Medieval Wales: Harlech Castle. History, Facilities and Opening Hours.

Harlech, Gwynedd, Wales
(52.86°N 4.10916°W)

1282 to 1289 AD
Open to Public

Harlech Castle is a Grade I-listed medieval fortification constructed atop a spur of rock by Edward I during his invasion of Wales between 1282 and 1289. Harlech was completed from ground to battlements in just seven years under the guidance of gifted architect Master James of St George.

The castle played an important part in several wars in the following decades, withstanding the siege of Madog ap Llywelyn in 1294–95, but falling to Owain Glyndŵr in 1404. During the Wars of the Roses, Harlech was held by the Lancastrians for seven years.

The castle is built of local stone and has a concentric design featuring a massive gatehouse. A water-gate and long flight of steps leads down to the former shore, which allowed the castle to be resupplied by sea during sieges.

Harlech Castle is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of “the finest examples of late 13th century and early 14th century military architecture in Europe”.

Visit Harlech Castle

Facilities

Dog Friendly
Giftshop
Exhibitions
Accessible Restrooms
Carpark (paid)
Sloped access
Bike Access
Plan of Harlech Castle
Plan of Harlech Castle. Source: Wikimedia Commons.
Harlech Castle c. 1841, Bartlett, W. H, (William Henry), 1809-1854.
Harlech Castle c. 1841, Bartlett, W. H, (William Henry), 1809-1854. Source: Wikimedia Commons.

Hours

1 March – 30 June: 9.30am – 5pm daily.
 
1 July – 31 August: 9.30am – 6pm daily.
 
1 September – 9.30am – 5pm daily.
 

1 November – 28 February:

10am – 4pm Monday – Saturday.
11am – 4pm Sunday.

Closed 24, 25, 26 December and 1 January.

Address

Harlech LL46 2YH

Phone

03457 48 49 50

Prices

CADW Member – Join now
Free
Adult£7.30
Family£21.20
Disabled and companion
Free
Juniors (Aged 5-17) / NUS / Armed Forces and Veterans
£4.40
Seniors (Aged 65+)
£5.80

Location

Harlech Castle Gifts

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