The 7 Best Castles in Powys, Wales

November 25, 2021 Leonarda Pillsbury

Wales' spectacular scenic rural heartland, and the site of Brecon Beacons National Park, Powys is a lush land of verdant mountain valleys, craggy caves and quirky towns. The staunchly nationalistic area offers appealing outdoors opportunities. Canter on horseback through the rugged Brecon Beacons mountain range. Walk or cycle the charming valleys. Other draws are commanding Powis Castle near Welshpool and the Centre for Alternative Technology, a sustainable development center, near Machynlleth.
Restaurants in Powys

1. Powis Castle

Red Lane,, Welshpool Wales
Excellent
80%
Good
20%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

5.0 based on 10 reviews

Powis Castle

Reviewed By AbergeleAnJ - Newtown, United Kingdom

As a National Trust member we booked a visiting time. First time visiting Powis castle and it won’t be the last - really lovely gardens and grounds - can’t wait to come back when the castle reopens

2. Powis Castle and Garden

Welshpool SY21 8RF Wales +44 1938 551944 https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/powis-castle-and-garden
Excellent
69%
Good
23%
Satisfactory
6%
Poor
1%
Terrible
1%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 1,941 reviews

Powis Castle and Garden

This medieval castle, originally built as a fortress, houses one of the most beautiful and extensive collections of treasures from India.

Reviewed By 655dawnydawn

Well worth a visit beautiful inside castle and out.Gardens immaculate lots to learn and helpful friendly guides.Tea and coffee reasonably priced in coffee shop at bottom of gardens.

3. Montgomery Castle

Rail Welshpool 8m (12.9km) On hill above Montgomery town centre, Montgomery Wales http://cadw.gov.wales/daysout/montgomerycastle/?lang=en
Excellent
54%
Good
36%
Satisfactory
9%
Poor
0%
Terrible
1%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 258 reviews

Montgomery Castle

Reviewed By gordonl749 - London, United Kingdom

The castle and its numerous information boards is a good place to learn about the importance of Montgomery in the context of its location overlooking one of the most important routes in and out of Wales. Located on a craggy peak which dominates the landscapes for many miles, the car park is very well located for both the able bodied as well as those of society who are less mobile (eg wheel chair or walking stick users). Situated less than three miles from an ancient fording point of the River Severn it is easy to understand why a fort should be built here- it is a great location for a large detachment of troops and cavalry, thus offering the opportunity for control of the river/border crossing point when required. The castle is badly ruined but easy to understand how it looked. Besides history, if you wish to see extensive views of the landscape, this castle is a must. A visit would last 60 minutes max. In poor weather or winter, dress up warmly.

4. Dolforwyn Castle

Dolforwyn Cottage Dolforwyn, Montgomery SY15 6JG Wales +44 1443 336000 http://cadw.wales.gov.uk/daysout/dolforwyncastle
Excellent
49%
Good
44%
Satisfactory
7%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 45 reviews

Dolforwyn Castle

Reviewed By gordonl749 - London, United Kingdom

Part of the story of Welsh/English conflict, this set of ruins is worth a visit for its history and the extensive views. Beware the steep slope to the site (impossible to those with impaired mobility). The castle has several information boards thereon, which brings the place to life. Well worth a quick visit if you are passing by.

5. Castle Book Store

Hay-on-Wye Wales
Excellent
37%
Good
31%
Satisfactory
22%
Poor
6%
Terrible
4%
Overall Ratings

4.0 based on 67 reviews

Castle Book Store

Combine a love of reading with history at this unique bookstore that is housed in an entire 12th-century castle.

Reviewed By 923Dan - Swindon, United Kingdom

Walking through the grounds of Hay Castle, we came across the Castle Book Store. An honesty book store with no shop keeper, where people are free to browse the books and purchase them by putting money into a slot. I think it was only £1 per book. We did look, but couldn't find anything to our likening, but still an excellent local charity venture!

6. Bronllys Castle

Bronllys Wales http://www.castlewales.com/bronllys.html
Excellent
36%
Good
50%
Satisfactory
14%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

4.0 based on 14 reviews

Bronllys Castle

7. Hay Castle

Castle St, Hay-on-Wye HR3 5DF Wales http://haycastletrust.org
Excellent
14%
Good
45%
Satisfactory
32%
Poor
6%
Terrible
3%
Overall Ratings

3.5 based on 69 reviews

Hay Castle

This place is temporarily closed.

Reviewed By dougy222 - Milton Keynes, United Kingdom

Slightly disappointed that we were unable to access the castle due to renovation. I am sure that a future trip will be in order. Hope the renovation goes well. Doug

ThingsTodoPost © 2018 - 2024 All rights reserved.