Discover the beauty of Criccieth's ruined castle standing on a headland looking out towards Cardigan Bay. The castle was built early in the 13th century by the Welsh in the reign of Llewellyn the Great, its history is rich and varied, entwined in the medieval conflict between the nobility of Wales and the crown of England.
Initially the castle was the stronghold of Welsh princes, but later it was taken by the English King Edward I, who strengthened the castle by the addition of an inner enclosure, with its own strong gatehouse and tower.
In 1404 the castle was recaptured by the Welsh and burnt. Since then it has been left open to the mercy of the elements, but burn marks are still evident in parts of the walls.
In its spell-binding position the castle allows for extensive ocean views and has magical views towards Snowdonia. It is therefore unsurprising to learn that these romantic ruins have inspired many artists, most particularly J.M.W. Turner who used the castle as a backdrop for his famous painting of storm-wrecked mariners.
The castle is open to the public for most of the year.
in the county of Gwynedd
(4.3 miles, 6.9 km, direction E)..
in the county of Gwynedd
(14.6 miles, 23.5 km, direction N)This lovely old Welsh town occupies a stunningly beautiful setting within the landscape of the Snowdonia National Park...
All towns in Gwynedd
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