Carew Castle and Tidal Mill’s rich history spans over 2,000 years and tells of knights of the realm, kingmakers, Elizabethan intrigue and Civil War devastation.

Set in a stunning location overlooking a 23-acre Millpond, the Castle is one of the most architecturally diverse in Wales; from the west a Norman fortress, yet from the north a splendid Elizabethan mansion.

The site also incorporates the only restored Tidal Mill in Wales, an 11th century Celtic cross, a Medieval bridge and picnic area all linked by a mile-long circular walk, suitable for buggies and wheelchairs, with magnificent views over the Millpond.



At the end of the 11th century the Normans extended their conquest of England into Wales and Pembroke Castle became the centre of Norman rule in South Pembrokeshire.

Gerald de Windsor was constable of the Castle on behalf of Henry I when he decided to build his own fortification on the Carew River, some ten miles up the tidal waterway from Pembroke.

This was not the first settlement on the site however. Excavation has revealed an Iron Age settlement. A substantial five ditched promontory fort has been unearthed, together with large quantities of Roman pottery. A Dark Age settlement or fort may also have existed on the site.

In the late fifteenth century the Castle was greatly improved and extended by a very colourful character, 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. Gaining the implicit trust of both Henry VII and Henry VIII he was said 'to rule this corner of Wales like a King'.

The final development took Carew from Medieval fortress to Elizabethan manor. Sir John Perrot (1530-1592) built the great northern range, with its huge windows overlooking the Millpond. However he was not destined to enjoy his magnificent new home, for he died in the Tower of London before the work could be completed.

During the Civil War the Castle was owned by Sir George Carew who declared for the King, but it was garrisoned at different times by both royalists and parliamentarians, and indeed changed hands four times, on at least one occasion following a fierce assault. Buildings on the south side, including the kitchens, were slighted to prevent the enemy making further use of the site. Following the Civil War the Castle was occupied for some years, but eventually abandoned in 1686.

Local

Eat and Drink

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See and Do

• Carew Castle and Tidal Mill Carew (0.0 miles) - Carew Castle and Tidal Mill’s rich history spans over 2,000 years and tells of knights of the real...
• Carew Castle & Tidal Mill Nr Tenby (0.0 miles) - Carew Castle and Tidal Mill’s rich history spans over 2,000 years and tells of knights of the real...
• Cwm Deri Vineyard & Restaurant Narberth (4.3 miles) - Visit our tranquil vineyard & restaurant nestled in the midst of the Pembrokeshire National Park. En...
• Stackpole Walled Garden Pembroke (4.4 miles) - The six acre Stackpole walled gardens, which were created in 1770, have been leased from the Nationa...
• Pembroke Dock Heritage Centre Pembroke Dock (5.0 miles) - Pembroke Dock Heritage Centre is run by Pembroke Dock Sunderland Trust, and tells the military, mari...

Shopping

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