This splendid palace, built in the 13th and 14th centuries, lies in pretty countryside near Pembroke. The medieval buildings and grounds were a private retreat for the bishops from everyday life and there is a still a sense of this serenity today. The estate included orchards, gardens, fishponds and deer parks.
Many of the surviving structures were built by Bishop Henry de Gower, who also created much of St David’s Palace. Particularly fine features include the 13th-century inner gatehouse and long hall, the latter the oldest part of the complex, as well as an undercroft and remnants of decorative windows.
The site has a long history after the Reformation, including a haunting by an Elizabethan gentleman, occupation during the Civil War, and use as farm buildings.
Free admission, seasonal opening times (please check the website), and free parking in a layby across the road.
No smoking.