wales castle tour

The Best Wales Castle Tours To Book 2024 (By A Local)

Want to visit the best Castles in Wales?

You’ve come to the right place for information because I am Welsh!

I have toured plenty of Welsh Castles through multiple companies and on my own for 20+ years.

I was raised in South Wales so have been lucky enough to have hundreds of castles on my doorstep. From the ruins of Coity Castle to the magnificent Harlech Castle, I have done them all.

Whether you looking to visit UNESCO medieval castles or discover Welsh history through its ancient ruins- t here are plenty of Welsh castle tours to make this possible!

To help you find the best castles in Wales to visit , this guide explores the best Wales castle tours for all budgets and needs.

So let’s dive in so you know exactly what to expect when booking any Wales castle tour and experiences for your next trip!

5-DAY DISCOVER WALES SMALL GROUP TOUR

✔️ Leaves From London

✔️ Amazing Local Guide

✔️ Accommodation Included

Wandering Bard Tour of South Wales

THIS TOUR has 100 plus 5-star reviews 😍

✔️ Guide Is A Welsh Historian

✔️ Private Transport

✔️ Hotel Pick-Up & Drop-Off

The Best North Wales Castle Tours

⭐ RATING: This tour has a 5/5 star rating ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 1 Day

▶︎ Check Itinerary & Availability Here

Are you looking for an immersive experience of North Wales? Look no further than the PORTMEIRION, CASTLES AND SNOWDONIA TOUR!

You’ll get to explore some of the must-see sites in the region with a dedicated driver and local guide taking care of you every step of the way.

What makes this tour so great is that it includes visiting the most amazing Castles in North Wales , Conwy and Caernarfon.

✅ Check Reviews & Book Your Tour Here!

Fantastic full day excursion to see the area. Great fun informative guide and visiting a variety of locations. Fantastic value for money. Would definitely recommend. -Jonathan ( READ MORE REVIEWS )

Plus, this tour isn’t only about the popular attractions; you will also get to discover some off the beaten track spots that are truly unique to the area.

For an amazing experience of North Wales and Snowdonia National Park that is a great value for money package , book the Portmeirion, Castles and Snowdonia Tour when you travel to Wales.

I love visiting North Wales because of their unique stays with hot tubs , so make sure you book one too!

The Best South Wales Castle Tours

⭐ RATING: This tour has a 5/5 star rating ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 8-9 hours

THE WANDERING BARD TOUR OF SOUTH WALES is one of the ultimate Wales castle tours you can book!

Your tour will allow you to explore all the best sites and attractions in one of the most beautiful and historically-rich regions of Britain.

✅ Check the Itinerary & Availability For The Wandering Bard Tour Here

Gareth was very knowledgeable and made the history come alive as well as Welsh culture and language. I recommend this tour very highly. -Ann ( READ MORE REVIEWS )

You’ll be guided by an experienced historian, who is also a native Welsh speaker – so you can get even more out of this incredible tour. Plus, your driver can pick you up from your hotel if you’re staying in Cardiff .

The tour takes you to a range of fascinating places, including Caerphilly Castle – one of the biggest castles in Britain – as well as Tintern Abbey and Chepstow Castle. You’ll also visit some incredible Neolithic sites, Roman ruins, and atmospheric valleys.

The Wandering Bard Tour of South Wales is a must-do for anyone looking to uncover the secrets of this stunning region and It’s the perfect way to explore South Wales and its great castles!

This is a stunning part of Wales so make sure you make the most of your trip and book yourself a log cabin with a hot tub .

Best Tour For Visiting Welsh Castles From London

Wales is an incredibly popular destination to visit all year round , especially from London. There is no better way to escape the crowds and explore ancient landscapes, than touring the very best castles in Wales.

And if you want to go on the ultimate Wales tour with a local guide, THIS is the one for you!

⭐ RATING: This tour has a 5/5 star rating ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 5 Days

Are you ready to immerse yourself in the beautiful Welsh countryside? With a 5-DAY DISCOVER WALES SMALL GROUP TOUR from London, you can do just that!

Not only will you get to explore national parks, castles and other historic sites alongside an experienced local tour guide, but all your transport and accommodation needs are taken care of.

And with this tour including hotels in Aberystwyth, you are promised the most incredible sea views to wake up to !

✅ Check Out The Itinerary & Availability Here

Absolutely a wonderful tour with our guide Nick. He was very knowledgeable and a great and very personable guide. The scenery in Wales was magnificent….I would definitely recommend this tour to anyone going to Wales -Luci ( READ MORE REVIEWS )

This tour makes it easy to experience the best that Wales has to offer without all the hassle of organizing and planning everything, so you can just enjoy the very best Wales tour filled with castles and historic sites.

And you don’t even need your passport!

And with a knowledgeable local guide leading the way, you can be sure that your tour will be packed with interesting facts and experiences.

So don’t worry – book the 5-Day Discover Wales Small-Group Tour from London with confidence! With all the planning done for you, it’s easier than ever to experience the amazing beauty of Wales.

Best Castles in Wales to Visit

Wales is famous for being the land of castles and dragons. And no matter how many castles you visit, you will not be able to get enough of them. So if you are flying into Cardiff , make the most of the nearby Castles!

There are hundreds of castles in Wales that you can book tours to. There are also many more ancient ruins that you can explore completely free!

But with 427 Castles throughout Wales – which ones are the best to visit?!

To help you see the very best Castles on your trip to Wales, here are the Castles you should add to your itinerary:

1. Caerphilly Castle:

This imposing 13th-century castle in South Wales is one of the country’s most iconic medieval landmarks.

It’s surrounded by a large moat, and visitors can explore towers, battlements and even secret passageways!

2. Conwy Castle:

This vast castle in North Wales is one of Wales’ most visited World Heritage Sites.

Built by Edward I, it now stands tall above the town of Conwy, and offers the most spectacular views across the landscape.

3. Cardiff Castle:

This castle in Wales’ capital city has been around since Roman times and has seen many changes over its history.

Today, it’s home to beautifully -preserved Victorian interiors, as well as a Norman keep and Roman walls.

4. Harlech Castle:

This castle on the coast of Snowdonia is yet another World Heritage Site, thanks to its beautifully-preserved medieval architecture.

Built by Edward I, It’s also known for its links with Welsh history – it was here that the famous anthem ‘Men of Harlech’ was written!

5. Beaumaris Castle: This castle on Anglesey is the perfect combination of a stunning location and intricate medieval design.

Built by Edward I13th century, it’s one of Wales’ most impressive structures and well worth the visit.

Are castles in Wales free entry?

There are many breathtaking castles and other historic monuments in Wales that are free to visit.

If you’re looking for a great day out, you’ll be spoiled for choice with some of the most beautiful castles in Britain to explore like Ogmore By Sea Castle in South Wales .

However, many of the more popular castles in Wales are not free and you have to pay for tours.

There are many wales castle tours available for all budgets and needs for a great day out .

You will know if you have to pay for the Castle you want to visit in Wales when you arrive but the majority of popular castles like Cardiff, Harlech, Castle Coch and Conwy all require an entry fee.

If you are wanting to see multiple castles when you travel through Wales, the best way is to ▶︎BOOK A TOUR . This will save you a lot of money and provide you with a local guide!

The best Wales Castle Tours final thoughts

The next time you find yourself in Wales, make sure to explore some of the incredible castles dotted around the country.

From imposing fortresses to Spooky ruins , there’s something for everyone. And with so many stunning castles to choose from, it can be hard to know where to start.

But hopefully, this guide looking at the best tours of castles in Wales helps!

So whether you’re a history buff or just want to enjoy some of the most breathtaking views Welsh has on offer, use this guide to book the perfect castle tour for your next trip.

👉 And if you still are struggling to decide, THE WANDERING BARD TOUR OF SOUTH WALES is a fantastic option to consider!

No matter how many days you spend in Wales, you are guaranteed the best trip full of castles, Celtic culture and ancient landscapes.

I hope you found this article useful! To make your trip to Wales and the rest of the UK the best, here are some more relevant posts:

✔️ The Best Dog-Friendly Log Cabins With Hot Tubs In Snowdonia You Need To Book

✔️ The Best Pembrokeshire Road Trip 2022

✔️ Can Americans Drive In The UK?

✔️ Can You Drink Tap Water In The UK? Everything You Need To Know

✔️ Where To Stay In Cornwall For Couples? (+ Best Places To Visit)

✔️ The Best Cabin Baggage For Ryanair Flights

Lowri Thomas is the founder of Many Other Roads. She lives and travels in Europe and has explored more than 40 countries. She is joined on her travels with her dog Scout and they explore Europe mostly by road. Born in Wales, she also shares the best things to do in Wales, UK and beyond. She helps over 50,000 people per month plan epic Europe adventures and road trips.

Related Posts

The Best Pembrokeshire Road Trip 2023

When Is The Best Time To Visit Wales 2024? (From a Local)

Leave a comment cancel reply.

You must be logged in to post a comment.

Privacy Overview

Wales has more castles than any other country in the world, so let me take you back in time to explore these brooding masterpieces of warfare.

Yes it’s true – Wales has more castles per mile or kilometre than any other country in the world. Exactly how many we had at one time you’ll have to come with me on tour to find out!

We have dozens of wonderful castles for you to explore, those built by our own Welsh princes to others built by the English.  Harlech sitting on a hill overlooking a championship golf course is the first of 4 UNESCO World Heritage Site Castles in North Wales, which are a must for any visitor to Wales to have on your itinerary.  The 2 nd and largest of English warrior King Edward 1 built fortress is Caernarfon . Further around the stunning coastline you’ll find Conwy, recently partnered with Himeji castle in Japan. 

Last but by no means least is another moated castle and the very last to be built by King Edward – who’d have thought a powerful English King could run out of money!  It happened and he did.  So Beaumaris castle, on the Isle of Anglesey and said to be the most perfect in design ever to be (almost) built, finishes our key castles tour of North Wales.

About my Wales tours

All tours are bespoke and private so just for you or your group and operate year round, subject to weather conditions and minimum numbers.

Please contact me on  [email protected]  or call Carole on  07582 093582   to discuss your needs.

Terms & Conditions, cancellation fees and payment options are available on request.

Please contact me on  [email protected]  or call Carole on  07582 093582  to discuss your needs.

All things wool

Worth more than gold

Masterpieces both medieval and modern

City of Chester

Take a “Rome” around 2,000 years

Cruise ship tours

Private and exclusive just for you

Food and drink

Feast for the taste buds

Blooming marvellous

Heritage steam railways

A journey back in time

Mix and Match

Hand-built with devotion

Industrial Wales

Turning minerals to riches

Stately homes

How the other half lived

Privacy Overview

• [email protected] Email us
• 1-866-209-4554 US & Canada Toll Free
• +44(0)2921 660 747 UK / International

Castles and Manors of Wales

A Castle Tour of Wales – A nation renowned for its ancient fortresses, discover the heritage and natural beauty of Wales on a trip staying in elegant country house hotels and grandiose castle accommodations. Explore the untouched landscapes of Snowdonia and Pembrokeshire and the awe-inspiring ruins of Wales’ glorious World Heritage Castles including Conwy, Harlech and Caernarfon. Your tour ends with two nights in the cosmopolitan capital city of Cardiff.

