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.