Tretower Castle, Tretower (Mid Wales)

Motte-and-bailey castle established during the Norman conquest of Brycheiniog

Summary 13th century buildings (or older)

Introduction

Motte-and-bailey castle established during the Norman conquest of Brycheiniog. Shell-keep raised on the mound about 1150, and a round tower added in the early thirteenth century. 

History to the present day

Tretower Castle or Gastell Tretwr in Welsh was originally founded as a motte and bailey castle. During the 12th century, a shell-keep was added to the motte and by c.1230 a tall round walled keep had been added to the inside of this shell-keep, the space between having been roofed over.

Also around 1230, the original bailey was walled in stone and cylindrical corner towers were added to the walls. During the early fourteenth century, residential buildings were constructed away from the original fortifications. These buildings are known today as Tretower Court. The lords of Tretower began to prefer the more luxurious and newer Court and the castle fell into disuse and disrepair. 

Arrival information and how to find us

Address: Tretower Castle, Mid Wales, , United Kingdom

Opening times:

 

Spring:

27.05.10 - 31.10.10 - Monday - Sunday, 10.00 - 17.00

01.11.10 - 31.03.11: Monday - Thursday Closed, Friday and Saturday 9.30 -16.00, Sunday 11.00 - 16.00

Summer:

27.05.10 - 31.10.10 - Monday - Sunday, 10.00 - 17.00

Autumn:

27.05.10 - 31.10.10 - Monday - Sunday, 10.00 - 17.00

Winter:

27.05.10 - 31.10.10 - Monday - Sunday, 10.00 - 17.00

01.11.10 - 31.03.11: Monday - Thursday Closed, Friday and Saturday 9.30 -16.00 , Sunday 11.00 - 16.00

Further Information: 01443 336000 

 

 

Photographs courtesy CADW photographic library.