Historical and heritage sites to visit in Snowdonia
This page is under development so keep checking back
Wales is a land of legends - there’s a story around almost every corner and Snowdonia is especially rich in these tales. Some stories are true - some are maybe just myth but they’re all worth listening to.
Here are some places to visit to see our history and heritage and to hear the legends. You need to decide which is true and which is just a tale.
Take a look at the places here or call me for more suggestions or information.
Castles
Wales is well known for its castles. We have some of the more famous ones within a short drive of our accommodation but there are some lesser known ones that are well worth a visit too.
A World Heritage Site. One of Edward I's many castles built to "control" the Welsh. The birth place of the first English Prince of Wales and the site of Prince Charles' investiture in 1969.
A native Welsh castle, probably begun by Prince Llywelyn ab Iorwerth around 1221. The now remote castle once controlled an important route.
Very little is known about this local castle. It may've been built by Llewelyn ab Iowerth but may be earlier.
A World Heritage Site. Another of Edward 1's many castles built to "control" the Welsh.
Another spectacular location and another Edward 1 castle. Originally built by Llywelyn the Great.
Spectacular location on the edge of Llanberis. This is an early 13th century castle probably built by Llywelyn ab Iorwerth.
A craggy location, over looking an important mountain pass. Built by Llywelyn Fawr in the early 13th century.
A World Heritage site. Harlech Castle sits onto of a near vertical cliff. Apparently one of Edward I's cheapest castles - mere £8,190 when it was built.
Many of these castles are managed by Cadw. If you are looking to visit several during your stay then it maybe worth while buying an Explorer Pass - click for details.
If you are an English Heritage member you can enter Cadw sites at a reduced rate or even free. See HERE
Heritage Sites
There are lots of outstanding places to visit that have added to our local heritage or that stand out in history. Here are some to start you off. More will be added.
This Cistercian abbey founded in 1189 is just off the A470 on the northern outskirts of Dolgellau.
In 2019 the slate landscape of Gwynedd is being put forward to UNESCO as the UK's preferred nomination for World Heritage Site status. Michael Ellis, the government's minister of arts, heritage and tourism said "Gwynedd's slate landscape is hugely important. Its vast quarries and mines have not only shaped the countryside of the region but also countless buildings across the UK and the World". Visit us NOW before the crowds come if it is successful in becoming the latest of our area's World Heritage Sites.
The home of poet Hedd Wyn is just down the road from our accommodation. The local shepherd, turned poet who was killed in World War I at the battle of Passchendaele. He is famous for winning "The Black Chair" at the 1917 National Eisteddfod in Birkenhead. An Oscar nominated film was made about his life "Hedd Wyn".
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