Harlech Castle
Harlech Castle commands a sheer coastal crag in Gwynedd, Wales, built by Edward I between 1282 and 1289 at a cost of £8,190. Designed by the Savoyard master engineer James of Saint George, its concentric layout and twin-towered gatehouse set the standard for English military architecture of the era. Owain Glyndŵr captured it in 1404 and used it as his headquarters; during the Wars of the Roses it held out as the last Lancastrian stronghold until 14 August 1468, inspiring the song 'Men of Harlech'.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1986, managed by Cadw, it is open to the public. A water gate with 127 steps once reached the sea — the shoreline has since retreated significantly.
Visitor information
- Location
- Harlech, Wales
- Country
- United Kingdom
- Tier
- C (Worth a visit if you're already in the area)
- Coordinates
- 52.86, -4.11
- Official site
- https://cadw.gov.wales/visit/places-to-visit/harlech-castle
Frequently asked questions
- Where is Harlech Castle?
- Harlech Castle is in Harlech, Wales, United Kingdom (approximately 52.86, -4.11).
- Can you visit Harlech Castle?
- Yes — Harlech Castle is open to visitors; see the official site at https://cadw.gov.wales/visit/places-to-visit/harlech-castle for hours and tickets.
- What tier is Harlech Castle on the Castle Atlas?
- Harlech Castle is rated C tier on the Castle Atlas — Worth a visit if you're already in the area.
- What can you see at Harlech Castle?
- Harlech Castle commands a sheer coastal crag in Gwynedd, Wales, built by Edward I between 1282 and 1289 at a cost of £8,190. Designed by the Savoyard master engineer James of Saint George, its concentric layout and twin-towered gatehouse set the standard for English military architecture of the era. Owain Glyndŵr captured it in 1404 and used it as his headquarters; during the Wars of the Roses it held out as the last Lancastrian stronghold until 14 August 1468, inspiring the song 'Men of Harlech'.
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