Get in touch

Email us   [email protected]

UK International   +44(0)2921 660 747

US Toll Free   1-866-209-4554

Enquire Now

Arriving in London or Bristol, head West and across the Severn Estuary in to the magical land of Wales. Collect your vehicle in Cardiff, you may choose to stop at border town Chepstow to see the stunning medieval fortress at Chepstow Castle before following the beautiful Wye Valley to the attractive ruins of Tintern Abbey. Passing the market towns of Monmouth and Abergavenny and in the shadow of Raglan Castle you arrive in the dramatic moorlands of the Brecon Beacons National Park.

Overnight: Gliffaes Country House Hotel or The Bear Hotel, Brecon Beacons National Park

Journey details: 75 miles / 120 km, 2 hours (approx.), if starting in central Cardiff*

Continue north in to the hills of mid Wales and stop at the elegant Powis Castle to explore the medieval fortress and its celebrated gardens and grounds before passing in to the border Marches. You may stop at Chirk Castle on route to quaint Welsh town of Llangollen, home to Wales' national Eistedfordd festival each year. This tiny town is a real gem, home to the mysterious Caer Drewyn hill fort, the spectacular Pontcysyllte Aqueduct which carries canal boats 126 feet above the valley floor, and the traditional Llangollen Steam Railway. Continue to your nearby Castle Hotel which will be your base for the next two nights.

Overnight: Ruthin Castle, Ruthin or Bodysgallen Hall Hotel, Conwy, North Wales.

Meals: Breakfast included

Journey details: 115 miles / 185 km, 3 hours (approx.)*

Today pass through the heart of the beautiful Snowdonia National Park and Conwy Valley to the north coast of Wales. In the charming seaside resort town of Llandudno you can enjoy the elegant Victorian town-houses and promenade or ride a cable tram-way up the Great Orme. Nearby you'll find the beautiful town of Conwy, still almost completely encircled by its medieval city walls it is seemingly frozen in time; explore a tangle of medieval cobbled streets and market places, a tiny port and the most dramatic of Castles overlooking the town. Return to Ruthin for your overnight stay.

Today, you may choose to visit Caernarfon Castle in the far North West Wales the imposing venue of the 1969 investiture of Prince Charles the Prince of Wales. Then make your way south along Wales’ West coast. At Porthmadog, you may choose to take a scenic ride on the Snowdon mountain railway or visit the intriguing Italianate town of Portmeirion made famous by the sixties cult TV show, the Prisoner. Perhaps stop at another of Wales’ UNESCO World Heritage fortresses at Harlech Castle, dramatically perched overlooking the Irish Sea before before arriving at your accommodation near to the coastal town of Aberystwyth.

Overnight: Penmaenuchaf Hall, near Dolgellau or Nanteos Mansion, near Aberystwyth.

Journey details: 130 miles / 3hrs approx*

Today continue South along Wales' West coast passing the sweeping sands of Cardigan Bay to the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, home to almost two hundred miles of protected coastline. Perhaps walk stretches of the famous coastal path across bays and cliffs on route to visit the tiny settlement of St Davids; the patron Saint's namesake is a tiny village but enjoys city status due to its stunning cathedral and Bishop's Palace. Time-permitting, visit the historic coastal town of Tenby home to a bustling natural harbour and Norman town walls.

Overnight: The Grove at Narbeth or Roch Castle, Pembrokeshire

Journey details: 100 miles / 2hrs 30mins approx.*

From Pembrokeshire return East with a possible stop at Laugharne to visit the Boathouse visitor centre where welsh poet Dylan Thomas's penned some of his greatest works. Then arriving in Cardiff area spend the balance of the day exploring its outlying areas. Visit the contrasting castles at Castell Coch and Caerphilly Castle; the former is a Victorian fairy-tale folly of turrets and towers whilst the latter is a 13th century fortress complete with battlements, moat and a famous leaning tower. Round off the day with a visit to St Fagans National Museum of Wales, a living museum detailing Welsh history from Celtic times through to its industrial heritage.

Overnight: Holm House, Penarth or Lanely Hall, Pontyclun, near Cardiff

Journey details: 90 miles / 1hr 45 mins approx *

Today make your way in to central Cardiff to explore the cosmopolitan Welsh capital. Discover the Edwardian baroque architecture of Cathays park, home to the national museum and gallery of Wales, or shop in the unique Victorian shopping arcades. You may choose to visit the Cardiff Bay area where you’ll find the Norwegian Church, the cultural Welsh Millennium Centre and the beautiful red-brick pierhead building. By afternoon, head back to the city centre to see the magnificent centrepiece at Cardiff Castle; this sprawling castle combines Roman walls, a Norman motte and tower and a gloriously lavish Victorian mansion.

This morning enjoy a final breakfast in your hotel before checking out. Return your vehicle in Cardiff (downtown or airport) and make your onward journey within Britain or returning to your home nation. Ask about onward rail travel to London and post-tour accommodation in the English Capital.

Chepstow Castle, Monmouthshire, Wales

Llangollen, North Wales

Conwy Castle, Conwy, Wales

Snowdonia National Park, Wales

Cardigan Bay, Pembrokeshire, Wales

Laugharne Castle, Laugharne

Cardiff Castle, Cardiff, Wales

*Journey times and distances are estimates and are based on the direct route between the start location and end location for each day of the itinerary, where applicable. They do not include detours or stops for sightseeing.

What's included

• 7 nights accommodation in Castle Hotel or Manor House accommodation as per the itinerary (also listed below).
• Full cooked Welsh breakfast each morning.
• 8 days car rental inclusive of all mandatory taxes, insurances and charges.
• Admission to Cardiff Castle.
• CADW Wales Explorer Pass (7 days in 14) offering admission to dozens of Castles and historic sites across South Wales such as Beaumaris or Caerphilly castles.
• Shipment of your personal travel document and information pack containing all travel vouchers/tickets, printed copy of your itinerary, overview driving map and our own travel information and tips.
• Toll-free calls (from USA and Canada) to your Britain vacation specialist whilst planning your trip.
• Expert assistance during the planning of your trip and local out-of-hours number for use during travel.

Our Selected Lodging

• Gliffaes Country House Hotel (or similar), Brecon Beacons x 1 night
• Ruthin Castle (or similar), Ruthin, Conwy, North Wales x 2 nights
• Nanteos Mansion (or similar), near Aberystwyth, Mid Wales x 1 night
• The Grove at Narbeth (or similar), Pembrokeshire x 1 night
• Lincoln House Hotel (or similar), Cardiff x 2 nights

Wherever possible we select characterful accommodation representative of the destination where you're staying. We regularly personally visit and quality-check hotels across the country. The hotels listed are a representative selection of just some of the properties we work with, ask your consultant for their personal favourites and recommendations. Read more about the accommodation we offer by  clicking here .

Optional extras

• Add pre/post tour accommodation in Cardiff or London before or after your trip.
• Add an extra night in Pembrokeshire to enjoy this coastal region.
• Enjoy a traditional Welsh evening including food and entertainment.
• Add rail travel to/from Cardiff before or after your tour.
• Upgrade to automatic transmission vehicle for your tour.

Customize this tour!

• Add an extra night in a feature hotel on the remote Isle of Anglesey in North Wales.
• Add extra nights in any location to further explore the area.
• Have your very own private driver-guide chauffeur your tour.
• Combine this tour with our Castles and Manors of England Tour.
• Trip Insurance – we ask that our guests purchase suitable cover in case planned travel is affected or disrupted due to unforeseen circumstances. More information on the benefits of trip insurance can be found here .
• Flights – adeo Travel do not book air travel but are happy to offer advice on where to seek competitive airfare.
• Meals and/or sightseeing other than that outlined above.

Departure Dates 2023/2024

This self-guided tour is customizable and can be taken at any time throughout the year and starting and ending on any day of the week - simply let us know your preferred dates of travel!

Pricing 2023/2024

From GBP £1,945 per person (based on two people travelling). Single supplements apply for single occupancy rooms, please ask for a quotation for details.

Pricing Notes

• Above pricing is an estimated "from" price based on shoulder-season travel (April/October). As this tour can be taken at any time pricing will vary dependent on departure day, date of travel, selected accommodations etc.
• Above pricing is based on suggested accommodations listed however please note that we can tailor your specific quote to accommodate your budget and preferences.
• Prices are per person based on two people sharing a twin/double room and one vehicle.
• Prices are for land only travel and do not include flights.
• Prices are in GBP£ currency, for approximate amounts in other currencies please contact us.

• National Trust
• Historic buildings

© Hawlfraint y Goron / Crown Copyright

Castell Caernarfon (Caernarfon Castle), North Wales

10 great castles in Wales to visit

Wales is one of the world's greatest countries for castles and we think that Britain's best can be found within our borders. Come and learn about the Welsh nation's history through the buildings that defended it.

From defensive beginnings and the conflict of Civil War, to Tudor banqueting and Victorian decadence, the architectural splendour of these fortresses always stirs the soul. If you're looking for castles in Wales to visit, read on.

Castles in North Wales

Perched on a rock against the backdrop of Eryri (Snowdonia) , Castell Conwy (Conwy Castle  has an indisputably magical feel. Some consider it the finest castle Edward I built, and the mesmerising views from the battlements are particularly famed within the walled town. Conwy is one of the castles in north Wales that forms a UNESCO world heritage site. It's quite amazing to stand in this castle and consider how it was built in only four years between 1283 and 1287. Conwy remains the most complete set of residential rooms inhabited by the medieval monarchy anywhere in Wales or England. Edward I only stayed here once, trapped by a Welsh rebellion in 1294 over Christmas until January 1295. King Richard II hid at the castle from King Henry IV. With great halls, private chapels and royal chambers wind through this medieval marvel, it's a great castle to visit.

The mighty Castell Conwy (Conwy Castle)  still towers over the town after 700 years

Castell Caernarfon (Caernarfon Castle) 

Edward I wasn’t messing around when he built this polygonal 13th century castle on a former Roman fort. Part of the coastal World Heritage Site, the mighty Castell Caernarfon (Caernarfon Castle)  remains one of the most visually arresting sights you’ll ever see. The birthplace of Edward II and where the investiture of King Charles III as Prince of Wales took place, visit the Exhibition rooms to stir your senses. There's now step free access to the rooftop.

Read more : Caernarfon's military might .

Castell  Caernarfon, Gwynedd, North Wales

© Judith Newton

Chirk Castle

The picturesque Welsh-English border offers few sites as magnificent as Chirk Castle . Roger Mortimer built the castle in the late 13th century. It was home for the Myddelton family from the 1595 until Thomas Scott-Ellis leased it in 1910. It is now owned and run by the National Trust. The elegant state rooms inside are an interior dream, combining elaborate plasterwork with a medieval tower, a dungeon and an 18th century Servants’ Hall. Enjoy an uplifting wander through the garden, terrace, pavilion and parkland enclosing Wrexham ’s gem.

