Which of these castles in North Wales should you visit?

If you are planning to take a camping holiday to North Wales this year, there is sure to be a magnificent castle just round the corner from your campsite. More than 700 years ago, the English King Edward I and his architect James of Saint George decided to leave behind their legacy in the green valleys of this region by building a whole collection of castles in North Wales to dominate the skyline.

Although these castles were built in a time of invasion and unrest, today they stand silent but proud, watching over the country like wise old sages. Three of the most popular, Caenarfon, Conwy, and Beaumaris, have been deservedly named World Heritage Sites. While some have been left to rack and ruin over the decades, many retain their former glory to serve as a reminder of Wales’ history. Here at Campsites UK, we have cherry picked a variety of beautiful castles to suit all types of campers.

Beaumaris—The Sturdy One

Situated on the picture perfect Isle of Anglesey just off the Welsh mainland, Beaumaris Castle (pictured above)is deemed to be one of the finest examples of an Edwardian castle in all of Wales. Although some parts of the building are beginning to crumble, the outer walls and moat are still intact. A family ticket costs £14.50 and includes admission of two adults and all children under age 16. Visitors can still explore its maze of turrets, rooms and drawbridges. Travel to nearby Llanfaes to set up camp and visit shops and restaurants.

Bodelwyddan—The Perfect One

Bodelwyddan Castle in Denbighshire is so pristine in its 260 acre parkland setting that it is hard to believe it was built before 1460. Since its refurbishment between 1830 and 1852, Bodelwyddan has grown into a popular tourist attraction with its own museum and National Portrait Gallery. This family-friendly historic attraction provides educational tours of the house and grounds with plenty of engaging workshops for all ages. Other features within the grounds include World War I training trenches, acres of woodland and an outdoor playground for the kids. Admission for a family of four costs £17. Holidaymakers can make the 3.5 mile trip to Conwy for a variety of campsite options or head to nearby Abergele or Denbighshire.

Caernarfon—The Coastal One

Designated as a World Heritage Site, Caernarfon Castle is a vast stone complex built to intimidate and impress. This castle is perfect for history buffs as the use of the site spans back to the 11^th century. Before the castle was formed by King Edward I in 1283, there once stood a classic Norman motte and bailey castle as well as a Roman fort. An admission ticket for the family costs £18. After a look round the castle, families can wander down to the river or nearby harbour with its shops, restaurants and nearby campsites. 

Conwy —The Popular One

Conwy Castle, in the medieval town of Conwy, is arguably one of the most popular castles in northern Wales. Situated at the mouth of the River Conwy, the huge eight-towered fortress is a dominant feature along the Welsh coastline. One of King Edward I’s creations, this castle is perfectly preserved, allowing visitors to have the unique experience of walking along its walls to survey the picturesque scenery surrounding it. Its gates are easily accessible by road via the A55 dual carriageway or the A470 from the south. Family tickets runs £17.25. 

Find somewhere to stay by browsing our list of campsites in Conwy.

Denbigh—The Forgotten One

As another part of King Edward’s ‘ring of castles,’ Denbigh Castle has been standing tall since its construction in the late 13^th century. This castle hasn’t fared as well as its more popular siblings, but the town of Denbigh is worth a visit as its massive walls and patchwork of stone still allow you to step back into a bygone era.  Although a trip to the castle from the town centre can be a bit of a challenging walk for younger explorers, there are planned events all year round including a fireworks display in November and fun family activities during the August bank holiday. A family ticket coasts £10.50.

Hopefully this guide has given you some inspiration for where to plan your next camping trip. With so many castles dotting the landscape, there is a castle to suit every family's interests. Whichever castle you decide to visit, we are positive that you will be bound over by what North Wales has to offer.  

Where to stay?

Discover glamping in North Wales here.