What are the Castles and Town Walls of King Edward in Gwynedd?

They are four 13th-century fortresses — Caernarfon, Conwy, Harlech, and Beaumaris — recognised by UNESCO for their outstanding medieval design and preservation.

Can you walk between the castles?

Yes. Sections of the Wales Coast Path connect Caernarfon, Conwy, and Harlech, with bus and train links making it easy to explore all four without a car.

Which castle has the best views?

Harlech Castle is the most dramatic, with panoramic views across Cardigan Bay and the mountains of Eryri.

Are the castles open year-round?

Most are open daily except major holidays, with extended hours in summer. Conwy and Caernarfon are open year-round, while Harlech and Beaumaris have seasonal hours.

What’s the best time for walking holidays around the castles?

Spring and autumn offer mild weather and fewer crowds — ideal for combining heritage visits with coastal or countryside walks.

Walking Holidays & Outdoor Adventures in the Castles and Town Walls of King Edward in Gwynedd UNESCO World Heritage Site

UNESCO Cultural World Heritage Site in North Wales
Wales’ Living Heritage by the Coast and Hills

Along the coast of North Wales, four mighty fortresses — Caernarfon, Conwy, Harlech, and Beaumaris — form one of Europe’s most complete medieval military landscapes. Together, they make up the Castles and Town Walls of King Edward in Gwynedd, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that marks 40 years of recognition in 2025.

These castles aren’t just relics of conquest — they’re living monuments to identity and endurance. Rising above harbours, rivers, and mountain backdrops, they anchor some of Wales’ most remarkable walking routes, from the Wales Coast Path and Llŷn Coastal Path to upland trails leading toward Eryri (Snowdonia) National Park.

Walking & Exploring

Caernarfon Castle – A symbol of power and pageantry overlooking the River Seiont and Menai Strait.
Conwy Castle & Town Walls – Perfectly preserved medieval fortress and walled town beside the estuary.
Harlech Castle – Dramatic clifftop fortress with sweeping views of Cardigan Bay and the Rhinogydd mountains.
Beaumaris Castle – The last and most symmetrical of Edward I’s castles, overlooking the Menai Strait on Anglesey.

Adventure Highlights

Wales Coast Path – Links Caernarfon, Conwy, and Harlech, combining coastal walking and castle views.
Llŷn Coastal Path – Trails from Caernarfon toward the Llŷn Peninsula National Landscape.
UNESCO Castle Trail – Explore all four fortresses via a self-guided route by car, train, or foot.
Eryri (Snowdonia) National Park – Visible from many castle sites, adding a mountain backdrop to the heritage journey.

Explore the Area

Caernarfon – Historic walled town and gateway to Eryri and the Llŷn Peninsula.
Conwy – Medieval harbour town on the estuary, rich in history and architecture.
Harlech – Coastal village framed by castle walls and mountain views.
Beaumaris (Anglesey) – Peaceful seaside town with walks along the Menai Strait.