Castles in Mid Wales

Powis castle.

Powis Castle has a rich history, although it’s the gardens – famed for their French and Italian styles, adorned with plants and an orangery – that single it out, and that’s before you spot the medieval deer park. The perfect place to relax before heading inside to see the medieval fortress. Powis Castle was built in the mid 13th century by Gruffudd ap Gwenwynwyn, a Welsh prince. In 1578, Powis was leased to Sir Edward Herbert. It features decadent galleries and staircases aplenty.

Powis Castle and Garden, Mid Wales

Visit Wales Newsletter

This is Wales. A country with a warm heart, a rich history and an exciting future. Subscribe to our newsletter to hear our latest stories, holiday or short break ideas and more about interesting events taking place in Wales.

Castles in West Wales

Castell dinefwr (dinefwr castle).

The folkloric 12th century castle at Dinefwr Park is hugely atmospheric. This once much fought-over seat of the kingdom of Deheubarth is now run by the National Trust. Enjoy the wonderful views and guided tours that take in the nearby nature reserve , cottages, ponds, croquet lawn and a tea room. Look out for the rutting deer and cows who might join you during a stroll around the 18th century landscape park.

Castell Talacharn (Laugharne Castle)

The magnificent medieval  Castell Talacharn (Laugharne Castle) was part of a chain of Norman coastal castles from Chepstow in the east to Pembroke in the west. After centuries of conflict, The castle was rescued from near ruin by Elizabethan courtier Sir John Perrot. It's forever associated with Dylan Thomas , who escaped writer’s block at this 'brown as owls' castle. Discover his inspiration within the Victorian ornamental gardens, and relax near the Dylan Thomas Boathouse and Shed where poetry was once in motion.

Castell Talacharn (Laugharne Castle), which sits on the estuary of the River Tâf, West Wales

Castell Cilgerran (Cilgerran Castle)

The Normans’ penchant for defences with river views means 12th century Castell Cilgerra (Cilgerran Castle)  has an amazing vantage point, overlooking the River Teifi . Circle the two vast round towers and walk between the walls of the Earl of Pembroke’s creation on a gorge – home to a castle which, even by Welsh standards, is particularly beautiful.

Castell Cilgerran (Cilgerran Castle), Pembrokeshire, West Wales

Castles in South Wales

Castell caerffili  (caerphilly castle).

Castell Caerffili (Caerphilly Castle)  was locked within water defences when it was built by the English during the 13th century. The outside is the place, among an array of delights, to see four siege engines, and the inside has a hallowed, majestic feel.

Castell Caerffili  ( Caerphilly Castle), South Wales

© Michael George, Hawlfraint y Goron / Crown Copyright

Raglan Castle

Raglan Castle's striking round towers make this fortress a singular classic, and there’s every chance you’ll be enraptured from the moment you see the astonishing gatehouse which once denied Oliver Cromwell at the end of the Civil War. Surrounded by fields, the romantic ruins even make space for a bowling green. Construction of this South Wales castle began in the 1430s by Sir William ap Thomas. It's one of the last true castles to be built in Wales.

Raglan Castle, Monmouthshire

© Tom MartinandWALES NEWS SERVICE

Caldicot Castle

Every view from the incredible medieval Caldicot Castle could be a picture postcard. The history of this 13th century castle, built by Humphrey de Bohun, Earl of Hereford, is the stuff of legend. From Norman beginnings, to conflict in the Middle Ages, and Victorian domesticity. Fifty five acres of country park await, as well as events such as re-enactments and a tearoom for unwinding.

What is the oldest castle in Wales?

Castell Cas-gwent ( Chepstow Castle) the oldest castle in Wales. It was one of the first Norman strongholds in Wales. It's the oldest surviving post-Roman stone castle in Britain. The building of this castle started in 1067 by Earl William FitzOsbern, a close friend of William the Conqueror.

What is the biggest castle in Wales?

Castell Caerffili ( Caerphilly Castle) is the largest castle in Wales, and the second largest in Britain after Windsor Castle. The magnificent fortress covers 30 acres and boasts massive walls, towers, and gatehouses. It is three times the size of Principality Stadium and a must-see for anyone visiting the area.

What is the smallest castle in Wales?

It is believed that Castell Weble ( Weobley Castle) is one of the smallest castles in Wales. It has views of the beautiful Gower peninsula. This former elegant family home with a watchtower. Built by the wealthy de la Bere family, stewards to the lords of Gower 700 years ago, It suffered serious damage during the uprising of Owain Glyndwr in the early 15th century.

Related stories

Find out what's different about these castles….

Looking for castles with strange stories behind them? Here are a few of our favourites.

• Myths and legends
• Amazing places

Is Wales the castle capital of Europe?

With over 400 castles, wherever you go on holiday in Wales, you won't be too far from one to visit.

Follow the trail of Gwynedd’s majestic castles

The county of Gwynedd, in North Wales, provides a trail of majestic castles to explore.

• UNESCO Heritage

Caernarfon's military might

Discover an ancient Celtic town with a Roman barracks and imposing medieval castle.

Before you start...

This site uses animations - they can be turned off.

Terms and Conditions

By using this site, you confirm you agree to our Terms and Conditions . 

We'd Like to Hear From You

By  answering a few questions , we'll give you the chance to win £500. By doing so you will also help us improve this website and help with your holiday planning and travel needs.

Good for you. Good for us. Teamwork!

North Wales Castles

Edward longshank’s ‘ring of iron’, a tour focusing on the medieval history of wales that happens to travel through some of the most beautiful scenery north wales has to offer..

The Castles and Town Walls of King Edward 1st in Gwynedd were granted UNESCO status in 1986 and consist of the 4 great castles of Caernarfon, Conwy, Harlech and Beaumaris. Considered by UNESCO to be the “finest examples of late 13th century and early 14th-century military architecture in Europe” they have been jointly described as ‘’some of the most powerful castles of any age or country’’ and ‘’ the zenith of English castle building’.

Towering over the town’s quaint quayside and with a backdrop of Snowdonia’s high mountains, Conwy Castle enjoys a spectacular setting. After Edward 1st conquered Wales, his stonemasons built Conwy castle and its town walls in barely 4 years. An important Welsh palace and monastery originally occupied the site overlooking the Conwy estuary and the building of the new English town and castle on top of such a high-status Welsh site was the supreme demonstration of power and domination by Edward 1st. Today, Conwy Castle houses the most complete remains of medieval royal apartments anywhere in Britain.

Harlech Castle is perched atop an inaccessible cliff looking out over the Irish sea. With the Llyn Peninsula stretching out to the west and the high mountains of Snowdonia to the north, it enjoys perhaps the most spectacular setting of any of Edward 1st’s coastal fortresses. Harlech Castle played an important part in a number of Welsh revolts and civil wars through the centuries and it was here that Owain Glyndwr was crowned King of Wales during the last great Welsh uprising in the early 1400s. During the War of the Roses, 50 Lancastrian defenders held the castle for over a month against 7000 besieging Yorkists – they are honoured in modern times in Wales’s alternative national anthem – the rousing ‘Men of Harlech’

Caernarfon Castle is one of the most impressive of Edward 1st’s medieval castles and occupies a commanding position at the southern end of the beautiful Menai Straits. The castle was the main seat of Edward 1st during his early conquest of Wales and its royal connections continue into modern times with it being the site of the investiture of Prince Charles, the current Prince of Wales. Right from its inception, Caernarfon was built on a grand scale to be the home of Edward in Wales.

Edward 1st commissioned Beaumaris Castle in 1295 to further stamp his authority on the Welsh. Located at the northern entrance to the Menai Strait, it is recognised as the most technically perfect castle in Europe. Known as the castle that was never finished, construction slowed during Edward’s invasion of Scotland in 1300 and then continued until 1306 before stalling again with England under further threat of invasion by the Scots. The castle was described by 20th century Historian Arnold Taylor as ‘’the most perfect example of symmetrical concentric planning’’ even though it was still incomplete when work ceased for the last time in 1330.

Your personal guided tour timetable

Your touring day starts at your accommodation at 9:30 am. Your day will include rest, coffee and a lunch stop in addition to stops for the listed sites, attractions and activities. Along the way, your driver will tell you all about Wales’ history, culture and myths and legends whilst pointing out places of interest and recommending the best stops for food, refreshments and photos. We aim to have you back at your accommodation at about 6:00 pm.

We will endeavor to visit all locations listed on this tour however, Start/Finish times, order of itinerary and places we visit may change depending on your pickup and drop-off location, weather, road conditions or other events out of our control. Therefore, all tour timings are approximate, and we reserve the right to change the tour itinerary at any time.

What is Included in your tour

Pick up and drop off at your hotel or cruise berth within North Wales.

The services of your professional driver/guide throughout your tour.

The use of our luxury Mercedes people carrier to suit your party size

All fuel, parking and road tolls.

What is excluded from your tour

Food and drink and admission fees to sites, attractions and activities where payable.

Personal travel insurance

What to bring with you.

Please bring a wind or waterproof coat and sensible footwear for some light walking. Whilst rare, Wales can have 4 seasons in one day!

Driver Guides

Fully licenced and accredited, locally born and bred

Luxury Vehicles

Luxury Mercedes Touring Vehicles

Pick Up’s

Complimentary pick up/drop off at your hotel or cruise berth within North Wales

Onboard Wi-Fi

Onboard Wi-Fi and mobile Charging facilities

Complimentary Water

Bottled Welsh Spring water onboard

Our Luxury ‘Off The Shelf’ Private Guided Tours

Hidden Gems of North Wales

Castles, Coast and Country

Wonderful West Coast

North East Wales and Chester

The best of North Wales

‘Welcome’ to Wrexham and North East Wales

Snowdonia Tours

Mon Mam Cymru – Anglesey

Llandudno and the Conwy Valley

The Wild Llyn Peninsula

Llangollen and North East Wales

UNESCO North Wales

On the Border

Route 66 Wales

Castles of Wales - Self Drive and Private Guided Castle Tours from Cardiff

• 1 night including breakfast Cardiff 
• 2 nights including breakfast in the Brecon Beacons
• 1 night including breakfast in Pembrokeshire
• 1 night including breakfast in the Machynlleth 
• 1 night including breakfast in Porthmadog
• 1 night including breakfast in Angelsey
• 1 night including breakfast in Llandudno
• 1 night including breakfast in Llangollen

Ask for pricing

BOOK THIS TODAY! CALL LYNOTT TOURS 9AM-5PM MONDAY-FRIDAY AT 1-800-221-2474 OR Please Email Us For Information

• Wales 5 Day R Discover Wales from London 7 day B Wales Wonders tour

Join our email list

TTC family of brands

My Trafalgar

Destinations

Get Inspired

866 513 1995

See All Wales Tours

See More Wales Trips

5 million happy guests and counting

The best of wales unlocked for you.

Experience Wales differently. Enjoy one-of-a-kind experiences and uncover local secrets when our friends across the country open their doors to you. Here’s just a sample of the rich experiences you can expect.

