King's Gate Caernarfon Castle

Gwynedd, Wales

Selwyn Goldsmith Awards Citation

The restoration and revitalisation of Caernarfon Castle underscore a commitment to inclusion, accessibility, and thoughtful design, with the aim of ensuring that this historic monument becomes a welcoming space for all. 

Placing people at the centre of the project, an environment has been created where everyone, regardless of ability, can enjoy and appreciate the rich heritage of Caernarfon Castle. A pivotal element of the project is the bespoke panoramic lift, a feat in engineering and design that addresses challenges of positioning, visual impacts, and sightlines. The lift, a standalone yet celebratory intervention, employs steel and glass to provide level access from the main entrance to the first-floor café and out to the battlements. It not only facilitates accessibility but adds a contemporary and reversible touch to the historic structure. The 8-person lift car, with bilingual instructions in Welsh and English, incorporates battery backup for emergency evacuation, ensuring safety and inclusivity. 

Recognising that true inclusivity involves attention to both large-scale facilities and smaller, nuanced details, the project focused on improving lighting, reconfiguring pathways for level access, and introducing ramped floors. The commitment to diverse accessibility needs is further evident in the incorporation of three accessible WCs and a Changing Places facility within the castle’s interior. This goes beyond physical access, respecting users’ dignity by providing amenities within the historical context rather than in detached facilities. Intellectual access is promoted through sculptures and features that tell the story of “The Hands That Built the Castle,” highlighting the diverse individuals who played crucial roles in the castle’s construction. Information panels accompanying each sculpture invite visitors to delve into the lives and stories of these historical figures, fostering a deeper connection beyond the architectural marvel. 

To enhance the understanding of the site’s history, a new audio guide has been developed, available in multiple languages, offering visitors insight into the stories surrounding the King’s Gate and the broader castle. This addition not only broadens access but also caters to diverse linguistic backgrounds. This project stands as a beacon of inclusive design and accessibility, emphasising not only physical accommodations but also intellectual engagement with the rich history encapsulated within the castle’s walls.

Judges’ Comments: “The thoughtful integration of modern elements into this historical monument serves as a model for creating spaces that are welcoming, informative, and accessible to a diverse range of visitors.”