Manorbier Castle

Situated within spectacular original castle walls, Manorbier Castle occupies a commanding cliff-top position above a rocky coastline overlooking a seemingly endless Atlantic Sea. Forming part of the stunning Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, with the lush historic village of Manorbier nestled behind it, this dramatic Norman fortress is just 100 yards from a sandy beach.

Manorbier Castle has been owned by the same family since its creation 800 years ago. Though its history is tangible from a distance, there’s no denying its dramatic effect up close. The castle is approached up a long drive that sweeps through grassland filled with trees whilst a wooden bridge crosses the moat into the inner bailey.

Enclosed are beautiful gardens framing a large expanse of lawn, an old vaulted chapel, the keep and the self-catered Victorian accommodation, Castle House; itself built into a stretch of the castle wall. Gravel paths and ancient stone steps lead to the individual part-ruinous outbuildings. The result is a charmingly unique and secluded setting, offering a rare opportunity to experience living in a castle alongside the very best of the Welsh coast.

Castle House

Built in the late 19th century, Castle House is available for exclusive-use stays. The warm and welcoming bolthole could be enjoyed as a base for an adventurous holiday with family or friends, to celebrate a special occasion or simply as a relaxing retreat in a beautiful setting. The house is elegantly decorated and features five spacious and comfortable bedrooms sleeping twelve guests, on a self-catered basis.

A large, comfortable lounge is dressed in period furnishings and dotted with striking family portraits and ornaments that reflect the castle’s fascinating history. A cosy wood-burning stove creates an inviting atmosphere which continues into the spacious dining room. Here, a long oak table plays host to relaxing lunches and convivial dinner parties. The room has direct access to the private courtyard through the patio doors.

A delightful range cooker is the focal point of the well-equipped kitchen and utility room, which offers plenty of socialising space and natural light.

Accommodation

The bedrooms at Castle House are beautifully decorated to accentuate their period features and are modernly equipped for the ultimate comfort of guests.

The Dashwood Suite

High-vaulted ceilings, Victorian furniture and garden views give this room an ambiance of its own. Add a Dolce Gusto coffee to the mix and you’ve the perfect morning retreat!

Phillipps Room

This elegant double room enjoys the view of the Chapel, Great Hall and private courtyard garden.

Wychwood Room

You'll see flower beds that offer a variety of colours throughout the year from this light, spacious and beautifully-furnished twin room.

Castle View Room

Another twin enjoying fabulous views of the castle from under a cosy, beamed ceiling, is tucked away at the top of Castle House.

The Hideaway

This separate garden lodge featuring twin beds and bunk bed is ideal for those who prefer some additional privacy and comfort. It features a separate bathroom and, from its private courtyard, you can access the main castle gardens.

Additional accommodation can be offered in the nearby village comprising of the delightful one-storey May Cottage (sleeping four guests) and Castle Lodge (also sleeping four people) featuring glimpses of the sea.

The Grounds

The grounds of Manobier Castle are open to the public seasonally from Easter until November each year (also the February half-term school holiday). Castle House has its own front door and private courtyard garden, so is very private even when the property is open to the public. Even during opening times, the grounds will be closed to the public at 5pm each day, so after that time the you will have the whole castle to yourselves and are welcome to use the area as an extension of the house garden. It's a great space.

Activities/Leisure

The scenic trails of the national park are on your doorstep whilst Manorbier’s sandy beach is a short stroll from the castle, ideal for surfing, paddle-boarding and rock-pooling.

Castle House enjoys a private courtyard garden, a suntrap in the warmer months, with plenty of seating for all guests in its unique encircled setting. At night, the castle gates are locked enabling guests to really feel they are staying in a castle of their own!

Complimentary access to the castle and its grounds allows you to learn about Manorbier’s history and admire its architecture at your leisure.

History

The founder of the de Barri family, Norman knight Odo de Barri, assisted in the Norman Conquest of England and South-east Wales during the 11th century. He was subsequently granted the land of Manorbier (alongside Penally and Begelly) in gratitude for his military help in conquering Pembrokeshire after 1003, where he constructed the motte-and-bailey castle.

The Area

Manorbier Castle is at the heart of its namesake seaside village and conservation area, known for its award-winning ‘surfers’ paradise’ beach and immensely long history.

The castle is also conveniently located for exploring the picture-postcard harbour town of Tenby, as well as Pembroke, the birthplace of Henry Tudor.

Situated within the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, Manorbier Castle is a fabulous base from which to walk the dramatic coastal landscape and explore the varied culture and historic landmarks of this famous county.

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