Pound Sterling

Capital City

Welsh, English

Good morning

Good evening

Noswaith dda

"A land of stately mountains, verdant valleys, ancient castles and golden-sanded beaches, beautiful yet understated Wales is impossible not to fall in love with"

Caroline, Travel Director

Go on a Cardiff Castle Tour

One of the city’s biggest draws is Cardiff Castle, a mixture of Roman, Norman and Victorian architecture strewn around the central green. It offers a fantastic insight into the history of Cardiff as for centuries it was the home of the Butes, the family who transformed Cardiff from a small town into the biggest coal port in the world.

Walk down to the Cardiff Bay

Enjoy a walk along the old Cardiff docklands, now known as Cardiff Bay, a vibrant waterfront filled with restaurants, boutiques and boats. You can go sailing on the large freshwater lake, enjoy a night of opera at the Wales Millennium Centre, and indulge in exceptional dining along Mermaid Quay.

Learn about Celtic culture

A trip to Wales offers the chance to dive into Celtic culture with our Local Specialists. They’ll show you the way of the Celts through food, music and humor, with traditional Welsh dinners and an evening of Welsh music performed by magical harpists and the finest local singers.

Hike in the Welsh mountain region of Snowdonia

Hiking in Wales is one of the best ways to get immersed in the country’s mountains, and Snowdonia National Park offers a grand introduction. Sprawling across northern Wales to the rugged coastline, you can find the highest peak in Wales, along with an excellent network of trails to guide your exploration.

Stroll through the Cardiff Central Market

Discover a range of local Welsh cuisine, vintage clothing and seasonal produce at Cardiff Central Market, a historic Victorian building that has been the site of a farmer’s market since the 18th century. You never know what treasures you’ll find as you wander the stores under the market’s glass roof.

Our top 5 things to do in Wales

When you’re not trekking through the mountains and exploring the most beautiful places in Wales, retreat to the city where you’ll find historic castles, old-fashioned markets and a compelling culture. Here are just a few of the ways we'll unlock the magic of Wales for you on your trip.

National Museum

Set in Cardiff’s civic center, the National Museum is home to a variety of national collections and touring exhibitions of geology and natural history. It also houses one of Europe’s best art collections, with paintings, drawings, sculptures and ceramics from Wales and the world, and one of the finest collections of Impressionist art.

St Fagans National Museum of History

Located on the grounds of St Fagans Castle in Cardiff, St Fagans National Museum of History is one of the world’s best open-air museums. Along with St Fagans Castle, a 16th-century manor house, you’ll find a collection of more than 50 original buildings from different historical periods that have been rebuilt on the 100-acre parkland.

Swansea Museum

Built in 1841, Swansea Museum is the oldest museum in Wales. It’s home to a fantastic collection of historical objects from the pasts of Swansea and the world. You’ll find six galleries with everything from a Welsh Kitchen to the tomb of an Egyptian mummy.

Best museums in Wales

Wales is home to some of Europe’s best historical and cultural collections and our Wales tours take it all in, from an open-air museum in a 16th-century castle, to an Egyptian mummy’s tomb.

Welsh rarebit

A traditional Welsh dish hailing from the 18th century, Welsh rarebit is a delicious take on the classic toasted cheese sandwich. It’s made from creamy sauce of Welsh cheese, ale or milk, and mustard or spices, poured hot over slices of toasted bread.

Glamorgan sausage

Named after the county of Glamorgan in Wales, Glamorgan sausage is a Welsh vegetarian sausage. Traditionally made with Caerphilly cheese, leek and coated in breadcrumbs, the sausages are fried until crispy. The dish became popular in the Second World War when meat was scarce, and is now a national specialty.

Also known as ‘speckled bread’, Bara Brith is a rich fruit cake, originally made as a yeasted bread. Spread with salted butter or drizzled with warm honey, this traditional Welsh dish is a tea-time favorite.

Best food in Wales

From cheesy toast and spiced fruit cake, to vegetarian sausages and hearty meats, we'll show you how Welsh cuisine turns simple ingredients into memorable meals.

What to pack for Wales

Waterproof coat

A waterproof coat is an essential item in Wales - there are showers all year round and Cardiff is one of the wettest cities in Europe.

Hiking boots

The mountains of Wales are best explored on foot, and you’ll need a comfortable pair of hiking boots to explore the trails. Make sure you break in your boots before your trip to Wales.

From the historic buildings like Cardiff Castle to the giant mountains of Snowdonia, you’ll want to capture every exquisite moment.

An adaptor plug

Voltage in Wales is 230V and the sockets are of Type G, with standard British 3-pin plugs.

Sunglasses are great to have all year round, to protect from the sunny days in summer and the low angle of the sun in winter.

Pack for sustainable travel

Consider your environmental impact when you next take a trip and go single-use-plastic-free by packing a reusable water bottle, a steel straw, your own shopping bags and refillable toiletry bottles.

Our Europe & Britain destinations

Bosnia Herzegovina

Czech Republic

Liechtenstein

North Macedonia

Netherlands

Northern Ireland

Switzerland

Other worldwide regions we visit

Africa the Middle East

Australia and New Zealand

North and Central America

South America

Get your free brochure

Find your next escape with the world's leading travel brand

Request A Brochure

Award winning tours

Every year, we're proud to win some of the most prestigious travel accolades around the world - from the Travel Globes to the Agent's Choice Awards

Search Our Tours

Help & Info

WE MAKE TRAVEL MATTER®

Unedited Reviews

Our Destination Management Companies

Frequently Asked Questions

Travel Updates

Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information

Travel Planning

Get Your Free Brochure

Travel Insurance

Booking Conditions

Trip Deposit Level

Recommendations

Trafalgar Tours Limited is a proud member of  The Travel Corporation  family of companies.

#SimplyTrafalgar

Travel House, Rue du Manoir St Peter Port, Guernsey, GY1 2JH

Selected Region

United States

United Kingdom

New Zealand

South Africa

Copyright 2024 Trafalgar. All rights reserved.

Terms and Conditions

Privacy Policy

Cookie Policy

Want to try the best Welsh wine?

Best Castles in Wales to explore (+ tips and map of locations)

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: September 2, 2023

You really can’t visit Wales without including a castle (or two) in your itinerary. This article will introduce you to 10 of the best castles in Wales with tips and background history and information.

You will find a handy map showing the locations of these Welsh castles at the end of the article plus links to more information to help you plan your trip to Wales.

Caernarfon Castle

Beaumaris castle, cardiff castle, conwy castle, pembroke castle, criccieth castle, carreg cennen castle, raglan castle, caerphilly castle, harlech castle, map showing the locations of the welsh castles included in this article, the best castles in wales and planning your visit, guide to the best welsh castles to add into your itinerary.

In northwest Wales, on the banks of the River Seiont, architect James of St. George built Caernarfon Castle at the behest of King Edward I.

Construction started in the late 13th century and took 47 years to complete. The result is a grand castle with unparalleled architectural drama, making it one of the best castles in Wales to visit today.

Visitors will be awestruck by Eagle Tower — it has 18-foot-thick walls and three soaring turrets. You can also walk throughout the castle, up and down narrow and winding staircases and along the battlements.

Mind your step! The floors can be a little uneven but the climb up to the towers is more than worth it for the stunning views.

Beaumaris Castle in North Wales has the unique distinction of never having been finished. Begun in 1295 by James of St. George, the military architect extraordinaire of King Edward I, money troubles and Scottish skirmishes meant that by 1306, the castle was still incomplete.

By the 1320s, it was all but abandoned. It’s a shame, in that what exists today of the symmetrically designed concentric castle would have been extraordinary in its day.

Today, it’s a highly atmospheric place with plenty of half-constructed and crumbling walls, winding staircases and narrow passages, all surrounded by a moat.

The site also offers lovely views of the Snowdonia mountain range.

Cardiff Castle was built on the banks of the Taff River in the 11th century overtop a 3rd-century Roman fort.

It was originally a motte-and-bailey castle but was eventually reinforced with stone walls for defence. Like other castles during this era, it was traded back and forth between the English and the Welsh.

In the mid 18th century, Cardiff Castle was transformed by renown architect William Burges into the ornate gothic home of the third Marquess of Bute.

Today, this amazing castle is open to the public and visitors can tour the lovely grounds and landscaped parks or go inside to see the luxurious apartments.

In North Wales in Llandudno, on the River Conway, you’ll find Conway Castle. It was built for Edward I in the late 1200s on top of an imposing bed of solid rock, creating the ultimate show of English domination over the Welsh people.

The castle exhibited state-of-the-art military architecture of its day — with a defensive wall and imposing round towers.

Today, the walls and castle interior are largely preserved, making it one of the best Welsh castles to visit.

Take a tour and explore the eight towers, great hall and royal chambers. The view from the towers is amazing, but watch your step! The stairs are uneven and can be a little bit tricky.

Out of all of the places to see in Wales, Pembroke Castle may be the most magnificent. It has seen over 1,000 years of history, is the birthplace of King Henry VII and holds the distinction of never having fallen to the Welsh.

Located in the southeast, today it is the largest privately owned castle in Wales. In the last 200 years, remarkable efforts have preserved much of the castle, including the 80 ft. Great Keep, grand entrances, the stunning stone outer walls and much of the Great Hall.

There are many exhibitions detailing the castle’s rich history and visitors should plan to spend at least a few hours to explore the entire complex.

In the late 13th century, in Criccieth, Gwynedd, in North Wales, Llywelyn the Great stepped onto a rocky peninsula overlooking Tremaddog Bay and decided it would make the perfect place to build Criccieth Castle.

Throughout its life, this Welsh-built castle was occupied by both English and Welsh respectively, until the 15th century when it was destroyed by Welsh princes during the last Welsh rebellion.

Today, the picturesque ruins are one of the best places to visit in Wales. The views of the coastline and the town are second to none and the crumbling stone walls and historical exhibits on the grounds are thoroughly interesting.

A few miles from Llandeilo in Carmarthenshire Wales are the ruins of Carreg Cennen Castle. Perched on a rocky hilltop with dramatic views of the valley and countryside beyond, the first Carreg Cennen castle was built in the 12th century but was rebuilt in the 13th century at the behest of Edward I.

Archeological evidence including Roman coins and prehistoric skeletons indicates that the location had probably been occupied long before either castle existed.

Visitors can park for free at the small farm on the grounds. Wear good shoes as the walk up to the castle can get slippery and boggy if there has been rain. Once at the castle, which is mostly ruined, the view is spectacular.

In 1430, in the country of Gwent, Sir William ap Thomas began building Raglan Castle. Known as the Blue Night of Gwent, Thomas wanted a defensive fortress but also wanted his castle to showcase his wealth and prestige.

The result was unlike many medieval castles, it had luxury apartments that were built around a manicured courtyard. It’s six-sided gatehouses, which are still standing, are unique among Welsh castles.

Although Raglan Castle is ruined, it is in good condition. After exploring the grounds, the cellars and the castle’s long gallery, visitors should make time to climb the Great Tower and take in the gorgeous views of the countryside.

