Why a castle?
You may be wondering, why a castle?
Wales is a proud Celtic nation known for its rich history of castles. Even though the modern world has evolved, Welsh castles not only provide a lasting reminder of our heritage and strength, but draw visitors to Wales to explore their grandeur, architecture and stories of knights and royalty.
Did you know?
Wales is often called “the Castle Capital of the World” and quite rightly so. There are more than 600 castles found within the Welsh borders, with some sources suggesting there may have been over 1,000 at one time.
Castles are fitting for the Wales Air Ambulance, as not only do castles represent Welsh heritage but they serve every area of the country, just like our Charity, which serves patients all over Wales when they need us the most. I am sure you would agree, our crews are our very own knights in shining armour!
Would you have fort…
There are more castles in Wales per square metre than any other country in Europe.
- Caerphilly Castle is the largest castle in Wales and is the second largest in the UK, with Windsor being first. Massive walls, towers and gatehouses were combined with water defences to cover an area of 30 acres.
- Beaumaris Castle in Anglesey is known as the ‘greatest castle never built’. Work was halted due to a lack of funds and work never resumed, although you would never tell from its impressive fortification.
- Caernarfon Castle took a staggering 47 years to build and cost £25,000. On 1st July 1969, Prince Charles (now King Charles III) was invested in the castle, which is one of the most busiest castles in Wales.
- Gwrych Castle in North Wales was the location for I’m A Celebrity Get Me Out of Here due to Covid-19 restrictions, Penrhyn Castle was used in the filming of Watchmen and Kidwelly Castle featured in the opening scene of Monty Python’s Holy Grail.
- Poet Dylan Thomas once worked in Swansea Castle as a young reporter in the newspaper offices which are now demolished.
- Craig Y Nos Castle in the Brecon Beacons has become known as the most haunted castle in Wales. It’s owner opera singer Adelina Patti’s ghost is said to still haunt the popular venue.
Fun activity:
With so many castles in Wales, we would love to see them all. What is your local castle? Can you take a picture of yourself with it and share it with us.
‘Keep’ in touch
‘Keep’ in touchDon’t miss out on this moat-ally unique opportunity!
- Raise your profile in the city
- Engage with new audiences
- Generate massive social media content and activity
- Engage employees and raise team spirits
- Facilitate new stakeholder relationships
- Raise vital funds for Wales Air Ambulance
- Help your city to benefit from significant economic, cultural and social benefits
- Increase footfall to important local attractions
- Associate your brand with a high-profile and hugely popular event
