Caernarfon Castle
Gwynedd, Wales
Key facts
- Operator
- Cadw
- Condition
- Partial ruin
- Access
- Staffed, ticketed
- Entry pass
- Cadw Explorer Pass
- Nearest station
- Llanfairpwll, 6.3 miles (straight-line)
Pinpoint
Castle Ditch, Caernarfon LL55 2AY
Telephone 0300 025 2239
Possible Opening Hours*
*Opening times change. Always check the official website before you travel.
| Monday | 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Tuesday | 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Wednesday | 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Thursday | 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Friday | 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Saturday | 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Sunday | 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM |
Edward I built this as the definitive statement of English power in Wales - a fortress-palace with polygonal towers and banded stonework, said to echo the walls of Constantinople rather than the usual round Norman keep. Cadw keeps almost the whole circuit intact, so you can walk the wall-walk continuously and look down into the town on one side and the Menai Strait on the other. It's one of the most complete medieval castles in Britain, and it feels like it.
Who to know
Edward I · built it as the definitive statement of English power in Wales
Worth the trip
Walking the complete wall-walk around the whole circuit - one of very few UK castles where you can circle the entire perimeter above ground level.
Before you go
The staircases are steep and narrow (the Royal Welsh Fusiliers museum inside is worth the detour), and reviewers say it's a genuinely good wet-weather option since most of the site is under cover; there's a large car park a short walk away.
Visitors consistently praise Caernarfon Castle's museum and the amount there is to explore, with staff repeatedly described as helpful and knowledgeable. A couple of reviewers note the tight, winding staircases mean it isn't fully accessible for everyone, and one mentioned the on-site parking is on the pricier side. Most agree it takes around two hours to see properly and is well worth the entry fee.
World Heritage Site; Edward I's fortress-palace, walls and towers largely complete
“Great place for a visit if your into castles or history. Lovely well maintained castle with plenty to keep you occupied. Lots of stairs and towers to climb. Great museum inside.”- alan.k. parish, visitor review
Practical notes from visitors
Quoted from individual Google reviews, not verified with the operator - treat as a steer, not gospel, and check before you travel.
- Parking
- “Parking is easy as there is a massive car park nearby with ample spots.” - Albie
- How long to allow
- “It is £15 admission and it takes about 2 hours to see the whole thing.” - James Horner
- Terrain & accessibility
- “Most of the castle is accessible but the staircases are very steep and narrow.” - James Horner
- Facilities
- “Sadly cafe and coffee kiosk closed.” - sandra graham
Common questions about Caernarfon Castle
Where is Caernarfon Castle?
Caernarfon Castle is in Gwynedd, Wales, at Castle Ditch, Caernarfon LL55 2AY.
Do you need a ticket to visit Caernarfon Castle?
Yes - Caernarfon Castle is a staffed, ticketed attraction run by Cadw. Ticket prices and opening hours change through the year, so check the official site before travelling.
What is the highlight of visiting Caernarfon Castle?
Walking the complete wall-walk around the whole circuit - one of very few UK castles where you can circle the entire perimeter above ground level.
Is Caernarfon Castle a ruin or still intact?
Caernarfon Castle is a partial ruin - World Heritage Site; Edward I's fortress-palace, walls and towers largely complete.
