Tenby Castle

Tenby Castle, perched on a rocky headland in Pembrokeshire, Wales, is a fascinating medieval ruin overlooking the sea. Its strategic location and stunning coastal views make it a unique blend of history and natural beauty. Although much of the castle is now in ruins, it still offers visitors a chance to step back into Wales’s storied past.

This blog explores the history, architecture, notable figures, and top activities that make Tenby Castle a must-visit destination.

The History of Tenby Castle

Tenby Castle, perched dramatically on a rocky headland in Pembrokeshire, Wales, has a long and storied history. Its origins date back to the Norman conquest of Wales, and it played a key role in the region’s defense and development. Over the centuries, the castle witnessed battles, sieges, political changes, and eventual decline. Today, its ruins serve as a powerful reminder of Wales’s medieval past and the struggles for control over its lands.

The Norman Origins (12th Century)

The story of Tenby Castle begins in the early 12th century, during the Norman invasion of Wales. After their conquest of England in 1066, the Normans turned their attention to Wales, seeking to extend their control over the region. Pembrokeshire, with its strategic coastal position, became a key area of interest.

• The Normans built Tenby Castle on a rocky promontory overlooking Carmarthen Bay. This location provided a natural defensive advantage, with steep cliffs on three sides and a narrow approach from the landward side.
• Initially, the castle was a motte-and-bailey structure, a common Norman design. A wooden keep sat atop the rocky headland (the motte), while the lower area (the bailey) contained wooden buildings for soldiers and supplies.
• The castle’s purpose was to secure Norman dominance over Pembrokeshire, control trade routes, and defend against attacks by the native Welsh.

The motte-and-bailey design allowed the Normans to establish a strong presence quickly. However, wooden castles were vulnerable to fire, decay, and siege, prompting the need for more durable stone fortifications.

The Transition to Stone and Welsh Resistance (Late 12th–13th Century)

By the late 12th century, Tenby Castle was rebuilt in stone to strengthen its defenses. This transformation reflected the Normans’ growing control and the need for more permanent structures to withstand attacks.

• The stone curtain walls enclosed the headland, creating a secure perimeter. A fortified gatehouse was added to control access to the castle.
• A watchtower was constructed at the highest point of the headland, offering clear views of the surrounding sea and coastline.

During this period, Tenby Castle became a target of repeated Welsh resistance. The native Welsh rulers, led by figures like Llywelyn ap Gruffudd (Llywelyn the Last), fought to reclaim their lands from Norman and English control.

• In the late 13th century, Llywelyn’s forces attacked Tenby Castle and the surrounding town. Although the Welsh inflicted significant damage, the Normans ultimately retained control of the site.
• The castle’s resilience during these conflicts demonstrated its strategic importance as a coastal stronghold.

These events marked a turbulent period for Tenby Castle, as it became a symbol of Norman power in a land that fiercely resisted foreign rule.

The Development of Tenby Town (13th–15th Century)

While Tenby Castle served as a defensive stronghold, the town of Tenby grew in importance as a trading port. The castle played a central role in protecting the town and its harbor from raids.

• During the 13th century, the town of Tenby was enclosed by stone walls that connected to the castle’s defenses. These walls protected the town’s residents and merchants from Welsh attacks and pirate raids.
• Tenby became a bustling center of trade, exporting wool, fish, and other goods. The castle and town walls ensured that commerce could continue safely.
• The sea gate provided direct access to the harbor, allowing supplies to reach the castle and town even during times of siege.

By the 14th and 15th centuries, Tenby Castle’s military significance began to decline. The focus shifted to the town itself, which prospered as a trading hub under the protection of its walls.

The English Civil War and Decline (17th Century)

During the English Civil War (1642–1651), Tenby Castle saw renewed military use. The conflict, fought between Royalist forces loyal to King Charles I and Parliamentarian forces led by Oliver Cromwell, brought turmoil to Wales.

• Tenby Castle was occupied by Royalist forces, who used it as a defensive outpost. Its strategic location made it valuable for controlling the coastline and the harbor.
• However, the castle’s outdated defenses were ill-suited for the new age of warfare. Advances in artillery made medieval fortifications less effective.
• Eventually, Parliamentarian forces captured Tenby Castle. The castle suffered further damage during the conflict, hastening its decline.

