Conwy Castle, Wales

Built more than 700 years ago, Conwy Castle in northern Wales is one of over 600 castles built throughout this country. To reach the castle you must cross over a bridge that spans the Conwy Estuary…a reminder that Conwy Castle was well positioned to fend off attacks both from the water, as well as from the rolling hills that surround the town of Conwy.

Looking around in all directions you can certainly understand why building a castle in this location was advantageous.

As well as overseeing construction of the castle, Edward I went on to have a wall built around the town of Conwy to provide better defense against any conflicts that may arise. Today this 1.3 km unbroken wall still surrounds the city and is in fantastic condition with 21 towers and 3 gatehouses that must still be passed under when driving in or out of the city.

You enter the castle from the West Barbican, passing through a gate-house into the large Outer Ward area which housed spaces for a Great Hall, a kitchen, the stables, and a chapel.

Conwy Castle, with its eight standing towers and preserved medieval royal apartment areas, is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The towers are in magnificent condition and I enjoyed photographing them from outside, as well as from inside.

At the east end of the castle, overlooking the River Conwy, you will find the Inner Ward of the castle. This area would have housed the royal apartments and been protected by an internal wall that could be used to separate these chambers from the larger Outer Ward.

The castle provides views from all around and climbing the towers is a must! Once at the top of one of the towers you can imagine yourself keeping watch over both land and sea.

As tempted as you might be to hang out and enjoy the sweeping panoramas from the castle walls or towers, do take time to explore from the ground as well. There are detailed windows and doorways, as well as the king’s head to discover.

If you plan to visit Conwy Castle and the town of Conwy I would recommend taking the Hop-On Hop-Off Bus from Llandudno or hiring a taxi. The roads in Conwy are very narrow and the city itself is crowded with very few parking spots. You can easily wander the city after visiting the castle and there are plenty of restaurants and cafes to grab a bite to eat in…and shops to spend time browsing in. Admire the castle walls one more time as you end your day in the town.

For more information on Conwy Castle check out the website here.