Weobley Caste, Llanrhidian (Swansea)

Picturesque medieval fortified manor house.

Summary 14th century buildings Public car parking for a charge (nearby)

Introduction

Picturesque medieval fortified manor house. Substantial remains dating principally from the early fourteenth century.

History to the present day

Weobley Castle was primarily a fortified manor house and as a result domestic comfort largely took priority over the house’s defensive capabilities. The castle was thought to have been built by the de la Bere family during the 14th century and is situated overlooking the Llanrhidian marsh and the Llwchwr estuary.
The castle is entered through a simple archway high enough for a mounted rider to pass through and secured by large wooden doors. As the entrance lacks the added protection of a portcullis it would have offered little resistance if faced with attack. At the south-west of the castle there are the ruins of a freestanding tower that is thought to be the oldest part of the castle.

The ruins of the southern range once housed a chapel but the most complete remains are to the north and west and these contain the main accommodation, the solar, a hall and the kitchens. The hall is entered through a porch which was a later addition made by Sir Rhys ap Thomas, in about 1500.

Arrival information and how to find us

Address: Weobley Caste, Swansea, , United Kingdom

Opening hours:

 

01.04.10 - 31.10.10: Daily 9.30 - 18.00

01.11.10 - 31.03.11: Daily 9.30 - 17.00
 

Admission prices:

 

Adult: £2.60

Concession: £2.25

Family: £7.50 

 

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