Harlech Castle Gwynedd

Harlech
Gwynedd
Harlech Castle stands above the town of Harlech in southern Gwynedd

Harlech Castle stands on a rocky hill top overlooking the coastal town of Harlech and the Irish Sea in southern Gwynedd. Today it stands as an iconic image of life during the Middle Ages in North Wales.

The castle was constructed on the orders of King Edward I of England as part of his 'iron ring' encircling Snowdonia by his master engineer James of Saint George and along with Caernarfon Castle, Conwy Castle, and the unfinished Beaumaris Castle completed the ring.

Construction of Harlech Castle began in 1283 and took 7 years to complete. The castle consisted of two rings of concentric walls and at the time was bordered on the west side by the sea which was reached via a fortified stairway rising the 200 feet to the castle walls.

Harlech Castle saw military action in the uprising of Madog ap Llywelyn during 1294-1295 but its defenders held strong and the castle was not defeated.

The castle again saw conflict in 1404 when Owain Glyndwr's forces attacked the castle. This time the castle was defeated and Glyndwr took up residence for a number of years before the monarchy retook the castle in 1408.

The castle was attacked during the War of the Roses and survived a 7 year seige before finally falling in 1468. Many attribute the song 'Men of Harlech' to this time period.

The final millitary action seen by Harlech Castle was during the Civil War when the castle was used held by the Royalists. After the war a demolition order was issued for the castle but was never carried out.

Today Harlech Castle is owned and operated by CADW the Welsh agency responsible for the maintenance of historic buildings.


Tariff

Adults £3.70
Concession £3.30
Family Ticket £10.70

Opening Times

Harlech Castle is open throughout the summer from 9am to 5pm.

During the Winter months the castle is open from 9.30am to 4pm except Sunday's when it is open from 11am to 4pm.

Other Gwynedd Attractions


Other Gwynedd Attractions