The Castles origins begin with a stone keep built by Gerald de Windsor circa 1100: He married Nest, princess of Deheubarth in or around 1095.

Nest brought the manor of Carew as part of her dowry, and Gerald demolished the existing fort to build his own castle along Norman designs.

In the late fifteenth century the Castle was greatly improved and extended by Sir Rhys ap Thomas (1449-1525). He altered both the east and west ranges and was responsible for many of the Bath stone windows and other features.

The last phase of development took the Castle from Medieval fortress to Elizabethan manor. Sir John Perrot (1530-1592) built the great northern range, with its huge windows overlooking the Millpond, but he died in the Tower of London before the work could be completed.

What Can You See?

The ruins of a castle, which has evolved from a Norman fortification to an Elizabethan country house. The site also includes the only fully restored tidal mill in Wales, an 11th-century Celtic cross, a medieval bridge, and a picnic area, all linked by a mile-long circular walk.

Accessibility

There are three disabled parking spaces in the main Castle car park and limited disabled parking only at the Mill. There is wheelchair access to the ground floor of the Castle and Mill, both shops and Nest Tearoom. The mile-long walk is also wheelchair friendly. There are two disabled toilets situated at the Castle Visitor Centre and Mill Lane (opened with RADAR key, please ask in the Mill for this). A mobility scooter is available for hire on request from the Castle Visitor Centre (01646 651 782). Carew Castle and Tidal Mill offers visitors with disabilities 25% off standard day admission prices. Wheelchair users receive free entry. One accompanying carer will receive free entry.

Sources

WelshHistory
#MedievalHeritage
#welshhistories,
Pembrokeshire Coastal National Park,
Visit Wales,
Hugh Llewelyn @ Flickr.

Further information

Carew Castle, Castle Lane, Carew, Tenby, Pembrokeshire, SA70 8SL

Follow A483, A40 and A477 into Pembrokeshire. Drive past Sageston on the A477 and then take the third exit at the roundabout just after Sageston, on to the A4057. Drive towards Carew and then take the left turn on to Castle Lane.

Email: enquiries@carewcastle.com

Website: http://www.carewcastle.com