Conwy

Welcome to Conwy, a place where the jagged ridges of the Eryri mountains, formerly known as Snowdonia, tumble down to meet the cold, grey waters of the Irish Sea. We are standing at the threshold of one of the most magnificent,…

We begin our exploration at the West Barbican, the primary entrance to Conwy Castle. Stand here for a moment and look up at the sheer, vertical face of the dark grey limestone. …

Emerging from the darkness of the barbican, you now step into the expansive open space of the Outer Ward. This was the beating, sweating, and noisy heart of the military garrison. …

We now transition from the chaotic realm of the soldiers into a much more exclusive and highly protected zone. Passing through a remarkably thick, ten-foot-wide defensive wall, you enter the Inner Ward. …

Of the eight massive, circular towers that stud the perimeter of Conwy Castle, one holds a particularly sacred and secretive interior. As we enter the Chapel Tower, we explore the intersection of medieval military might and…

Leaving the towering confines of the castle, we now ascend to one of Conwy's most spectacular and unique features: the medieval town walls. Stretching for nearly a full mile, this continuous circuit of fortified stone completely…

Descending from the lofty heights of the town walls, we find ourselves standing in the bustling, open space of Lancaster Square. This area acts as a crucial transition point in our journey, where the rigid military history of the…

Continuing our walk down the gentle slope of the High Street, the austere, grey military stone of the medieval era gives way to a breathtaking explosion of sixteenth-century wealth. Here stands Plas Mawr, which translates from…

Tucked quietly behind the commercial bustle of the High Street lies an oasis of profound serenity: Saint Mary and All Saints Church. While the castle tends to dominate the skyline and the imagination, this modest stone structure…

For our final exploration, we pass through the dark stone archway of the Lower Gate and step out onto the vibrant, sunlit Quayside. The contrast is immediate and refreshing. …

As our journey through the streets and centuries of Conwy draws to a close, take a final moment to look back at the town from the edge of the water. The evening light often works a particular magic here, softening the harsh, grey…