Caernarfon Castle
Step back in time at this formidable UNESCO fortress. Secure your tickets and walk the very walls where the Prince of Wales' investiture has taken place for centuries.
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Caernarfon Castle is not merely a building; it's a statement of power, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and one of the most historically significant and architecturally impressive medieval fortresses in Europe. Built by King Edward I in the 13th century as a symbol of English dominance, its unique polygonal towers, intimidating battlements, and sheer scale were designed to impress and intimidate. Today, a visit allows you to walk through centuries of turbulent history, explore the very rooms that housed royalty, and climb the towers for unparalleled views over the town, the Menai Strait, and the mountains of Snowdonia. From its role in the Welsh rebellions to the modern-day investiture of the Prince of Wales, Caernarfon is a living monument and a cornerstone of Welsh and British history.
Read authentic feedback from thousands of visitors who have booked through our trusted partners like GetYourGuide and gain real insights before you go.
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Spring (April-June) and Autumn (September-October) offer the best balance of pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Summer (July-August) is the peak tourist season with the warmest weather but also the largest number of visitors. Winter provides a unique, atmospheric experience with far fewer people, though opening times may be shorter and the weather can be cold and wet.
Wear comfortable, sturdy walking shoes with good grip; you will be walking on uneven stone surfaces and climbing hundreds of stairs.|Dress in layers as the weather in North Wales can change rapidly. It can be significantly windier and cooler on the exposed castle walls.|A waterproof jacket is highly recommended, regardless of the season or forecast.
Construction began in 1283 by King Edward I of England during his conquest of Wales. Caernarfon was designed not just as a fortress but as a royal palace and the administrative center for a new English-controlled territory. Its immense scale and sophisticated design were intended as an unequivocal statement of English power, built on a site that had been fortified since Roman times.
Cancellation policies vary depending on the ticket or tour provider booked through our platform. Many partners, like GetYourGuide, offer a free cancellation policy allowing a full refund if you cancel up to 24 hours before your scheduled entry time. Please check the specific terms and conditions on the booking page before completing your purchase.
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Real experiences from real travelers
Booking our tickets online was a breeze. We walked right in and were immediately blown away by the sheer scale of this castle. The views from the Eagle Tower are breathtaking. It’s so well-preserved, and you can really feel the history. Spent a good 3 hours here and could have stayed longer.
A very impressive structure. The polygonal towers are unique and unlike castles we have in France. It was quite busy, so booking ahead was definitely the right choice. The exhibition on the Prince of Wales was very informative. Some areas have very steep steps, so be prepared! A great piece of history.
Caernarfon is magnificent. We loved exploring all the different towers and walkways. The Royal Welch Fusiliers Museum inside was a fantastic bonus that we weren't expecting. The mobile tickets we got through the booking platform worked perfectly at the gate. Highly recommend a visit.
The history is palpable here. You can understand immediately why it's a UNESCO site. The audio guide was very helpful in explaining the context of King Edward I's conquest. We booked our family ticket online and it was very straightforward. A fantastic day out.
The castle is stunning, especially its location by the water. The architecture is different from Italian castles, very powerful and imposing. It's a large site, so wear comfortable shoes. The town of Caernarfon is also very charming to walk around afterwards.
Visiting a real Welsh castle was a dream of mine. Caernarfon exceeded all expectations. The structure is immense and the information provided is excellent. Being able to walk the full circuit of the walls was the best part. Booking was easy through a partner site and I got my ticket instantly.
We visited with our two boys (8 and 11) and they loved it. They pretended to be knights defending the castle from dragons. It feels very safe, but you do need to keep a close eye on them on the high walls. Pre-booking saved us from a long queue at the entrance.
The sheer size and strength of the castle are incredible. It is a testament to the engineering and ambition of the time. We learned so much about Welsh and English history. The online booking process was smooth, and having the tickets on my phone was very convenient.
As a local, I've been many times, but took some friends visiting from abroad. They were amazed. Booking online is much easier now than years ago. It remains a proud symbol of our history, even with its complex past. The Cadw staff are always friendly and knowledgeable.
Everything you need to know for your journey
While not always mandatory, booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak seasons (summer, school holidays) and weekends. Booking online guarantees your entry, helps you avoid long queues, and often provides access to mobile ticketing for convenience.
We recommend allowing at least 2 to 3 hours for your visit. This gives you enough time to explore the main courtyards, climb one or two of the main towers for the views, walk along the battlements, and visit the Royal Welch Fusiliers Museum housed within the castle.
Yes, the castle is very popular with families. Children often love the sense of adventure, exploring the towers and passageways. However, due to high walls and steep steps, constant adult supervision is essential for their safety.
Your standard entry ticket grants you access to all open areas of the castle grounds, including the courtyards, wall walks, towers (like the Eagle Tower), and entry to the Royal Welch Fusiliers Museum, which is located on-site.
There is no dedicated car park at the castle itself. However, there are several large pay-and-display car parks located just a short walk away along the Caernarfon waterfront and in the town centre.
Yes, you can bring your own food and drink to consume in the outdoor courtyard areas. There is also a small café on-site selling light refreshments, snacks, and drinks should you prefer.
The historic nature of the castle means accessibility is limited. The lower levels and courtyards are generally accessible, but the towers and wall walks are reached by steep, narrow spiral staircases and are not accessible to wheelchair users or those with limited mobility. Accessible toilets are available.
Only assistance dogs are permitted within Caernarfon Castle and its grounds. Pets are not allowed.
Opening hours vary by season. Generally, it's open daily from around 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM or 6:00 PM in summer, with shorter hours in winter (around 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM). It's crucial to check the official Cadw website for the exact times on your planned day of visit before booking.
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