Criccieth Castle
Criccieth Castle: A Clifftop Fortress with a View
Criccieth Castle isn’t just a ruin, it’s a striking fusion of Welsh pride and English power, perched high above Cardigan Bay. With its twin-towered gatehouse and panoramic sea views, this dramatic stronghold tells a story of battles, conquests, and shifting control between princes and kings.
Snowdonia’s Coastal Stronghold
Set on a rocky promontory where land meets sea, Criccieth Castle was originally built by Llywelyn the Great around 1230 to guard Gwynedd’s southern frontier. Its commanding position gave it views inland and out to sea, making it a strategic gem. After Edward I’s conquest of Wales, the castle was captured and refortified with classic Norman features like the iconic gatehouse.
Criccieth’s layered architecture, part Welsh, part English, makes it one of the few castles in North Wales to bear marks of both cultures. Though it was attacked and burned during Owain Glyndŵr’s rebellion in 1404, the ruins still retain their medieval strength and coastal grandeur.
© Brad Carr
Walks & Hikes Around Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon)
Snowdon offers a range of paths to the summit, each with its own character and level of difficulty. Here are some of the most popular routes to experience this legendary peak:
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Llanberis Path
- 9 mi
- 4 hrs 30 m
The most popular route, the Llanberis Path offers a gradual climb from the village, ideal for beginners up for a full-day hike.
Pyg Track
- 7 mi
- 4 hrs 30 m
The Pyg Track starts at Pen-y-Pass and offers a shorter, steeper climb with dramatic views, great for a rugged hike.
Miners' Track
- 8 mi
- 5 hrs 30 m
The Miners’ Track starts gently by the lakes before climbing steeply to the summit, which is ideal if you want an easier start.
Crib Goch
- 7 mi
- 6 hrs 30 m
Crib Goch is an exposed, knife-edge ridge for confident scramblers, thrilling, technical, and not for the faint-hearted.
Snowdon Ranger Path
- 8 mi
- 5 hrs 30 m
The Snowdon Ranger Path offers a quieter, steady climb with scenic views, once a favourite of Victorian visitors.
What to Know Before You Go
- Managed by Cadw – entry fees apply
- Open year-round (hours vary seasonally)
- Paths are steep in places—wear sturdy footwear
- Bring layers and a waterproof, as the headland is exposed to sea breezes
- Great spot for photographers—sunsets and storms both make for epic shots
Why We Love Criccieth Castle
Few castles combine sea air and medieval grit like Criccieth. With views that stretch for miles and walls that whisper stories of princes, rebellion, and power shifts, it’s a place to slow down, take in the scenery, and connect with the past. Whether you’re exploring with family, chasing coastal photography, or castle-hopping across Snowdonia, this one should be on your list.
How to Get to Criccieth Castle
Criccieth lies on the southern edge of the Llŷn Peninsula, easily reached via the A497. The castle is visible from much of the town and sits above the beach. There are multiple car parks nearby, and the train station is just a short walk from the site, perfect for those exploring by rail.
A Bit of Criccieth Castle History
Criccieth Castle was a frontier fortress for the princes of Gwynedd, likely commissioned by Llywelyn the Great in the early 13th century. Following Edward I’s campaigns in Wales, the castle was captured and upgraded in the 1280s to match his English military style. It remained under English control until Owain Glyndŵr’s Welsh forces captured and burned it in 1404. After that, it was never rebuilt, leaving it as the romantic ruin seen today.
Keep exploring
Criccieth Castle is one of many fascinating ruins across Snowdonia. Want to discover more towers, battlements, and legendary sites? Dive deeper into the region’s rich heritage and keep exploring!