The Hanging Tower, Caernarfon: A Grim Sentinel of Justice
A haunting medieval tower in Caernarfon where justice was once served by execution, steeped in history and ghostly legend.
The Hanging Tower in Caernarfon is a grim medieval fortress tower located on the northern town wall near the Anglesey Arms. Known for its historic role as an execution site, it stands beside the former town jail and bears witness to the harsh justice meted out here from the 19th century through to 1910. The tower is steeped in dark history, including notable executions and haunting legends, offering a poignant glimpse into Wales’ judicial past.
A brief summary to Hanging Tower
- Unnamed Road, Caernarfon, LL55 1SP, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit alongside Caernarfon Castle to explore contrasting aspects of medieval power and justice.
- Respect the somber history of the site; it is a place of former executions and holds deep local significance.
- Look out for plaques or information boards near the tower that detail its history and notable executions.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Information Boards
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
Getting There
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Bus
Take local bus services from Caernarfon town center to the stop near the Anglesey Arms; travel time is approximately 10-15 minutes. Services run frequently during daytime hours with fares around £2-£4.
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Taxi
A taxi from Caernarfon railway station to the Hanging Tower takes about 5-10 minutes. Expect fares in the range of £5-£10 depending on traffic and time of day.
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Walking
From Caernarfon town center, the Hanging Tower is accessible via a 15-20 minute walk along paved streets. The terrain is flat and suitable for most visitors, including those with limited mobility.
Hanging Tower 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
Discover more about Hanging Tower
A Tower of Justice and Punishment
The Hanging Tower is a distinctive feature of Caernarfon’s medieval town walls, situated just north of the Anglesey Arms. Its grim name derives from its use as an execution site, where convicts were hanged as part of the town’s judicial process. This tower was integrated into the town’s defensive walls and stood adjacent to the former Caernarfon jail, forming a somber complex dedicated to law enforcement and punishment.Historic Executions and Notorious Cases
Throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries, the Hanging Tower witnessed several notable executions. In 1853, John Roberts was executed here for murder, following a sensational confession involving a paid killing. Later, Thomas Jones, a hawker convicted of murdering his mistress, was also hanged at the tower. The last execution took place in 1910 when William Murphy, an ex-soldier who killed his mistress, was put to death by Henry Albert Pierrepoint, the chief executioner of the time. Pierrepoint’s career was infamous, and he executed over 100 people before retiring after a scandalous incident.Architectural and Cultural Context
The tower forms part of Caernarfon’s medieval fortifications, which include the famous Caernarfon Castle and surrounding town walls built under King Edward I. While the castle symbolized royal power and conquest, the Hanging Tower served a more somber civic function. Its location next to the jail and its role in executions reflect the medieval and Victorian era justice system, where public and private punishments were part of maintaining order.Legends and Hauntings
The Hanging Tower is reputedly haunted by the spirits of those executed within its walls, especially William Murphy. Local folklore and ghost stories add a layer of eerie mystique to the site, attracting visitors intrigued by its dark past. These tales contribute to the tower’s unique atmosphere, blending history with legend.Preservation and Visitor Experience
Today, the Hanging Tower stands as a preserved historic site, offering visitors a direct connection to Caernarfon’s judicial and architectural heritage. Although not as grand as the nearby castle, the tower’s grim history and well-preserved structure provide a compelling glimpse into the darker side of medieval and Victorian justice. Its proximity to other historic landmarks makes it a meaningful stop for those exploring Caernarfon’s rich past.Reflection on Justice and History
The Hanging Tower embodies the harsh realities of historical justice systems, where executions were a public and legal spectacle. Its story highlights changes in societal attitudes towards punishment and law enforcement over centuries. Visiting the tower invites reflection on the evolution of justice and the human stories behind the stone walls.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
CARN / Oriel Pendeitsh
0.1 km
Discover contemporary Welsh art and culture in Caernarfon’s inspiring Oriel Pendeitsh gallery, a vibrant creative hub above the Tourist Information Centre.
Pont Yr Aber
0.1 km
A scenic swing bridge linking Caernarfon Castle with woodland paths, offering iconic views and a touch of maritime theatre as boats pass beneath.