Not far from Cardiff, situated in the county of Gwent in South Wales, is Caerphilly Castle.

Built in 1268 on the site of an ancient Roman fort, it was a defensive fortress and featured a unique concentric design, a novelty among British castles of the time.

It had an inner circle with rounded towers that were surrounded by an outer wall and guard house. Those, in turn, were surrounded by artificial lakes. By the 16th century, the castle was in ruins.

Beginning in 1776, however, interested parties began to protect, preserve and restore the castle. Today, visitors agree that Caerphilly is one of the most beautiful castles in South Wales and well worth visiting.

Among all of the castles in North Wales, Harlech Castle is one of the most popular and most scenic.

In 1283, the sandstone castle was built by James of St. George for Edward I. A rocky peninsula, overlooking Cardigan Bay was chosen as its site, the cliffs providing a natural barrier to protect the castle. It withstood centuries of battle but was eventually destroyed in the 1600s.

Visitors will be impressed by the views and the castle’s overall condition — it is not quite as far gone as some of the other castles in Wales. Walking the walls is great fun but might not be for those who are squeamish about heights.

For more tips and inspiration for a variety of popular destinations in Wales pop over to my Wales Travel Guide which has all the information you need to plan your trip.

If you are still deciding where to visit (as well as all these amazing castles!) check out our guide to the best places to visit in Wales.

And finally, if you dream of spending the night in a castle you can! There are a number of castle hotel options in Wales. You can find them all in my guide to the best castle stays in Wales. (And if staying in a Scottish castle also appeals don’t miss my accommodation guide to 8 fairytale Scottish castles !)

Want more castles? Check out the best castles to visit in England , 18 Scottish castles that will take your breath away and the best castles to visit on a day trip from London!

Find more inspiration for your travels in my Wales Travel Guide which includes information about what to see, where to stay, how to get around, travel tips, recommended reading and more to make the most of your trip.

> CLICK HERE FOR MY STEP BY STEP GUIDE TO PLANNING YOUR UK TRIP !

What to budget

What to pack

Create an account

Start your adventure today.

Already a member? Login

Happiness Promise

There are hundreds of thousands of guides and tour operators around the world. Figuring out who to trust is stressful and hard.

That’s why we started 10Adventures Tours, we’re here to make it easy to find a great guide or tour operator. We handpick the best local guides and tour operators for 10Adventures, working to ensure you have great guides and a great trip.

We know it sucks to show up in a different country and find out the tents are junk, the guide incompetent or the route different from what we thought we were getting.

We want to give our users peace of mind that you’ll have a great trip and offer a guarantee that we will work with you to make it right.

How does this work? Well, if you feel that something about your trip didn’t’ meet your expectations, let us know. We will then work to gather the details and figure out where things went wrong. If something indeed wasn’t as described, or went wrong with your trip, and the problem was within the control of either oursleves, the guide or the tour company, we will then work out a refund with you that’s proportional to the scale of the problem.

Obviously the best way to make a great trip is to tell your local guide or tour operator and give them the chance to fix the solution while you are on your trip. Most things can be solved by telling your guide when the issue develops. If that doesn’t solve it, then email us right away. Please don’t wait to voice your concerns until the trip is over, as it’s much harder to solve issues after the fact.

We work hard to make sure you have a great trip. If something isn’t right, please email  [email protected]  and we will get to work right away.

Group Trips

Group travel can be chaotic and messy, which is why going on a trip with family or friends is the fun part and planning the trip, well… isn’t. But what if the group travel experience of your dreams could be organized without the hassle of you needing to plan every detail?

With 10Adventures group tours, you’ll be the mastermind behind an unforgettable trip without the need to worry about logistics, payments, or who can get time off for a holiday.

The VIP-level service of our Travel Advisors allows you to organize the adventure of your dreams, customize it exactly how you want to, and watch the savings roll in as more of your friends and family sign up for the once in a lifetime experience you created. It’s that simple!

Take the first step on your next group adventure by contacting one of our Travel Advisors today.

The window to travel as a family only narrows with time. Make the most of it by exploring the world together and creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Why share a travel experience with people you don’t know? Spend your hard-earned vacation surrounded by close friends on the adventure of a lifetime.

Shared travel experiences strengthen bonds and are the perfect way to come together as colleagues to solve challenges in a way that just can’t be done in an office environment.

Connect with members of your club or social circle over shared interests like food, culture, and the outdoors.

• VIP Service: Have a dedicated Travel Advisor who is always a call or a click away.
• Cost Savings: More people mean a lower cost per person. And there are additional discounts for children and shared rooms.
• Customizable: You are in charge and choose the start date, length, itinerary, accommodations, and other services.
• Easy Payment: Flexible payment schedule, and most importantly separate invoices so you aren’t left paying for other people.
• Private: Just you and your group making memories that will last your lifetime.
• Quality Time: There’s no better way to travel than alongside family and or friends. Enjoy quality time exploring the world with those you love most.

Three Castles of Wales Walking Tour

Chat with us on our contact page or fill out the form below!

Enjoy the stunning countryside of Wales as you walk from castle to castle

Take the first step towards a private travel experience, customized just for you.

About this tour:

What travellers are saying about 10Adventures

Jennifer W.

Why travellers choose this tour

At 10Adventures, we take care of the details so that our guests can focus on making memories. Enjoy these key features on this tour.

We're Canadian

Book with a Canadian company whose mission is to help you travel the world.

Accommodations

Accommodations for 4 nights are included.

Don't worry about meals. 4 breakfasts are included.

Check out the 'What's Included' tab for more info on personal transfers during your tour.

Local Support

Travel stress-free knowing in-country local support is available by regular phone or WhatsApp to support you during your tour.

Payments Made Easy

Enjoy the flexibility and ease of staggered payments in your own currency using your choice of credit card.

Route Resources

Route notes, maps, and/or a trail app make navigation on this tour a breeze.

Park Entrance Fees

Included where possible! Check the 'What's Included' tab for more info on park entrance fees during your tour.

Luggage transfers

Take a load off, with optional or included luggage transfers. Check inclusions for further details.

Accommodation for Three Castles of Wales Walking Tour

This tour includes the accommodation in cozy bed and breakfast or guesthouse. The rooms will have necessary modern conveniences to make your trip more comfortable.

In some cases, the accommodation listed below may need to be substituted for other comparable accommodations.

Single Rooms and Solo Travellers Rooms are double occupancy. You can pay a supplement to have a private room in a hotel where possible. Solo travellers may be required to pay a supplement.

Bed and Breakfast at Llangattock Lingoed

Enjoy a comfortable stay in a simple bed and breakfast accommodation, conveniently located in Llangattock Lingoed.

Hotels on Standard Tour

Planning a group trip?

Learn how we help group of friends, outdoor clubs and families get the tour they’ve been dreaming about.

Three Castles of Wales Walking Tour Details

Three castles of wales walking tour overview.

Explore Wales on a walking tour! The Three Castles Walk is a circular route about 19 miles (30 kilometres) long. Along the trail you will explore an undulating landscape of wooded hillsides and hidden valleys in North East Monmouthshire.

The countryside in this area retains a strong local identity with its fine tapestry of hedgerows, copses and woods. You’ll love the maze of narrow lanes, tracks, bridleways and paths, the distinctive old market towns, villages and hamlets, and the secluded historic farmhouses and churches.

This walking tour is on the borderland of England and Wales and the many castles are a reminder of the turbulent history of this area. The Three Castles Walk links the three Norman Castles of Skenfrith, White Castle and Grosmont. The main purpose of these "Three Castles" or "Trilateral" Castles was to form a line of defence and to control the transport routes from Herefordshire into Wales.

The walk primarily follows existing public rights of way and was first opened in 1991, with the kind cooperation of farmers and landowners along the route. Although becoming better known and more popular, the walk runs through sparsely populated countryside. It provides the perfect opportunity for one or two days' walking away from the pressures of everyday life.

Three Castles of Wales Walking Tour Itinerary

Arrive at llangattock lingoed.

Arrive & stay overnight in Llangattock Lingoed.

Walk Skenfrith to White Castle

Your day starts with a taxi pick up from your accommodation to take you to the start of your walk. Today’s path will take you through farmland where you will see a variety of old barns. You will see the spire of Llantilio Crossenny Church on the left and directly ahead are the towers of White Castle dramatically situated on a hill-top. Your day ends with a taxi picking you up and taking you back to your accommodation.

Walk White Castle to Grosmont

Your day starts with a taxi pick up from your accommodation to take you to the start of your walk. Today you will get to discover Grosmost Castle. On your way you will see a variety of churches where you can learn about their heritage. There is a steeply climb before you reach Grosmont. Your day ends with a taxi picking you up and taking you back to your accommodation.

Overnight in Llangattock Lingoed. No luggage transfer required.

Walk Grosmont to Skenfrith

Your day starts with a taxi pick up from your accommodation to take you to the start of your walk. Traversing from Grosmont to Skenfrith Castle, this route takes you past farmland and you can see some lovely views across to Garway Hill. As you leave river Monnow behind you follow the route into Skenfirth. Your day ends with a taxi picking you up and taking you back to your accommodation.

Description

Your trip ends after breakfast.

Tour Highlights

Highlights for three castles of wales walking tour.

Discover the beauty of the Welsh countryside and beautiful villages

Enjoy food and drinks in numerous authentic pubs along your walking path

Learn about local history as you visit tree stunning old castles

Walk on your own pace, will all the logistics being taken care of for you

What's Included

4 breakfasts are included.

Transportation during the Tour

This tour includes all the taxi transfers mentioned in the itinerary. Getting to and from Llangattock Lingoed to start the tour is not included and you should make your own arrangements.

Also Included

Accommodation.

• Daily breakfasts
• Full Tour Information Pack
• Smartphone App with GPS routes
• 24-hr emergency helpline

Not included

• Lunch, Dinner & Drinks
• Entrance to attractions
• Buses and/or Ferries unless otherwise stated
• Tourist Taxes where applicable

Optional Extras

• Additional nights before and after the tour
• Single supplement charges

Dates & Prices

This self-guided walking tour in Wales is always run as a private tour for your group only and the price per person depends on the type of the room that you choose.

The price below is per person:

• Price per person staying in a single room: $1,295 USD per person
• Price per person sharing a double room: $795 USD per person

Reviews (74)

Reviews for three castles of wales walking tour.

There are no written reviews yet.

Add a comment

You must be logged in to post a comment.

Thank you for submitting your review!

If you enjoyed your tour please consider leaving a Google review for 10Adventures to help others discover the world of custom adventure travel.

Tour Booking Process

Submit Booking

Confirm Availability

Pay Deposit

Trip Confirmed!

Frequently asked questions for Three Castles of Wales Walking Tour

How hard is the Three Castles of Wales Walking Tour?

We rate this tour as a 3 / 5. You will be walking up to 7 miles daily, 19 miles in total in 3 days, on a hilly terrain.

Do I need a visa to travel to Wales?

Check with your local country about visa requirements. You could also try this website , though you should verify with your government.

Are meals included on the Three Castles of Wales Walking Tour?

Do I need insurance?

