Tŵr Bryn Du

The tower itself is what stops you in your tracks - a sturdy stone structure rising from the hillside just outside Caernarfon, commanding views across the surrounding farmland. Tŵr Bryn Du is a medieval fortification, though these days it's fairly modest: expect a compact circular tower that's seen better days, but the kind of place that rewards a short detour if you're already in the area.

It's worth the walk if you're interested in Welsh defensive history, though I'll be honest, you won't spend hours here. The setting matters more than the structure itself - the walk up takes ten minutes, and the views back towards Caernarfon Castle make the effort worthwhile. On a clear day you can see proper distance. Families with young kids might find it a bit underwhelming on its own, but if they're already doing the Caernarfon Circuit, it slots in fine.

Access appears to be free and unrestricted, though details are thin on the ground - there's no visitor centre or facilities, so come prepared. Early morning or late afternoon light works best if you're after photos. The nearby campsites - Cae Du and Beddgelert are closest - make decent bases for exploring this part of Gwynedd. Combine it with Caernarfon Castle proper for a fuller sense of medieval North Wales.