Wiston Castle

Visitor notice

When visiting the castle, please be aware there may be livestock in the surrounding field especially during spring and summer.

Please keep pets on leads and enjoy the walk from a safe distance; avoid approaching any animals along the way.

Well-preserved motte-and-bailey with a turbulent history

Probably built by an early Flemish settler with the unusual name of Wizo, Wiston is one of the best-preserved motte-and-bailey castles in Wales (a motte is a small hill, usually fortified, surrounded by an open area, or bailey, inside an outer wall).

First appearing in documents in 1147 when it was attacked by the Welsh, Wiston Castle had a short but eventful life. The Welsh attacked again in 1193, this time led by Hywel Sais (son of The Lord Rhys, ruler of this part of Wales), before the native prince Llywelyn ap Iorwerth (Llywelyn the Great) finished the job and destroyed it in 1220.

The remains of the stone shell-keep – a later addition to the motte – still stand up to 13ft/4m high in places, largely unbroken but for a section to the north possibly brought down in Llywelyn’s attack.

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

Walking difficulty

Terrain: Level 3 — Moderate

Drone policy

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

No smoking

Smoking is not permitted.

Health & Safety

Neighbouring cows are often roaming freely around Wiston Castle, which may cause difficulties when trying to walk through the site, particularly at the entrance.

There is poor drainage within the grounds, leaving the access route boggy in places. This can develop into a muddy experience when visiting in wet weather conditions.

Please take your time and navigate safety through to the castle.

Set upon a motte-and-bailey there are several steps to navigate before you reach the castle.

A handrail has been provided for you, please give opportunity for those climbing up before you start your descent.

As with all ancient monuments there is always a risk of stones being dislodged in bad weather, however, we manage this through extensive monitoring.

Climbing may result in serious injury.

There are several wild plants and flowers, although these are great pollinators, they may be poisonous to visitors and animals, we strongly advise you not to touch or allow dogs to eat any vegetation.

Please watch our health & safety film before visiting Cadw sites.

Iechyd a Diogelwch / Health and Safety

Please report any anti-social behaviour such as climbing, setting fires, graffiti etc. to CadwAccidentsReports@gov.wales

The following signs can be found around the site at key areas of risk, please pay attention where appropriate.