Yes, it is mandatory to have health and medical insurance to join this trip, and your insurance should cover activities mentioned in this itinerary. Get your travel insurance .

How do I get to Llangattock Lingoed to start this tour?

Llangattock Lingoed can be reached by 15-min taxi ride from Abergavenni (which can be reached by bus from Newport or Cardiff).

Where does the Three Castles of Wales Walking Tour end?

The tour ends where it starts, in Llangattock Lingoed.

Do I need special vaccines to travel to Wales?

Check with your family doctor.

Are there any travel restrictions for Wales?

Please check with your local government about travel restrictions before you book your tour. This map from the US Department of State provides an overview of the current status in countries around the globe. The UK‘s Foreign Office and Government of Canada also provide advice on foreign travel. Note that the travel advice may change depending on your nationality.

Tour Difficulty

Read about our scale for Tour Difficulty Ratings.

This tour was made for you!

Start filling out your booking details. Once you submit your request, we'll review availability for this tour and contact you within 24 hours to further customize your perfect adventure.

Why book with 10 Adventures?

Your trip. your way..

Make lifelong memories with the people you care about most. We specialize in custom & private active travel experiences.

Travel made easy.

Spend your time making memories, not planning them. Enjoy a stress-free vacation and leave the trip logistics to us.

You matter to us.

No bots here. A real human is always a click or a call away to ensure you get the adventure of your dreams.

Travel authentically.

Immerse yourself in the destination with highly-vetted, local tour operators who love to showcase where they live.

We make it easy for travellers to book private travel experiences, so they can make memories exploring the world with the people that matter most.

— Richard Campbell, CEO

Tours in Europe by Country

Hiking tours in europe by country, wales tours by activity, get travel inspiration and discounts.

Join our weekly travel newsletter

Castles North Wales Tour

• » Welsh heritage & culture tours

Customised private tours

Castles North Wales Tour - a two-day tour

Castles north wales tour - three-day option , if three days are available for touring, we can include visiting castles such as flint, rhuddlan, denbigh etc as an addition to our standard two-day tour..

FACT: Wales has more castles per head of population than anywhere else in the world, these ‘fortified’ buildings were not haphazardly constructed, there was a reason why they were designed and located where they are…… join the tour and find out more.

We can include visits to

• Caernarfon Castle

Conwy Castle

• Beaumaris Castle

Dolbadarn Castle

Harlech castle.

• Segontium Roman Fort
• Din Lligwy Celtic site

Holyhead Mountain Celtic settlement

• Gwydir Castle

Bryn Celli Ddu

• Roman Fort at Holyhead
• Various battle sites
• Owain Glyndŵr story, last native Welshman to hold the title Prince of Wales

Some of the main sights

Roman occupation of Wales

The Roman occupation of Wales lasted for nearly 400 years and apart from visiting the main Roman fort of Segontium in Caernarfon, we will also visit many other sites such as the battle site for the capture of Anglesey and the slaughter of the Celtic druids.

Built by a Welsh Prince to protect the valley, predates the English fortresses of the Edward 1st. Before the Conquest of Wales was completed in 1282, Wales consisted of a number of independent kingdoms, the most important being Gwynedd. Llywelyn ap Gruffudd, sometimes written as Llywelyn ap Gruffydd, also known as Llywelyn the Last, or, in Welsh, Llywelyn Ein Llyw Olaf, was Prince of Wales from 1258 until his death at Cilmeri in 1282

Camp for up to a thousand soldiers, the main Roman fort in the north of Wales area. Remains of an auxiliary Roman fort, probably established in the late 70s AD and modified through to the late fourth century.

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.

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.

Aberlleiniog castle

'Men of Harlech.' The nation’s unofficial anthem, loved by rugby fans and regimental bands alike, is said to describe the siege which took place here during the War of the Roses, wherein a handful of men held out against a besieging army of thousands. Edward’s tried and tested ‘walls within walls’ model was put together in super-fast time between 1283 and 1295 by an army of nearly a thousand skilled craftsmen and labourers.

Criccieth Castle

Notable for being the only purpose-built fortress of the American Revolution on this side of the Atlantic Ocean. This location is sure to astound and fascinate our guests, apart from the history and the fort itself, the scenery is fantastic.

The Holyhead Mountain Hut Group is located along a southwest to the northeast level terrace of land towards the south-western end of the mountain.  Although it is unclear how old the settlement is, with suggestions ranging from the Neolithic to the Dark Ages, it seems probable that much of it is of an Iron Age date but as the structures have been built at different periods it is possible that the local inhabitants were using the area for homesteads and farming over a much longer time span with only a handful of the buildings being in use at any one time.

The Roman Fort at Holyhead

The Roman Fort at Holyhead, known in the Welsh language as Caer Gybi, was one of a chain of installations designed to counter acts of piracy and raiding from Ireland. It is possible it operated in conjunction with the nearby fort of Segontium. Its original Latin name is unknown but it was probably constructed in the late third century and was effectively a fortified landing place. Stone ramparts enclosed three sides of the fort with the North and South Walls extending down to the waterfront where the warships of Classis Britannica would have been beached.

Impressive Neolithic chambered tomb, with partially restored entrance passage and mound, on the site of a former henge monument. Bryn Celli Ddu – the Mound in the Dark Grove – is probably the best-known prehistoric monument on Anglesey, and is one of the most evocative archaeological sites in Britain. Like other prehistoric tombs on Anglesey, it was constructed to protect and pay respect to the remains of the ancestors.

Tour information

Start your journey. get in touch ↓, our clients love this tour.

Ready to start planning your perfect tour of Wales?

Let's get started.

Fill in the form and we will be in touch.

Our tour booking co-ordinator is ready to assist you in creating your perfect custom built tour of beautiful Wales.

The booking process

Once you’ve sent us your message, this is the process:

Home » Travel Guides » United Kingdom » Wales » 15 Best Castles in Wales

15 Best Castles in Wales

As the second smallest country in the United Kingdom (Northern Ireland is the smallest), Wales packs a punch despite its compact size. Castles form a significant part of Welsh history as well as landscape. There are well over 400 castles in Wales making it the country with most castles per square mile than any other country in the world.

Interestingly, most castles in Wales aren’t Welsh, as some would think but rather English as they were built with the purpose to not only overlook and protect the lands but also keep the Welsh subjugated.

Wales fell into England’s hands after Dafydd, the last Prince of Wales, was executed in 1283. Edward I of England had total control over Wales afterward and to ensure that people of Wales would be faithful to the English rule, he commanded the building of castles, many of them enormous stone structures so typical of Medieval architecture.

1. Raglan Castle

Raglan Castle located in south-east Wales is a late Medieval castle that dates back to 1430, when the construction began. The building of the castle was commissioned by Sir William ap Thomas, the Blue Knight of Gwent.

In the late 16th century the castle underwent noteworthy construction works, when additions like a new hammer-beam roof were built.

The sandstone castle wasn’t built for defensive purposes and its main goal was to portray and showcase powerful influence and wealth.

One of the main visual features of the castle are the polygonal structures, which make this castle rather unique in the overall Welsh castle landscape. Majority of other castles consist of a square or round structures rather than the six-sided gatehouse and towers featured in Raglan Castle. The castle also features a moat around the Yellow Tower of Gwent.

2. Caernarfon Castle

Located in the North west of Wales, Caernarfon Castle is a medieval fortress built in the late 13th century to replace an earlier motte-and-bailey castle that stood there from the 11th century. It is also one of the most widely-recognised Welsh castles.

The grand and mammoth appearance of the castle is directly linked to the fact that the town of Caernarfon served as the administrative center of North Wales during the reign of King Edward I of England.

Caernarfon Castle was besieged several times and after Tudors came to power and the relationship between England and Wales became more steady, many of Welsh castles lost their importance and Caernarfon Castle was one of the castles that slowly started falling into despair. It was neglected until the 19th century, when repair work finally began.

The castle features several polygonal towers, battlements, two entrances – one from the town and the other allowing entrance without having to go through the town. Unfortunately, the castle was never finished the way it was intended.

3. Conwy Castle

Another Welsh castle dating back to the time of King Edward I of England is the Conwy Castle which lies on the northern shores of Wales. The castle dates back to the late 13th century and it played an important role in forming the town of Conwy. The castle was also amid several wars undergoing sieges.

The castle is an impressive example of Welsh medieval defensive architecture – its defensive wall with massive round towers is instantly recognisable. Not only is the castle a UNESCO World Heritage Site, but it has also been classified by the organisation as one of the finest military architecture examples of that time period in Europe.

The castle’s rectangular plan includes inner and outer wards and altogether eight towers. The inner ward included all the master chambers while the outer ward was dedicated to kitchens, stables, prison, and garrison.

4. Cardiff Castle

Located in the capital of Wales, Cardiff Castle was originally built in the 11th century as a motte and bailey castle atop an older Roman fort dating back to the 3rd century. A century later, the castle was slowly rebuilt into a stone structure with the additions of a shell keep and defensive walls. Over the next centuries, the castle underwent gradual changes, additions, and redesigns.

Just as other castles during the English Civil War, Cardiff Castle was also affected by it – first being taken by Parliamentary forces and then reclaimed by Royalist supporters.

In the mid-18th century the castle was transformed into a Georgian mansion and later redesigned in Gothic revival style. Since the renovations were done under the watchful eye of William Burges, the interiors were considered greatly accurate and exceptional examples of gothic revival. The lush interiors included beautiful murals, stained glass elements, delicate wood carvings, and marble.

During the Second World War the castle was turned into an air raid shelter.

5. Pembroke Castle

Pembroke Castle is famously known as the birthplace of Henry VII and recently the castle came into attention again as archeologists found even more precise information about the first Tudor king’s birthplace.

The original castle was built at the very end of the 11th century and was rebuilt in stone a century later thus making it one of the most impressive examples of Norman stone castles in the country.

Pembroke Castle is built above Wogan’s Cavern or Wogan Cave. The cave is known to have been used by humans as far back as the Paleolithic and Mesolithic periods. In the 13th century the cave became a part of Pembroke Castle’s defences.

Oliver Cromwell’s forces attacked the castle in 1648 during the English Civil War and Cromwell was personally present during the taking of the castle after a 7-week siege.

6. Chirk Castle

Many of the impressive Welsh castles were built during the reign of Edward I and Chirk Castle is no exception. Completed in 1310, the castle held a strategic position overlooking the entry point to the Ceiriog Valley. Since it is located on the Welsh and English borders in the North of the country, it always had an important role in keeping the Welsh under English rule. Chirk Castle is the only castle from Edward I’s time that is still inhabited to this day.

Originally built as a military fortress, castle’s signature round drum towers were perfectly suited for archers who needed to be able to overlook and defend a wide area. The towers’ walls are 5 meters thick which made them impregnable.

Today the visitors can not only admire the impressive castle but also 5 acres of pristine gardens with awe-inspiring roses and manicured lawns.

7. Caerphilly Castle

Caerphilly Castle in South Wales, not far from the Welsh capital Cardiff, was built as a defensive castle against Llywelyn ap Gruffydd, who was the last prince of a united Wales before Edward I’s reign took over the country. The castle site measures approximately 30 acres making it the second largest in Britain.

