Harlech Castle
Harlech, Gwynedd
About Harlech Castle
Spectacularly sited Harlech Castle seems to grow naturally from the rock on which it is perched. Like an all seeing sentinel, it gazes out across land and sea, keeping a watchful eye over Snowdonia. Very grand and bound to perk up the kids' imaginations, especially when you tell them it only cost £8k new... That was a while ago though!
The English monarch Edward I built Harlech in the late 13th century to fulfil this very role. It was one of the most formidable of his 'iron ring' of fortresses designed to contain the Welsh in their mountain fastness. There is a 200 foot long stairway which still leads from the castle down to the cliff base: a secret escape route!
It's funny to think that this castle used to be connected by short channel to the sea, nowadays the water has receded a great distance away, leaving the fortress high and dry. Can the kids imagine the sea just moving away like that…?
Worth noting that alternative parking is available nearby while their car park is closed long term for redevelopment: follow the yellow signs, apparently!
Opening Times
1st March - 30th June
Monday to Sunday 09:30 - 17:00
1st July - 31st August
Monday to Sunday 09:30 - 18:00
1st September - 31st October
Monday to Sunday 09:30 - 17:00
1st November - 28th February
Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 16:00
Sunday 11:00 - 16:00
Closed 24th - 26th December and 1st January
Pricing & Tickets
General Admission
Adults: £6.90
Kids (5-15): £4.10
Under 5's: Free
Seniors: £5.50
Family (2 adults, 3 kids): £20.00
Book in advance for cheapest tickets
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