3 FREE CASTLES to visit in Wales!
Wales offers rich history and breath-taking landscapes, a lot of which are within a short drive of each other! Wahoo!
From the cool Elvish-charm of Abergavenny Castle to the rugged charm of Dinas Castle, and the sprawling (also Elvish) ruins and pet-friendly grounds of White Castle, each site offers a unique adventure.
Let’s go!
Abergavenny Castle
At number one is Abergavenny Castle. Not only is it very central to the town, with ample parking and a flat walk into the castle grounds, it also has a free museum inside!
If you have children to entertain, Abergavenny castle offers not only a free place to eat your sandwiches in the sunshine, but also free costume dress up and a real Victorian kitchen! It’s so easy to park in town, bring your own sandwiches or pick some up at the local bakery and then enjoy roaming the grassy castle grounds with plenty to keep everyone entertained and lots of space to roam around. Please note that dogs are not allowed in the castle grounds at all, so your fluffy friends will have to stay home.
Dinas Castle
Dinas Castle isn’t one for the faint of heart, it is very different to Abergavenny, in that it is not easy to get to, and there isn’t an awful lot of castle to see when you get to the top of the hill that this castle sits on (stay with me).
However, the length of time that this hill has been inhabited, and it’s strategic positioning in the greater landscape of the Black mountains and the Usk Valley makes it such an interesting castle. Plus, combining the vigorous walk with dinner at the Dinas Castle Inn at the bottom of the hill makes for a lovely Sunday.
White Castle
White Castle is a short drive out of Abergavenny. It offers huge ruins with plenty of space for running and playing.
Dogs are welcome too so it’s perfect for the whole family! It is very flat and only a short walk from the carparking so it is accessible for all, and picnic benches make lunch much more enjoyable too. The only thing I’d recommend is making sure that you choose a dry day to explore as there isn’t much (or any) cover.
Whether you want a lovely day of exploring or a vigorous hike through ancient landscapes, these castles offer something for everyone. Please don’t forget to have a look through our growing list of castles across Wales!
Have a look at some more castles!
On the edge of the River Seiont in northwest Wales, Caernarfon Castle is a fortress, a symbol of royal ambition, and an enduring link to Wales' exciting medieval past.