Oxwich Castle
Perched on a wooded headland above the sweeping sands of Oxwich Bay, Oxwich Castle is one of the most fascinating historic sites on the Gower Peninsula. Despite its name, it is not a traditional military fortress. Instead, it is a grand Tudor manor house built by the influential Mansel family during the 16th century, designed as much to display wealth and status as to provide protection. The castle stands on or near the site of an earlier medieval stronghold, but the impresive remains visitors see today are largely Tudor. Sir Rice Mansel began the construction, and his son Sir Edward Mansel expanded it into an ambitious residence that became one of the finest elite homes in Wales. Inside the castle grounds, visitors can explore the atmospheric courtyard entered throuh an imposing gatehouse adorned with family coats of arms. The surviving South Range provides a glimpse into Tudor domestic life, while the ruins of the once-magnificent East Range reveal the scale of the Great Hall and the elegant long gallery that originally enjoyed spectacular views over the bay.
Oxwich Wales
Oxwich Castle is a magnificent grand Tudor manor house built to resemble a fortress, perched on a wooded headland overlooking the sweeping waters of Oxwich Bay. Constructed in the 16th century by the ambitious Mansel family—Sir Rice Mansel and his son Sir Edward—the estate combines residential grandeur with mock-military architectural features. The castle is located at Oxwich, Gower, Swansea, SA3 1ND, Wales, United Kingdom. It stands situated just above the village of Oxwich on the southern coast of the Gower Peninsula. Because of its position on the scenic Gower coastline, visiting Oxwich Castle puts you within easy reach of several historical and cultural landmarks. Just down the hill lies the historic St Illtyd Church and the sprawling sandy shores of Oxwich Bay. A short drive inland brings you to the Neolithic burial site at Parc le Breos Chambered Tomb and the Gower Heritage Centre, set around a historic 12th-century watermill. Heading across the peninsula leads to the 14th-century stronghold of Weobley Castle overlooking the Loughor Estuary, while driving east opens up access to the iconic medieval fortress of Oystermouth Castle and Swansea Castle in Swansea city centre.