Criccieth Castle
Gwynedd, Wales
Key facts
- Operator
- Cadw
- Condition
- Ruin
- Access
- Staffed, ticketed
- Entry pass
- Cadw Explorer Pass
- Nearest station
- Criccieth, 0.3 miles (straight-line)
Pinpoint
Castle St, Criccieth LL52 0DP
Telephone 0300 025 2239
Possible Opening Hours*
*Opening times change. Always check the official website before you travel.
| Monday | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Tuesday | Closed |
| Wednesday | Closed |
| Thursday | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Friday | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Saturday | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Sunday | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
A Welsh-built castle on a headland above Cardigan Bay, later captured and refortified by Edward I - the twin-towered gatehouse is the standout survival. It's a compact site, and reviewers are candid that there isn't a huge amount of it left, but the position does the work: sea on two sides and Snowdonia behind.
Who to know
Edward I · captured and refortified this Welsh-built castle
Worth the trip
The view from the headland across the bay to Black Rock Sands and the Llŷn mountains beyond.
Before you go
The climb up is steep with some real drops, so keep an eye on children and think twice if mobility is limited; the visitor centre by the entrance covers the history if the ruins themselves feel thin.
Most reviewers are drawn to the coastal and mountain views from Criccieth Castle, describing it as a worthwhile stop with a helpful visitor centre and reasonable entry price. A couple note the climb up is steep and includes some steep drops, making it less suited to elderly visitors or unsupervised children. One reviewer who wasn't especially keen on castles still rated it decent, mainly for the views, suggesting it appeals most strongly to genuine castle enthusiasts.
Welsh princes' castle on headland over Cardigan Bay
“The views over to Black Rock Sands were stunning. Full of history. Dogs are not allowed on the beach.”- Catherine Heather, 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.
- Terrain & accessibility
- “Criccieth Castle is at the top of a steep hill which is you get too through the visitors centre where you can find information, gift shop and toilets.” - Louise Evans
- Facilities
- “Interactive exhibition upon entry with a lovely little gift shop.” - Jess R
Common questions about Criccieth Castle
Where is Criccieth Castle?
Criccieth Castle is in Gwynedd, Wales, at Castle St, Criccieth LL52 0DP.
Do you need a ticket to visit Criccieth Castle?
Yes - Criccieth 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 Criccieth Castle?
The view from the headland across the bay to Black Rock Sands and the Llŷn mountains beyond.
Is Criccieth Castle a ruin or still intact?
Criccieth Castle is a ruin - Welsh princes' castle on headland over Cardigan Bay.
