Wiston Castle, Wiston (Pembrokeshire)

Well-preserved motte-and-bailey castle.

Summary 13th century buildings (or older)

Introduction

Well-preserved motte-and-bailey castle, probably begun by the Flemish settler, Wizo, sometime in the first half of the twelfth century. Remains of a later stone shell-keep also survive.

History to the present day

Wiston ranks as one of the best-preserved motte and bailey castles in Wales. It was named after, and believed to have been built by an early Flemish settler with the improbable name of Wizo. Wizo, or Gwys in Welsh died before 1130, but the castle is not mentioned in documents until 1147 when it was seized by the Welsh. It was taken by the Welsh again in 1193 but recaptured in 1195. In 1220, it was once again captured by Llywelyn the Great, prince of Gwynedd during an early campaign in south Wales.

Local people were instructed to help William Marshal the Earl of Pembroke rebuild it. It is uncertain whether this rebuilding actually took place. Whatever happened after 1220, the castle was abruptly abandoned during an intermediate stage of its development. The original wooden tower was replaced by a stone shell-keep, but there appear to be no further masonry additions meaning that the early stonework remains clear and visible.
 

Arrival information and how to find us

Address: Wiston Castle, Pembrokeshire, , United Kingdom

Opening times:

 

All year

Any reasonable time

Mon - Sun

 

 

Admission prices:

 

Adult:Free

Children:Free

Concession:Free

 

 

 

 

Photographs courtesy of CADW photographic library.