Bath Tower
Sleep in a 13th-century tower within Caernarfon's castle walls—where medieval history meets modern comfort.
A 13th-century bastion tower nestled within Caernarfon's medieval castle walls, Bath Tower is a unique self-catering holiday let that sleeps up to eight guests. Originally built as a defensive structure, the tower was later converted into a Victorian bathing establishment before being transformed into distinctive holiday accommodation. With thick sandstone walls, spiral staircases, stained-glass windows, and commanding views over the town and sea, it offers an unforgettable blend of authentic history and modern comfort.
A brief summary to Bath Tower
- Church St, Caernarfon, LL77 9ZY, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 7 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Mixed
- Mobile reception: 2 out of 5
Local tips
- The spiral staircase is narrow and steep; if traveling with very young children or those with mobility concerns, consider a portable baby gate or plan accordingly. The tower's multiple levels mean plenty of stairs to navigate.
- Book midweek during low season for the best value—prices start around £274 for four nights. High-season weekend rates are significantly higher but still offer exceptional value for a unique, spacious property.
- The turret balcony on the third floor offers spectacular sunset views over Caernarfon and the sea. Time your evening tea or a quiet moment here to experience the tower at its most magical.
- The thick medieval walls provide excellent insulation and sound dampening, creating a peaceful retreat. However, mobile phone signal may be weak due to the stone construction—download maps and entertainment before arrival.
- The property is self-catering with a small but functional kitchen. Stock up on groceries in Caernarfon town center, just a short walk away, before settling in for your stay.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Drinking Water
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Sheltered Areas
Getting There
-
Train and Walk
Caernarfon Railway Station is approximately 800 meters from Bath Tower, a walk of roughly 10–12 minutes through the town center. Regular trains connect Caernarfon to Bangor (approximately 30 minutes) and Llandudno Junction (approximately 50 minutes), with onward connections to Manchester, Liverpool, and other major UK cities. The walk from the station to Bath Tower passes through Caernarfon's historic town center, allowing you to familiarize yourself with local shops and restaurants. No parking is required.
-
Car and Street Parking
Bath Tower is located on Church Street in central Caernarfon (postcode LL77 9ZY). Approaching by car from the A487 or A55, follow signs to Caernarfon town center. Street parking is available in the vicinity, though spaces can be limited during peak season and weekends. Parking is free but may require careful navigation of narrow medieval streets. The tower entrance is accessed via a narrow alley from the street behind or from the sea wall. Allow extra time for parking and orientation in the compact town center.
-
Bus and Walk
Caernarfon is served by regional bus services connecting to Bangor, Llandudno, and surrounding towns. Journey times from Bangor are approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour. Bus stops are located in the town center, approximately 5–10 minutes' walk from Bath Tower. The walk to the tower passes through the historic town, providing orientation and access to local amenities. Bus fares vary by operator and distance but are generally economical for regional travel.
-
Taxi or Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-share services operate in Caernarfon and can deliver you directly to Church Street or nearby. Journey times from Bangor are approximately 30–40 minutes, with fares typically ranging from £25–£40 depending on exact pickup location and time of day. This option is convenient for groups or those with luggage, though advance booking is recommended, particularly during peak season.
Bath Tower location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Bath Tower
A Medieval Fortress Reimagined
Bath Tower stands as one of Caernarfon's most extraordinary places to stay—a genuine 13th-century bastion tower integrated into the town walls of the legendary castle. Built as a defensive half-tower with walls of rough-hewn sandstone up to several feet thick, it has witnessed nearly 800 years of Welsh history. The tower's thick walls, shaped by medieval craftsmen, still bear the marks of centuries of footsteps smoothed into the ancient stone. What makes this structure particularly special is its transformation from fortress to Victorian leisure destination and finally to a cherished holiday home that preserves its historical character while providing modern amenities.The Victorian Bath House Era
During the 19th century, Bath Tower underwent a remarkable reinvention. It became part of an ambitious Victorian bathing establishment, complete with hot, cold, and shower baths supplied by seawater pumped from the sea. The facility was described as "replete with every accommodation," featuring a news room, museum, billiard room, and concert hall—reflecting the leisure aspirations of the Edwardian era. The stained-glass windows that now cast purple light across the kitchen and bathroom date from around the 1850s, when a college acquired the tower and adapted it for their own use, even converting the upper floor into a chapel. These Victorian touches remain visible today, adding layers of character to the medieval structure.Exploring the Tower's Intimate Spaces
The tower's interior unfolds across multiple levels connected by a narrow spiral staircase, each floor revealing distinct rooms with their own character. The ground floor features a large dormitory-style room—originally the dungeon—where visitors can sleep like soldiers of the garrison, with slate flooring laid during 20th-century renovations. The first floor contains a spacious bedroom with enormous windows flooding the space with natural light, ideal for families with children. The second floor houses the main living area, a generous sitting room dominated by a wood-burning stove and high ceilings that create a grand yet intimate atmosphere. A small but well-equipped kitchen and bathroom occupy this level, both graced with those distinctive purple-tinted stained-glass windows. The master bedroom on the third floor opens onto a turret balcony—a magical vantage point for watching sunsets over the town and sea, or simply observing daily life in Caernarfon below.Restoration and Modern Comfort
The tower has been carefully restored to balance historical authenticity with contemporary comfort. Major conservation work in 1967 established the current layout, while subsequent improvements in 1997 added a wood-burning stove and limewashed the bare stone walls, creating a warmer and lighter interior. In 2008, the roof was re-lined to address water seepage, and external stonework was re-pointed in 2010 to preserve the building for future generations. These interventions respect the tower's medieval origins while ensuring it functions as a comfortable modern holiday home. The result is a space where history is tangible—in the thick walls, the spiral stairs, the medieval proportions—yet entirely livable.Location Within the Castle Walls
Bath Tower's position within Caernarfon's town walls is integral to its appeal. Access is gained either through a narrow alley from the street behind or directly from the sea wall itself, adding to the sense of discovery and separation from the modern town. The tower's survival is remarkable; Caernarfon's relative poverty in the 17th and 18th centuries meant the town did not expand through or over the walls, preserving them intact. The encircling wall-walk and the remarkable survival of two main twin-towered gateways and eight bastions create an authentic medieval townscape that few places in Britain can match.An Experience Beyond Ordinary Accommodation
Staying at Bath Tower is fundamentally different from conventional holiday lets. Guests describe the experience as stepping into the past while enjoying modern conveniences—a quality that transforms a weekend away into something that feels far longer and more restorative. The tower's generous proportions, despite its medieval origins, provide ample space for groups and families. The thick walls provide excellent sound insulation, while the multiple levels and distinct rooms allow for privacy and separation. Whether curled up by the wood-burning stove with a book, standing on the turret balcony watching the light change over the landscape, or exploring the town's narrow streets just minutes away, Bath Tower offers a uniquely immersive connection to Welsh history and medieval architecture.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.
