Castell y Bere
Architectural ingenuity and natural advantages combine in a must-visit Welsh-built fortress
It may be remote. But it’s a magnet for all castle lovers. Strung along a jagged rocky outcrop in the Dysynni Valley at the foot of Cader Idris, Castell y Bere is especially good at evoking the spirit and atmosphere of Wales’s native castles. Built by Welsh ruler Llywelyn ap Iorwerth (Llywelyn the Great) to protect Gwynedd’s southern frontier, construction began in 1221 with the castle remaining in use until 1294.
Though much of the Castell y Bere’s strength can be attributed to its commanding location, its design is a testament to the ingenuity of its Welsh architects. The sophisticated entrance featuring two gatehouses with drawbridges and possibly portcullises was extremely advanced for its time, even by the standards of English fortifications.
Opening times & prices
Opening times
| 1st April - 31st March | Open all year |
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Open all year — during reasonable daylight hours Closed 24, 25, 26 December and 1 January |
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Visitor information
Bike storage
Dogs welcome
Drone policy
No smoking
Directions
Google MapPostcode LL36 9TS
For further information, please contact: Traveline Cymru on 0800 464 0000 or National Rail Enquiries on 03457 48 49 50.
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