Caernarfon Castle

Heritage Site in Caernarfonshire

Wales

Caernarfon Castle

Ffordd osgoi Caernarfon a Bontnewydd / Caernarfon and Bontnewydd bypass Credit: Ceri Thomas

Caernarfon Castle, located in the historic county of Caernarfonshire, Wales, is a magnificent medieval fortress and a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built by King Edward I of England in the late 13th century, the castle is a prime example of military architecture and played a significant role in the English conquest of Wales.

Situated strategically on the banks of the River Seiont, Caernarfon Castle was constructed as a stronghold to assert English dominance over the Welsh population and to serve as a royal palace. The castle's design is characterized by its polygonal shape, massive curtain walls, and imposing towers, which were designed to withstand sieges and protect the inhabitants within.

The castle's most notable feature is its colossal King's Gate, a grand entrance flanked by two octagonal towers. Inside, visitors can explore the inner ward, which includes the Eagle Tower, the highest of its kind in Wales. The castle also boasts a well-preserved series of battlements and walkways, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside and the nearby Snowdonia National Park.

Caernarfon Castle has witnessed many significant events throughout its history. It was the site of the investiture of Prince Charles as the Prince of Wales in 1969, continuing the tradition of crowning the heir to the British throne at this prestigious location.

Today, Caernarfon Castle is open to the public and managed by Cadw, the Welsh heritage organization. It serves as a popular tourist attraction, drawing visitors from around the world who are captivated by its rich history, architectural grandeur, and breathtaking location.

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Caernarfon Castle Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 53.1394/-4.277 or Grid Reference SH4762. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Ffordd osgoi Caernarfon a Bontnewydd / Caernarfon and Bontnewydd bypass

Ceri Thomas

Y Maes, Caernarfon

View across Y Maes (Castle Square), Caernarfon.

David Robinson

Croeso i Gaernarfon - Welcome to Caernarfon

Access to part of the site of the Caernarfon/Dinas/Llanwnda by-pass. This huge project, started in 2019, is due to be completed by early 2022.

Eirian Evans

Arwyddion ar ffordd osgoi Bontnewydd / Signs on Bontnewydd by-pass

Taken during a charity walk before opening.

Ceri Thomas

Segontium Roman Fort Bathhouse

The bathhouse was excavated in 1977. This photograph was taken in 1980.

Sandy Gerrard

WHR train waiting near Ffordd Pant

A Welsh Highland railway train from Caernarvon waits at the level crossing off Ffordd Pant (Pant Road) to cross and continue on towards Bontnewydd and Dinas. The locomotive is ex South African Railways Garratt 2-6-2+2-6-2 Class NGG16 No. 87.

Bob Walters

Fron Goch garden centre - outside cafe area

A super, IMO, garden centre which caters for all ages.

Richard Hoare

Massey Ferguson tractor

Presumably used for the marine vessels close by.

Richard Hoare

Moored vessels beside the Wales Coast path

On Foryd Road. Some of these may not have moved in years. See SH4661 : Boats beside the Wales Coast Path

Richard Hoare

Caernarfon Castle

The large vessel is the historic motor yacht Britain a former lightship which is owned and operated by the Viscount Shipping Line. Edward I and his military architect Master James of St George erected a castle, town walls and a quay all at the same time. This gigantic building project eventually took 47 years and cost a staggering £25,000. (Source Cadw)

Richard Hoare

The Anglesey pub

A wonderful spot for a pint in summer.

Richard Hoare

The Celtic Royal Hotel

A very historic hotel. See Link

Richard Hoare

Buoy oh buoy

Along the West Coast path foreshore.

Richard Hoare

Caernarfon harbour

Richard Hoare

Caernarfon Castle and Pont Aber

Featuring the Eagle Tower in the centre of the image. Edward I and his military architect Master James of St George erected a castle, town walls and a quay all at the same time. This gigantic building project eventually took 47 years and cost a staggering £25,000. (Source Cadw)

Richard Hoare