After all these years Caernarfon’s immense strength remains undimmed.
A brute of a fortress. Caernarfon Castle’s pumped-up appearance is unashamedly muscle-bound and intimidating. Picking a fight with this massive structure would have been a daunting prospect. By throwing his weight around in stone, King Edward I created what is surely one of the most impressive of Wales’s castles. Worthy of World Heritage status no less.
Most castles are happy with round towers, not Caernarfon! Polygonal towers were the order of the day, with the Eagle Tower being the most impressive of these. You will also note the colour-coded stones carefully arranged in bands.
The site of this great castle wasn’t chosen by accident. It had previously been the location of a Norman motte and bailey castle and before that a Roman fort stood nearby. The lure of water and easy access to the sea made the banks of the River Seiont an ideal spot for Edward’s monster in masonry.
Edward wasn’t one to miss an opportunity to tighten his grip even further on the native population. The birth of his son, the first English Prince of Wales, in the castle in 1284, was a perfect device to stamp his supremacy. In 1969, the investiture of the current Prince of Wales, HRH Prince Charles took place here.
Please note, families of children with disabilities can obtain free admission for one disabled visitor and one carer as standard. Proof of DLA may be requested.
Access Information: Wheelchair access throughout lower level, portable induction loop available, guide dogs welcome.
Free admission for foster families.
How to Redeem: Foster families must produce a valid Max Card on the day of visit. Terms and Conditions: • Foster families entitled to free admission for up to two adults and all accompanying children.
• Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer.
• Management reserves the right to refuse admission.
