"Little town, big castle." a Caernarfon Travel Page by leics

Caernarfon is most definitely on the tourist-coach-trail. Not surprising really: its magnificent castle is pretty impressive, and well worth exploring.

Built by Edward 1, completed around 1322, it stands guard over the sea and the river estuary. As an indication of English supremacy at the time it can't really be bettered.

Originally there was a motte and bailey castle on the site, but the remains of this were destroyed in 1870.

It's a particularly good castle to visit because it is so well preserved; lots of towers and corridors and battlements and nooks and crannies to explore. Caernarfon castle has more useful information and photos.

The strong walls of the castle encouraged the growth of the town within. Much of the walls still remains, although the town has expanded over the centuries and now spreads much further.

Caernarfon itself is pleasant enough for a day's castle exploration, gentle wander and cup of tea, or as a base for exploring further into Gwynedd. There's a Roman museum too, though I've not visited it.