Visitors to the historic Conwy Castle in North Wales have expressed their dissatisfaction with the site, describing it as a “death trap” due to steep stairs and a lack of disabled access. The 13th-century fortress, constructed under the orders of King Edward I, has become a subject of criticism on review platforms like TripAdvisor, where users have shared their concerns about safety and accessibility.
Constructed between 1283 and 1289, Conwy Castle is part of a series of fortifications designed to establish English dominance over Wales. Despite its rich history and status as a filming location for HBO‘s House of the Dragon, some visitors seem unprepared for the realities of exploring a medieval structure.
One visitor, Sonia, noted the lack of access for disabled individuals, stating, “The only access is via 15 stone steps, so unless you’re able-bodied and sure-footed, you cannot go in.” Others echoed her sentiments, highlighting the challenges posed by the castle’s uneven paths and steep walls. Simon, another reviewer, remarked on the potential dangers, saying, “People should be warned in advance if you don’t like heights; save your money. Obviously, it’s a medieval castle, so uneven paths, steps, etc., are normal.”
The design of Conwy Castle has also drawn criticism. Some visitors complained about the narrow windows in the towers, which are actually arrow slits, with one traveler expressing frustration that they were too narrow for photographs. This sentiment was shared by others who felt that the ancient structure did not cater to modern expectations.
Others have taken to the review platform to defend the castle against what they perceive as unreasonable complaints. A user named Spikeyd responded to the criticisms by stating, “This is an old castle and is going to have narrow staircases and precipitous walls. Imagine the cost of cleaning all the bird faeces and picking up the rubbish that ignorant people drop down the bottom of the towers…so I think the price was pretty fair.”
Spikeyd also emphasized the importance of understanding the historical context of such sites, urging visitors to educate themselves before visiting. “Don’t go if you are scared of heights; it’s a 13th-century castle designed to defend the river and protect the people,” they said.
The influx of visitors has raised concerns about the safety of navigating the castle, particularly for families. MWK, another reviewer, noted the difficulties faced by those with mobility issues, stating, “We are not steady on our feet and struggled over uneven polished stones and watched families with pushchairs and wheelchairs really struggle.”
As the conversation continues, it is clear that while Conwy Castle holds a significant place in Welsh history, it also presents challenges that modern visitors must navigate. The varied feedback highlights the need for improved communication regarding the castle’s accessibility and safety features, ensuring that all visitors can appreciate its historical significance while remaining safe during their visit.