The castle was built in the mid-to-late 13th century and to this day it is surrounded by an impressive fully-flooded moat. Caerphilly Castle featured a rather unique design for its time and it introduced concentric castle design to the rest of Britain’s castles.

The castle stood proudly for a couple of centuries and by the mid-16th century it was already described in writing as being in the state of ruin. Notably, the castle’s south-eastern tower is leaning by 10 degrees off its vertical axis.

8. Powis Castle

Rather unique among the medieval castles in Wales, Powis Castle stands out not only due to its red stone exterior but also as one of the few castles that have survived the test of time, never really falling into despair. The castle was built in the early 13th century and over time has undergone several improvements and alterations.

In the 17th century the impressive state bedroom was added to the castle as well as the terraced gardens that make this property so unique. While originally intended as a defensive castle, it quickly became what it is today – a beautiful royal manor with a splendid art collection, exquisite interiors, and artefacts from India.

The breathtaking Baroque gardens at Powis Castle are one of the finest in the whole of the United Kingdom displaying unique landscaping and centuries-old yew trees.

9. Roch Castle

Who wouldn’t love to stay in a 12th-century Norman castle and imagine what life was like in the medieval times? Roch Castle offers exactly that but in a modern upscale way since nowadays it has been turned into a luxury hotel with six rooms. The castle has a unique and dramatic appearance, extending and rising from a rock formation.

Originally Roch Castle served a defensive purpose protecting Flemish settlers from the independent Welsh in the North that were a threat to the anglicised part of the country.

The castle was a royalist stronghold during the English Civil War but was abandoned soon after thus leaving it forgotten and degrading until the 1900s, when it was rebuilt and brought back to its former glory.

10. Beaumaris Castle

The North Wales castle of Beaumaris is another remarkable example of the castles that were built during Edward I’s reign. The castle located on the Island of Anglesey was never finished due to lack of money and resources, yet its impressive exterior has stood through times as a majestic reminder of medieval architecture.

Beaumaris Castle has perfectly symmetric concentric walls and noteworthy round drum towers. Despite being a medieval stronghold with an impregnable appearance, the castle doesn’t have the typical menacing look that is so distinctive in quite a few other castles of the time. The castle sits harmoniously in the surrounding landscape and its architectonic precision cannot be overlooked.

11. Harlech Castle

Located in the north-west of the country, Harlech Castle is set amidst awe-inspiring landscape to which the concentric castle only contributes. The sandstone castle is yet another of King Edward I’s castles in Wales whose purpose was to establish the English rule. Funnily enough, in the 15th century a Welsh leader took over the castle for a brief moment until it was reclaimed by the English forces.

The castle was built in a way that took advantage of the natural landscape – making use of the sheer cliff as a natural barrier against attacks. On the other side dry moats were cut into the rock to add a defensive element.

The castle was besieged during the Wars of Roses in the 15th century and the damage caused during that time was never repaired. Two centuries later during the English Civil War the remaining parts of the castle were used for military purposes and after another siege, when the castle had served its purpose, the Parliamentary forces ordered the destruction of the castle, but these orders weren’t carried through fully and luckily parts of the castle have survived to modern times.

12. Castell Coch

While the majority of Welsh castles have a slightly daunting appearance due to their fortress origins, Castell Coch stands out with its fairytale-like appearance. The cylindrical turrets seen on Castell Coch are rather unusual not only for Welsh castles but for medieval castles in Britain altogether; it’s a sight you are more likely to see in mainland Europe.

The reason for this, however, is that the castle was built in Gothic revival style only in the 1870s during the Victorian times. It is known, however, that there was a previous Norman castle on the site dating back to the 11th century.

John Crichton-Stuart, the 3rd Marquess of Bute, hired the renowned architect William Burges to reconstruct a castle based on the medieval remains. The interiors feature High Victorian elements and have been celebrated by historians and architects as triumphs in Victorian composition.

13. Bodelwyddan Castle

Bodelwyddan Castle in North Wales dates back to the 15th century. This castle, unlike many others in Wales, was never meant to serve a defensive purpose as it was built as a manor house for the Humphreys family of Anglesey. The castle that we see today was actually constructed during the 1830s when the previous manor house was extended.

Today the castle has been turned into a luxury hotel. During World War I the castle housed a hospital wing and in the 1980s it was home to a college.

14. Rhuddlan Castle

Rhuddlan Castle was built shortly after the First Welsh War and it was one of the many castles commissioned by King Edward I of England. The building of the castle took over ten years and it was completed in 1282.

The castle was planned as a concentric castle. It features a twin tower gatehouse and the outer ward is enclosed by a curtain wall. Currently the castle is in a state of legible ruin.

15. Penrhyn Castle

Upon first look, Penrhyn Castle looks like it could easily belong to an English landscape and it looks rather different than most Welsh castles the majority of which were fortresses or strongholds. Penrhyn Castle on the other hand was built as a medieval fortified manor house.

The original stone castle and tower house that stood on the property was built in the 15th century. It was reconstructed in the late 18th century but the current building dates back to the 19th century. The latter reconstruction completely transformed the building. Some features from the original building were incorporated in the last design and these include a vaulted basement and a spiral staircase.

15 Best Castles in Wales:

• Raglan Castle
• Caernarfon Castle
• Conwy Castle
• Cardiff Castle
• Pembroke Castle
• Chirk Castle
• Caerphilly Castle
• Powis Castle
• Roch Castle
• Beaumaris Castle
• Harlech Castle
• Castell Coch
• Bodelwyddan Castle
• Rhuddlan Castle
• Penrhyn Castle

• Entertainment
• Celebrities
• Ticket Sales

trending now in Entertainment

'Jeopardy!' champ Drew Basile forced to reshoot 'showboating'...

Legendary actor fights 'coward' who allegedly hurled water...

Prince William zipping around Windsor Castle on an electric...

Meghan Markle 'genuinely feels hurt' over royal family rift,...

Ken Jennings' 'Jeopardy!' ruling blasted by fans

Prince Harry will release second memoir after King Charles'...

Stewart claps back at 'harsh judgment' over her newly decorated...

Prince Harry needs to do 'honorable thing' and turn down Pat...

Breaking news, prince william zipping around windsor castle on an electric scooter is a sight to see.

• View Author Archive
• Get author RSS feed

Thanks for contacting us. We've received your submission.

Silly Willy.

A video of Prince William zooming into Windsor Castle on an electric scooter is going viral — and it’s a sight to see.

It’s unclear when the footage was taken, but the clip was shared to TikTok on Thursday.

Dressed in a blue sweater and white collared shirt, the future king can be seen zipping around the estate past a security guard. The Duke of Cambridge, 42, also rocks a pair of black sunglasses.

The scooter can be of help to shorten the 10-minute trip between the castle and Adelaide Cottage, where he lives with Kate Middleton and their three children, Prince George, 10, Princess Charlotte, 9, and Prince Louis, 6.

Prince William reportedly invested in the device last year. According to the Sun , the scooter could cost up to $6,000.

“It just makes sense. He whizzes up to the castle when he needs to see the King,” a source told the outlet.

“It’s a two- or three-mile round trip from his family home at ­Adelaide Cottage to Windsor Castle so it’s easier by scooter than car or walking.”

The 655-acre residence also includes a golf course, ­­and Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s former home — Frog­more House.

Prince William is also a fan of motorcycles. In 2015, Middleton was reportedly asked about her husband’s then-hobby during a visit to Dundee.

“He’s still riding it. It always fills me with horror when he goes out on it. I’m terrified,” she reportedly said, via Vanity Fair . “Hopefully, I’m going to keep George off it.”

The Prince of Wales also recently made headlines when he attended Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour with Charlotte and George on his 42nd birthday — and showed off his dancing moves. Middleton, 42, and Louis stayed home, although the Princess of Wales did attend the Trooping the Colour festivities on June 15 amid her cancer battle.

“Thank you @taylorswift for a great evening! #LondonTSTheErastour,” the Prince and Princess of Wales’ official Instagram account captioned a photo of Swift taking a selfie with the royal, George and Charlotte.

Swift shared her own photo, which included boyfriend Travis Kelce. She wrote: “Happy Bday M8! London shows are off to a splendid start.”

Advertisement

• Updated Terms of Use
• New Privacy Policy
• Your Privacy Choices
• Closed Caption Policy
• Accessibility Statement

This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. ©2024 FOX News Network, LLC. All rights reserved. Quotes displayed in real-time or delayed by at least 15 minutes. Market data provided by Factset . Powered and implemented by FactSet Digital Solutions . Legal Statement . Mutual Fund and ETF data provided by Refinitiv Lipper .

Prince William lets loose, cruising around Windsor Castle in unconventional way

The prince of wales visited windsor castle as kate middleton battles cancer.

Prince William spotted dancing while at the 'Eras Tour' in London

The Prince of Wales was seen dancing to Taylor Swift's hit song "Shake it Off" while attending a concert for her Eras Tour with Prince George and Princess Charlotte in London. (Credit: Katie Kenward via Storyful)

Prince William is letting loose and taking full advantage of his casual means of transportation. 

In a viral video posted to TikTok on Thursday, the Prince of Wales was spotted riding a two-wheel electric scooter around the Windsor Castle grounds. The future king wore a blue sweater, black pants and sunglasses as he cruised around. 

PRINCE WILLIAM LAUNCHES PRESTIGIOUS ENVIRONMENTAL PRIZE TO PROTECT THE PLANET IN THE NEXT DECADE

Prince William was spotted cruising around on an electric scooter on July 4.  (Getty Images)

Last year, The Sun reported that Prince William purchased a 10-mph scooter as an alternate way to travel from his family's home to Windsor Castle. 

A source told the outlet , " It just makes sense. He whizzes up to the castle when he needs to see the King. It’s a two or three-mile round trip from his family home at ­Adelaide Cottage to Windsor Castle, so it’s easier by scooter than car or walking."

LIKE WHAT YOU’RE READING? CLICK HERE FOR MORE ENTERTAINMENT NEWS

For years, Prince William has been a strong advocate for environmental initiatives.  

The Prince of Wales has been a longtime advocate for environmental issues.  (Getty Images)

In 2020, he launched The Earthshot Prize, an "ambitious set of challenges" aimed at helping to preserve the Earth in the next 10 years.

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR THE ENTERTAINMENT NEWSLETTER

"The Earth is at a tipping point," Prince William states on the Earthshot Prize's website . "We face a stark choice: either we continue as we are and irreparably damage our planet, or we remember our unique power as humans and our continual ability to lead, innovate and problem-solve."

"People can achieve great things. The next ten years present us with one of our greatest tests – a decade of action to repair the Earth."

CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP

Prince William launched the Earthshot Prize in 2020.  (WireImage)

Last year, Prince William praised Americans for two traits as he visited New York for an environmental summit. 

"No one does optimism and ingenuity like the American people, so it’s only right we unveil this year's Earthshot finalists in New York City," Prince William said. "Eighty years ago, the world came together in this great city to find a new way, through the U.N., to solve our shared challenges."

