45 Castles In Wales – Visit Welsh Castles – Visit Wales

Wales is a relatively small country in the UK, but in such a small area there are around 600+ castles in Wales! They are either ruined or in perfect condition, but all of them are waiting for your visit. 🙂 Here is a pick of the best of them! Visit Wales and its 45 beautiful castles.

Castles in Wales – Visit Wales and its beautiful castles

1. Powis Castle

Powis Castle is one of the most beautiful castles not only in Wales but throughout the whole island. You can find it in the eastern part and boasts large terraced gardens. Its history dates back to the 12th century. The castle is open all year round now for basic admission of £12.15.

Powis Castle, Castles in Wales, Visit Wales, UK by Alexander Forst-Rakoczy

2. Caerphilly Castle

Caerphilly Castle is a medieval castle built in the 13th century not far from the city of Cardiff. Originally served as a fort and is therefore surrounded by extensive walls and large artificial lakes. You can take a look at its premises daily for just £5.50.

Caerphilly Castle, Castles in Wales, Visit Wales, UK by Cadw

3. Ruperra Castle

Ruperra Castle is the 17th century ruined castle situated between Newport and Cardiff. Unfortunately, this castle burned to ground back in 1941 and since then it is in a desolate state. You can see it from Public Footpaths.

Ruperra Castle, Castles in Wales, Visit Wales, UK by Andrew King

4. Cardiff Castle

Another medieval castle can be found in the city of Cardiff, right within its center. Its history dates back to the 11th century when the original 3rd-century Roman fort was extended into motte and bailey.

Cardiff Castle is now open all year round and you can visit it for £12 (basic adult admission) or for free if you work or live in Cardiff.

Cardiff Castle, Castles in Wales, Visit Wales, UK by Farwestern

5. Castell Coch

Even though there were some castles at this place already in 11th century, Castell Coch is relatively new and was built at the end of the 19th century by one of the wealthiest men in the UK – John Crichton-Stuart. The basic admission is £5.50 and is open all year round.

Castell Coch, Castles in Wales, Visit Wales, UK by Hchc2009

6. Carreg Cennen Castle

If you are about visiting Brecon Beacons National Park then you must also visit Carreg Cennen Castle that is hidden within this park. These ruins of the 13th-century castle will amaze you with the location as the castle was built on the rock.

Carreg Cennen Castle, Castles in Wales, Visit Wales, UK by Ben Salter

7. Dinefwr Castle

Dinefwr Castle is too old castle but very impressive. It is all surrounded by a large deer park and is also very close to the Brecon Beacons National Park. You can visit it the whole year round for less than £6, but during winter on weekend days only.

Dinefwr Castle, Castles in Wales, Visit Wales, UK by David Evans

8. Kidwelly Castle

Another extensive castle ruins can be found nearby, in a small town of Kidwelly. It is the 12th century Norman castle built as the fortification against Welsh. You can now visit Kidwelly Castle as it is opened to the public every day all year round for just £4.00 (adult price).

Kidwelly Castle, Castles in Wales, Visit Wales, UK by Iphrit

9. Laugharne Castle

Some history can also be discovered in 12th century Laugharne Castle. Its ruins are situated in the southwestern part of Wales, on the River Tâf estuary. It is open daily from early April until the end of October.

Laugharne Castle, Castles in Wales, Visit Wales, UK by Psychodelicacy

10. Llansteffan Castle

It is mainly location that made Llansteffan Castle so important during the ancient times and it is still the same what makes it interesting to the visitors these days. The castle is built above the River Tywi estuary and offers amazing views. You can visit these ruins for free every day of the year.

Llansteffan Castle, Castles in Wales, Visit Wales, UK by Col Ford and Natasha de Vere

11. Conwy Castle

Conwy Castle is a 13th-century massive fortress located at the northern part of the country. It is one of the best examples of the 13th and 14th centuries European military buildings. It is now open daily for just £6.75.

Conwy Castle, Castles in Wales, Visit Wales, UK by Andrew Hurley

12. Dolwyddelan Castle

If you spend your holidays within Snowdonia National Park, then you should reserve one day for a day trip to Dolwyddelan Castle. This 13th-century castle is well hidden in the hills and offers great views. It is open daily and basic admission is £2.80.

Dolwyddelan Castle, Castles in Wales, Visit Wales, UK by Andrew

13. Gwrych Castle

Gwrych Castle is one of the youngest castles in Europe. It was built in the 19th century but it already boasts an important history as it served as a home to 200 Jewish refugees during the World War II.

Once it was very nice castle attracting many tourists, however, now it is ruined and waiting for its owners who want to rebuild this into luxury castle hotel.

Gwrych Castle, Castles in Wales, Visit Wales, UK by Kev Williams

14. Gwydir Castle

If you want to fully enjoy medieval times then you must have your wedding right at the amazing premises of Gwydir Castle. You can even stay here in one of the royal apartments for about £105 per night. Situated on the borders of Snowdonia National Park you will always have something to do here.

