Harlech Castle
Castell Harlech
A concentric castle perched on a seaside cliff, overlooking Snowdonia and the sea, from which the folk song Men of Harlech comes.
Harlech Castle was built in 1283–1289 on a cliff about 60 metres high. At that time the sea reached the foot of the cliff, so supplies could arrive by sea. During the Wars of the Roses in the 15th century, the garrison held out for seven years, inspiring the famous march Men of Harlech. The gatehouse is imposing, and climbing the walls offers views of Tremadog Bay, the Llŷn Peninsula and the Snowdonia range. A suspended footbridge built in 2015 lets visitors enter directly through the gatehouse. It is a World Heritage Site managed by Cadw, with admission of about £10. Harlech railway station lies at the foot of the cliff and can be reached on the Cambrian Coast line.
Opening hours
About 09:30–17:00 (check the Cadw website)
Nearby sights
- Portmeirion
- Ffestiniog Railway
- Criccieth Castle
- Beddgelert
- Welsh Highland Railway
- Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon)
- Llechwedd Slate Caverns
- Snowdon Mountain Railway