From hidden caves to holy wells, Hannah Collins takes a tour around some of the most unique and historic castles and ruins in Wales to add to your travel list.

CASTELL COCH 

Also known in Wales as the Fairy Castle, Castell Coch is architect William Burges’ ode to the medieval era: each room lovingly transformed into a highly-detailed facsimile of its 13th-century origins for the Marques of Bute. Its rounded turrets poking out of Fforest Fawr have a real Disney-esque charm. 

Tongwynlais, Cardiff. Open: daily, 9.30am-6pm (July + Aug); until 5pm (Sept + Oct). Info: here

BEAUMARIS

Beaumaris was supposed to be Edward I’s greatest architectural achievement… until he ran out of money to finish it. Still, what did end up getting done before it was abandoned around 1320 is an incredible – and huge – symmetrical fortress, four-walled rings strong boasting 300 arrow loops.  

Beaumaris, Anglesey. Open: daily, 9.30am-6pm (July + Aug); until 5pm (Sept + Oct). Info: here

CASTELL Y BERE

Situated in the Dysynni Valley, Castell Y Bere is not the easiest on this list to get to – but your intrepid efforts will be rewarded with a pretty breathtaking sight. Built by Llywelyn The Great between 1221-94 to guard Gwynedd, the remote fort is also famous for its state-of-the-art design.

Llanfihangel y Pennant, northeast of Tywyn. Open: daily, 9.30am-4pm. Info: here

DOLWYDDELAN

Another Llywelyn the Great monument and another castle in Wales given a modern medieval makeover, Dolwyddelan stands dramatically against the Snowdonian mountains. Before Lord Willoughby de Eresby got his hands on it, Edward I nabbed it as a winter base – even dressing his soldiers in white to blend in.

Dolwyddelan, Blaenau Ffestiniog. Open: daily, 9.30am-4pm (external viewing only). Info: here

DIN LLIGWY

Of many Roman ruins dotted around Wales, Din Lligwy is, unintentionally, also one of the most atmospheric. At the time Britons were living there, around the third and fourth centuries, the trees that surround it weren’t there. Now, its seclusion and ring of stone foundations make it a little eerie.  

Near Moelfre, Anglesey. Open: daily, 9.30am-4pm. Info: here

DOLBADARN

Dolbadarn’s 50-foot tower is all that remains of this Llywelyn The Great stronghold, making for a very striking view against the lake and hills of Llanberis. So striking, in fact, it’s captured the imagination of artists over the years, from Turner to William Miller. 

South-east of Llanberis, Gwynedd. Open: daily, 10am-4pm. Info: here

PARYS MOUNTAIN

At first glance, the valleys of Parys Mountain could easily be mistaken for something out of Dune. It’s actually an old open copper mine used since the Bronze Age (including to fortify Nelson’s ships), which left the earth reddish and barren. Parys Underground Group now conduct tours through it.

South of Amlwch, Anglesey. To arrange a tour, visit here

LEICESTER’S CHURCH

What was supposed to be the best Protestant church in Britain post-Reformation stands in ruins in Denbigh. The Baron of the area, which it’s named after, wasn’t widely liked and couldn’t muster up the cash for completion, though he might be pleased to know it’s now a Grade I listed building. 

Bull Lane, Denbigh. Open: daily. Info: here

WOGAN’S CAVERN

Pembroke Castle is impressive enough alone to warrant a visit when in Wales, but the secret cavern underneath – used by cavemen, Romans and British kings alike – is something special. With steps that are apparently tricky to count, it’s now home to a colony of bats. 

Pembroke Castle, Pembrokeshire. Open: daily, 9.30am-5pm (Apr-Aug); 10am-5pm (Sept + Oct). Tickets: £6-£9.35; free under-3s. Info: here

WINIFRED’S WELL

Still an active pilgrimage site to this day, the cleansing waters of Winifred’s Well have a dark history: the Winifred in question was beheaded by a male pursuer, causing a spring to appear where her head landed. Rumoured healing properties led to a medieval chapel being erected around it. 

Plessington House, Holywell. Open: Sat + Sun 9am-5pm. Admission: 40p-£1.75. Info: here

words HANNAH COLLINS