Castell Cilgerran
Visitor Notice
Cilgerran Castle is open and free to explore, however we’re unable to open the towers (which prevents exploring the wall-walks) due to health and safety concerns.
For further information please contact us: cadw@gov.wales
Overview
Spectacular castle that wasn’t quite as secure as the Normans hoped
Cilgerran is one of the most spectacularly sited castles in Wales. Its two great round towers loom high above the deep gorge of the River Teifi and the fast-flowing stream of the Plysog.
The perfect spot, you might have thought, from which the invading Anglo-Normans could defend their newly conquered lands. Take the thrilling wall-walk from the east tower to understand just what a daunting obstacle it must have presented to the rulers of the ancient kingdom of Deheubarth.
But it wasn’t quite impregnable enough. Probably first built as a ‘ringwork’ castle in 1108 by the Norman adventurer Gerald of Windsor, Cilgerran changed hands many times over the next century or more.
It was only in 1223 when the dashing earl of Pembroke, William Marshal, built ‘an ornate castle of mortar and stones’ on top of the original site that Norman control stood firm. Despite the best efforts of Llywelyn ap Gruffudd and Owain Glyndŵr, Cilgerran never again fell to the Welsh.
Opening times
Daily 10am–4pm*
Last admission 30 minutes before closing
Closed 24, 25, 26 December and 1 January
*Open and unstaffed with no admission charge
Facilities
Please read our accessibility guidance for information on how to plan your visit.
Dogs on short leads welcome to access ground floor levels of the site.
Please read our policy information about flying drones at Cadw monuments: read the guidance
Smoking is not permitted.
This site is available to hire for events, filming and exhibitions.
Bike storage area available in car park or close to the monument.
Directions
Postcode SA43 2SF
For further information, please contact: Traveline Cymru on 0800 464 0000 or National Rail Enquiries on 03457 48 49 50.
Contact us
Telephone 03000 252239
Email
Cadw@gov.wales
Cardigan SA43 2SF
Rydym yn croesawu galwadau’n Gymraeg / We welcome calls in Welsh.
