Castell Dolbadarn
Overview
Welsh castle and solitary guardian of Eryri's (Snowdonia’s) Llanberis Pass
Occupying a lofty, lonely spot overlooking the waters of Llyn Padarn, native-built Castell Dolbadarn was once a vital link in the defences of the ancient kingdom of Gwynedd. Most likely constructed by Llywelyn ap Iorwerth (Llywelyn the Great) in the late 12th or early 13th century, it stood watch over the strategic route inland from Caernarfon to the upper Conwy Valley.
Today the site is dominated by the sturdy round tower, very different in style to the unmortared slate slabs which make up the castle’s curtain walls. Standing 50ft/15.2m high, the tower’s design was probably inspired by that of similar fortresses built by Llywelyn’s rivals in the borderlands of the southern Marches.
Opening times
Daily 10am–4pm
Last admission 30 minutes before closing
Closed 24, 25, 26 December and 1 January
Prices
| Category | Price |
|---|---|
| Admission |
Free
|
Facilities
Local authority paying public car park available across the road from the castle.
Dogs on short leads welcome to access ground floor levels of the site.
Please read our policy information about flying drones at Cadw monuments: read the guidance
Smoking is not permitted.
Directions
1/2m (0.8km) SE of Llanberis, on A4086
Bangor 9m (14.5km).
NCN Route No.8 (12.7km/7.9mls).
Postcode LL55 4UB
For further information, please contact: Traveline Cymru on 0800 464 0000 or National Rail Enquiries on 03457 48 49 50.