After the Civil War, Tenby Castle was abandoned as a military site. Its walls and towers fell into ruin, and the site was left to the elements.

The Romantic Rediscovery (18th–19th Century)

By the 18th and 19th centuries, Tenby Castle became a subject of fascination during the Romantic period.

• Artists, poets, and travelers were drawn to the castle’s dramatic setting and picturesque ruins. Its location on the rocky headland, surrounded by the sea, made it an ideal subject for Romantic art and literature.
• The castle’s association with Wales’s medieval past added to its appeal. It became a symbol of history, mystery, and natural beauty.

During this period, Tenby also grew into a popular seaside resort. Visitors flocked to the town for its beaches, coastal scenery, and historical attractions, including the castle ruins.

Preservation and Modern Era (20th–21st Century)

In the 20th century, efforts to preserve Tenby Castle began. Although much of the structure had been lost to time, the remaining ruins were stabilized and protected.

• The watchtower remains the most prominent feature of the castle. Visitors can climb to its base and enjoy panoramic views of Carmarthen Bay and the surrounding coastline.
• Sections of the curtain walls and gatehouse still survive, offering a glimpse into the castle’s medieval defenses.
• Interpretive signs provide visitors with information about the castle’s history, architecture, and significance.

Today, Tenby Castle is managed as part of the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park. It attracts visitors from around the world who come to explore its ruins, learn about its history, and enjoy the stunning views.

The Architecture of Tenby Castle

Tenby Castle, though now mostly in ruins, remains a testament to Norman military ingenuity and strategic design. Built on a rocky promontory overlooking the sea, its architecture reflects the Normans’ ability to adapt their fortifications to challenging landscapes. While much of the original structure has been lost to time, the surviving elements provide valuable insight into its design, purpose, and role in medieval Wales.

Strategic Location and Natural Defenses

The most significant feature of Tenby Castle’s architecture is its location.

• Position on a Headland: The castle was built atop a rocky headland that juts out into Carmarthen Bay. This elevated position provided a commanding view of the sea and surrounding coastline.
• Natural Barriers: The steep cliffs on three sides of the promontory acted as natural defenses. Attackers approaching from the sea faced treacherous terrain, while land-based assaults were limited to a narrow approach.
• Coastal Integration: The castle’s design made excellent use of the natural environment, blending man-made fortifications with the rugged landscape.

This strategic placement ensured the castle’s dominance over the coastline and made it a critical stronghold for controlling the Pembrokeshire region.

The Original Norman Design

Tenby Castle was originally constructed in the 12th century during the Norman conquest of Wales.

• Motte-and-Bailey Origins: Like many early Norman castles, Tenby Castle likely began as a motte-and-bailey structure. A wooden keep would have stood atop the headland, with a surrounding courtyard (bailey) protected by timber palisades.
• Stone Transition: By the late 12th century, the wooden structures were replaced with stone to improve the castle’s defenses. Stone walls and towers were more durable and better suited to withstand sieges.

The transition to stone marked Tenby Castle’s transformation into a permanent and imposing fortress.

The Curtain Walls

The curtain walls formed the main defensive perimeter of Tenby Castle.

• Stone Construction: Built using local limestone, the curtain walls enclosed the headland, creating a secure space for the castle’s occupants.
• Defensive Features: The walls included narrow arrow slits (or loopholes) that allowed archers to fire at attackers while remaining protected.
• Sea-Facing Walls: The sections of wall facing the sea were lower and less reinforced, as the cliffs provided sufficient natural protection.

Although much of the curtain wall has crumbled over time, sections remain intact, hinting at the scale and strength of the original fortifications.

The Watchtower

One of the most prominent surviving features of Tenby Castle is its watchtower.

• Purpose: The watchtower served as a lookout point for monitoring the coastline and detecting approaching ships or enemy forces. Its elevated position offered unobstructed views of Carmarthen Bay.
• Design: The tower was constructed with thick stone walls and a small interior space. Narrow openings allowed guards to observe the surroundings without exposing themselves to attacks.
• Symbol of Power: The watchtower also served as a visual symbol of Norman authority, demonstrating control over the town and its harbor.