Gwydir Castle, Castles in Wales, Visit Wales, UK by Patrick Gruban

15. Bodelwyddan Castle

15th century Bodelwyddan Castle can be found in the northern part of the country. Do not wait any longer if you want to meet with some ghosts. It is said that this place is ideal for ghost sightings. Now it is a luxury hotel with nice gardens so if you won’t see any ghost on your first night, you can still try another one. 🙂

Bodelwyddan Castle, Castles in Wales, Visit Wales, UK by Drew’s Photo Shoots

16. Denbigh Castle

In the 13th century Denbigh Castle was a great fort, however, only its ruins can be seen here now. The wonder of Wales, as this castle is often called, can be visited for free in winter, however, if you wish to go on guided tour you will have to pay £3.50.

Denbigh Castle, Castles in Wales, Visit Wales, UK by Errol Edwards

17. Rhuddlan Castle

North town of Rhuddlan is home to impressive 13th century Rhuddlan Castle, which was built here for Edward I. Once you visit Wales from April to early November you can also come here and visit this castle for £3.40.

Rhuddlan Castle, Castles in Wales, Visit Wales, UK by Erin Brierley

18. Ruthin Castle

If you want to get back in time and feel like a Prince of Wales you have a great opportunity to spend some nights in the 13th century Ruthin Castle. Located in the northern part of Wales this castle became a hotel already in the 1960s.

Book a room in Ruthin Castle now!

Ruthin Castle, Castles in Wales, Visit Wales, UK by ruthincastle.co.uk

19. Flint Castle

Not far from the English city of Chester, at the northern part of Wales, is where you can find the ruins of Flint Castle. It was built already in the 13th century as one of the first castles in Wales that were built for King Edward I. Now you can visit it for free.

Flint Castle, Castles in Wales, Visit Wales, UK by Stephen McKay

20. Hawarden Castle

There are two castles actually in the town of Hawarden, the old and new one. However that old is ruined, the new one from the 18th century is in a perfect condition. However you cannot access this castle as it is private, but you can enter the grounds, where the old castle is also located.

Hawarden Castle, Castles in Wales, Visit Wales, UK by Colin Smith

21. Caernarfon Castle

Medieval Caernarfon Castle stands at the bank of the river Seiont overlooking Menai strait. Its history started back in the 11th century. Now you can visit this waterfront castle every day throughout the year for just £6.75.

Caernarfon Castle, Castles in Wales, Visit Wales, UK by Petrusbarbygere

22. Harlech Castle

Harlech Castle is situated in Snowdonia National Park and was built here already in the 13th century as for Edward I. This is another great example of military buildings in Europe of that times. The castle is open daily and the basic admission here is £4.25.

Harlech Castle, Castles in Wales, Visit Wales, UK by William Warby

23. Penrhyn Castle

In the northern part of Wales, you can find one of the most beautiful castles in the country – Penrhyn Castle. It is a Norman castle from the 15th century when it was built in the place of a fortified manor house. You can now see the whole property including gardens every day for £10.90.

Penrhyn Castle, Castles in Wales, Visit Wales, UK by bvi4092

24. Beaumaris Castle

Once you head to the Isle of Anglesey you will want to visit Beaumaris Castle, another great example of the 13th and 14th centuries military buildings. It is located in its eastern part and you can enter it daily for a basic admission of £5.25.

Beaumaris Castle, Castles in Wales, Visit Wales, UK by Andrew Smith

25. Cyfarthfa Castle

Cyfarthfa Castle is now a museum and gallery but it used to be a fairytale home of the Crawshay family. Built in the 19th century you can now visit its rooms for just £2. A visit to Merthyr Tydfil Welsh town can not be completed without visiting Cyfarthfa Castle.

Cyfarthfa Castle, Castles in Wales, Visit Wales, UK by Perceval

26. Caldicot Castle

Medieval Caldicot Castle is situated in the southern part of Wales and is surrounded by gardens and country park. It is now open 6 days a week and you can access it for free.

Caldicot Castle, Castles in Wales, Visit Wales, UK by Marcin Chady

27. Chepstow Castle

On the banks of the river Wye, just at the borders of Wye Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty as well as borders of England is where you will find huge Chepstow Castle. Made of stone in the 11th century this castle is now open to the public for just £4.50.

Chepstow Castle, Castles in Wales, Visit Wales, UK by Sam Saunders

28. Raglan Castle

The Southern part of Wales is rich in castles. This area is home to another amazing medieval jewel, Raglan Castle. This was built back in the 15th century and is therefore quite modern. It is open daily and the basic admission is £4.50.

Raglan Castle, Castles in Wales, Visit Wales, UK by Bob McCaffrey

29. White Castle

This military fortification dates back to the 12th century and was called Llantilio Castle at that time. However since the 13th century, it has been called White Castle. Now you can visit this castle from early April till early November for £3.00.

White Castle, Castles in Wales, Visit Wales, UK by Dave Snowden

30. Carew Castle

Carew Castle can be found along the banks of Carew river on the westernmost edge of Wales. This place served for military purposes already 2000 years ago. You are now invited to learn more about its history at its premises for just £4.00.

Carew Castle, Castles in Wales, Visit Wales, UK by Griffin Guiding

31. Manorbier Castle

Built in the 11th century as a Norman castle, Manorbier Castle is now one of the best stopping-by points on the way through the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park. It is open every day and the basic admission is £5.50.

