Weobley Castle — Attraction in Great Britain

The existing buildings were largely created between 1304 and 1327 by the de la Bere family. They consist of a gateway, a hall and kitchen, a chapel block and an east range, enclosing a courtyard, all now in a semi-ruinous state. The buildings are largely constructed of rubble masonry with window and door features of sandstone.

The gateway, at the west of the castle, is framed to its north by the solar block, which contained the lord's private chamber, a latrine and a cellar space. To the south of the gateway is the so-called Cistern Turret, which is believed to have contained a cistern for rainwater storage; behind this is the South-West Tower, which was originally a separate building and may be the oldest part of the present structure. The gateway itself also included an additional living chamber in its upper storey. The northern range of the castle, including the hall, kitchen and porch leading from the inner courtyard, is the most substantial of the surviving sections. Features of the hall include a recess for the display of tapestry or panelling. This supports interpretations of the castle as primarily a wealthy residence rather than a military outpost. During excavations at the Chapel Block, fragments of a piscina were discovered. The eastern range is more fragmentary that other parts, and much of it may never have been developed beyond the foundation stage during the ownership of the de la Beres. Although most of the outer fortifications no longer exist, the remaining portions demonstrate that Weobley was well provided with guestrooms and facilities (including garderobes). The building was extended later in the 14th century, including construction of the south porch.

Until the 15th century the castle was the home of the de la Beres, originally stewards to William De Braose, Lord of Gower.[3] In 1318 the castle is recorded by a deed signed there by Adam de la Bere.

The castle was attacked and damaged by the forces of Owain Glyndŵr in the early 15th century, but most of the building was left standing. It is possible that John de la Bere (d. 1403) was a casualty of Glyndŵr's incursion. Sir Rhys ap Thomas became the owner towards the end of the 15th century; following the execution for treason of Rhys's grandson Rhys ap Gruffydd in 1531, Weobley eventually reverted to the Crown in the person of King Henry VIII. It was then sold and subsequently leased to tenants until the 20th century, when the last owner, Emily Talbot, gave it to the...

The castle itself looks beautiful but we were unable to access it

Not dog friendly at all, had to leave dog in car As we approached we were taking in the scenery when an extremely rude woman shouted at us to pay in the shop. She was very agressive and loud and completely uneccessary. As we went towards to shop a large, older looking beagle launched towards us barking very aggressively. I myself am very comfortable with dogs but my friend was quite alarmed and scared. If there's no dogs onsite how can it be acceptable to have visitors chased? The lady calmly called the dogs name once (still barking and around our legs) and she then ignored us and the dog eventually wandered off. We went to the shop, waited for 10 minutes and there was no one there so we left, very upset.

We visited 6 castles this day and this is the first negative review I have EVER left. Will never return here and will actively encourage others not to until the owners actually treat...

Pros: Nice little castle on the beautiful Gower peninsula. Lots of nooks, crannies and interesting rooms to explore. There is a room with lots of interesting history about the castle and the Gower. Not many pigeons nesting in the castle at all compared to the bigger ones, so very quiet inside. Gorgeous views of the sea and valleys from the castle hill, and beautiful wildflower bed near the car park. Cons: Very limited parking. To enter the castle you have to stand in the garden of a farmhouse for someone to come and then pay them, sometimes you can be waiting a while. Lack of information around the castle telling you which room you are in and the history of it. Some of the information boards in the exhibition room are a bit tatty and difficult to read. The one toilet on site's door doesn't lock and the sink is operated by an awkward sensor. Overall a nice morning out for castle enthusiasts, nice and quiet and not...