Dryslwyn Castle
Overview
Fragmentary – yet evocative – remains of a castle laid low by conflict
Founded in the 13th century on an isolated hill in the verdant Tywi Valley, Dryslwyn was once an important seat of the ancient south Wales kingdom of Deheubarth.
Not much is known about its early history, but in 1287 it was the scene of a significant conflict between Welsh and English forces. In response to an uprising by Welsh lord Rhys ap Maredudd, 11,000 English troops were dispatched to lay siege to the castle. The conflict lasted two weeks as siege engines and sappers (soldiers with engineering skills, including tunnelling) chipped away at the fortress’s defences. The attackers eventually brought down a large section of the walls and the castle fell into the hands of the English crown.
Opening times
Daily 10am–4pm
Last admission 30 minutes before closing
Closed 24, 25, 26 December and 1 January
Facilities
Public car park opposite main entrance with 15 spaces, no dedicated disabled parking bay.
Cadw do not allow drone flying from or over its guardianship sites, except by contractors commissioned for a specific purpose, who satisfy stringent CAA criteria, have the correct insurances and are operating under controlled conditions.
Smoking is not permitted.
Directions
B4297, from the A40(T) or the B4300
Ffairfach 9.5km/5.7mls
Postcode SA32 8RW
For further information, please contact: Traveline Cymru on 0871 200 2233 or National Rail Enquiries on 08457 48 49 50.
