Dolbadarn Castle

Dolbadarn Castle is a medieval fortress in Llanberis, Wales, perched on a rocky hilltop between two lakes and featuring a round tower about 50 feet (15 m) tall. The keep overlooks the Llanberis Pass through Snowdonia National Park and displays slate construction typical of Welsh castles from this era.

Prince Llywelyn the Great built the castle between 1220 and 1240 to guard the strategic mountain pass between Caernarfon and the Conwy Valley. The structure served as a key control point for Welsh princes in the region during the medieval period.

The castle shows features of Welsh military design through its slate walls and round keep, which differ from English fortifications built at the same time. The construction reflects building traditions that were common in this mountainous region.

The castle is accessible daily and admission is free, though a paid parking area sits nearby for visitors. Strong walking shoes are recommended as the climb to the hilltop is steep and rocky.

The round tower once served as a prison where Owain Goch ap Gruffydd was held captive for more than twenty years by his brother Llywelyn ap Gruffydd. This extended imprisonment was a dramatic chapter in the history of Welsh ruling families.

Location: Llanberis

Inception: 1220

Elevation above the sea: 136.8 m

Made from material: slate

Website: https://cadw.gov.wales/visit/places-to-visit/dolbadarn-castle

GPS coordinates: 53.11658,-4.11420

Latest update: December 7, 2025 20:20