St Quentin's Castle

Located in the market town of Cowbridge, St Quentin’s Castle is one of the most atmospheric medieval ruins in the Vale of Glamorgan. Built during the 12th century following the Norman conquest of South Wales, the castle was once the stronghold of the powerful St Quentin family, from whom it takes its name. Although only fragments survive today, the ruins offer a fascinating glimpse into the region’s turbulent medieval past. The castle originally began as a motte-and-bailey fortification before being rebuilt in stone. Visitors can still see impressive remains of its circular keep, one of the most distinctive features of the site. The surviving masonry demonstrates the skill of medieval builders and hints at the castle’s former strength and importance. Standing among the ruins, it is easy to imagine the fortress overlooking the surrounding countryside and controlling the routes through this prosperous agricultural region. Inside the site, visitors can explore sections of the curtain walls, earthworks and foundations that reveal the layout of the medieval stronghold. Archaeological investigations have uncovered evidence of several phases of construction, showing how the castle evolved over time in response to changing political and military needs.