Laugharne Castle, Laugharne (South Wales)

Established in the early twelfth century as an earthwork castle.

Summary 13th century buildings (or older) Gift shop Information provided Public car parking for a charge (nearby)

Introduction

Established in the early twelfth century as an earthwork castle, it was rebuilt in stone by the Anglo-Norman de Brian family during the later thirteenth and early fourteenth centuries. Sir John Perrot later transformed it into a Tudor mansion in the sixteenth century. 

History to the present day

The original Laugharne Castle was established by 1116 under Robert Courtemain, who is recorded to have entrusted its care to the Welshman Bleddyn ap Cedifor. The castle was the location of the meeting between Henry II of England with Rhys ap Gruffudd in 1171-1172, were they signed a peace treat. Henry II died in 1189 and Laugharne was seized by Rhys ap Gruffudd of Deheubarth and may have been burnt down at this time.

The Castle was rebuilt by the Normans and in 1215 was captured by Llywelyn the great in his campaign across South Wales. By 1247 it was granted to the de Brian family and in 1257 Guy De Brian was captured at the castle and it was destroyed. In 1584, Elizabeth I gave the current Laugharne to Sir John Parrott, said to have been the illegitimate son of Henry VIII. During the Civil War, Laugharne was captured by Royalists in 1644 but after a week long siege in which much of the castle was damaged by cannon-fire, the Royalist garrison finally surrendered.
 

Arrival information and how to find us

Address: Laugharne Castle, South Wales, , United Kingdom

Opening Times:

 

27.03.10- 31.10.10: Monday - Sunday 10.00 - 17.00

01.11.10 - 31.03.11: Closed 

 

Admission prices:

 

Adult: £3.00

Concession: £2.60

Family: £8.60

Entry is free for Welsh residents aged 60 and over or 16 and under who have a valid pass. 

 

 

Photographs courtesy of CADW photographic library.