Castell Cricieth

Location: Castle Street, Criccieth, Gwynedd LL52 0DP

Telephone: 03000 252239

Email: cadw@gov.wales

Website: www.cadw.gov.wales

Closed: 

1st April – 2nd Nov: Tues/Wed – CLOSED

3rd Nov – 31st Mar: Mon – Thurs – CLOSED

Perched on a headland surrounded by the sea, Castell Cricieth is an impressive sight. Its twin-towered gatehouse intimidates prospective attackers. So badly did the native Welsh princes and English monarchs want it, that it changed hands more often than a relay baton! Owain Glyn Dŵr sealed Criccieth’s fate when his troops captured and burnt the castle in the early years of the 15th century. This was to be the last major Welsh rebellion against the English. 

Castell Cricieth may also have given the name to the town rather than the other way round. Its suggested origins are ‘crug caeth’ – ‘crug’ (hill in Welsh), ‘caith’ (captives) – the name given to the jail on the hill, a function once held by the castle. Buy an ice-cream, there’s a lot of history to digest!

Image © Crown copyright (2025) Cadw

Offer for YAC Pass holders:
Free entry with a YAC Pass Card when accompanied by a paying adult