Part of Open Doors in Wales
Castell Harlech crowns a sheer rocky crag overlooking the dunes far below – waiting in vain for the tide to turn and the distant sea to lap at its feet once again.
No further drama is really required but, just in case, the rugged peaks of Eryri (Snowdonia) rise as a backdrop. Against fierce competition from Conwy, Caernarfon and Beaumaris, this is probably the most spectacular setting for any of Edward I’s castles in North Wales. All four are designated as a World Heritage Site.
Harlech was completed from ground to battlements in just seven years under the guidance of gifted architect Master James of St George. Its classic ‘walls within walls’ design makes the most of daunting natural defences.
Even when completely cut off by the rebellion of Madog ap Llewelyn the castle held out – thanks to the ‘Way from the Sea’. This path of 108 steps rising steeply up the rock face allowed the besieged defenders to be fed and watered by ship.
Harlech is easier to conquer today. An incredible ‘floating’ footbridge allows you to enter this great castle as Master James intended – for the first time in 600 years.
Free entry. Free tours for Open Doors.
Join guide, Siân Roberts, and discover the stories behind the stones of this spectacular structure in its stunning Eryri (Snowdonia) setting.
Travel in time from the days before the building to the 21st century, and find out who and what have made this castle so famous and so worthy of being part of a World Heritage site.
The castle and its past will come alive with its tales of triumph and tragedy in an hour’s guided tour around the ground level of this legendary fortress.
Tours will be at 11am, 1pm and 3pm.
Disclaimer: All information was correct when the listing was prepared. Any questions about the event should be directed to the event organiser.