Staycations are very popular this summer, and if you are staying at home then consider taking a trip to Wales and exploring some of the five hundred castles that are in the area. Some are falling down, some have been restored to their former glory, and some have spectacular views across Wales, but all have a story and are well worth visiting.
Caernarfon Castle is mostly intact after seven hundred years, but can give you a real feel of how people lived. The thin corridors and winding stairs are beautiful, but when the wind blows its cold and drafty. It was once a motte and bailey castle and is now a UNESCO world heritage site, and is where Prince Charles received his official title. It was last used in a war in the English civil war by the royalists, and then remained neglected until the 19th century. It differs from other castles of its time as its towers were built in a hexagonal shape as opposed to the normal circular design. This was designed to emulate the castles and churches in Constantinople. There are two main entrances in the castle, which differs from most.
Conwy castle is near Manchester, and is another UNESCO world heritage site and also a scheduled ancient monument. The castle dates back to 1282, and the castle was one of the ‘iron ring' that protected the English safe when fortifying their empire. The castle has fortified gateways and eight towers to give a really grand feel. The spiral staircases give you views over the town. The castle has an inner and outer ward which was protected by four towers to ensure maximum safety.
Bodelwyddan Caste was never really a castle but a building designed by a rich family to emulate the grandeur of a castle. It is now used as a branch of the national portrait gallery.
Visit Denbigh castle in the north, completed in 1295 and offering a fantastic view of the countryside. It is less glamorous than the others, but well worth the trip.
If you are looking to travel this summer then make sure you have Holiday Insurance to cover you against an accident or cancellation that could ruin your trip.
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