Manorbier Castle
A stunning 11th-century Norman castle perched on cliffs, offering breathtaking sea views and a rich historical experience.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Manorbier Castle
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning 11th-century Norman castle perched on cliffs, offering breathtaking sea views and a rich historical experience.
"A remarkable Norman fortress that combines history, romance, and breathtaking coastal beauty."
👟 Comfortable Footwear Essential
The castle has steep steps and uneven terrain. Wear sturdy shoes for exploring the towers and grounds.
📸 Capture Coastal Sunsets
The castle offers stunning views, especially during golden hour and sunset. Bring your camera!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Norman Turrets & Sea Views
Castle battlements
Climb the commanding turrets for breathtaking panoramic views of the Pembrokeshire coast and the Atlantic Ocean.
+1
Historic Castle Grounds
Courtyard and gardens
Wander through the well-preserved Norman fortress, imagining life centuries ago. Look out for garden games for a fun family touch.
Manorbier Beach
Below the castle
A short walk from the castle leads to this picturesque beach, perfect for a stroll or enjoying the coastal scenery.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Fewer Crowds
Embrace the Coastal Location
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Comfortable Footwear Essential
The castle has steep steps and uneven terrain. Wear sturdy shoes for exploring the towers and grounds.
📸 Capture Coastal Sunsets
The castle offers stunning views, especially during golden hour and sunset. Bring your camera!
☕ Enjoy the Cafe
Visitors rave about the coffee and delicious sausage rolls at the castle's cafe. [^Review]
👨👩👧 Family Fun
Kids will enjoy exploring the castle and the garden games. A great day out for families.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Comfortable Footwear Essential
The castle has steep steps and uneven terrain. Wear sturdy shoes for exploring the towers and grounds.
📸 Capture Coastal Sunsets
The castle offers stunning views, especially during golden hour and sunset. Bring your camera!
☕ Enjoy the Cafe
Visitors rave about the coffee and delicious sausage rolls at the castle's cafe. [^Review]
👨👩👧 Family Fun
Kids will enjoy exploring the castle and the garden games. A great day out for families.
💍 Dream Wedding Venue
Manorbier Castle is a popular and romantic spot for weddings with stunning coastal backdrops.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Manorbier Castle for its stunning coastal location, well-preserved Norman architecture, and engaging history. Many highlight the breathtaking sea views from the battlements and the enjoyable experience of exploring the grounds. The friendly cafe and proximity to the beach also receive positive mentions, making it a highly recommended day out for families and history enthusiasts alike.
"Loved this little gem of a place. Lovely castle to walk around and explore, plenty for the kids to play with.
Typical castle with tight steep steps up the towers, but very manageable with great views.
The coffee shop was superb, the coffee exquisite, and the sausage rolls were sublime! The ladies are really friendly and welcoming.
With a short walk to the beach this was definitely a winner for a day out with the kids.
Highly recommend!"
Adam Preece
"Wasn't expecting to enjoy it as much as I did, went with my grandparents and ended up being here for 2 hours + views from the castle is beautiful and the castle itself is so interesting.
Ended up getting a cake and a drink was happy with the prices there also ! Would 100% recommend"
Callum Heath
"£4.50 for each of us to enter ( as seniors) which I thought was very reasonable. Beautiful castle with lots of it still intact and able to access . Small cafe , but nice choices of food and drink and ice cream etc. Lovely friendly lady serving.
However lost a star because of no rope/ rail up stairs to the tower. Unfortunately I didn't go up the final steps to top of tower as there was nothing to hold onto."
Sue Chan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Manorbier Castle is located in Pembrokeshire, Wales. It's accessible by car, with parking available nearby. Public transport options might be limited, so checking local bus routes is advisable if you're not driving.
Yes, the castle is a prominent landmark in the village of Manorbier, perched on the cliffs. It's hard to miss as you approach the area.
A car is generally the most convenient way to explore Pembrokeshire and reach Manorbier Castle. However, local bus services do connect some of the villages.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Opening times can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Manorbier Castle website for the most up-to-date information on opening hours before your visit. [^Manorbier Castle website]
Admission prices are generally considered reasonable. For example, seniors might pay around £4.50, and family tickets are available. Check the official website for current pricing. [^Review]
While not always explicitly stated, it's often possible to purchase tickets upon arrival. Checking the official website for online booking options is recommended to save time. [^Manorbier Castle website]
Discounts may be available for seniors, children, and families. It's worth inquiring about any special offers or group rates when planning your visit. [^Review]
Yes, children often enjoy exploring the castle and its grounds. There are also garden games that add to the family-friendly experience.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Explore the Norman fortress, climb the turrets for sea views, wander through the gardens, and enjoy the nearby beach. The history of the castle is also fascinating.
Information on guided tours isn't always prominent, but the castle's historical significance is well-documented within the grounds. Exploring at your own pace is also very rewarding. [^Manorbier Castle website]
The castle has a small but pleasant cafe serving coffee, food, and ice cream. Restroom facilities are also available. [^Review]
Parking is generally available near the castle, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car. [^Manorbier Castle website]
Yes, there's a short and easy walk from Manorbier Castle down to the beautiful Manorbier Beach.
📸 📸 Photography
The battlements offer stunning coastal vistas, especially during sunrise and sunset. The castle's architecture itself is also very photogenic.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check with the castle management or local authorities before flying a drone to ensure compliance.
Golden hour, both in the morning and late afternoon, provides beautiful light for photography, highlighting the castle's textures and the surrounding landscape.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Combine your castle visit with a trip to the adjacent Manorbier Beach for a full day of family enjoyment. The beach is perfect for a picnic, sandcastle building, or simply letting the kids run around. The castle cafe also offers treats like ice cream, which are always a hit with younger visitors. [^Review]
💍 Couples and Wedding Planners
+1The castle provides a picturesque backdrop for wedding photos and a memorable venue for ceremonies and receptions. The ability to host intimate gatherings or larger celebrations, coupled with the dedicated team that helps bring visions to life, makes it a highly recommended wedding destination.
+1🚶♀️ History Enthusiasts & Day-Trippers
As a day trip destination, Manorbier Castle is ideal. Its proximity to Manorbier Beach and the wider Pembrokeshire coast means you can easily combine a visit to the castle with other local attractions, enjoying a full day of exploration and scenic beauty.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Norman Stronghold with Coastal Charm
+1Visitors often remark on the castle's well-preserved state and the engaging history that unfolds as you explore. The combination of its robust Norman design with its stunning coastal setting makes it a unique historical site. The castle's proximity to Manorbier Beach adds another layer of appeal, allowing for a blend of historical exploration and seaside enjoyment.
[^Review]Beyond its military and residential functions, Manorbier Castle has also become a sought-after venue for special events, most notably weddings. Its romantic atmosphere and breathtaking backdrop have made it a dream location for couples looking for an unforgettable celebration.
+1Exploring the Castle and its Surroundings
Visitors can imagine the lives of those who inhabited this fortress centuries ago, appreciating the historical significance of each stone. The castle grounds are also home to gardens and sometimes feature interactive elements like garden games, making it engaging for all ages. Just a short walk from the castle lies Manorbier Beach, a beautiful stretch of sand that complements the historical visit. This allows for a perfect day out, combining the exploration of a medieval castle with the enjoyment of a coastal landscape. Whether you're taking a leisurely stroll along the shore or simply admiring the sea views, the beach adds a refreshing dimension to the experience.
+1For those interested in local history and scenery, the surrounding area also offers points of interest. The nearby St. James's Church is another historical site, and the coastal path provides opportunities for scenic walks, further immersing visitors in the natural beauty of Pembrokeshire.
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