"I know our generation can take the bold action we need to make changes towards a healthy and sustainable world. The challenge may feel huge, but as John F. Kennedy taught us, we rise to the challenge not because it is easy, but because it is hard. And vital," he added.

Prince William and Kate Middleton joined the rest of the royals at the 2024 Trooping the Colour ceremony. (Photo by Chris Jackson/Getty Images)

The Prince and Princess of Wales recently joined the royal family at Trooping the Colour last month to put on a united front as Kate Middleton and King Charles III both battle cancer. 

The festivities marked Kate’s first public appearance since announcing her cancer diagnosis in March. It’s also the 42-year-old's first official outing since Christmas.

This year also marked the king’s second Trooping the Colour as monarch following the death of his mother, Queen Elizabeth II, in 2022. 

Christina Dugan Ramirez is an entertainment writer for Fox News Digital. 

'Machete' actor Danny Trejo in nasty July 4th brawl after being hit by water balloon

Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs white water rafting amid mounting legal troubles is a ‘bad look': legal expert

Kevin Bacon used prosthetics to experience life as a normal person: 'This sucks'

Sean 'Diddy' Combs goes white water rafting amid legal struggles

Who's making headlines in television, music, movies and more from Hollywood to the Heartland.

You've successfully subscribed to this newsletter!

Prince William Praised by Fans for Gliding Through Windsor Castle on a Scooter: Watch

T he Prince of Wales was seen in a new social media clip riding his scooter through the castle, and fans think he’s so real for it.

Prince William opted to glide rather than run through Windsor Castle. As seen in a new, viral social media clip, the 42-year-old royal swiftly sped through the castle grounds on a scooter, wearing sunglasses, a blue sweater and black pants for the day.

“Happy 4th of July from Prince William on a scooter,” a TikTok user wrote across their clip of William on Thursday, July 4. Although the U.K. certainly doesn’t celebrate America’s Independence Day, online users thought the relatable video of him was hilarious.

“Didn’t know he was chill like that,” one person commented under the post. “Pulling up to Windsor Castle on a scooter is the funniest thing,” another chimed in. “Why is this so funny. William is hilarious,” a third commented.

Other fans got creative with their comments, as one even threw in a Taylor Swift reference by writing, “London Boy (Prince William’s Version).” The fan was referring to Taylor’s single “London Boy,” which is widely rumored to be about her former boyfriend Joe Alwyn , a U.K. native.

Several more praised William for being a real one and pointed out that he will be Britain’s king some day.

“Love this man so much. He is the coolest future king ever,” one TikTok user wrote.

Although the video has gone viral, this wasn’t William’s first time cruising through the castle grounds. Last year, it was reported that the Prince of Wales purchased the electric scooter in order to speed around the castle. As a former motorbike owner, the scooter allows William to visit his father, King Charles III .

A source previously told The Sun , “It’s a two or three-mile round trip from [William’s] family home at ­Adelaide Cottage to Windsor Castle, so it’s easier by scooter than car or walking.”

William lives at Adelaide Cottage with his wife, Princess Kate , and their three children: Prince George , Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis .

The royal family has been managing a difficult time over the past few months, as Kate, 42, revealed in March that she was diagnosed with an undisclosed form of cancer. Since she and William are dedicated parents, the dad of three has made sure to bring their kids out for some fun. Last month, William brought Charlotte, 9, and George, 10, to one of Taylor’s Eras Tour concerts in the U.K.

Find anything you save across the site in your account

8 House of the Dragon Filming Locations You’ll Want to Visit

The breathtaking House of the Dragon filming locations present something of a cinematic passport. The Game of Thrones prequel, adapted from George R.R. Martin’s 2018 novel Fire & Blood, may take place in a different world entirely, but for its production the cast and crew travel to real centuries-old cities across Europe. Now in its second season, the show chronicles the family drama, political climate, and war around the House Targaryen of Dragonstone 172 years prior to the birth of Queen Daenerys Targaryen.

Milly Alcock as Princess Rhaenyra Targaryen and Matt Smith as Prince Daemon Targaryen in House of the Dragon

So far, crews have hit four different European countries—England and Spain for both seasons, Portugal for the first, and Wales for the second. While the art department might add the Westeros spin to these spots, the show offers glimpses of real-world places that are stuck in time.

So come along with Architectural Digest as we take you on a tour to explore some of the destinations featured in House of the Dragon , which airs Sundays at 9 p.m. ET on HBO and Max.

Castleton, Derbyshire, England

Cave Dale in Castleton.

Castleton is a village in high-peaked Derbyshire, home to one of the oldest lead mines, and it became The Vale of Arryn in the show’s first season. ( Game of Thrones fans may remember this as the home of House Arryn and the Eyrie, a castle where enemies can be pushed to their death through a moon door.) The area first settled by Celtic people is known for its classic English hamlets and its central national park that’s home to Cave Dale, a limestone valley.

St. Michael’s Mount in Mount’s Bay, Cornwall, England

St. Michaels Mount.

The rocky tidal island of St. Michael’s Mount features a medieval church from the 12th century and an intimate living community that is linked to the island of Marazion by a causeway that tourists can reach by foot when the tide is low. The island’s main castle serves as House of the Dragon ’s fictional Driftmark (home of House Velaryon) in Blackwater Bay, the large body of water at the edge of Kings Landing. Driftmark was previously featured in Game of Thrones during the Battle of the Blackwater.

St. Michael’s Mount’s neighboring Kynance Cove is located on the east side of Mount’s Bay and is known for its beaches, blue water, white sands, and many caves. Kynance Cove’s beach is used in House of the Dragon for a Velaryon camp.

Various English beaches

Hartland Quay.

The seaside Hill at the Hartland Quay in Devon; Holywell Bay’s golden sand beaches; and nearby St. Cuthbert’s Well, a cave etched into a cliff that was formed out of ocean waves, additionally gave the first season of House of the Dragon its aquatic scenes.

Monsanto, Portugal

Monsanto, Portugal.

This remote and historical hill town in central Portugal —its name means “Holy Mountain”—is the doppelgänger for Dragonstone, the ancestral home for House Targaryen, in House of the Dragon ’s first season. Its landscape features hilltop prehistoric rock formations, a medieval clock tower, lush green landscape, and granite cottages that sit between giant boulders. Its streets are carved out of tiny cobbled rocks and climb up a very steep hill, also known as Mons Sanctus. One of 12 historical villages in Portugal, Monsanto sits close to the Spanish border and was first carved over 500 years ago. In 1938, the village was voted most Portuguese town in Portugal and currently maintains building restrictions to preserve its classical aesthetic. It is blanketed with burnt red- and orange-colored roofs atop houses carved directly into the rock formations.

La Calahorra, Granada, Spain

Castillo de La Calahorra.

The municipality La Calahorra in eastern Granada is reimagined as Pentos, one of the cities adjacent to the seas of Westeros, the fictional continent at the center of the Game of Thrones world. One of its staple landmarks, Castillo de La Calahorra, is a medieval castle that’s situated on the area’s only hill at the foot of the Sierra Nevada mountain range. Acting as the seat of House Targaryen on House of the Dragon, the castle’s exterior defies the conventions of Gothic architecture, making it one the first Renaissance-inspired structures built in Spain between 1509-1512. Its gorgeous split-level interior includes marble, four corner towers, and a central courtyard.

Cáceres, Extremadura, Spain

An aerial view of Plasencia, Cáceres, Extremadura, Spain.

Located in Western Spain, the province of Cáceres is a total time capsule. Centuries-old buildings appear much as they did hundreds and hundreds of years ago, showcasing a range of architectural styles which include Roman, Moorish, and Gothic influences. King’s Landing scenes have been filmed in a few different cities in the province, including the walled city of Plasencia for the first season, Trujillo for the second season, and the capital city of Cáceres for both.

The Old Town of Cáceres, a walled section of the capital, was founded in 25 BC by the Romans. Its untouched medieval cobblestone streets give the city a particularly transportive quality, begging visitors to imagine life hundreds and hundreds of years ago. In honor of its rich history that includes Roman, Moorish, and Christian occupation and architectural styles, it was named a World Heritage City by UNESCO in 1986.

While Dubrovnik, Croatia was used in prior seasons, Cáceres was used for King’s Landing in the last two seasons of Game of Thrones and for both seasons of House of the Dragon . The city even hosts an annual festival for Game of Thrones and House of the Dragon fans to experience the city alongside other obsessives.

Bourne Wood in Farnham, England

Boure Wood in Farnham, England

Bourne Wood might look like any other forest setting to some, but eagle-eyed action and fantasy fans are likely to recognize the area. Countless movies have been shot in the conifer-filled forest, including the Gladiator opening sequence, three Harry Potter films, and Avengers: Age of Ultron .

A scene from the movie Gladiator being filmed at Bourne Wood

One of House of the Dragon season two’s massive battle scenes was filmed in Bourne Wood. The forest’s large clearings make it ideal for large fight scenes and huge film crews, and the lack of added modern structures or power lines make the area feel timeless. As documented by London Cult , the forest was furnished with a tent camp, and fake snow was added to certain sections.

The location is particularly convenient for productions based out of the Warner Bros. Leavesden studio, as House of the Dragon is, since the forest is only an hour away by car. Unlike many of the other House of the Dragon locations, Bourne Wood was never used in the making of Game of Thrones .

North Wales, United Kingdom

A view of Llyn Peris below Dinorwig quarry in Gwynedd County, Wales

North Wales might not be the most popular tourist destination for North Americans, but the area’s dramatic landscapes definitely deserve the Hollywood treatment. Its collection of remarkably aged castles are second only to the unmitigated beauty of the coastal cliffs, valleys, and sprawling grasslands.

This natural splendor was employed for the second season of House of the Dragon , which used the North Wales landscape for scenes in the Vale, the Riverlands, and Dragonstone. Old quarries were reimagined for exterior shots of the Dragonstone and Harrenhal castles.

Though specifics have not been confirmed by the production, some viewers have speculated that the Trefor granite quarry and Dinorwic quarry, both in Gwynedd county, are the particular quarries used. Fans also claim that the cast and crew were spotted filming the second season on a few beaches on the Wales island of Anglesey, including Llanddwyn Beach, Beaumaris Beach, and Penmon Point.

More Great Stories From AD

The Story Behind the Many Ghost Towns of Abandoned Mansions Across China

Inside Sofía Vergara’s Personal LA Paradise

Inside Emily Blunt and John Krasinski’s Homes Through the Years

Take an Exclusive First Look at Shea McGee’s Remodel of Her Own Home

Notorious Mobsters at Home: 13 Photos of Domestic Mob Life

Shop Amy Astley’s Picks of the Season

Modular Homes: Everything You Need to Know About Going Prefab

Shop Best of Living—Must-Have Picks for the Living Room

Beautiful Pantry Inspiration We’re Bookmarking From AD PRO Directory Designers

Not a subscriber? Join AD for print and digital access now.

Browse the  AD PRO Directory to find an  AD -approved design expert for your next project.