Dryslwyn Castle

Llandeilo, United Kingdom

Drysllwyn Castle stands on high ground overlooking the Tywi Valley with extensive views. It was built in about the 1220s by one of the princes of the kingdom of Deheubarth, and changed hands several times in the struggles between the Welsh and English over the ensuing centuries. It is considered one of the most important remaining structures built by a Welsh chieftain.

Drysllwyn was seized by Owain Glyndŵr in the summer of 1403 and when the English forces recaptured it they decommissioned it by blocking various access routes, walling up the gatehouse, removing the treads from stone stairs and even removing the hinges from the main gate. At some later stage, all the major buildings were burned to the ground. Following this a lot of the stone was removed from the site

Structure

The polygonal Inner Ward contains principal remains to the south west, with traces of the Middle and Outer Ward to the north east. The early thirteenth century curtain wall to the Inner Ward only stands 1m high. There is a garderobe to the east side, and a remodelled thirteenth century Gatehouse to the north east, surviving at foundation level only. On the south side of the Gatehouse is the Round Tower, the original keep. The foundations of the original Great Hall and Rhys ap Maredudd's hall survive.

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Address

Llandeilo, United Kingdom
See all sites in Llandeilo

Details

Founded: 1220s
Category: Castles and fortifications in United Kingdom

More Information

en.wikipedia.org

Rating

4.7/5 (based on Google user reviews)

User Reviews

Thomas Brown (2 years ago)
A fantastic castle with spectacular views! Across the road from the castle is a decent sized car park with dedicated picnic spots. Once you cross the road you will be faced with a long, steep narrow path up the hill the castle is set upon. This makes the entire inaccessible if you are in a wheelchair and probably quite inaccessible if you have another form of mobility issue. Be aware that the path is lined with thistles and covered in sheep poo so wear appropriate clothing & footwear. Once you do make it up to the summit you will be blown away by stunning views of the surrounding countryside. There are a number of informative plaques dotted around which provide fascinating information on the life of the castle as well which is always welcome. All in all, if you are interested in Welsh history, castles or just want a good walk with amazing views then this is for you. It could just do with some improvements being made to enable access to everyone regardless of ability.
Psy1402 (2 years ago)
A beautiful view no matter the weather. Wonderful place to walk, with our without dogs. Signs posted at regular intervals tell the history of the place, which is very interesting to read, but you can also see it for yourself when you get to the top, because of the way the earth was shifted to accommodate the building.
Jessibeth15 (2 years ago)
Free car park and a little picnic area to sit if you take food with you. The castle is sat at the top of the hill, lots of stairs to get to the top. Lots of information boards placed around so you know what you are looking at. Stunning views from the top, You can even see Paxtons tower. Definitely worth a visit and would kill a few hours. I think this castle is better them some castles you have to pay to enter!
Paul Arthur (2 years ago)
Up to the top again. Weather was great. Lovely time spent somewhere I have been several times. An enjoyable place to visit solo or with family and friends.
Philip James (2 years ago)
Lovely views. Simple but effective information. Great sense of place
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