Caernarfon War Memorial
0.3 km
A dignified stone pillar in Castle Square honoring Caernarfon’s fallen heroes from the World Wars and beyond.
Caernarfon Tower
0.4 km
Explore Caernarfon Tower, a medieval fortress sentinel offering breathtaking views and rich Welsh history in a UNESCO World Heritage setting.
South African War Memorial
0.6 km
A wheel-headed Celtic cross honouring 173 Caernarfonshire soldiers lost in the Boer War, unveiled in 1904.
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)
4.7 km
Explore Caer Leb, a prehistoric fortified enclosure with water-filled ditches that reveal ancient defensive ingenuity on scenic Anglesey.
Tafarn Snowdonia Parc
6.3 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
8.6 km
Discover the mysterious 'Chair of the Devil' in Llanfairpwllgwyngyll, a historic landmark steeped in Welsh myth and ancient landscape charm.
Porth y Clochydd
8.8 km
Explore the historical landmark of Porth y Clochydd in Llanfairpwllgwyngyll, a captivating site steeped in rich Welsh heritage and scenic beauty.
Celtic cross
8.9 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
10.7 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
11.7 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
13.6 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
14.7 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 Waterfront
0.1 km
Historic Caernarfon Waterfront: Where medieval heritage meets vibrant maritime charm on the Menai Strait.
Big Wheel, Caernarfon Castle
0.1 km
Experience breathtaking panoramic views from the Big Wheel beside historic Caernarfon Castle, blending medieval heritage with modern leisure.
Royal Welch Fusiliers Museum
0.1 km
Explore centuries of Welsh military history within the majestic towers of Caernarfon Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Caernarfon Castle
0.1 km
Discover the grandeur of Caernarfon Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site rich in history and stunning medieval architecture, perfect for your Welsh getaway.
Bath Tower
0.1 km
Sleep in a 13th-century tower within Caernarfon's castle walls—where medieval history meets modern comfort.
Historic Tours Wales
0.2 km
Explore Caernarfon’s rich history with passionate local guides on immersive walking tours that reveal hidden stories beyond the castle walls.
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 Castle Walls
0.2 km
Walk the nearly complete medieval walls of Caernarfon, a fortress town’s historic shield with panoramic views and rich Welsh heritage.
Town walls in caenarfon
0.2 km
Discover the historical significance and stunning views of the Caernarfon Town Walls, a must-visit landmark in Wales.
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.
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
0.5 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.
The Fun Centre
0.5 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.
Caer Rufeinig Segontium / Segontium Roman Fort
1.0 km
Explore the ancient Roman military outpost of Segontium, where history and legend meet amidst scenic Welsh landscapes.
Foel Farm Park
2.1 km
Discover a charming working farm with animal encounters, scenic views, and family fun on the beautiful Isle of Anglesey.
Essential places to dine
The Old Courthouse, Caernarfon
0.1 km
Historic neo-classical courthouse turned elegant bistro with stunning views of Caernarfon Castle and a modern British menu.
Wal Restaurant
0.2 km
Experience the warm hospitality and diverse flavors of Welsh, British, and Italian cuisine at Wal Restaurant in the heart of Caernarfon.
Tân Woodfired Pizza
0.2 km
Savor authentic wood-fired pizzas in a cozy Caernarfon setting, blending traditional flavors with local charm every evening.
The Market Hall Brew Pub
0.2 km
Discover the essence of Welsh hospitality at The Market Hall Brew Pub in Caernarfon – where local brews meet delicious bites.
Four Alls
0.2 km
Historic charm meets delicious fare at The Four Alls, Caernarfon’s beloved pub and restaurant for great food, drinks, and community spirit.
Osteria
0.2 km
Experience authentic Tuscan cuisine in a cozy, welcoming Italian restaurant nestled in the heart of Caernarfon.
Ouzo & Olive
0.2 km
Discover authentic Greek tapas and warm hospitality in the historic heart of Caernarfon at Ouzo & Olive.
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.
Lizzy's Caernarfon
0.2 km
A cozy, woman-owned café near Caernarfon Castle serving fresh, home-cooked British dishes with warm Welsh hospitality.
Black Boy Inn Four & Six Restaurant & Bar
0.2 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
0.3 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
0.3 km
An intimate fine dining experience in Caernarfon celebrating Welsh produce through expertly crafted tasting menus in a cozy historic setting.
