Caernarfon Town Walls: Medieval Guardians of a Royal Borough
Explore Caernarfon’s remarkably intact medieval town walls, a historic fortress circuit symbolizing English power and Welsh heritage.
Encircling the historic town of Caernarfon in North Wales, the medieval Town Walls were constructed between 1283 and 1292 under King Edward I’s reign. Stretching 734 meters and featuring eight towers and two gatehouses, these remarkably intact fortifications symbolized English power and protected the town’s settlers. Today, they form part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering visitors a glimpse into medieval military architecture and the colonial history of Wales.
A brief summary to Town Walls - Caenarfon
- Caernarfon, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes to enjoy walking the full 734-meter circuit of the walls.
- Visit nearby Porth Mawr Tower on select days by collecting the key from the adjacent shop.
- Combine your visit with Caernarfon Castle to fully appreciate the medieval defensive complex.
- Check weather conditions and daylight hours, as access onto the walls may be restricted for safety.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Information Boards
- Seating Areas
- Restrooms
- Trash Bins
Getting There
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Train
Travelers can take a train to Bangor station, approximately 16 km from Caernarfon, with frequent services from major cities. From Bangor, local bus services or taxis connect to Caernarfon town center within 20-30 minutes. Train tickets range from £10 to £25 depending on origin.
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Bus
Local bus routes serve Caernarfon from surrounding towns such as Bangor and Porthmadog, with journey times between 30 to 60 minutes. Bus fares typically cost £3 to £6. Services run regularly but may be less frequent on weekends.
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Car
Driving to Caernarfon is straightforward via the A487 road. Parking is available near the town center but can be limited during peak times. Parking fees range from £1 to £3 per hour. Note that the historic town center is pedestrian-friendly with some traffic restrictions.
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Walking
For visitors staying in Caernarfon, the town walls are easily accessible on foot via level, paved paths. Walking the full circuit takes approximately 30 to 45 minutes on mostly flat terrain, suitable for most fitness levels.
Town Walls - Caenarfon location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Windy Conditions
Discover more about Town Walls - Caenarfon
Origins of a Fortress Town
The Caernarfon Town Walls were built between 1283 and 1292 following Edward I’s conquest of North Wales. Designed alongside the imposing Caernarfon Castle, the walls formed a defensive circuit around the new English settlement, intended both to protect and to assert royal authority. The construction mobilized large numbers of laborers from England, costing around £3,500—a significant sum at the time. The walls enclosed approximately 4.18 hectares, following a hexagonal plan adapted to the pre-existing Norman castle site, which uniquely remained outside the walls as a marketplace.Architectural Features and Defensive Design
The walls extend 734 meters, punctuated by eight towers and two medieval gatehouses—the East Gate and the West (Water) Gate. Built mainly from carboniferous limestone, the towers are predominantly "gap-backed," lacking inner walls to allow for removable wooden bridges that could isolate sections during attack. The north-west corner houses the 14th-century Saint Mary’s Chapel, integrated into the defenses with a fully circular tower serving as a vestry. Over centuries, some towers have been repurposed, including one converted into a holiday home and others serving civic or club functions.Historical Significance and Military Role
The walls were a vital part of Edward I’s strategy to secure English control over North Wales and to encourage English settlers from Cheshire and Lancashire to inhabit the town safely. The fortifications proved their worth during the 1294 rebellion led by Madog ap Llywelyn, when the walls sustained damage but held firm after costly repairs. Later, during Owain Glyndŵr’s uprising in the early 15th century, the walls again defended the town successfully against Welsh attacks. The Tudor dynasty’s rise in the 16th century eased hostilities, reducing the walls’ military importance and allowing Welsh residents to live within the town.Preservation and Modern Legacy
Today, Caernarfon’s Town Walls are among the best-preserved medieval town defenses in Britain. They form part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site known as the Castles and Town Walls of King Edward in Gwynedd, recognized for their architectural coherence and historical authenticity. Conservation efforts have focused on maintaining the walls with minimal intervention, preserving their original form, materials, and features. Visitors can admire the walls’ commanding presence, which continues to shape Caernarfon’s historic townscape.Visitor Experience and Surroundings
The walls offer a scenic walking route around Caernarfon’s old town, providing panoramic views of the castle, Menai Strait, and the surrounding countryside. The terrain is generally level and accessible, with some sections offering shaded streets that evoke the medieval atmosphere. Nearby, the town bustles with Welsh cultural pride, visible in local art, crafts, and language, enriching the heritage experience. The walls stand not only as a military relic but as a symbol of Caernarfon’s identity and resilience through centuries of change.Symbolism and Cultural Impact
Beyond their defensive role, the walls were a powerful symbol of English colonial ambition and governance in medieval Wales. Their imposing presence was designed to impress and intimidate, reinforcing Caernarfon’s status as the capital of the principality of North Wales. The walls’ survival through rebellions and political shifts reflects the complex history of Welsh-English relations and the evolving identity of the town. Today, they invite reflection on the layers of history embedded in Caernarfon’s streets and stones.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
CARN / Oriel Pendeitsh
0.2 km
Discover contemporary Welsh art and culture in Caernarfon’s inspiring Oriel Pendeitsh gallery, a vibrant creative hub above the Tourist Information Centre.
