About Caernarfon Castle

A motte-and-bailey castle first stood here in the late 11th century. In 1283 Edward I began replacing it with the stone fortress seen today, and together with his new town it served as the administrative centre of north Wales, which explains the sheer scale of its defences.

The builders made a conscious link with the area's Roman past, as the Roman fort of Segontium lies close by. The banded walls of the castle recall the Walls of Constantinople, giving Caernarfon a look quite unlike other castles in Wales and making it one of the most distinctive medieval sites in Gwynedd.

Highlights

• Stone castle begun by Edward I in 1283
• Walls designed to recall the Walls of Constantinople
• Former administrative centre of medieval north Wales

• Outdoor, best on a dry day

Details are checked against public sources including Wikidata and Wikipedia. Opening times and prices change, so please check the official website before you travel.