Brecon Castle

Brecon, United Kingdom

Brecon Castle was built by the Norman Lord Bernard de Neufmarché in 1093, and was frequently assaulted by the Welsh in 13th and 15th centuries. The castle's ownership changed numerous times. It began falling into ruin when Henry VIII executed the last dukes of Buckingham, who at the time controlled the castle. It was renovated and made into a hotel in the early 19th century.

Numerous renovations were carried out through the castle's history. A shell keep made of stone was constructed in the late 12th century (the keep was initially made of wood). In 1233, a bailey wall, also made of stone, was constructed. Two towers, one round and the other semi-octagonal, were built in the 13th century and early 14th century, respectively. A hall block was added in 1300.

The castle had become mere ruins by the end of the Georgian era. Renovations were begun in 1809 by Sir Charles Morgan of Tredegar House, and more than £7,000 had been spent on the repairs by 1814. The castle was made a hotel, which it currently continues to be.

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Details

Founded: 1093
Category: Castles and fortifications in United Kingdom

More Information

en.wikipedia.org

Rating

4.2/5 (based on Google user reviews)

User Reviews

Helen Fergie-McGowan (13 months ago)
Nice location. Food was good too. The receptionist was very abrasive, made me feel like I was an inconvenience. The room smelt very damp and the attention to cleanliness in the bathroom was poor. There was scum around the taps in the sink and shower.
Lorna Jones (13 months ago)
3* hotel with 5* service. Yes the rooms are a bit tired but beds are super comfy, water- bath and shower- was hot and you have everything you need- toiletries, fluffy towels, biscuits etc. Location is stunning. Lovely views and a couple of minutes walk from town. Hotel has bags of history attached- obviously the castle is a high point and the hotel is the oldest in Wales. Our evening meal was outstanding- far exceeded our expectations for a 3* hotel. Same with breakfast. But what makes this place is the staff. They can’t do enough for you and are so friendly. Mackenzie on reception went above and beyond for us. Will definitely be back.
Qwestern Velts (14 months ago)
It's a nice hotel built into a castle. Falling apart in places the staff have been saying they are due a refit but it keeps being pushed back. To be honest I love brecon and all its sites and history and nature. Food is OK not amazing and the staff are very helpful just sometimes you have to look for them. I'd stay here again but I hope it gets fixed up soon.
Megan L (14 months ago)
The room was cosy, but very hot and the thermostat had a note saying to not fiddle with it. Tried turning the radiator down, but overall, quite hot in the room which led to poor sleep. We only stayed a couple of nights so it wasn't overly bothersome. Not very sound proof. We could hear everything the couple above us was up to. Some reason, housekeeping didn't come and replenish our teas or give us fresh towels. Housekeeping didn't come at all, but perhaps this was because we were having a short stay? Food was okay. Eggs were under cooked on our last day and I was vomiting later that day. Staff were wonderful and helpful. The views were lovely as was the location general.
Nic Lovelock (18 months ago)
Good place, good service, decent rooms (although I haven't stayed in a few years) and top location just removed from the main drag. Would say, maybe it was a day where I was feeling the general tear of the purse strings, but would say the drinks are a little on the pricey side but would still recommend to a friend. Thanks for the service and hospitality and look forward to visiting again.
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