Caernarfon War Memorial
0.2 km
A dignified stone pillar in Castle Square honoring Caernarfon’s fallen heroes from the World Wars and beyond.
Pont Yr Aber
0.3 km
A scenic swing bridge linking Caernarfon Castle with woodland paths, offering iconic views and a touch of maritime theatre as boats pass beneath.
South African War Memorial
0.4 km
A wheel-headed Celtic cross honouring 173 Caernarfonshire soldiers lost in the Boer War, unveiled in 1904.
Caernarfon Tower
0.6 km
Explore Caernarfon Tower, a medieval fortress sentinel offering breathtaking views and rich Welsh history in a UNESCO World Heritage setting.
Bryn Gwyn Standing Stones
4.4 km
Discover the towering Neolithic Bryn Gwyn Standing Stones, ancient sentinels of Anglesey’s prehistoric past and ritual heritage.
Caer Leb (Prehistoric Castle Enclosure)
4.6 km
Explore Caer Leb, a prehistoric fortified enclosure with water-filled ditches that reveal ancient defensive ingenuity on scenic Anglesey.
Tafarn Snowdonia Parc
6.2 km
Discover the heart of Welsh culture at Tafarn Snowdonia Parc, where delicious food meets stunning natural beauty in Snowdonia National Park.
Cadair y Cythraul
8.8 km
Discover the mysterious 'Chair of the Devil' in Llanfairpwllgwyngyll, a historic landmark steeped in Welsh myth and ancient landscape charm.
Porth y Clochydd
9.0 km
Explore the historical landmark of Porth y Clochydd in Llanfairpwllgwyngyll, a captivating site steeped in rich Welsh heritage and scenic beauty.
Celtic cross
9.1 km
A serene Celtic Cross memorial honoring Welsh poet Syr John Morris-Jones, set beside historic St. Mary's Church with stunning Menai Strait views.
Hen Eglwys Llanfihangel Ysgeifiog
10.6 km
Explore the evocative ruins of Hen Eglwys Llanfihangel Ysgeifiog, a medieval Welsh church steeped in history and nestled in tranquil Anglesey countryside.
Ynys yr Eglwys
11.5 km
Discover the serene charm and rich heritage of Ynys yr Eglwys, a peaceful island gem beside the iconic Menai Suspension Bridge.
Tŷ-Gwyn Menhir
13.3 km
Discover the ancient Tŷ-Gwyn Menhir near Menai Bridge, a prehistoric standing stone steeped in druidic mystery and Welsh heritage.
Zip World Penrhyn Quarry
14.5 km
Experience the thrill of Zip World Penrhyn Quarry – the ultimate adventure park in Snowdonia with breathtaking views and exhilarating activities.
Unmissable attractions to see
Caernarfon Castle Walls
0.0 km
Walk the nearly complete medieval walls of Caernarfon, a fortress town’s historic shield with panoramic views and rich Welsh heritage.
Historic Tours Wales
0.1 km
Explore Caernarfon’s rich history with passionate local guides on immersive walking tours that reveal hidden stories beyond the castle walls.
Bath Tower
0.2 km
Sleep in a 13th-century tower within Caernarfon's castle walls—where medieval history meets modern comfort.
Caernarfon Walks - Guided Tours
0.2 km
Discover Caernarfon’s rich history and hidden stories on expert-led walking tours through its medieval streets and iconic castle walls.
Caernarfon Waterfront
0.2 km
Historic Caernarfon Waterfront: Where medieval heritage meets vibrant maritime charm on the Menai Strait.
Sir Hugh Owen
0.2 km
Celebrate the legacy of Sir Hugh Owen, a pioneer of Welsh education, with his statue in the historic heart of Caernarfon’s Castle Square.
