Dinefwr Castle

Dinefwr Castle stands on a ridge above the River Towy near Llandeilo in Carmarthenshire. The ruins overlook a steep drop of one hundred feet to the water below. It was once the chief seat of the Dinefwr dynasty in the Kingdom of Deheuborth. The castle is a Grade I listed building and is entered through a fortified gate with restored battlements. A short path from the car park opens onto wide views of the Towy valley. Inside the walls several stairs lead to the main battlements and towers. The castle’s history includes figures such as Rhys ap Gruffydd, who rebuilt it in the 12th century. A story tells of King Henry II’s failed attack after a guide led his men on a difficult route. Rhys also founded Talley Abbey and Llanllyr Nunnery nearby. Later, Llywelyn the Great dismantled the castle before having it restored. In 1277 Rhys ap Maredudd captured it for King Edward I but was later executed. Visitors find a narrow spiral staircase to a high tower with views north to the deer park and south over the Towy valley. The keep’s cellar leads to its base, but the circular walkway at the top is reached only by the battlement route. Details like a well and garderobes remain visible. A path around the main structure goes north to the base of the ruins. Dryslwyn Castle can be seen on a hill blocking the valley to the south-west.