Four castles, one unforgettable way to explore North Wales this summer

If you’re planning a trip to north Wales this summer, there’s one experience that stands above the rest - exploring its iconic castles.

Set against coastlines, mountains and historic towns, the impressive castles don’t just help to tell the story of Wales, they shape the landscape itself.

Built for power, conquest and prestige, today they offer a way for you to step into history while enjoying some of the most striking scenery north Wales has to offer.

At the centre of it all are four of Cadw’s most impressive historic castles, Conwy, Caernarfon, Beaumaris and Harlech, which are all designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Each castle offers a unique perspective on medieval Wales.

Castell Conwy, scale and spectacle

Castell Conwy is the kind of place that stops you in your tracks. Its unmistakable line of towers dominates the estuary, and up close, the scale is even more impressive.

It remains one of the best-preserved medieval fortresses in Europe, so once inside it’s easy to imagine what life would have been like in that era. From the great hall to the royal chambers each space tells a different story and gives a glimpse into the scale and ambition behind the castles in North Wales.

Castell Caernarfon, built to command attention

Caernarfon Castle feels different from the moment you arrive. From its polygonal tower, eagle statues and multi-coloured masonry its bold design was created to make a statement and, 700 years later, it still does.

Walking through its vast interiors and along its battlements, you get a real sense of its role not just as a fortress, but as a symbol of power. With plenty of space to explore and ever-changing views across the Menai Strait, it’s a castle that rewards time and curiosity.

Beaumaris Castle, perfectly planned

On Anglesey, Beaumaris offers something quieter but equally impressive. Often described as one of the most technically perfect castles never built, its incomplete state does little to diminish the striking symmetry of its design.

Wide open spaces, a water-filled moat and an almost complete defensive plan make it fascinating to explore, while its setting gives it a more relaxed, open feel that’s ideal for families or slower-paced visits.

Castell Harlech, dramatic in every sense

Few castles rival the spectacular setting of Harlech. Rising high above the coast with sweeping views across Cardigan Bay and the backdrop of Eryri (Snowdonia) in the distance), the castle crowns a sheer rocky crag overlooking the dunes below.

Today, an incredible floating footbridge means you can enter the castle with ease. Its ‘walls within walls’ designs makes the most of daunting natural defences and brings the caste’s strategic importance into sharp focus.

A different way to experience North Wales

What makes these castles so compelling is how different they feel from one another. Each tells its own story, shaped by its setting, its purpose and its past.

Across the summer, Cadw’s jam-packed events programme brings them to life, with demonstrations, performances and hands-on activities that allow you to interact with history.

Whether you’re travelling as a family, exploring solo or planning a weekend break, these four castles offer a great way to experience North Wales, through places that combine history, landscape and a unique atmosphere.

For those looking to explore more, a Cadw membership offers free entry to all events and unlimited access to 132 historic places across Wales. Children go free with adult memberships, making it a fantastic option for families looking for value, variety and adventure.

Find out more information and to book tickets, visit: www.cadw.gov.wales