Harlech Castle , Wales

Harlech Castle is spectacularly sited on the cliff tops over looking the Irish Sea.

The castle was built by Edward I built Harlech in the late 13th century as one of the most formidable of his 'iron ring' of fortresses designed to contain the Welsh. The castle took seven years to build, and cost an estimated £8,190.

In 1404 it was taken by Welsh leader Owain Glyn Dwr who proceeded to hold a parliament here. Harlech became his residence and family home and military headquarters for four years. He held his second parliament in Harlech in August 1405.Four years later, after another long siege of eight months, Harlech Castle was retaken by the English in 1409.

Although an imposing edifice, Harlech is at at one with the surroundings a quality rare in the great Edwardian castles. There is a sense of harmony here, created by the way in which the castle builders took care to exploit the sites natural advantages.

Looking seawards, Harlech's battlements spring out of a near vertical cliff face, while any landward attackers would first have to deal with a massive twin-towered gatehouse. The sea, was the key to Harlech's siting - seaborne access was crucial in times of siege.

The fortress's massive inner walls and towers still stand almost to their full height. The views from its lofty battlements are truly panoramic, extending from the dunes at its feet to the purple mass of Snowdonia in the distance.

Opening Times

Last admission half an hour before closing.

1st March - 31st March: 09.30 - 17.00 daily
1st April to 30th June: 09.30 - 17.00 daily
1st July - 31st August: 09.30 - 18.00 daily
1st September - 31st October: 09.30 - 17.00 daily

1st November - 29th February :
10.00 - 16.00 Monday to Saturday
11.00 - 16.00 Sunday

Closed 24th, 25th, 26th December, 1st January.

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Ticket Prices

Adults £3.80
Reduced rate £3.40.
Children under 5 free.
Family Ticket £11.00 - admits 2 adults and up to 3 children under 16.

Under 16s must be accompanied by an adult.

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Disabled Facilities

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More Information

Telephone: 01766 780552

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