The town is best known for Harlech Castle, begun in 1283 by Edward I of England, captured by Owain Glyndŵr, and later the stronghold of Henry Tudor. The castle was originally built next to the sea, but geological processes have changed the shape of the coastline, and the castle now lies on a cliff face, about half a mile inland. The town has since developed with housing estates on the flat low town area and hillside properties in the high town around the shopping street, church and castle. The two areas are linked by a steep and winding road called Twtil.
The town is also the home of Wales' only long term adult residential college, Coleg Harlech, also known as the college of second chance.
Theatr Harlech (formerly called Theatr Ardudwy) is located on the Coleg Harlech campus and stages a varied selection of plays, music and films throughout the year.
Ysgol Ardudwy is the county secondary school for children between the ages of 11-16.
