Carew Castle & Tidal Mill

About Carew Castle & Tidal Mill

An enormous stone castle in a picturesque location next to the mill pond, which powers the tide mill. The castle is ruined now, but was once a powerful stronghold and a grand Elizabethan mansion.

History

  • The first fortification on the site was an Iron Age fort with 5 ditches.
  • An earth and timber castle that was built here by the Norman Gerald of Windsor around 1100. He was given the site of Carew Castle in a dowry when he married Nest, the most beautiful woman in Wales.
  • Owain ap Cadwgan, son of a Welsh Prince, was so overwhelmed by Nest’s beauty that one night in 1109 he is said to have scaled the walls of Carew Castle and captured her.
  • 6 years later, Gerald killed Owain in battle and retrieved his wife, along with two new children.

Facilities

Gift shop. Toilets. Daily guided tours. Ample parking. Pub & cafe nearby. Regular activities, events and re-enactments.

Additional Information

Open from December to December.