Conwy Castle – © cadw.wales.gov.uk
Conwy Castle is a historic medieval castle located in North Wales. The castle dates back to the 13th century and is considered one of the finest examples of 13th and 14th century military architecture in Europe, the castle has been a World Heritage Site since 1986. The imposing castle was built as part of the walled city in Conwy and over the years the castle has played an important role in historical events including in the English Civil War and became popular among painters in the 18th and 19th centuries. Today the castle is managed by the Welsh government and continues to be a popular visitor attraction.
Attractions
Conwy Castle is located in the walled market town of Conwy in North Wales. The castle was built for an estimated £15,000, a substantial sum of money for the time, along with the Conwy town walls as part of a fortification system for Edward I, today the castle is regarded as one of the finest examples of medieval fortifications in the UK. The high towers give the castle an imposing look the fortification was designed in a grand way.
The highlights outside and inside the castle include the Towers there are eight large towers along with two barbicans (fortified gateways), There are no concentric ‘walls within walls’ here, they were deemed not necessary as the rock base on which the castle is located provided sufficient security. The impressive castle has been described as the most impressive of Edward I’s fortresses in Wales.
The Battlements at the castle provide visitors with some stunning views across the sea and the mountains. Visitors can also see the famous Conwy Town Walls that ring around the town, the walls are 0.8 of a mile long and are guarded by over 20 towers and 3 gatehouses.
Inside the castle the Outer Ward includes the Great Hall, Kitchen and Chambers, visitors can see how the castle would have operated when royalty came to stay. The Inner Ward includes a Royal Chapel and Private Chambers.
The castle is part of the Castles and Town Walls of King Edward in Gwynedd, UNESCO World Heritage Site and is regarded as an outstanding reference point for medieval history and for its architecture. There is a great sense of history at the castle and in the charming walled town of Conwy.
How to Get There
The site is accessible by both car and public transport.
By Car:
The distance from London is approx 250 miles with a journey time of approx 4 hours 14 minutes to 4 hours 45 minutes depending on traffic and time of day.
Conwy is located 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 and follow the signs for Conwy.
From Cardiff the distance is approx 180 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 B5279, then take the B5106 to Conwy.
Parking facilities are available on site and is chargeable.
For those using Satellite Navigation systems the postcode to use is LL32 8AY.
By Train:
From London there are services from London Euston station to Chester station & from Chester there are services to Cowry railway station. The journey time is approx 3 hours 20 minutes. There are also services from London Euston to Llandudno Junction located one miles from the castle, the journey time is approx 3 hours. From Cardiff there are services to both Conwy & Llandudno Junction with a journey time of approx 4 hours.
Contact Details
Conwy Castle
Rose Hill St
Conwy
Wales
LL32 8AY
Telephone: +44 (0)1492 592358
Website: Conwy Castle
Facilities & Information
Opening Times:
Conwy 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 & September & October); 09.30 to 18.00 (July & August); Mon to Sat: 10.00 to 16.00 & Sun: 11.00 to 16.00 (November to end of February) – Please Note: last admissions at 30 minutes prior to closing time.
Further Information:
Admission Prices:
Adult: £5.75 approx, Children: £4.35 approx, Concessions: £4.35, Family: 2 Adults & all Children under 16: £17.25 approx
Facilities:
There is a gift shop where visitors can get a gift or souvenir to remember their trip to the castle.
Map
View Larger Map
For Local Search and Directions see: Conwy 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 Conwy in 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.
