Llanblethian Castle (St Quintins Castle)
Vale of Glamorgan, Wales
Key facts
- Operator
- Cadw
- Condition
- Ruin
- Access
- Free, open access
- Nearest station
- Llantwit Major, 3.5 miles (straight-line)
Pinpoint
7 Castle Hill, Cowbridge CF71 7BE
Telephone 01443 336000
Possible Opening Hours*
*Opening times change. Always check the official website before you travel.
| Monday | 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM |
| Tuesday | 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM |
| Wednesday | 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM |
| Thursday | 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM |
| Friday | 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM |
| Saturday | 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM |
| Sunday | 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM |
An early fourteenth-century castle likely built by Gilbert de Clare, known for its twin-towered gatehouse and surviving curtain wall, in the guardianship of Cadw as a free, open-access ruin above Cowbridge.
Who to know
Gilbert de Clare · the likely builder of this early 14th-century castle
Worth the trip
The twin-towered gatehouse - the castle's best-preserved and most photographed feature.
Before you go
The upper sections are often locked, so the visit is a ground-level walk around rather than a full climb - short, but worth it if you're already in Cowbridge.
Reviewers consistently describe a short but worthwhile visit - free entry, a small car park, and views over Cowbridge - with the upper sections of the towers usually locked so the visit stays at ground level. Several mention discovering it unexpectedly while in the area and being pleasantly surprised. It's a quiet, uncrowded site rather than a headline attraction, which a number of reviewers count in its favour.
Early 14th-century castle likely built by Gilbert de Clare, notable for its twin-towered gatehouse and surviving curtain wall.
“Nice castle, great views over cowbridge. Would recommend a visit!”- Lucas T, visitor review
Practical notes from visitors
Quoted from individual Google reviews, not verified with the operator - treat as a steer, not gospel, and check before you travel.
- Parking
- “Free to enter, small car park for say 3 vehicles, nice for a half hour visit.” - John Mahoney
Common questions about Llanblethian Castle (St Quintins Castle)
Where is Llanblethian Castle (St Quintins Castle)?
Llanblethian Castle (St Quintins Castle) is in Vale of Glamorgan, Wales, at 7 Castle Hill, Cowbridge CF71 7BE.
Is Llanblethian Castle (St Quintins Castle) free to visit?
Yes - Llanblethian Castle (St Quintins Castle) is a free, open-access site with no ticket booth, looked after by Cadw. There may still be a charge for nearby parking, and open-access arrangements can change, so it's worth a quick check before you travel.
What is the highlight of visiting Llanblethian Castle (St Quintins Castle)?
The twin-towered gatehouse - the castle's best-preserved and most photographed feature.
Is Llanblethian Castle (St Quintins Castle) a ruin or still intact?
Llanblethian Castle (St Quintins Castle) is a ruin - Early 14th-century castle likely built by Gilbert de Clare, notable for its twin-towered gatehouse and surviving curtain wall.
