Welsh Castles

Wales is often called the Land of Castles, as it is home to some of Europe's finest surviving medieval castles. Wales is thought to have more castles per square mile than any nation in the world which over 600 dotted around the country. Most have been overtaken by nature but 100 are still standing in various states of repair. Many were built by Welsh royalty but the biggest were built by Normans following their arrival in 1066.

If you're looking to explore the castles of Wales, what better place to start than right in the centre of the capital city, with a visit to Cardiff castle. The site contains a Norman keep which was built on top of an older Roman fort and some of the Roman walls can still be seen today. The keep was originally built from wood, but upgraded to stone over time. In the 18th Century a stunning Georgian mansion was built on the site by the Stuart dynasty.

Moving away from the capital, the Castles and Town Walls of King Edward is a UNESCO-designated World Heritage Site in Gwynedd, North-West Wales. It includes the castles of Beaumaris and Harlech and castles and town walls of Caernarfon and Conwy. These extremely well-preserved monuments are examples of the colonisation and defence works carried out during the reign of Edward I in the 13th and 14th century.

As well as visiting some of Wales finest castles during your time there, why not also spend a night or two in the many stunning castle hotels. Chateau Rhianfa is an extraordinary Victorian seaside house; a turreted mansion built for Lady Sarah Hay Williams by her husband. This relaxing property has a music room, drawing room, cloisters and a wine bar an it also acts as a great base to explore the beautiful coastline of the isle of Anglesey.

Glandyfi Castle is a grade 2 listed 19th century Gothic revival castle set in 45 acres of rolling meadowland and ancient woodland. It also contains formal gardens. There are 8 guestrooms, ranging from huge rooms with four poster beds and painted cornices - to modest and charming rooms, set among the eaves. All have either delightful garden view or panoramic views of the Dovey Valley.

Roch Castle and Castell Deudraeth should also be high up on your list if you are keen to include a castle stay in your trip to Wales.

Contact us today and we will create the perfect tour of Wales for you, including visits to some amazing castle properties.