Kidwelly Castle — Attraction in Great Britain

A very very impressive castle benefitting from what was at the time the latest innovations in castle design, concentric defence. Unlike many castles this one survived the civil war relatively unscathed making it a fascinating visit. The most striking feature is the immense thickness of the walls, particularly in the south gatehouse. From a visitor's point of view the castle is kept in tip top condition with very little of that modern scourge, litter, lying about. Safety has also been fully addressed and children can run around safe in the knowledge their well-being has been catered for. As you would expect, some of the tower steps are steep and narrow so a degree of caution must be applied by all ages. The commanding view across the estuary and countryside instantly conveys the reason for the castles location. There are many information boards around the castle with many telling historical events via timelines. The Cadw shop on site is reasonably well stocked considering its smallish size but run by some wonderfully friendly staff. Although there is no coffee shop on site staff point you to a variety of facilities in the town. We sampled the Gatehouse Coffee Shop passed en route to the castle and found the food excellent and again some friendly and welcoming people. Coeliacs please be aware, gluten free options are limited but you can get an all day breakfast, without sausage, and they do a cheesecake to die for (I don't like cheesecake, but I had a second portion here!). Al in all Kidwelli Castle is a great place to visit for adults and children, the town itself is worth exploring and all in a wonderful setting with superb countryside and coastal views. Highly...

The present remains of the castle date from the early 12th century. Created as a defence against the Welsh, the castle fell to the Welsh several times in the twelfth century. The Prince of Wales named Lord Rhys, as he was later known, captured Kidwelly Castle in 1159 and was recognised by King Henry II of England as the ruler of the region. Upon his death, it was passed to the Anglo-Normans. The castle was captured and razed by Llywelyn the Great in 1231. Later in its history, it was unsuccessfully besieged by forces of Owain Glyndŵr in August 1403 with assistance from soldiers from France and Brittany who captured Kidwelly town. The castle was relieved by a Norman army in September 1403.

The plan of the castle consists of a square inner bailey defended by four round towers, which overlook a semi-circular outer curtain wall on the landward side, with the massive gatehouse next to the river. The defensive precautions taken at Kidwelly were not as thorough as those found in the other great Welsh castles of the time, and most of the focus of the builders was in the strength of their walls and towers. The outer curtain possesses a stair built against it, from the level of the ward, a rare feature in English castles of that time. The river prevents this from being a truly concentric plan, however a jutting tower protects the riverside walls, and the final plan is very strong. The castle is relatively well-preserved, and is...

This isn't just a castle; it's a dramatic plunge into the pages of history, complete with battles, sieges, and tales of resilience. Erected in the early 12th century, this Norman fortress stands as a formidable testament to medieval military architecture and the turbulent history of Wales.

As you approach Kidwelly Castle, its imposing walls and towers command your attention, whispering tales of the past. The castle has witnessed countless conflicts, including the fierce struggles during the Welsh uprisings. Each stone here seems to hold a story of bravery, strategy, and survival.

Wandering through the castle's remains, you're treated to a labyrinth of towers, battlements, and gatehouses. The view from the top? Simply breathtaking. It's like stepping into a medieval painting, with panoramic views of the Gwendraeth Valley that will have you reaching for your camera faster than a knight draws his sword.

But Kidwelly Castle isn't just about grandeur and battles; it's a symbol of endurance. Despite the ravages of time and history, it stands proudly, inviting visitors to explore its depths and imagine life in...