CASTLES COWBRIDGE

St Quentin's Castle crowns Castle Hill in the village of Llanblethian near Cowbridge in Vale of Glamorgan, Wales, built in the late 13th century to defend against Welsh uprisings. The imposing fortress features twin-towered gateway and substantial curtain wall remnants attributed to English nobleman Gilbert de Clare in the early 14th century. Set at a bend in the River Thaw with naturally defensive slopes, the castle commands fine regional views and retains information boards detailing its construction and heritage significance. Managed freely by Cadw with public access, it represents a fine example of medieval castle architecture in South Wales.

Old Beaupre Castle, located in the community of Llanfair near Cowbridge in Wales, is a Grade I listed medieval fortified manor house rather than a true military fortress. The original L-shaped building dating to around 1300 was owned by the Basset family and underwent intensive 16th-century remodelling by the Mansel and Basset families, including an impressive outer gatehouse completed in 1586 and a three-storey Renaissance porch finished in 1600. Both structures are adorned with classical columns inspired by ancient Greek architecture and bear the family heraldic crest. Under the care of Cadw, the castle is free to visit year-round and offers striking examples of Renaissance design within its well-preserved remains.