Located on the Llyn Peninsula, the quaint town of Criccieth is unique in that ancient castle ruins dramatically overlook the town and its coastline.
I recently spent some time exploring the castles of North Wales and Criccieth was one of my stops. In this guide, I’ll share some tips and photos from my visit along with essential information you need to help plan your own trip.
A Brief Background of Criccieth Castle
Criccieth Castle, which stands prominently on a rocky headland between two beaches, is a captivating medieval stronghold with a rich history. The castle's strategic location offers breathtaking panoramic views of Cardigan Bay, making it a favourite subject of artists like J.M.W. Turner.
Originally constructed by the Welsh prince Llywelyn the Great, it underwent significant modifications after being captured by English forces led by Edward I.
Despite being partially destroyed by Owain Glyndŵr, another prominent Welsh prince, the remnants of Criccieth Castle stand as a picturesque ruin today.
Visitors can explore the immense gatehouse, D-shaped stone towers, outer ward, and curtain walls. Steeped in Welsh heritage, this evocative fortress provides a glimpse into the region's medieval past and offers a fascinating experience for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Is Criccieth Castle Worth Visiting?
Yes, Criccieth Castle is worth visiting for anyone interested in history, stunning views, and Welsh heritage. Criccieth Castle might not be as big as nearby castles, nor have the UNESCO heritage status, but this means that there are fewer tourists so you can take your time to enjoy the tranquil location.
It’s free if you have a CADW membership but even if you don’t, it’s still one of the cheaper castles in Wales.
The highlight of the castle is its location. The castle stands on a rocky headland between two beaches, dominating the town around it. The top of the castle has a great view across Cardigan Bay, offering a picturesque setting for exploration and photography.
Even if you don’t want to pay the entrance fee, you can still admire the castle from either of Criccieth’s beaches or the promenade.
How To Get To Criccieth Castle
By Car: To reach Criccieth Castle by car, take the A497 which runs along the LLyn Peninsular to Criccieth. Once you reach the town, the castle is well-signposted.
Is There Parking at Criccieth Castle?
There is no parking at Criccieth Castle, however, there is free roadside parking along Castle Street near the castle entrance. Here are the details to find the castle entrance:
- Postcode: LL52 0DP
- What3Words: ///intricate.shirts.elder
- Google Maps Pin: See here
Alternatively, there is another free parking area near Swn-Y-Mor Café and a larger pay-and-display car park called Y Maes Car Park which charges £2.20 for up to 4 hours.
Criccieth Castle Visitor Information
Entry Fees
Criccieth Castle is free for those with a CADW Membership or Explorer Pass. Here are the admission prices for everyone else:
| Adult | £6.80 |
| Juniors (5-17) and Students | £4.80 |
| Senior Citizens | £6.30 |
| Family (2 adults and up to 3 children) | £22.10 |
If you have an English Heritage or Historic Scotland membership, you will receive a 50% discount in your first year and entry is free after your first renewal.
Is Criccieth Castle National Trust? No, Cricicieth Castle is not a National Trust property so you will not receive free entry with your membership card. It is managed by CADW.
Opening Hours
Criccieth Castle is open 5 days per week during peak season and 3 days per week in low season. Here are the opening days and times:
| April – October | Thursday to Monday, 10am-5pm Closed Tuesday and Wednesday |
| November - February | Friday to Sunday, 10am-4pm Closed Monday to Thursday |
Last entry is 30 minutes before closing time.
Common Questions
How Long Does it Take to Visit Criccieth Castle?
Criccieth Castle is relatively small so we spent around 40 minutes in total, this included time in the visitor centre and walking around the ruins.
Is Criccieth Castle Dog-Friendly?
Yes, dogs are welcome to visit Criccieth Castle but you’ll need to keep them on a lead.
Is Criccieth Castle Suitable for Prams or Wheelchairs?
No, although CADW point out that part of the visitor centre is accessible, the path up to the castle itself is steep and has steps so it isn’t accessible for wheelchairs or prams.
Is There a Café at Criccieth Castle?
No, there is no café at Criccieth Castle. The only facilities at the visitor centre are toilets and a shop. I can recommend the nearby Swn-Y-Mor café which has a lovely terrace overlooking Criccieth beach.
Can You Take a Tour of Criccieth Castle?
Although there are no regular tours of Criccieth Castle, they do occasionally run a special one-hour tour. You can find details of upcoming tours on their event listings page.
If you are unable to make this tour, you can still learn about the castle in the visitor centre beforehand and there is a detailed book you can purchase in the shop which delves deep into the castle’s history and layout.
Things To Do at Criccieth Castle
1. Learn about the castle's history in the visitor centre
Begin your journey at the visitor centre where you’ll find plenty of information about the origins of the castle.
The centre is split into two sections, the top half is the shop and area to buy tickets, then the bottom section has a range of exhibits, displays, and a video to discover the fascinating history of the castle.
This area is very interactive and family-friendly, although dogs are restricted from this area.
2. Explore the ruins of Criccieth Castle
Once you’ve filled your head with facts about the castle, it’s time to head up to the castle itself, or at least what’s left of it.
When you reach the top, you’ll be able to admire the impressive gatehouse, the stone towers, and the remnants of the outer ward.
There are no limitations on where you can go so you are free to wander the ruins, although you cannot go up the tower as with other castles.
3. Enjoy picturesque views across Cardigan Bay
For me, the highlight of the castle was its surroundings. Located on a rocky peninsula between two beaches, the castle provides the perfect vantage point across Cardigan Bay.
Even with your naked eye, you’ll be able to see back to the mainland of Wales as far as Black Sands Beach on a clear day. But, if you have some change, there’s a coin-operated telescope at the castle which will allow you to see even further.
Events at Criccieth Castle
CADW run occasional events at Criccieth Castle including guided tours, folk music, and children’s entertainment.
Although the events are free, you will still need to pay for admission to the castle.
The castle can get busy on days with events so I would recommend that you purchase a ticket in advance to guarantee entry, even if you are purchasing a free ticket as a CADW member.
You can find out about upcoming events here.
Other Things To Do Near Criccieth Castle
If you're looking for more things to do in Criccieth and the surrounding area, here are some of my favourite activities nearby:
- Enjoy Criccieth’s Beaches – For a small town, Criccieth is blessed with two beaches. The best one to relax on is the main Criccieth Beach which runs along the promenade as it’s more sandy and the water is shallower and safer to swim in.
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However, Marine Beach, on the other side of the castle, is also worth checking out, not least because it’s overlooked by a row of colourful houses that make a great photo opportunity.
- Visit Portmeirion – Talking of colourful buildings, North Wales is home to a unique village that’s been built to mimic an Italian village. It’s called Portmeirion and it’s only around 25 minutes drive from Criccieth.
ㅤ - Check Out Harlech Castle – If Criccieth has given you an appetite for castles with incredible coastal views, then Harlech Castle is like Criccieth on steroids. It’s much bigger and forms part of the UNESCO Heritage Site along with the castles at Caernarfon, Beaumaris, and Conwy.
Published: 5 June 2023 · Last updated: 7 September 2023