Deganwy Castle
Sparse hilltop ruins offering breathtaking panoramic views of the North Wales coast, steeped in centuries of history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best visibility for views
Deganwy Castle
Best Time
Best visibility for views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Sparse hilltop ruins offering breathtaking panoramic views of the North Wales coast, steeped in centuries of history.
"The view from the top of Deganwy Castle has to be one of the best views in the whole of North Wales."
🥾 Wear Sturdy Footwear
The climb is steep and can be slippery. Walking boots are highly recommended for safety and comfort.
🧐 Bring Your Imagination
Not much remains but walls and foundations. A vivid imagination is key to appreciating its history.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Coastal Vistas
Summit of Deganwy Castle hill
Breathtaking 360-degree views of Llandudno, Conwy Castle, and the surrounding coastline.
Evocative Castle Ruins
Deganwy Castle site
Explore the sparse but atmospheric remains of a historic stronghold, sparking the imagination.
Coastal Path Walk
Deganwy Beach to Castle
Enjoy a scenic stroll along Deganwy beach before ascending to the castle ruins.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Steep Climb, Stunning Views
Uncover Ancient History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥾 Wear Sturdy Footwear
The climb is steep and can be slippery. Walking boots are highly recommended for safety and comfort.
🧐 Bring Your Imagination
Not much remains but walls and foundations. A vivid imagination is key to appreciating its history.
📸 Capture the Views
The panoramic vistas are spectacular, especially on a clear day. Don't forget your camera!
💨 Be Prepared for Wind
It can get very windy at the top, so dress accordingly.
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Wear Sturdy Footwear
The climb is steep and can be slippery. Walking boots are highly recommended for safety and comfort.
🧐 Bring Your Imagination
Not much remains but walls and foundations. A vivid imagination is key to appreciating its history.
📸 Capture the Views
The panoramic vistas are spectacular, especially on a clear day. Don't forget your camera!
💨 Be Prepared for Wind
It can get very windy at the top, so dress accordingly.
🗺️ Find the Hidden Path
The walkway can be tricky to find; look for a narrow opening between large walled gardens.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the absolutely stunning panoramic views from Deganwy Castle, calling them some of the best in North Wales. While the climb is steep and the ruins are sparse, most agree the effort is well worth it for the breathtaking scenery and evocative atmosphere.
"But if a steep walk up to the top, but well worth it. Fantastic panoramic view of Llandudno and Conwy.
To be clear there is no castle, just ruins of the outer walls and a little foundation."
Cooper Coops (Coop)
"On the hottest day of the year last year (in July) I decided to give this place a go. Beautiful landscapes and excellent clear views across the estuary. Also great views across to the Great Orme and to Llandudno.
It is a bit of a steep hike but reasonably a good walk if taken casually."
David Brough
"A little difficult to find, but once we found the walkway (which is a narrow opening between to large walled gardens) we had a lovely walk up to the site of this old castle. There's not much left to see and not a lot of interpretive material in the signs, but if you have a vivid imagination, and like scrambling up steep hills, then this is a place you'll love. The views from the tops of the hills are stunning as well."
Dan Haug
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Deganwy Castle is accessible via a walk from Deganwy village. The path to the ruins is steep and can be found between large walled gardens. Parking is available in Deganwy.
You can reach Deganwy village by bus or train. From there, it's a walk to the castle ruins. Check local transport schedules for the most up-to-date information.
Yes, there is parking available in Deganwy village, which is a short walk from the castle's base.
Many visitors enjoy a walk along Deganwy beach before ascending to the castle ruins.
While you can cycle to Deganwy village, the final ascent to the castle ruins is on foot and not suitable for bicycles.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Deganwy Castle is a historical site with ruins, and there is no admission fee. Entry is free for all visitors.
As an open-air historical site, Deganwy Castle does not have set opening hours and can be visited at any time. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and enjoyment.
There is no entrance fee to visit the ruins of Deganwy Castle. It's a free historical site to explore.
While official guided tours may not always be available, local enthusiasts sometimes offer insights. Check local tourism websites or community boards for potential offerings.
No booking is required as it's a free, open-access historical site. Simply plan your visit and head there!
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You'll find the sparse ruins of outer walls and foundations. It's a place that requires imagination to envision its past grandeur.
Yes, the walk is described as steep and not for the unfit. Sturdy footwear is essential.
The views are spectacular and panoramic, offering vistas of Llandudno, Conwy Castle, and the coastline.
There are no facilities such as restrooms or cafes at the castle ruins themselves. It's a natural site.
Allow about 1-2 hours, including the walk up and down, and time to enjoy the views and explore the ruins.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit offers the best panoramic shots. Look for angles that capture the ruins with the coastline in the background.
Early mornings or late afternoons during the golden hour provide beautiful light for photography. Clear days are essential for maximizing the views.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views. A telephoto lens can be useful for framing Conwy Castle in the distance.
No, photography is generally permitted for personal use. Be mindful of other visitors and the historical nature of the site.
Drone usage may be subject to local regulations. It's advisable to check with local authorities before flying a drone in the area.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider making it part of a larger outing, perhaps combining it with a visit to Deganwy beach or a drive to explore Conwy town. The historical aspect, even with limited remains, can be a great way to spark curiosity about the past.
🚶♀️ Hikers and View Enthusiasts
This is an ideal spot for photographers looking to capture dramatic coastal landscapes. The combination of historical ruins and breathtaking scenery makes it a popular choice for walkers exploring the North Wales coast.
🏰 History Buffs
Researching the figures like Maelgwn Gwynedd, Robert of Rhuddlan, and King Henry III beforehand can greatly enhance the experience. The location itself, offering commanding views, underscores why this site was so important throughout history.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Rich History of Deganwy Castle
This early Norman structure was later rebuilt in stone by Llewelyn ap Iorwerth (Llewelyn the Great) in 1213 after he captured it from the English. However, the most significant stone castle was constructed by King Henry III between 1245 and 1254. This elaborate fortress was intended to assert English dominance in the region. Despite its strategic importance, the castle eventually fell into ruin, with much of its stone likely repurposed for the construction of nearby Conwy Castle.
Today, visitors can explore the sparse remains, including outer walls and foundations, which still offer a glimpse into its formidable past. The location itself speaks volumes about its historical significance, providing excellent vantage points for defense and observation.
Navigating the Ascent and Views
The climb is described as steep and can be challenging, especially for those with limited mobility or on a hot day. It's crucial to wear sturdy walking boots as the path can become slippery, particularly after rain.
Finding the initial path can sometimes be a minor challenge, often described as a narrow opening between large walled gardens. Once on the trail, the ascent offers increasingly impressive views, making the effort feel worthwhile.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit