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Details
Two-in-one architectural wonder spans 900 years of history
The clue’s in the name. So striking was the massive circular tower built by Roger Picard II that his castle became known as Tretower – or ‘the place of the tower’.
Over two centuries, from about 1100, the Picards transformed themselves from invading Norman adventurers to powerful Welsh lords.
So this monumental tower with four storeys and stone walls nine feet thick wasn’t merely for protection. It was social climbing made visible, an open imitation of the castles at Pembroke and Skenfrith.
It would be remarkable enough on its own. But Tretower is two wonders in one. Just across the castle green lies an entire medieval court that became a byword for magnificence.
It was the creation of Sir Roger Vaughan and his descendants. During the Wars of the Roses Sir Roger became one of the most powerful men in Wales – and Tretower reflected his fame.
It became a magnet for medieval Welsh poets who drank its fine wines and sang the praises of its generous host. Now, thanks to meticulous restoration, you can vividly imagine being one of Tretower’s most honoured guests.
You’ll find the great hall laid out just as it might have been for a lavish feast in the 1460s. In the recreated 15th century garden you can stroll among fragrant white roses that symbolise Sir Roger’s passionate Yorkist sympathies.
Opening details
4 November - 31 March 2021 Thursday to Saturday 10.00am – 4.00pm. Closed Sunday to Wednesday. Closed 24, 25, 26 Dec & 1 Jan.
Last admission 30 minutes before closing.
Prices
Prices from April 2020 - March 2021.
Adult - £7.70
Family (2 adults and up to 3 children) - £21.60
Seniors £6.10
Juniors (Aged 5–17) / NUS / Armed Forces and Veterans - £4.60
Children under 5 - Free
Address
Tretower,
Crickhowell,
Powys,
NP8 1RD
Directions
Map reference: SO 185212 Lat: 51.88386 Long: -3.18449
A40 from Crickhowell towards Brecon, right onto the A479 (signed for Tretower) and left where signed it the village.
Bus 400m/430 yards, route no.X43, Brecon-Abergavenny
Bike NCN Route No.8 (8km/5mls)
Parking: free
Accessible by Public Transport: 11 miles from Abergavenny station
Nearby
Facilities
Credit cards accepted (no fee)
Gift shop
On-site light refreshments
Picnic site
Public toilets
Regional Tourist Board Member
Accepts groups
Children welcome
Disabled access
Dogs accepted
Smoking not allowed
Facilities for hearing impaired