Tourists visiting the historic Conwy Castle in North Wales have expressed dissatisfaction over the very features that make the 13th-century fortress notable. Complaints about the castle’s winding stairs, elevated battlements, and lack of disabled access have emerged on TripAdvisor, highlighting a disconnect between expectations and the reality of experiencing a medieval structure.
Constructed between 1283 and 1289 under the orders of King Edward I, Conwy Castle is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a significant example of medieval military architecture. It was part of an “iron ring” of fortifications designed to assert English dominance over Wales. Despite its historical importance, some visitors have described it as a “death trap” due to its steep steps and narrow paths.
Sonia, one of the reviewers, pointed out the absence of disabled access, stating, “The only access is via 15 stone steps, so unless you’re able-bodied and sure-footed, you cannot go in.” This sentiment was echoed by others who noted the challenges posed by the uneven surfaces and heights. Simon remarked, “People should be warned in advance if you don’t like heights; save your money.”
Visitors have shared various concerns regarding safety. One individual noted, “Hoards of visitors clambering up precarious narrow parapets and towers on steep steps is an accident waiting to happen.” Another visitor reflected on their experience, saying, “We are not steady on our feet and struggled over uneven polished stones.”
A few visitors have also taken issue with the castle’s design features, specifically the arrow slits that serve as windows. One tourist reported hearing an American visitor complain about these openings being too narrow for photographs, unaware of their historical purpose.
In response to the critical reviews, some patrons defended the castle’s authenticity. A reviewer named Spikeyd criticized the complaints, stating, “This is an old castle and is going to have narrow staircases and precipitous walls.” They emphasized the importance of understanding the historical context before visiting, adding, “Young children should be supervised due to the nature of castle walls.”
Although the castle remains a popular tourist destination, the mixed reviews highlight the challenges of balancing preservation with modern accessibility needs. As visitors continue to flock to Conwy Castle, it remains to be seen how the management will address these concerns while maintaining the site’s historical integrity.
