A trip to Wales just wouldn’t be complete without visiting a castle or two. It’s estimated that there are over 600 castles – some grand and some just small ruins now – across the country. As such, you’re never too far from a wealth of stunning historical sights, no matter where you’re staying!
The Best Castles West Wales
Here are some of the most noteworthy castles to visit in Pembrokeshire, Carmarthenshire and Ceredigion, encouraging you to step back in time and learn more about the area’s rich heritage.
- Pembroke Castle
- Carew Castle
- Manorbier Castle
- Laugharne Castle
- Kidwelly Castle
- Dinefwr Castle
- Cardigan Castle
Ideal for a peaceful stroll or the perfect backdrop for a family picnic, a castle trip always makes for a memorable day out.
Why Are There So Many Castles in Wales?
The Norman invasion of 1066 heralded an influx of castle-building across England and Wales. Over the following centuries, there were various conflicts between the Welsh and the English, with the castles serving as key military strongholds.
With easily defensible mountains and valleys, the geography of Wales also plays a part in the prevalence of castles. Many Norman castles were also sites for Roman and Iron Age forts, highlighting their use as strategic positions throughout the ages.
Many castles were destroyed or ‘slighted’ on the order of Oliver Cromwell during the English Civil War, accounting for several of the ruins you see today.
Pembroke Castle
Pembroke Castle dates back over 900 years, providing plenty of history and stories to get lost in. Most of the fortress remains intact, allowing for a fun-filled day; plus, the site hosts some great exhibits where you can learn about the castle’s medieval past.
While visiting, explore the imposing Great Keep, Dungeon Tower and the birthplace of Henry VII, the first Tudor monarch. Set overlooking the banks of the Pembroke River, you’ll also get to enjoy picturesque views of the surrounding area.
Staying in one of our Pembrokeshire holiday cottages? The castle is a must-visit attraction while you’re visiting!
Pembroke Castle by Athena Flickr / CC BY 2.0
Carew Castle
Just a 10-minute drive outside of Pembroke, you’ll find another castle: Carew Castle. The castle here is less extensive than Pembroke Castle but offers an equally fascinating history – it was once the Norman centre of power in South Pembrokeshire before being updated and extended in Tudor times.
The castle’s remains sit beside a restored Tidal Mill, which, in its current form, dates back to the early 19th Century. Other intriguing features of the castle and wider site include several ghosts, which are said to haunt it!
Carew Castle by Mick Lobb / CC BY-SA 2.0
Manorbier Castle
Another Pembrokeshire treasure, Manorbier Castle is just a 15-minute drive from Tenby. Perched upon the cliffs and looking out over the beach, the 11th-century Norman castle boasts a truly stunning location.
Immerse yourself in the fairytale-esq surroundings with the castle’s turrets, towers, great halls, landscaped gardens and verdant croquet lawn. This castle certainly has a particularly romantic, enchanting feel.
The inner grounds of Manorbier Castle by Raymond Knapman / CC BY-SA 2.0
Laugharne Castle
Carmarthenshire offers plenty of castle experiences too, with Laugharne Castle being a prime example. Situated alongside the Taf estuary, the site here offers a medley of historical delights for you to retrace.
The medieval castle turned Tudor mansion is especially famous for being a favourite haunt of Dylan Thomas, beloved Welsh poet and writer, who took to the castle’s summerhouse to write the short story collection Portrait of the Artist as a Young Dog.
Laugharne Castle and River Coran by Mick Lobb / CC BY-SA 2.0
Kidwelly Castle
Along Carmarthen Bay, across from Laugharne, is Kidwelly Castle – a Norman stronghold that stands tall above the River Gwendraeth. Throughout its history, Kidwelly was an impressive example of castle development and defence tactics. The castle was so successful as a fortress that even the forces of the formidable Owain Glyndŵr couldn’t conquer it.
There are various levels to explore, including several towers that provide great lookout points. Kidwelly is also renowned for appearing in the first scene of Monty Python and the Holy Grail.
Kidwelly Castle by Philip Halling / CC BY-SA 2.0
Dinefwr Castle
Head to this hilltop above the Tywi Valley in Carmarthenshire to soak up the sense of ancient history offered by Dinefwr Castle. Now an ivy-covered ruin, the castle is thought to have belonged to Rhys ap Gruffydd, ruler of the kingdom of Deheubarth.
As it’s set within a National Nature Reserve managed by the National Trust, once you’ve visited the castle, there are plenty of other things to see and do. Explore the acres of parkland, woodland and Newton House, a 17th-century manor house to make the most of your visit.
Dinefwr Castle by David Evans / CC BY 2.0
Cardigan Castle
Cardigan Castle in Ceredigion has been an important fixture in the area for over 900 years now. Discover how the castle has changed through the ages, with its medieval origins and remaining walls, Georgian mansion and Grade II listed gardens complete with a range of rare plants.
One of the things that makes Cardigan Castle particularly special is that you can stay within its grounds. Check out our Cardigan Castle accommodation options to find your ideal stay.
Cardigan Castle and Bridge by John Baker / CC BY-SA 2.0
There are several other majestic castles and fortress ruins dotted across West Wales, but these top picks give you a place to start!
Still not booked your West Wales holiday? See our last-minute breaks and special offers for the perfect spontaneous getaway!
