Harlech Castle has been recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site alongside Edward’s other castles Beaumaris, Caernarfon and Conwy.
Although much of the castle is now in ruins, the site boasts an impressive facade, turrets and an external wall structure which visitors can climb for panoramic views across the area. As with many attractions of this age, the top of the castle walls are reachable only through a steep spiral staircase within one of the turrets. For those who are able, it really is worth the climb for those amazing views.
Information can be found around the site explaining the history of the castle, as well as the various rooms and their functions.
Opening times
(Correct as of June 2024)
1st March - 30th June and 1st July - 31st August: open daily from 9.30am–5pm
1st July - 31st August: open daily from 9.30am–6pm
1st November - 28th Feburary: open daily from 10am–4pm
The castle will be closed on the 24th, 25th and 26th of December, as well as the 1st of January. It may also close with short notice during extreme weather, and updates are shared on their social media. Last entry is half an hour before the castle closes.
Ticket price
(Correct as of June 2024)
Admission prices vary depending on the time of year, with an adult ticket starting ranging between £9.50 and £10.
Family tickets range between £30.40 and £31.90, and admit two adults and three children.
Cadw members are able to enter the site for free, as are children under the age of 5 and those with a disability and their carers. Further discounts are available for students, senior citizens, Blue Light Card holders and HM Armed Forces & Veterans. Full information can be found on their website.
Facilities
The castle has toilets available onsite as well as baby changing facilities. There is a cafe serving a range of breakfast and lunch options, as well as other snacks, and a car park nearby.
Accessibility information is available on their website here.
How to get here
The castle is accessible by train and bus, with the nearest train station situated in Harlech town. The area is also served by several local buses and is easily accessed by car.
The full address for the site is Castell Harlech, Harlech, LL46 2YH
Quick fire questions…
Where is Harlech Castle?
Harlech Castle is situated in Harlech, Gwynedd county, which is in the north of Wales.
Who owns Harlech Castle?
The castle is owned by the Crown Estate and managed by Cadw who are part of the Welsh government.
When was Harlech Castle built?
It was built between 1282 and 1289 by Edward I.
Why was Harlech Castle built?
Initially constructed as part of Edward I’s invasion of Wales, it was hoped that Harlech Castle would strengthen English control over the north of the country, along with a ring of other castles.
What else is there to do nearby?
Harlech is a beautiful seaside town with many activities and attractions to visit nearby. Visitors can enjoy the beach, explore local hiking trails and browse the independent shops within the town itself. There’s also a variety of places to stay, including nearby campsites.
Just down the road you’ll find the LLanfair Slate Caverns, where you can explore the man made caverns and learn about the history behind this former slate mine. There’s also a children’s farm just down the road where families can meet the animals and spend some energy in their play areas.
Additionally, Harlech Castle is located on the outskirts of Snowdonia, also known by its Welsh name Eryri, which boasts a wide variety of walks, hikes and other outdoor activities.
Have you visited Harlech Castle? Leave a comment and let me know!