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Llawhaden Castle

Forgotten castle-cum-mansion that stays in the memory

It’s worth taking the short detour off the busy A40 as you drive through Pembrokeshire to visit this little-known castle. Occupying a commanding location amongst serene forest and rolling farmland, Llawhaden’s unconventional mix of military and decorative features reveal its main purpose in life: that of a fortified mansion more than out-and-out castle, designed as a residence for the wealthy bishops of St Davids who liked their home comforts.

The site had seen much active service before being reconstructed along its present lines in the 14th century by Bishop David Martin. There were private apartments, a courtyard, lodgings for guests and quarters for a permanent garrison. Most impressive of all is the front of the gatehouse, added in the later 14th century, still standing to its full height.

Opening times & prices

Opening times

1st April - 31st March 10am–4pm

Last admission 30 minutes before closing

Closed 24, 25, 26 December and 1 January

Visitor information

Car park icon

Car park

Limited parking within 250 metres of the castle (5 spaces).

Access is via a tarmaced lane.

Dogs welcome icon

Dogs welcome

Dogs on short leads welcome to access ground floor levels of the site.

Drone policy icon

Drone policy

Please read our policy information about flying drones at Cadw monuments: read the guidance

No smoking icon

No smoking

Smoking is not permitted.

Directions

Google Map
Road: Llawhaden, off A40, 3m (4.8km) NW of Narberth, 10m (16.1km) E of Haverfordwest.
Rail: Clynderwen 4.5m (7.2km).
Bike: NCN Route No.440 (1.5m/2.4km)

For further information, please contact: Traveline Cymru on 0800 464 0000 or National Rail Enquiries on 03457 48 49 50.

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