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.
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
0.5 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
4.3 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
6.3 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
10.5 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
11.6 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
13.4 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
14.6 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.
Hanging Tower
0.1 km
A haunting medieval tower in Caernarfon where justice was once served by execution, steeped in history and ghostly legend.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Caernarfon Walks - Guided Tours
0.3 km
Discover Caernarfon’s rich history and hidden stories on expert-led walking tours through its medieval streets and iconic castle walls.
Sir Hugh Owen
0.3 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.
The Fun Centre
0.4 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.
Welsh Highland Railway - Caernarfon
0.5 km
Historic steam journeys begin beneath Caernarfon Castle, winding through Snowdonia’s breathtaking landscapes on the UK’s longest heritage railway.
Aber Foreshore
0.6 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
1.0 km
Explore the ancient Roman military outpost of Segontium, where history and legend meet amidst scenic Welsh landscapes.
Foel Farm Park
1.9 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
0.1 km
Discover authentic Welsh cuisine at Black Boy Inn Four & Six Restaurant & Bar in Caernarfon, where tradition meets modern dining.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Lizzy's Caernarfon
0.2 km
A cozy, woman-owned café near Caernarfon Castle serving fresh, home-cooked British dishes with warm Welsh hospitality.
Ouzo & Olive
0.2 km
Discover authentic Greek tapas and warm hospitality in the historic heart of Caernarfon at Ouzo & Olive.
Tafarn Y Porth - JD Wetherspoon
0.2 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.
Osteria
0.2 km
Experience authentic Tuscan cuisine in a cozy, welcoming Italian restaurant nestled in the heart of Caernarfon.
Sheeps and Leeks
0.2 km
An intimate fine dining experience in Caernarfon celebrating Welsh produce through expertly crafted tasting menus in a cozy historic setting.
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.
Galeri Café Bar
0.3 km
Enjoy fresh local flavors and stunning waterfront views at Galeri Café Bar, Caernarfon’s cozy hub for breakfast and casual dining.
Caernarfon Tandoori Restaurants
0.3 km
Authentic Indian flavors and tandoori specialties served in a spacious, friendly setting in the heart of Caernarfon.
Y Gegin Fach
0.3 km
Family-run cafe in Caernarfon serving hearty Welsh classics and homemade British dishes in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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.
Lwsi
0.2 km
Discover unique sustainable fashion treasures in Caernarfon’s charming secondhand boutique nestled within medieval town walls.
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.
Craftcentre Cymru
0.2 km
Discover authentic Welsh handmade crafts and unique gifts in the heart of historic Caernarfon, opposite the iconic castle.
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.
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.
Siop iard Caernarfon
0.2 km
Discover handcrafted Welsh jewellery and crafts at Siop Iard Caernarfon, a unique boutique celebrating local artistry and heritage.
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.
Castle Gift Shop
0.3 km
Explore the charm of Wales at Castle Gift Shop, your destination for unique souvenirs and local crafts in Caernarfon.
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.
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.
Peacocks
0.3 km
Affordable fashion for men, women, and children in Caernarfon’s Caolfan shopping center.
Miss Sophie
0.4 km
Discover unique Welsh gifts and local treasures at Miss Sophie, a charming boutique in the heart of Caernarfon.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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.
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.
Anglesey Arms
0.2 km
Historic harbourfront pub and inn in Caernarfon offering cozy rooms, hearty Welsh fare, and stunning views of Menai Strait and Caernarfon Castle.
The hole in the wall
0.2 km
Authentic Welsh pub with historic charm, lively events, and welcoming locals in the heart of Caernarfon.
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.
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.
Ship & Castle
0.2 km
A lively and welcoming pub in Caernarfon, where friendly locals and traditional charm create the perfect spot to relax and socialize.
The Morgan Lloyd
0.3 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.
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.
Yr Alex
0.6 km
Experience authentic Welsh hospitality and local brews in the cozy, welcoming atmosphere of Yr Alex, Caernarfon’s beloved traditional pub.
The Eagles
0.6 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
- Romantic
- Adventurous
- Unique
- Tranquil
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Heritage Neighborhoods
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
- Requires Hike
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Pet Friendly
