The castle’s twin-towered gatehouse is considered one of the earliest examples of its kind in Wales.
Following the 1404 capture by Owain Glyndŵr, the castle was deliberately 'slighted' or dismantled to prevent future military use.
Excavations revealed that the site was occupied long before the stone castle, showing evidence of Iron Age activity.
The castle was used as a prison during the medieval period, housing captured nobility and political rivals.
Large sections of the masonry still bear the scars of the fires set during the final conquest by Glyndŵr’s forces.
The positioning of the castle was designed to command both the land approaches and the sea lanes of the southern Llŷn Peninsula.
Criccieth Castle is a native Welsh fortress strategically positioned on a rocky headland overlooking Cardigan Bay. Originally constructed by Llywelyn the Great in the 13th century, the site was later expanded by his grandson, Llywelyn ap Gruffudd. Edward I captured the castle in 1283 and implemented significant defensive enhancements, including the addition of an outer ward and a gatehouse. The fortification consists of a distinctive gatehouse with two D-shaped towers flanked by internal and external wards. It served as a vital stronghold during the Anglo-Welsh wars and was famously used as a prison. The site eventually fell to Owain Glyndŵr's forces in 1404, who subsequently burned the structure. Today, it is managed by Cadw and remains a prominent example of medieval military architecture in North Wales. The ruins offer panoramic views spanning the Llŷn Peninsula and the peaks of Snowdonia.
From the northern edge of the lower beach, looking up toward the gatehouse to capture the scale of the fortification against the skyline.
Wear sturdy, non-slip footwear as the terrain consists of uneven stone, steep paths, and grassy slopes.
Check local weather forecasts beforehand, as the exposed headland location experiences high winds and rapid conditions changes.
Bring binoculars to scan the bay for marine wildlife, including dolphins and seals.
Attempting to traverse the steep coastal perimeter paths during high winds or heavy rain.
The site is typically open to the public from spring through autumn, with limited access during winter months.
Avoid climbing on unstable masonry or restricted ruin walls for safety and preservation reasons.
