Brynffanigl Castle

You'll find Brynffanigl Castle perched above Abergele, and it's one of those Welsh fortifications that rewards a bit of effort to reach. What's here is essentially the remains of a medieval stronghold - stone walls, earthworks, the bones of what was once a proper defensive position. The views across the Vale of Clwyd are worth the scramble alone, and on a clear day you can see right across to the Clwydian Range.

Historically minded visitors will get the most from this one. It's not a fully reconstructed castle with visitor facilities or interpretation boards - you're looking at ruins that require some imagination to piece together. Families with younger kids might find it a bit underwhelming; there's walking involved and limited facilities, though older children who enjoy a bit of exploration and spot-the-stone-foundation archaeology will be fine here.

Access appears to be free, and you can visit whenever you fancy. Allow an hour or so if you're taking your time with photos and soaking in the views. It's close enough to Abergele that you could easily combine it with a seaside afternoon, and it sits well within a broader North Wales castle-spotting trip - Conwy Castle is only a short drive away if you want something altogether grander.

Getting there requires a bit of map work and a reasonable walk from the nearest road, so check conditions first. This is one for the dedicated, not the casual drive-by tourist.