Llawhaden
Llawhaden
Llawhaden occupies a hill top location between Narberth and Haverfordwest. The village itself is dominated by the remains of Llawhaden Castle, a fortified Bishop’s Palace rather than a castle, but impressively located on high ground overlooking The Vale of the Eastern Cleddau.
The village of Llawhaden grew up around the castle which started life as a motte and bailey in the early 12th century. Known as a Landsker castle, Llawhaden was on the imaginary line that divided Norman south Pembrokeshire from the Welsh tribes in north Pembrokeshire. The castle looks like a castle but is instead a fortified bishop’s place and it was used a palace until the 16th century.
Features include the impressive shell of the gatehouse. The outer wall to the south side is fairly complete and includes a modern staircase to access the battlements for superb views. The inner keep is mostly grass but there are some rooms and partially vaulted undercrofts to explore.
Activities
Former World and European Champion Ian Heaps’ has a course fishery near Llawhaden Church. The lakes can be fished all year round and Ian offers tuition for the novice fisherman.
Attractions
Of course Llawhaden Castle, a stunning fortified bishop’s residence from the 13thcentury
Near to Llawhaden alongside the A40 a short distance to the west is Clerkenhill Adventure Farm with a children’s nature trail and activities including frisbee golf.
A few miles south of Llawhaden at Bluestone is The Blue Lagoon waterpark which is open all year.
Food and drink
There are no facilities in Llawhaden but the nearest pub is in Robeston Wathen, just over 2 miles south. There is also a petrol station in the village. There is a greater selection of pubs, restaurants and cafes in Narberth as well as takeaways and deli’s.
Accommodation
Accommodation in Llawhaden is limited, although just 5 minutes drive away in Robeston Wathen there are a couple of B&B’s and a self catering cottage. The nearest hotels are in Narberth or Haverfordwest. The nearest camping, camp sites or touring caravan sites would be around Narberth or Clynderwen. Three miles south of Llawhaden there is a 5 Star Holiday Village, Bluestone, alongside the A4075. There are some self catering cottages in the area.