Roch Castle, Pembrokeshire
A Brief Introduction to Roch Castle
Image courtesy of rochcastle.com
Roch Castle sits on the edge of the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park in West Wales, north of the ‘landsker line’ – a language border that marked the largely English and largely Welsh-speaking areas of the county. In the sixteenth century, the area to the south of the line was referred to as Anglia Transwalliana (Little England beyond Wales).
Built during the twelfth century, Roch Castle was strategically positioned, its purpose to protect the Anglicised region of Wales from the independent Welsh forces to the north. Not far from St Brides Bay, the castle could also have functioned as a lookout point to defend against potential invasions.
Originally, Roch Castle consisted of a modest stone tower situated on a prominent outcrop of igneous rock – roche is the French word for ‘rock’. The castle’s distinctive D-shaped design was likely a practical response to the natural contours of the rock formation rather than a deliberate architectural choice.
Towards the end of the fifteenth century, Roch Castle fell into disrepair. During the English Civil War from 1643 to 1645, the castle’s ownership was transferred between the Royalist and Parliamentarian forces, enduring damage from cannon fire. However, the castle was not thoroughly restored and by the nineteenth century, it had deteriorated into a state of ruin. Today, well-restored, Roch Castle is an award-winning hotel. With panoramic views of Pembrokeshire, the castle offers truly magical accommodation.
Historic Properties Nearby
- St David’s Cathedral and Bishop’s Palace (10 miles)
- Pembroke Castle (18 miles)
- Carew Castle (22 miles)
- Lamphey Palace (21 miles)
- Tenby and Tenby Merchant’s House (27 miles)
Visitor Information
For more details on the accommodation, check out Roch Castle’s website.
Contact Details: email stay@rochcastle.com or call +44 (0)1437 725566.
Address: Roch Castle, Roch, Haverfordwest, Pembrokeshire, Wales, SA62 6AQ.
