Castles in Wales

Castles in Wales

I grew up spending a lot of time in North Wales since my grandparents had a cottage there and I took friends regularly during the year. I would recommend, going from America, take the train from London to either Liverpool, Manchester, or Chester and pick up a car there. Any of these towns would be a good starting point for you to drive around and explore. You can stay at one of the many bed and breakfast places, or a village pub. Nothing to choose from in the way of small hotels. Most of the names of the villages are impossible to say, but have a go anyway.

The village with the longest name - 58 letters - is on the Isle of Angelsey, North Wales

Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrowllllantysiliogogogoc. Visitors take a photo of the train station sign. My grandfather told me he would increase my pocket money the day I could say it. I don't remember that I ever was able to. Every one calls it "Llanfair P.G."

My favorite route is Snowdonia and the small villages all with slate roofs. You will see lofty views of beautiful Caernarfon Castle and the peaks of Mount Snowdon. This is approximately a 53 mile tour, so you can stop in a different village each day, and hike. Although most people speak Welsh, everyone also speaks English.

Caernarfon (you will also see this spelt Caernarvon ) - Gwynedd (name of county)

Dominated by its famous and beautiful castle where Prince Charles was invested Prince of Wales in 1969, this is a market town with many fascinating historic connections. The Roman Fort on Constantine Road is an awesome reminder that the Romans recognized the strategic importance of this part of North Wales twelve centuries before the coming of Edward 1st.

From Caernarfon follow signs Llanberis along the A4086 to Llanrug.

Llanrug – Gwynedd

Overlooking this quarryman’s village is a piece of architectural wonder – Bryn Bras Castle, built in 1830, a stately home with pools and gorgeous gardens.

Continue to Llanberis

Llanberis – Gwynedd

Home of the vast slate quarries and majestic mountains. Llanberis is generally regarded as the base from which it is easiest for walkers to reach the summit of Mount Snowdon, about 5 miles away. Less energetic visitors can take the train, and use the Snowdon Mountain Railway which runs from the village. Continue along A4086 and 1 mile from the summit, at the T-junction, turn left sign Betws-y-Coed . At Capel Curig turn left onto the A5 sign Bangor. Three miles down the road you will pass the entrance to Penrhyn Castle. Built in 1827 from the slate quarry profits. Continue onto Bangor.

Bangor, Gwynedd

Gateway to the great passes of the mountain region and the Isle of Angelsey. Worth a visit to the unique garden of bible mentioned flowers, located near the cathedral. Following signs Holyhead along A5 and in 1.3/4 mile roundabout, take 2nd exit (no sign so be careful) to cross Menai Suspension bridge. At far side of roundabout take 2nd main exit A545 signed Beaumaris to enter Menai Bridge town

Menai Bridge, Gwynedd

The little town grew up around the bridge, open in 1826. The Museum of Childhood is interesting.

Beaumaris, Gwynedd

Beaumaris Castle is the best example of military architecture in Britain. Return on A545 to go to Plas Newydd,

Near Llanfair PG stands the lovely house of Plas Newydd (means New Place in English) opened to the public in 1976. Worth going to, lovely gardens. Belonged to the Marquess of Angelsey.

It’s easy to get back to Carnarvon and you will have enjoyed your visit to my favorite part of North Wales.

If you want to explore more of Wales, another route is Llandudno and the Coast. Conway, Llanrwst, Denbigh, St.Asaph and Colway Bay. Another route I love is the Vale of Music. Start at the home of the International Eisteddfod in Llangollen. See Chirk, Erddig, Caergwrle, Ewloe Castle, Flint, Mold, Ruthin and Valle Crucis Abbey. Pay attention to the very unusual National flag. It's a dragon. I've had someone ring my doorbell to ask what country the flag was from.

Maureen Jones

All Horizons Travel

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