Caernarfon

Caernarfon is a market town steeped in history, on the edge of the mountainous Snowdonia National Park in north west Wales.

Few British towns can claim to have been inhabited without a break since pre Roman times, and there’s lots of evidence of the town’s historical past. In the vicinity of the town there are many prehistoric remains, and in the town itself are the ruins of Segontium, a Roman military fort.

The focal point of Caernarfon though is its vast castle built by Edward I, and was the largest of his ‘iron ring’ of fortresses built whilst conquering north Wales. It is undoubtedly one of the most architecturally impressive castles in the country, with a strong Eastern Roman influence. Edward I’s firstborn son was born in the castle, which is why it is now customary to call the first born son of a British monarch the Prince of Wales. This tradition still lives, and the castle was the venue for Prince Charles’ investiture in 1969.

There are a wide selection of shops, good eating places and places to stay. It is also a great base for exploring the Snowdonia National Park.