Harlech Castle – © cadw.wales.gov.uk
Harlech Castle is a historic medieval fortress located in the coastal town of Harlech in North Wales. Dating back to the 13th century, the castle was built during the reign of Edward I for £8,190 making one of the cheapest of Edward’s castles in Wales. Located on a spur of rock that is nearly 200 metres in height, its elevated position made it a formidable fortress. Built in the coastal town of Harlech, it is one of a number of castles built by Edward I in Wales aimed at consolidating power. The present ruined castle is part of the impressive Castles & Town Walls of King Edward in Gwynedd World Heritage Site, along with the castles at Beaumaris, Conwy and Caernarfon. The castle is noted for showcasing one of the finest examples of military architecture in 13th and 14th century Europe along with its double wall structure and the proportionate design. The castle is currently managed by the Welsh government and is a popular historic attraction in north Wales.
Attractions
Harlech Castle is located in the seaside town of Harlech in Gwynedd on the north west coast of Wales. The castle’s exterior is still mainly intact, however the interior buildings are no longer intact. Over the years the castle was involved during the 15th century War of the Roses and the 17th century English Civil War after which the castle was no longer necessary to the security of north Wales, it was ordered to be demolished but this was never fully carried out. During the 20th century there has been an effort to restore and preserve the castle, recognising the great historical significance of the castle and more recently in order to preserve and maintain the World Heritage Site status. In the 18th and 19th centuries the castle attracted artists enticed by the scenic ruins.
Outside the castle the Exterior with its elevated position makes it an intimidating prospect for any would be attacker, the located means the castle offers wonderful views across land and sea. The battlements and gatehouse ensure attacks from the sea and on land would face formidable opposition. There is a 200 foot stairway going from the castle all the way to the cliff base; ensuring supplies could be delivered during battles and the castle would not be isolated due to its located next to the sea.
Inside the castle the Interior includes the towers and the inner walls that still stand to close to their full height. The tall battlements offer some breathtaking views over the sea, local area and further out to Snowdonia. In the inner ward there would have been a chapel, kitchen, granary, bakehouse and the Great Hall likely to have been the more ornately furnished and decorated room in the castle.
Since back in 1986, the castle has been part of the Castles and Town Walls of King Edward in Gwynedd, UNESCO World Heritage Site. The castle is regarded as an outstanding reference point for medieval architecture and history and seen as a masterpiece of design with beautiful proportions. The imposing castle with its scenic located conveys a wonderful sense of history and heritage, one that visitors can explore to learn more about the charm and character of the castle.
How to Get There
The site is accessible by both car and public transport.
By Car:
The distance from London is approx 240 miles with a journey time of approx 4 hours 50 minutes to 5 hours 30 minutes depending on traffic and time of day.
Harlech 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 M5 then exit on to the M6 and up to junction 10A and take the M54. Take the M54 until it merges to the A5. Take the A5 up to the junction with the B4396 and take the B4396 then the B4391 then the B4212. At the junction with the A470 take the A470 then the A487, then the A496 and B4573 that takes you to Harlech.
From Cardiff the distance is approx 150 miles with a journey time of 3 hours 30 minutes to 4 hours. From Cardiff take north road, then the A470 all the way until the junction with the A496 and then take the B4573 to Harlech.
There are car parking facilities available close by (chargeable).
For those using Satellite Navigation systems the postcode to use is LL46 2YH.
By Train:
From central London there are services from London Euston station to Birmingham International railway station, from Birmingham International there are services to Harlech railway station. Harlech railway station is located a few minutes walk from the castle. The journey time is approx 5 hours 40 minutes to 6 hours. From Cardiff there are services to Shrewsbury railway station, from Shrewsbury there are services to Harlech, with a journey time of approx 5 hours.
Contact Details
Harlech Castle
Castle Square
Harlech
Gwynedd
Wales
LL46 2YH
Telephone: +44 (0)1766 780552
Website: Harlech Castle
Facilities & Information
Opening Times:
Harlech 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 Harlech Castle website.
Further Information:
Admission Prices:
Adult: £4.25 approx, Children: £3.20 approx, Concessions: £3.20; Family: £12.75 approx (2 Adults & all children under 16)
Facilities:
There is a gift shop where visitors can find a choice of gifts and souvenirs to remember their trip to Harlech.
Map
View Larger Map
For Local Search and Directions see: Harlech 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 Harlech Castle in Gwynedd, 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.
