As you probably know, Wales does have plenty of castles. The counties of Carmarthenshire and Pembrokeshire in South West Wales are no exception. Wherever you go, the chances are you will be close to some old stronghold, fortress or castle ruins.
In no particular order, these are our 5 ‘must see’ castles which you can find in West Wales.
Pembroke Castle
A large, imposing castle in the centre of the town. Pembroke Castle was first constructed in 1093 during the Norman invasion of Wales. Although, the site itself has been used since Roman times.
It was the birthplace of the Tudor Dynasty. Henry VII, the first Tudor monarch was born in Pembroke Castle on 28th January 1457.
Watch our video about Pembroke Castle.
Kidwelly Castle
If you are a Monty Python fan you may recognise Kidwelly from the opening scene of the “Holy Grail”. The castle slowly emerges through the mist.
The castle overlooks the River Gwendraeth and the town. It was built by the Normans in the 12th century as a simple ‘ringwork’ structure made of wood and protected by an earth bank and ditch. In the 13th century, the stone castle was constructed.
Watch our video about Kidwelly Castle.
Carreg Cennen Castle
This Welsh Castle has a spectacular clifftop location on the western edge of the Brecon Beacons National Park near Llandeilo.
The first stone castle was built by Lord Rhys in the 12th century. In 1277, Carreg Cennen was captured by the English, recaptured by the Welsh in 1282 and the English again the following year.
The castle sits above a natural cave which you can explore via a vaulted passage.
Watch our video about Carreg Cennen Castle.
Llansteffan Castle
You can see why they built a castle here. Llansteffan Castle sits in a commanding position on a hill overlooking the Tywi Estuary. It was built by the Normans in the 12th century but it sits on the site of a much older Iron Age Fort dating from 600 BC.
As the Normans were an invading force, as you would expect, its early history was quite turbulent. It was captured by the Welsh and retaken by the Normans on several occasions.
Llansteffan is only about 12 miles by road from Laugharne Castle, it’s actually only about 4 miles west as the crow flies.
Watch our video about Llansteffan Castle.
Carew Castle
The present castle replaced an earlier Norman stone keep. Although recent excavations have found evidence of an early iron age fort on the site. Carew Castle has a mix of architectural styles as its use changed over the centuries from Norman fortress to splendid Elizabethan mansion.
Bizarrely, the castle is said to be haunted by a ghost of a black Barbary Ape named Satan.
Next to the castle is a millpond and a nearby tidal mill which is also open to the public.
Watch our video about Carew Castle.
More Castles
We have to give honourable mentions to Laugharne Castle and Dinefwr Castle in Carmarthenshire. Also, Manorbier Castle near Tenby, Pembrokeshire.
So, wherever you stay in this part of Wales you will be close to one of these dramatic ruins. Check out the links to find the up to date opening times and admission fee, a couple are still actually free to enter!