Royal Welch Fusiliers Museum
0.2 km
Explore centuries of Welsh military history within the majestic towers of Caernarfon Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Hanging Tower
0.2 km
A haunting medieval tower in Caernarfon where justice was once served by execution, steeped in history and ghostly legend.
Caernarfon Castle
0.2 km
Discover the grandeur of Caernarfon Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site rich in history and stunning medieval architecture, perfect for your Welsh getaway.
The Fun Centre
0.3 km
North Wales's largest indoor adventure play centre, blending historic charm with thrilling slides, mazes, and safe toddler zones for family fun all year round.
Big Wheel, Caernarfon Castle
0.3 km
Experience breathtaking panoramic views from the Big Wheel beside historic Caernarfon Castle, blending medieval heritage with modern leisure.
Welsh Highland Railway - Caernarfon
0.4 km
Historic steam journeys begin beneath Caernarfon Castle, winding through Snowdonia’s breathtaking landscapes on the UK’s longest heritage railway.
Aber Foreshore
0.8 km
A scenic coastal walk with iconic views of Caernarfon Castle and the Menai Strait, perfect for a peaceful stroll or a quiet moment by the water.
Caer Rufeinig Segontium / Segontium Roman Fort
0.8 km
Explore the ancient Roman military outpost of Segontium, where history and legend meet amidst scenic Welsh landscapes.
Foel Farm Park
2.0 km
Discover a charming working farm with animal encounters, scenic views, and family fun on the beautiful Isle of Anglesey.
Essential places to dine
Black Boy Inn Four & Six Restaurant & Bar
0.0 km
Discover authentic Welsh cuisine at Black Boy Inn Four & Six Restaurant & Bar in Caernarfon, where tradition meets modern dining.
Tafarn Y Porth - JD Wetherspoon
0.0 km
A lively, historic pub in central Caernarfon offering great value meals, local ales, and a welcoming atmosphere near the town’s ancient East Gate.
Sheeps and Leeks
0.1 km
An intimate fine dining experience in Caernarfon celebrating Welsh produce through expertly crafted tasting menus in a cozy historic setting.
Lizzy's Caernarfon
0.1 km
A cozy, woman-owned café near Caernarfon Castle serving fresh, home-cooked British dishes with warm Welsh hospitality.
Four Alls
0.1 km
Historic charm meets delicious fare at The Four Alls, Caernarfon’s beloved pub and restaurant for great food, drinks, and community spirit.
Tân Woodfired Pizza
0.1 km
Savor authentic wood-fired pizzas in a cozy Caernarfon setting, blending traditional flavors with local charm every evening.
Wal Restaurant
0.1 km
Experience the warm hospitality and diverse flavors of Welsh, British, and Italian cuisine at Wal Restaurant in the heart of Caernarfon.
Ouzo & Olive
0.1 km
Discover authentic Greek tapas and warm hospitality in the historic heart of Caernarfon at Ouzo & Olive.
The Market Hall Brew Pub
0.1 km
Discover the essence of Welsh hospitality at The Market Hall Brew Pub in Caernarfon – where local brews meet delicious bites.
Osteria
0.1 km
Experience authentic Tuscan cuisine in a cozy, welcoming Italian restaurant nestled in the heart of Caernarfon.
Caernarfon Tandoori Restaurants
0.1 km
Authentic Indian flavors and tandoori specialties served in a spacious, friendly setting in the heart of Caernarfon.
Caffi Maes
0.2 km
A friendly, three-storey café on Caernarfon’s Castle Square, serving hearty breakfasts, local dishes, and excellent coffee in a relaxed, pet-friendly setting.
Y Gegin Fach
0.2 km
Family-run cafe in Caernarfon serving hearty Welsh classics and homemade British dishes in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The Old Courthouse, Caernarfon
0.2 km
Historic neo-classical courthouse turned elegant bistro with stunning views of Caernarfon Castle and a modern British menu.
Caffi Gisda
0.2 km
Ethical café in Caernarfon serving fresh local fare with a heart for community and kindness in a cozy, welcoming setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Lwsi
0.0 km
Discover unique sustainable fashion treasures in Caernarfon’s charming secondhand boutique nestled within medieval town walls.
Mirsi
0.1 km
Discover stylish, affordable women's fashion in the heart of historic Caernarfon at Mirsi Boutique on High Street.
Slate and Things
0.1 km
Discover authentic Welsh slate crafts and unique souvenirs in the heart of historic Caernarfon at Slate and Things.
