Let your fantasy of spending quality time in architectural masterpieces – castles, fortresses or palaces – come alive in Wales. People call this part of the world the Land of Castles. 

If you plan a trip to the UK, don’t forget to visit some of the finest European castles. Here are our Top 10 must-sees:

1. Caernarfon Castle, Gwynedd, north-west Wales

Caernarfon Castle

 

This Edwardian-style castle is located on the bank of river Seiont in the town of Caernarfon. 

Designed by architect James of Saint George, this masterpiece has towers, invincible walls, and gates built along the castle’s inner walls. 

King Edward’s son was born and dubbed the Prince of Wales here. Over 200,000 visitors visit the Castle annually.

2. Beaumaris Castle

 

Beaumaris Castle with Bridge

 

This castle is located on the island of Anglesey. Edward, I built the perfect example of a technically concentric-designed court.

This is one of the World Heritage sites among the other three. Visit the castle around its Annual Medieval Festival to see jousting displays, court jesters, and traditional music.

3. Pembroke Castle

Pembroke Castle

 

Famous worldwide as the birthplace of the Tudor dynasty founder and only British Welsh King Henry VII, this castle is gigantic, oval, and surrounded by a large millpond. 

It is ideally located on a vast cavern and is the perfect destination for an evening stroll.

4. Conwy Castle

Boats Outside Conwy Castle

 

Edward, I built this castle on the north coast of Wales. It is one of the finest medieval fortresses in Europe, featuring two barbicans, eight massive towers, and a high curtain wall. 

With its stunning spiral staircase that takes you to the apex, it is not hard to imagine why it is the most visited castle in Wales.

5. Caerphilly Castle

Caerphilly Castle Wales UK

 

The largest castle in South Wales and the second largest in Britain, it is one of Western Europe’s most splendid medieval castles. 

It spans approximately 30 acres and has a unique design. Note the castle is leaning by 10 degrees off its vertical axis on the Southeastern side.

6. Powis Castle

Powis Castle & Gardens Wales

 

One of the most unique among the medieval collection in Wales, this castle has a Red stone exterior. 

It was renovated with a bedroom and terrace garden to make it unique in the 17th century. 

It houses a magnificent art collection, exclusive interiors, and artefacts from India. 

Here, the Baroque garden is one of the finest in the UK, with picturesque landscapes and age-old yew trees welcoming visitors.

7. Roch Castle

Roch Castle on Hillside Wales

 

Most welcoming for history lovers, this 12th-century Norman castle is now more of a luxury hotel with six rooms. 

A rock formation is skillfully carved to display a unique and dramatic appearance.

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8. Harlech Castle

Harlech Castle Street View Wales

 

This castle, located amid a mesmerising landscape in the Northwest of the UK, was constructed from sandstone. 

Constructed by King Edward I, this is an architectural masterpiece where cliffs act as a natural barrier against attacks and dry moats cut into the rock.

9. Chirk Castle

 

Built during the reign of King Edward I, the castle is located in the North of the country. The castle grounds are spread across 5 acres, and the beautiful garden outside has spectacular roses and exquisite lawns. The castle is inhabited to the present day.

10. Raglan Castle

Raglan Castle Wales on A Sunny Day

 

The castle is located in South Wales.  

It is made from sandstone and was renovated in the 16th century by adding a new hammer-beam roof. 

Best known for its polygon structure in the Welsh castle landscape, it has square or round constructions.

There are over 400 castles in Wales, which is not bad for a small country!

Come and explore the Welsh history and breathtaking landscapes around these castles!