The castle was abandoned by the 16th century, largely due to the encroaching sand dunes that made the site uninhabitable.
It is built on a site that has archaeological evidence of Neolithic activity dating back much further than the medieval fortification.
The name 'Pennard' is derived from the Welsh 'Penardd,' meaning 'headland' or 'high ridge'.
The ruins are situated on the edge of a golf course, which often incorporates the site into its perimeter.
Pennard Castle is a 12th-century stone fortification overlooking Three Cliffs Bay on the Gower Peninsula. Originally built as an earthwork ringwork, it was replaced by a stone curtain wall with two semi-circular towers by the de Braose family in the early 14th century. The site is currently a ruin managed by Cadw, largely reclaimed by encroaching sand dunes that have partially buried the structure over centuries. Its exposed position on a limestone cliff provides a vantage point over the Pennard Pill stream and the surrounding coastline. The castle remains largely unroofed and accessible as an open-air historical site.
From the western approach looking back at the gatehouse with the coastline and Three Cliffs Bay in the background.
Wear sturdy, closed-toe footwear as the terrain is uneven, sandy, and grassy.
Bring windproof layers, as the cliffside location is prone to strong coastal breezes.
Combine the visit with a walk down to Three Cliffs Bay, located directly below the castle.
Attempting to climb the unstable, crumbling stone walls, which poses a safety risk and damages the structure.
Stay within marked paths to prevent further erosion of the dunes and the historical ruins.