Today, the watchtower remains a focal point of the ruins, offering visitors panoramic views of the sea and Tenby’s coastline.

The Gatehouse and Access Points

The castle’s gatehouse controlled access to the site and was designed to repel attackers.

• Fortified Entrance: The gatehouse likely included a heavy wooden door reinforced with iron, as well as a portcullis to block entry during sieges.
• Narrow Approach: The landward side of the castle was the most vulnerable, so the gatehouse and walls here were heavily fortified. Attackers had to navigate a narrow, exposed path to reach the entrance.

Although little remains of the gatehouse today, its original design reflects the importance of controlling access to the castle.

The Relationship with Tenby Town Walls

Tenby Castle played a key role in the defense of the town of Tenby.

• Town Walls: The castle’s walls extended into the fortified town, creating a unified defensive system. These walls protected the town’s residents and harbor from raids and invasions.
• Sea Gate: A “sea gate” allowed supplies to be delivered to the castle and town directly from the harbor. This ensured the stronghold remained functional even during times of siege.

The connection between the castle and town highlights its importance as both a military and economic center.

The Decline of the Castle

By the 15th century, Tenby Castle’s architecture began to lose its strategic importance.

• Advances in Warfare: The development of cannons and artillery made traditional castles less effective as defensive structures.
• Focus on the Town: Tenby’s fortified town walls became the primary means of defense, while the castle fell into disuse.
• Erosion: Over time, coastal erosion and neglect caused much of the castle to collapse, leaving behind the ruins seen today.

Despite its decline, the remaining architectural features offer a glimpse into its medieval grandeur.

Modern Preservation

Today, Tenby Castle’s ruins are preserved as part of Pembrokeshire’s rich heritage. Visitors can explore the remnants of the walls, the watchtower, and the headland where the castle once stood. Interpretive signs provide insights into its construction, purpose, and historical significance.

The castle’s integration with the town and its stunning coastal location make it a unique architectural landmark in Wales.

Notable People Associated with the Castle

Llywelyn ap Gruffudd (Llywelyn the Last) (1223–1282)

Llywelyn led several attacks against Norman and English strongholds in Wales, including Tenby Castle. His campaigns aimed to preserve Welsh independence during the 13th century.

William de Valence (13th Century)

William de Valence, an Anglo-Norman nobleman, likely oversaw some of the castle’s fortifications. He played a key role in strengthening Norman control in Pembrokeshire.

Oliver Cromwell (1599–1658)

During the English Civil War, Cromwell’s forces occupied Tenby Castle. They used the site as a defensive outpost, though it saw limited action.

Things to Do at Tenby Castle

Tenby Castle offers visitors a mix of history, scenic beauty, and family-friendly activities. Here are the top things to do:

• Explore the Castle Ruins:

  Walk through the remains of the castle walls and the iconic watchtower. Enjoy the panoramic views of the sea and coastline.

• Visit the Tenby Museum and Art Gallery:

  Located near the castle site, this museum houses exhibits on Tenby’s history, including artifacts from the castle’s medieval past.

• Walk the Coastal Path:

  Follow the Pembrokeshire Coast Path for stunning views of Tenby Castle, the beaches, and the surrounding cliffs.

• Relax on Castle Beach:

  The sandy Castle Beach lies below the castle ruins. It’s perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or enjoying a seaside picnic.

• Photography:

  Capture breathtaking shots of the castle ruins against the backdrop of the shimmering sea and rugged cliffs.

Other Interesting Facts About the Castle

• Tenby Castle is part of the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, one of Wales’s most scenic areas.
• The castle’s location offers a perfect vantage point for spotting wildlife, including seabirds and marine life.
• The ruins inspired artists and writers during the Romantic period in the 18th and 19th centuries.

Tenby Castle is a beautiful blend of history, architecture, and natural wonder. Its ruins tell the story of Norman conquest, Welsh resistance, and the evolution of Tenby into a thriving coastal town.

Whether you’re exploring the castle, relaxing on Castle Beach, or visiting the Tenby Museum, the site offers something for everyone. Plan your visit to this iconic Welsh landmark and experience the charm of Tenby Castle firsthand.