Siop iard Caernarfon
0.1 km
Discover handcrafted Welsh jewellery and crafts at Siop Iard Caernarfon, a unique boutique celebrating local artistry and heritage.
Lotti & Wren
0.1 km
Discover unique independent design treasures and handcrafted gifts in the heart of historic Caernarfon at Lotti & Wren.
Siop Siafins
0.1 km
A charming gift shop in Caernarfon offering authentic Welsh crafts, souvenirs, and locally made treasures in the heart of historic North Wales.
YLP Fabric & Wool Shop
0.1 km
Discover Caernarfon’s premier fabric and wool shop, a creative hub for knitters, quilters, and embroidery lovers alike.
Tin of Sea
0.1 km
Discover unique home décor, gifts, and furnishings blending historic charm with modern style in Caernarfon’s Tin of Sea.
Siop Y Ddraig
0.2 km
Discover authentic Welsh gifts and souvenirs in a charming shop steeped in local culture at Caernarfon’s Siop Y Ddraig.
Craftcentre Cymru
0.2 km
Discover authentic Welsh handmade crafts and unique gifts in the heart of historic Caernarfon, opposite the iconic castle.
Na Nôg
0.2 km
Discover authentic Welsh culture through music, crafts, and unique gifts at Na Nôg, Caernarfon’s beloved boutique in Castle Square.
Peacocks
0.2 km
Affordable fashion for men, women, and children in Caernarfon’s Caolfan shopping center.
Castle Gift Shop
0.2 km
Explore the charm of Wales at Castle Gift Shop, your destination for unique souvenirs and local crafts in Caernarfon.
Cei Llechi: Artisan Shopping Village
0.3 km
A vibrant artisan village in Caernarfon blending heritage slate quay buildings with local crafts, food, and culture by the harbour.
The Original Factory Shop (Caernarfon)
0.3 km
Discover unbeatable bargains on fashion, beauty, and homeware at The Original Factory Shop in Caernarfon’s vibrant Pool Street.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The hole in the wall
0.1 km
Authentic Welsh pub with historic charm, lively events, and welcoming locals in the heart of Caernarfon.
Market Hall
0.1 km
Historic Market Hall in Caernarfon offering excellent pints, authentic kebabs and curries, plus lively open mic nights in a vibrant local setting.
Ship & Castle
0.1 km
A lively and welcoming pub in Caernarfon, where friendly locals and traditional charm create the perfect spot to relax and socialize.
The Crown Y Goron
0.1 km
A cozy, family-friendly Welsh pub in Caernarfon offering local ales, home-cooked meals, and a warm, inviting atmosphere seven days a week.
Tŷ Glyndŵr Bunkhouse & Su's Cocktail Bar
0.1 km
Cozy Georgian hostel with a lively cocktail bar, local flavors, and live music just steps from Caernarfon Castle in the heart of North Wales.
Bar Bach
0.1 km
Discover Bar Bach, Wales’ tiniest bar in Caernarfon, where local brews and cozy charm create an unforgettable intimate pub experience.
Palace Vaults
0.2 km
A cosy, historic pub opposite Caernarfon Castle offering hearty fare, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Gwynedd.
The Morgan Lloyd
0.2 km
A traditional Welsh pub in Caernarfon offering good beer, friendly service, and a lively local atmosphere near the historic castle.
Anglesey Arms
0.3 km
Historic harbourfront pub and inn in Caernarfon offering cozy rooms, hearty Welsh fare, and stunning views of Menai Strait and Caernarfon Castle.
La Marina Cei
0.3 km
Experience the vibrant social heart of Caernarfon at La Marina Cei, where lively bar vibes and welcoming atmosphere meet.
Albert Inn
0.3 km
A cozy, family-friendly pub in Caernarfon serving homemade British classics with warm local hospitality.
Twthill Vaults
0.3 km
A cozy, traditional Welsh pub in Caernarfon offering local ales, hearty food, and a welcoming community atmosphere every day from noon till late.
Yr Alex
0.4 km
Experience authentic Welsh hospitality and local brews in the cozy, welcoming atmosphere of Yr Alex, Caernarfon’s beloved traditional pub.
The Eagles
0.5 km
A cozy and friendly Caernarfon pub offering local brews, hearty meals, live music, and a warm Welsh welcome.
The Newborough Arms
3.0 km
A warm, family-friendly pub in Bontnewydd offering hearty Welsh fare, a lively bar, and a spacious beer garden with play area.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Sacred Sites
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Myth & Legends
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
