Lady’s 7 Castles in Wales You Should Visit

There’s nothing like a good castle to get me excited about traveling. Which is perfect, because my great British road trip has put me in the way of a lot of them. And they happen to be in Wales. So today I want to share 7 castles in Wales with you that have won me over on my journey.

Castles in Wales

From north to south, this part of Britain is littered with fortresses. Some are old, some new, and some over-the-top. They’re all magical in their own way.

1. Denbigh Castle in Wales

As my boyfriend and I drive into Wales, the first castle we come across is the one in Denbigh. The ruins of the town’s hilltop defenses dominate the skyline.

As we climb up, over, and around Denbigh Castle, we’re awed by the history and the views over the surrounding town and Welsh countryside.

2. Penrhyn Castle in Wales

Next up is Penrhyn Castle. Built in the 19th century, it’s a Victorian fantasy on the coast. From towers and turrets to gardens and museums, this most beautiful of castles in Wales is packed with things to explore.

Penrhyn Castle is particularly beautiful in fall, when the vines that climb the towers turn bright red. It’s one of the best places to visit in the UK in autumn.

3. Caernarfon Castle in Wales

From Penrhyn we make our way to our next castle in Wales: Caernarfon Castle. This impressive fortress has layers of history, and is the site where future kings are crowed Prince of Wales.

There are plenty of towers to climb here, each with a sweeping view over the town and waterfront. It’s one of the most impressive castle ruins I’ve seen in the UK.

4. Powis Castle in Wales

Our road trip takes us to Powis Castle next. Sitting on a hill above extraordinary sculpted yew trees and colorful gardens, the castle is straight out of a fairy tale.

The interiors feature sumptuous decor from ages past, and the whole place has an enchanted feel. This is definitely one of the most beautiful castles in Wales.

5. Castell Coch in Wales

Down south, Castell Coch beckons. I’ve been here once before on a weekend trip to Wales, but didn’t have time to see the inside. I’m glad I do on this trip.

That’s because this Welsh castle is impressive from the outside, but the inside is what really awes.

Designed by architect William Burges for the 3rd Marquess of Bute, the 19th-century Gothic Revival interiors are nothing short of jaw-dropping.

6. Cardiff Castle in Wales

Just south of Castell Coch, Cardiff Castle sits in the middle of the Cardiff city center. Another William Burgess creation, it’s just as amazing as its northern neighbor.

With golden ceilings and bejeweled furnishings, the interiors are a testament to the 3rd Marquess of Bute’s wealth and status. It’s one of the most opulent castles I’ve ever seen.

7. Raglan Castle in Wales

Our last castle in Wales is Raglan Castle. We get our timing wrong and arrive after it closes, but we still enjoy the views of the exterior.

They’re impressive enough to make us want to return, which is good because after all the castles we’ve seen on our trip, we’re eager for an excuse to come back and see more.

Best Castles in Wales

I hope you’ve enjoyed reading my list of some of the best castles in Wales. These fortresses are worth a special trip, whether on a great British road trip or a quick weekend break in Wales. Happy travels!

How about you? What are your favorite castles in Wales?

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