Medieval Castles Collection

This land, much lusted after by the invading Normans after 1066, became part of the battle ground for the defense of Wales, a defense so passionately and vigorously carried out by the locals that the invaders saw fit to adorn the landscape with robust symbols of their power.

To our good fortune, these stone battlements have lasted the ravages of time, so pay a visit to some of those mentioned below and let yourself be transported back in time!

Sitting on the coastline in a beautiful setting at the mouth of the river Tâf, Laugharne is a well preserved medieval castle and Tudor mansion dating from the 13th Century. Over the years it's walls have seen plenty of turmoil between the invading Normans and the local Welsh Princes.

More about Laugharne here.

Check the castle website for entry prices and further details: cadw.gov.wales

On the Wales Coast Path walking route, 12th Century Llansteffan castle commands the hillside above the River Tywi and boasts spectacular views across the Llansteffan coastline, River Tywi, Carmarthen Bay and beyond. Not only was the castle an ancient stronghold of the Normans but further back in time it was the site of an Iron Age hill fort.

Access is steep, with rough ground and not suitable for the disabled.

More on Llansteffan here.

This is a fine example of Norman castle 'technology' in Wales, having inner and outer ring defenses. An imposing monument to Norman heritage, planted on the edge of the river Gwendraeth in the ancient village of Kidwelly. Constructed in the 13th Century to replace its original wooden fortifications, the castle underwent several modifications to adapt to the military thinking of the day.

There's limited parking at the castle frontage but more free parking in Kidwelly village.

The site is on the National Cycle Network Route 4.

More on Kidwelly here.

Check the castle website for entry prices, opening times, events & further details: cadw.gov.wales

Archaeological evidence suggests that the site was occupied from early prehistoric times. The present castle dates to the 13th Century and is undoubtedly one of the most spectacularly set castles in Wales! Experience the breathtaking views across the Carmarthenshire countryside in all directions or perhaps explore the underground limestone cave leading downwards from the south east corner of the castle (torch required - be extremely careful!).

Tea rooms, toilets, parking and gift shop at the adjoining rare breeds, hillside farm, visit carregcennencastle.com for more information.

On the northern edge of the gower Peninsula and facing the open marshland of the Loughor estuary, Weobley Castle is a fine example of a fortified manor house, built in the early 13th century, it's walls underwent modifcations and fortification to reflect the often turbulent times between the 13th and 15th centuries.

On occassion being attacked and damaged by the forces of Owain Glyndŵr (the last Welshman to hold the 'Prince of Wales' title).

Check the castle website for entry prices, opening times & further details: cadw.gov.wales

This 12th century castle, former bastion of the Lord Rhys (ruler of the south Wales kingdom of Deheubarth), sits within the grounds of the National Trust's Dinefwr Park Estate. Perched high up on the cliffs edging the river Tywi near the village of Llandeilo, you'll get spectacular views along the Tywi valley from the well preserved ramparts.

Entry to the castle is through Dinefwr Park, it's free if your walking (from Llandeilo village), but there's a parking charge if you take the car into the Park. Take the opportunity to visit the adjoining historic Newton House and deer park with museum, displays, tea rooms, gardens, park walks and organised events. More park details here.

Check the castle website for further castle details: cadw.gov.wales

An early 12th century castle, once belonging to the 'Lords of Gower', overlooks the village of Mumbles and Swansea Bay. A noteable feature is the chapel area, added in the 14th century, some of it's fine architectural details still remain.

Sea front, shops, restaurants and pubs are close to the castle, while parking is on the approach road to the castle or 'Pay and Display' in Mumbles village.

Check the castle website for prices, events and further details: swansea.gov.uk

13th century castle, perched atop a Tywi valley hillside, panoramic, breathtaking countryside views along the river valley in all directions. The most amazing sunrises looking east. Adjacent parking is free, but has a steep, rough climb up to the castle, not suitable for wheelchairs or pushchairs. No facilities.

Spectacular location overlooking Three Cliffs Bay and Penmaen Burrows, a 13th century castle, sadly abandoned in the late 14th century because of sand encroachment. It's on the Wales Coast Path route through The Gower. No facilities. Not disabled friendly. Reached by foot only. Parking at the National Trust car park, Southgate. Open all year.