Y Gegin Fach
0.3 km
Family-run cafe in Caernarfon serving hearty Welsh classics and homemade British dishes in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Caernarfon Tandoori Restaurants
0.3 km
Authentic Indian flavors and tandoori specialties served in a spacious, friendly setting in the heart of Caernarfon.
Caffi Gisda
0.3 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
Craftcentre Cymru
0.1 km
Discover authentic Welsh handmade crafts and unique gifts in the heart of historic Caernarfon, opposite the iconic castle.
Siop Y Ddraig
0.1 km
Discover authentic Welsh gifts and souvenirs in a charming shop steeped in local culture at Caernarfon’s Siop Y Ddraig.
Tin of Sea
0.2 km
Discover unique home décor, gifts, and furnishings blending historic charm with modern style in Caernarfon’s Tin of Sea.
Lotti & Wren
0.2 km
Discover unique independent design treasures and handcrafted gifts in the heart of historic Caernarfon at Lotti & Wren.
YLP Fabric & Wool Shop
0.2 km
Discover Caernarfon’s premier fabric and wool shop, a creative hub for knitters, quilters, and embroidery lovers alike.
Siop Siafins
0.2 km
A charming gift shop in Caernarfon offering authentic Welsh crafts, souvenirs, and locally made treasures in the heart of historic North Wales.
Siop iard Caernarfon
0.2 km
Discover handcrafted Welsh jewellery and crafts at Siop Iard Caernarfon, a unique boutique celebrating local artistry and heritage.
Slate and Things
0.2 km
Discover authentic Welsh slate crafts and unique souvenirs in the heart of historic Caernarfon at Slate and Things.
Mirsi
0.2 km
Discover stylish, affordable women's fashion in the heart of historic Caernarfon at Mirsi Boutique on High Street.
Lwsi
0.2 km
Discover unique sustainable fashion treasures in Caernarfon’s charming secondhand boutique nestled within medieval town walls.
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.
Na Nôg
0.3 km
Discover authentic Welsh culture through music, crafts, and unique gifts at Na Nôg, Caernarfon’s beloved boutique in Castle Square.
Miss Sophie
0.3 km
Discover unique Welsh gifts and local treasures at Miss Sophie, a charming boutique in the heart of Caernarfon.
Peacocks
0.4 km
Affordable fashion for men, women, and children in Caernarfon’s Caolfan shopping center.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Anglesey Arms
0.0 km
Historic harbourfront pub and inn in Caernarfon offering cozy rooms, hearty Welsh fare, and stunning views of Menai Strait and Caernarfon Castle.
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.
The Crown Y Goron
0.2 km
A cozy, family-friendly Welsh pub in Caernarfon offering local ales, home-cooked meals, and a warm, inviting atmosphere seven days a week.
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.
Market Hall
0.2 km
Historic Market Hall in Caernarfon offering excellent pints, authentic kebabs and curries, plus lively open mic nights in a vibrant local setting.
Bar Bach
0.2 km
Discover Bar Bach, Wales’ tiniest bar in Caernarfon, where local brews and cozy charm create an unforgettable intimate pub experience.
The hole in the wall
0.2 km
Authentic Welsh pub with historic charm, lively events, and welcoming locals in the heart of Caernarfon.
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.
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.
Ship & Castle
0.3 km
A lively and welcoming pub in Caernarfon, where friendly locals and traditional charm create the perfect spot to relax and socialize.
Albert Inn
0.4 km
A cozy, family-friendly pub in Caernarfon serving homemade British classics with warm local hospitality.
Twthill Vaults
0.5 km
A cozy, traditional Welsh pub in Caernarfon offering local ales, hearty food, and a welcoming community atmosphere every day from noon till late.
The Eagles
0.6 km
A cozy and friendly Caernarfon pub offering local brews, hearty meals, live music, and a warm Welsh welcome.
Yr Alex
0.7 km
Experience authentic Welsh hospitality and local brews in the cozy, welcoming atmosphere of Yr Alex, Caernarfon’s beloved traditional pub.
The Newborough Arms
2.9 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
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Quirky
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Historic
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Myth & Legends
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
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
