Founded c1100 by Richard Fitz Pons, an Anglo-Norman lord, this mid-12th century stone keep, similar to that of Tretower, perches atop an earlier motte overlooking the River Llynfi. 

To the north are two baileys each with a bank and ditch. The sites of bastion towers may be detected where there are breaks in the bank and ditch of the outer bailey. There is no remaining trace of any buildings within the walls apart from the round keep, which still towers 80 feet above the motte, though legend tells of a secret underground passage from the castle to Talgarth Tower.

Historic documents also tell us that a large piece of masonry fell from Bronllys Castle and changed the course of history in the Welsh Marches, killing the last male heir of Miles of Gloucester. You can find out more here.

Bronllys Castle lies just south of Bronllys village. Access is free. Parking is available in the layby opposite the castle which lies in a small wood. The site is maintained by Cadw and is open to the public.

Directions:

On the A479, 9 miles east of Brecon.  SO 149347.