At the end of the 13th century Edward I invaded Wales determined that the locals would submit to his divine right to rule. He achieved this with stone building a mighty ‘iron ring’ of fortresses with which he encircled the rebellious Welsh princes in their Snowdonian stronghold. This iron ring consisted of Harlech, in the south, and Caernarfon, Colwyn, and a little later, Beaumaris in the north and east.
If you are planning a holiday in Snowdonia, then you really must find time to visit one of our historic castles. Harlech Castle is a world heritage site which towers above Cardigan Bay atop a spur of rock. The castle was built by Edward I in the 13th century as part of his formidable ‘iron ring’ of fortresses designed to keep a watchful eye over the troublesome Welsh. The other iron ring castles, at Conwy, Caernarfon, and Beaumaris, are within a day’s marching distance of each other and can be similarly supplied from the sea.