Caernarfon Castle – © www.bbc.co.uk
Caernarfon Castle is a historic fortress located in Caernarfon in North Wales. Dating back to the 13th and 14th centuries, the castle is known for its bold, intimidating and muscular design making it a formidable presence. The castle was built along with the famous Caernarfon city walls and was built on a grand scale, today they form part of the impressive Castles & Town Walls of King Edward in Gwynedd World Heritage Site. The castle has been described over the years as among the most impressive in Wales, showcasing one of the finest examples of military architecture in 13th and 14th century Europe. The castle is currently managed by the Welsh government and is one of the most popular attractions in north Wales.
Attractions
Caernarfon Castle is located in the historic port town of Caernarfon in North Wales. The castle’s exterior is mostly intact, however the interior buildings are no longer intact whilst it is believed many of the final finishing plans for the castle were never completed. The castle was built during the reign of Edward I with the castle and town walls a sign of intent from the monarch to keep a vice like grip on power. Over the years the castle was exchanged between English and Welsh hands and played a role during the English Civil War during the 17th century. During the 18th and early 19th centuries the building was neglected and fell into disrepair. In later years there has been an effort to preserve the castle due to its historical significance and latterly its World Heritage Site status.
Outside the castle the Exterior is noted from differing from other Edwardian castles as it uses banded coloured stone in the walls and its tower is polygonal instead of the usual round shape. The curtain walls and towers survive currently intact, the buildings that were inside the castle are no longer visible just the foundations.
Inside the castle the Interior is where the kitchen, royal lodgings and Great Hall would have once stood, it is likely the Great Hall would have been a grand building noted for its fine architecture, ornate decoration and fine furniture used by royalty for entertaining and social occasions.
The castle has been part of the Castles and Town Walls of King Edward in Gwynedd, UNESCO World Heritage Site since back in 1986. The castle along with the town walls in Caernarfon is regarded as an outstanding reference point for medieval history and architecture. The imposing castle has a great sense of history and heritage presenting visitors with a fascinating attraction that is full of character and charm.
How to Get There
The site is accessible by both car and public transport.
By Car:
The distance from London is approx 280 miles with a journey time of approx 4 hours 30 minutes to 5 hours depending on traffic and time of day.
Caernarfon is located in Gwynedd on the north coast of Wales, from London take the A40, then the M40 until the junction with the M42, continue on the M42 and take the M6 up to junction 20 and exit on to the M56, take the exit to North Wales, continue on the M56 until the A494, then take the A55 up to junction 10, then exit on to the A4087 that will take you to Caernarfon.
From Cardiff the distance is approx 173 miles with a journey time of 4 hours to 4 hours 30 minutes. From Cardiff take north road, then the A470 all the way until the junction with the A487, then take the A487 to Caernarfon.
There are Parking facilities available on site (chargeable).
For those using Satellite Navigation systems the postcode to use is LL55 2AY.
By Train:
From central London there are services from London Euston station to Bangor railway station The journey time is approx 3 hours 15 minutes. From Bangor it is 10 miles to the castle, visitors can get a taxi to get from Bangor to the castle. From Cardiff there are services to Bangor station with a journey time of approx 4 hours 10 minutes, from Bangor visitors can take a taxi to the castle.
Contact Details
Caernarfon Castle
Castle Ditch
Caernarfon
Gwynedd
Wales
LL55 2AY
Telephone: +44 (0)1286 677617
Website: Caernarfon Castle
Facilities & Information
Opening Times:
Caernarfon Castle is for most of the year except a few days over the Christmas period and New Years Day:
Mon to Sun: 09.30 to 17.00 (March to end of June & Sept & Oct); & Mon to Sun: 09.30 to 18.00 July & Aug); Mon to Sat: 10.00 to 16.00 & Sun 11.00 to 16.00 (Nov to end of Feb) – Please Note: Last admission is 30 minutes prior to closing time, opening times are subject to change it is recommended visitors check for the latest opening times on the Cadw Caernarfon Castle website.
Further Information:
Admission Prices:
Adult: £6.00 approx, Children: £4.50 approx, Concessions: £4.50; Family: £18.00 approx (2 Adults & all children under 16)
Facilities:
There is a gift shop onsite where visitors can find a choice of gifts and souvenirs to remember their trip to the historic castle.
Map
View Larger Map
For Local Search and Directions see: Caernarfon Castle Map
Tips & Other Considerations
There may be some variations in opening hours depending on the time of year and other factors. It is recommended visitors double check before going to ensure the attraction you wish to see is open and avoid disappointment.
Follow common sense travel tips and remain alert, vigilant and aware of your belongings at all times. Keep valuables such as wallets/purses hidden away from public view. If you have a bag try to use a shoulder bag with a good quality, strong strap, that is put across your shoulder not on your shoulder making it more difficult for anyone to take your bag.
If you are travelling by car to Caernarfon Castle in Caernarfon, North Wales ensure you are well prepared with maps and Sat Nav to aid your journey, particularly if you are not familiar with the local area and roads. For door to door directions use the journey planner to plan your trip. Check the latest traffic information before you travel.
If you are travelling by public transport, check for service updates prior to beginning your journey for any delays, disruption or cancellations to services that may impact on your journey. Ensure you have the service timetables for the trains, buses and coaches. Remember when the last services are and ensure you make it to the train/bus/coach stops well in time.
Disclaimer: The information given in on this website is given in good faith and to the best of our knowledge. If there are any discrepancies in no way do we intend to mislead. Important travel details and arrangements should be confirmed and verified with the relevant authorities.
