Tretower Castle and Court

An early 13th century circular keep within a Norman structure and fine medieval house, mainly 15th century with reconstructed medieval garden.

Tretower Castle and Court are situated in the Usk Valley between Abergavenny and Brecon, 3 miles north-west of Crickhowell. Here you will find the remains of a motte and bailey castle, a later round stone tower (which can be seen from the A40) and a mediaeval courtyard house built in the 1460's.

The motte and bailey was originally built during the Norman conquest of Brycheiniog. In the 12th century the wooden buildings were replaced in stone. A shell keep was built around 1150, a hall and solar were erected to the south-west side of the motte and a kitchen was built at a slightly lower level. In the early 13th century the inner walls of this range were demolished and a round tower was built. Today it is this tower which dominates the castle site. The tower has three storeys each with a single room with a fireplace and a window. The foundations of the tower contain a basement. Within the curtain wall of the castle are the remains of a small, rectangular gatehouse.

Tretower Court was built during the 14th century with alterations made in the 15th century. The buildings are arranged around a courtyard with the oldest along the north wing. This 14th century wing consists of a rectangular building of two storeys. The main rooms are on the upper floor. In the 15th century west wing there is a hall, solar and service rooms. The building was altered in the 17th century. A 15th century gatehouse stands on the east side with a postern gate to the north. The house and its curtain wall have been much restored in modern times.

Tretower Castle and Court are in the village of Tretower just off the A479 to the north-west of Crickhowell. Parking is available. The sites are in guardianship and an entrance fee is payable. Use of personal audio tapes describing the castle and its history are included in the entrance fee.

Open: 1 April - 31 October: 10:00 - 17:00 daily.
1 November - 31 March 2012:closed Mondays to Thursdays; 10:00 - 16:00 Fridays and Saturdays; 11:00 - 16:00 Sundays.

Prices: £4 per adult; concessions: £3.60 (children under 16 (under 5 free of charge), over 60s and students with student card); £11.60 per family (up to 2 adults and all children/grandchildren under 16).

Further information from 01874 730279.

Free access to Cadw sites is available for school parties.
Telephone 01222 500200.

Easy access information.