Caernarfon combines an almost completely preserved medieval town wall with a castle on the banks of the Seiont. The town’s history also includes Roman remains and a former industrial and shipping centre. The harbour, arts centre and railway add further points of interest. This offers different ways to discover Caernarfon, rather than focusing your stay solely on the castle.
Castle and Town Walls
Castell Caernarfon is a fortress and palace on the banks of the River Seiont. The castle and walled town stand on a rocky peninsula between the mouths of the Seiont and Cadnant rivers, on the Menai Strait. The walk along the town walls is almost completely intact and includes eight towers and two gateways. Together, these features give the fortifications a distinct form: the wall is not just a series of separate structures, but an almost complete circuit with towers and gates.
The townscape’s history of construction also brings together several of its features. Edward I and his military architect, Master James of St George, built Castell Caernarfon, the town walls and a quay at the same time. Construction of the walls began in 1283 in connection with the building of the castle. This chronological link helps explain why the castle, fortifications and quay can be viewed together as part of the town’s history.
Porth Mawr Tower can be entered after collecting a key. In 2026, key collection is subject to seasonal arrangements; check the details before travelling.
Roman Remains and Historical Connections
The Roman fort of Segontium was founded almost two millennia ago and is mentioned in The Dream of Macsen Wledig. Archaeological history and literary tradition thus add a different historical dimension to the medieval town fortifications. Nearby, the Airworld Aviation Museum tells the story of the RAF Mountain Rescue Service, which began in 1942 at RAF Llandwrog airfield.
Harbour, Industry and Architecture
The historic harbour and Victoria Dock are in the heart of the town. Together, they form a lively waterfront promenade with boats and views across the Menai Strait. Cei Llechi adds the history of industry and shipping to this waterside setting: the site was historically important to Caernarfon and the surrounding region. An exhibition and information area explores its significance at local, national and international levels.
Another architectural highlight is the Institute Building. Built in 1884 to serve the educational and cultural needs of the community, it retains Art Nouveau features such as brass door handles and woodwork. In contrast to the medieval fortifications, this building represents a different kind of construction project: a space for education and culture whose details also offer a glimpse of its design.
Culture and Routes Beyond the Town
Galeri Caernarfon is an arts centre by the water. It hosts live performances, films, exhibitions and events, and has a café-bar. The origins of the Gŵyl Arall festival are also connected with Caernarfon. Alongside the historic buildings, the town’s cultural venues and connections offer a different focus.
The Welsh Highland Railway runs 25 miles from Caernarfon to Porthmadog. Its endpoints and route length give the railway a distinct geographical scale alongside the town’s attractions. Together with the nearby account of the history of the RAF Mountain Rescue Service, the railway broadens the picture beyond the town walls and harbour.
Discover more destinations: Arthog, Harlech, Fairbourne, Llandwrog, Llanberis, Ffestiniog, Bangor, Dolbenmaen
For the wider travel overview: Gwynedd.