You can now even stay in the hotel for a night, the prices starts at £112 per double room per night.

Manorbier Castle, Castles in Wales, Visit Wales, UK by Christian Guthier

32. Pembroke Castle

This is a true wonder of Wales, a birthplace of King Henry VII. It is a labyrinth of towers and passageways surrounded by huge walls. Pembroke Castle can be found in Pembroke town on the southwestern edge of Wales. It is open every day and the basic admission is £6.60.

Pembroke Castle, Castles in Wales, Visit Wales by JKMMX

33. Picton Castle

Picton Castle is the 13th-century medieval castle built by Sir John Wogan and is still inhabited by his descendants. The castle is open to the public from April to October but the restaurant, shops, and gardens are open daily. It is a great place for weddings as well.

Picton Castle, Castles in Wales, Visit Wales, UK by Waterborough

34. Maesllwch Castle

Maesllwch Castle can be found in the eastern part of Wales near Glasbury and is one of the best preserved medieval castles in the country. Unfortunately, I couldn’t find any visitor information about this castle so if you have some please let me know.

Maesllwch Castle, Castles in Wales, Visit Wales, UK by RAY JONES

35. Hay Castle

12th century Hay Castle is one of the greatest examples of fortified castles at the borders with England. It can be found in the small town Hay-on-Wye.

Hay Castle, Castles in Wales, Visit Wales, UK by Kyle Taylor

35. Chirk Castle

Chirk Castle is another great fortress built at the borders with England. Built in the 13th century it also boasts nice gardens surrounding the castle as well as parkland from the 18th century. You can visit it from April till October and the basic admission is £12.00.

Chirk Castle, Castles in Wales, Visit Wales, UK by Prichardson

36. St Donat’s Castle

Once you’ll be wandering around the pleasant southern coastline of Wales do not miss a visit to St Donat’s Castle on your way. This 12th-century castle is now owned by Atlantic College so if you want to spend here a semester or even more, don’t wait further and send your application right away.

St Donat’s Castle, Castles in Wales, Visit Wales, UK by Yearbookmaniac

37. Hensol Castle

Unlike a majority of Welsh castles, Hensol Castle was built just “recently” in the 17th-18th century in a Gothic style and now it is a luxury Wedding Venue. Owned by The Vale Resort the castle will soon become a luxury hotel as well.

Hensol Castle, Castles in Wales, Visit Wales, UK by TedColes

38. Fonmon Castle

Fonmon Castle is the southernmost castle in Wales, situated not far from Cardiff. This 12th-century castle is ideal for the great luxury weddings, celebrations, team-buildings or other events.

Fonmon Castle, Castles in Wales, Visit Wales, UK by fonmoncastle.com

39. Swansea Castle

Built in the 12th century, Swansea Castle survived several hard wars throughout its existence. It can be found in the southern portion of the country, in the city of Swansea.

Swansea Castle next to BT Tower, Castles in Wales, Visit Wales, UK by Alex Liivet

40. Oystermouth Castle

Oystermouth Castle is the 12th-century castle, and it boasts one of the best views of the surrounding countryside. It is open from April until September and the basic admission is £2.50.

Oystermouth Castle, Castles in Wales, Visit Wales, UK by Nigel Davies

41. Craig-y-Nos Castle

There are more castle hotels in Brecon Beacon National Park in Wales, and one of them is Craig-y-Nos Castle. The castle was built in the 19th century and if you want to feel like a royal, you can do so for just £140 (per double room per night).

Book a room in Brecon Castle now!

Craig-y-Nos Castle, Castles in Wales

42. Glandyfi Castle

Not far from the western coast of the UK, Glandyfi Castle stands out as the 5-star hotel offering first class accommodation services. If you are looking for some luxurious places to stay in Wales, then you should definitely try Glandyfi Castle.

Glandyfi Castle, Castles in Wales

43. Brecon Castle

Where else should Brecon Castle be located if not in the Brecon town? And if you know UK National parks you can expect this town to be near Brecon Beacon National Park. And you’re right! But did you know that it is another great castle hotel, where you can stay for less then £80?

Book a room in Brecon Castle now!

Brecon Castle, Castles in Wales

44. Castell Deudraeth

Castell Deudraeth is another castle hotel in the northern Wales. It is situated between Minffordd and Portmeirion villages very close to Snowdonia National Park. You can stay here for £244 per night per double room.

Book a room in Castell Deudraeth now!

The Portmeirion Hotel & Castell Deudraeth, Castles in Wales

45. Chateau Rhianfa

Situated on the Isle Of Anglesey, Chateau Rhianfa is a great option if you are looking for some amazing wedding place in the northern part of Wales. You can even stay here overnight, the prices start at £105 per double room per night.

Book a room in Chateau Rhianfa now!

Chateau Rhianfa, Castles in Wales, UK

So these were 45 of the most beautiful castles in Wales. If you think that I have forgotten to add some other jewels (I always do) onto this list, please let me know below in the comments! And if you wish to share some interesting story from your visit, let us know as well.