Conwy

The most expensive of all Edward I’s Welsh castles was Conwy Castle, which now attracts thousands of visitors each year to the town of Conwy in north Wales.

The castle itself cost around £15,000 in 1289 when it was completed – the equivalent of around £9,000,000 in modern terms. Standing 98 feet tall, the castle is a huge presence in the town, along with the Conwy Suspension Bridge that spans the River Conwy next to the castle.

The castle and bridge are by no means the only historic attractions in Conwy. Plas Mawr is one of the finest and best-preserved Elizabethan town houses in Britain and its looming, tall gatehouse, steeped gables and lookout tower date back to 1576.

Aberconwy House offers visitors a wonderful insight into the history of Conwy. It is the only medieval merchant’s house in Conwy to have survived in the town.

Accommodation in Conwy is plentiful and you can expect to enjoy a more comfortable stay than the former inhabitants of Britain’s smallest house, which can be found on the quayside in Conwy. The house’s last resident was 6 foot 3 inches tall and he couldn’t stand up inside the house!

The countryside around Conwy is ideal walking territory, while more adventurous souls can easily access Snowdonia’s mountains nearby. The Pensychnant Conservation Centre is home to a rich variety of local wildlife and Conwy Water Gardens are a must-see for visitors wishing to experience the more placid side of Conwy.