Planning to visit Conwy Castle? Whether you’re looking to dive into centuries of history, capture the perfect photograph or entertain the kids, we’ve created the ultimate guide for things to do at Conwy Castle in North Wales.
Wales is peppered with more than 600 castles, ranging from beautifully restored Victorian fortresses to crumbling Norman strongholds. While each has its own unique charm, there’s no denying Conwy Castle steals the spotlight. Built by Edward I of England as a show of brute strength, the castle is set on a rocky outcrop and looms over the town centre.
With its soaring curtain walls and goliath towers, the castle unequivocally achieved its purpose of intimidating and oppressing the newly conquered Welsh. At the time it may have symbolised subjugation, however today it’s been embraced as an iconic Welsh landmark.
Stepping into the castle grounds, you’ll be transported to a medieval world of spiral staircases, hidden passageways and cavernous royal chambers. Don’t forget to pick up your audio guide, which really brings the Conwy Castle experience to life.
A quick intro to Conwy Castle
Perched high in North Wales, Conwy Castle Wales has been standing guard over the ancient market town since the 1200s. This magnificent medieval fortress was built by Edward I of England during his Welsh conquest, with the king spending an eye-watering £15,000 on the construction of the stronghold. While today that would barely amount to a down deposit on a tiny London flat, at the time it was an enormous sum equivalent to around £45 million.
The castle played an important role in many events of Welsh history and remained a symbol of English strength and oppression until the 17th century, when it fell into disrepair after the Civil War. Thanks to the tireless efforts of historians and preservationists over the centuries, Conwy Castle Wales has been restored to its former splendour and is now one of the most impressive strongholds in Europe.
The jewel of the UNESCO World Heritage Site
Alongside Beaumaris, Harlechand and Caernarfon, Conwy Castle is one of the most impressive examples of 13th and 14th century military architecture on the European continent.
Together, the quartet make up the Castles and Town Walls of King Edward in Gwynedd UNESCO World Heritage Site. All have been incredibly well-preserved and offer a unique chance to step back in time to the reign of Edward I.
Top Tip: The CADW app is a fantastic resource for tech-savvy travellers. Download the app for access to a digital Conwy Castle Wales guide that offers more information on the fascinating history and heritage of the castle. Want to look up a snippet of history? CADW-powered Wi-Fi is available throughout the Conwy Castle site and makes it easy to fact check that Edward I trivia or Civil War date.
Admire the handiwork of James of St George
Even to the untrained eye, it’s impossible to miss the incredible handiwork of James of St George while touring Conwy Castle. The chief architect of King Edward I, James of St George is celebrated as one of the most accomplished military architects of all time.
Enlisting the finest architects in England, James of St George made the most of his £15,000 budget and created a masterpiece of soaring turrets, towers and battlements.
The entire castle was completed in just four years, making it one of the most impressive feats of architecture in the world.
Top Tip: As you’re circling the outer walls, look for small holes in the stone. These were once used to create medieval scaffolding for the castle builders, though today they’re been reclaimed by local pigeons.
