Castell Henllys Iron Age Village
Step back 2,000 years into a living Iron Age village nestled in Pembrokeshire’s stunning natural landscape.
Castell Henllys is a unique archaeological and heritage site in Pembrokeshire, Wales, featuring meticulously reconstructed Iron Age roundhouses on their original hillfort location. Visitors can explore authentic dwellings, engage with costumed interpreters, and experience a sensory barefoot trail, all set within 30 acres of scenic woodland and national parkland. The site offers a fascinating glimpse into prehistoric life over 2,000 years ago, blending education with immersive living history.
A brief summary to Castell Henllys Iron Age Village
- Meline, Crymych, SA41 3UR, GB
- +441239891319
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Plan to spend at least 2 to 3 hours to fully explore the roundhouses, trails, and engage with living history guides.
- Wear comfortable shoes and consider using the Barefoot Trail to connect with the natural environment as ancient inhabitants did.
- Book mobility scooters in advance if you require assistance navigating the hillfort’s slopes.
- Dogs on leads are welcome throughout the site except inside the café, so bring your pet along for the visit.
- Check the official website for seasonal opening hours and special events to enhance your visit.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Car
Driving from nearby towns such as Cardigan or Newport typically takes 30 to 45 minutes. Free parking is available onsite, but the access road includes some steep sections, so cautious driving is advised.
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Bus
Local bus services connect Crymych with nearby towns; from Crymych, a taxi or a 30-minute walk on rural paths leads to Castell Henllys. Bus frequency is limited, so check schedules in advance.
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Walking
For active visitors, walking from Crymych involves a moderately steep 5 km hike through scenic countryside, taking about 1.5 hours. Terrain includes some uneven and grassy paths, suitable for those with good mobility.
Castell Henllys Iron Age Village location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Castell Henllys Iron Age Village
Authentic Iron Age Reconstruction on Historic Ground
Castell Henllys stands on the original site of an Iron Age hillfort, where extensive archaeological excavations have revealed the foundations of roundhouses and community structures dating back over 2,000 years. The site is one of the most intensively studied Iron Age locations in Britain, with reconstructions built precisely on the original post holes and footprints uncovered by archaeologists. These roundhouses, including a granary and several dwellings, are recreated using traditional materials and techniques to provide an immersive experience of prehistoric domestic life.Living History and Interactive Experiences
Visitors to Castell Henllys can meet knowledgeable guides dressed in authentic Celtic costume who portray members of the Demetae tribe, the Iron Age inhabitants of this region. These interpreters share stories, demonstrate ancient crafts, and offer insights into daily life, social customs, and survival strategies of the period. Hands-on activities such as grinding grain, baking bread over open fires, and spear throwing bring the past vividly to life for all ages.Natural Setting and Sensory Engagement
The village is nestled within 30 acres of protected woodland and national parkland, overlooking a river valley. The surrounding landscape is rich in wildlife and natural beauty, enhancing the sense of stepping back into a time when humans lived in close harmony with nature. A distinctive feature is the Barefoot Trail, a sensory path that invites visitors to feel the textures of the earth beneath their feet, mimicking the tactile experience of Iron Age inhabitants.Facilities and Accessibility
Castell Henllys offers a visitor centre with a café serving local food, a gift shop featuring regional crafts, and picnic areas for relaxation. The site provides two all-terrain mobility scooters to assist visitors with limited mobility, ensuring broader access despite the hillfort’s elevated and sometimes steep terrain. Dogs on leads are welcome throughout the site except inside the café, making it a pet-friendly destination.Educational and Community Engagement
For over 25 years, Castell Henllys has been a focal point for educational visits, welcoming thousands of schoolchildren annually to experience Iron Age life firsthand. The site also hosts seasonal events, workshops, and craft demonstrations that celebrate ancient traditions and inspire sustainable living practices. Managed by the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority, the village emphasizes environmental stewardship alongside cultural heritage.Visitor Experience and Practical Information
Open Wednesday to Sunday, 10am to 5pm during peak season, the site encourages visitors to allocate 2 to 3 hours to fully explore the village and its surroundings. Entry fees are modest, supporting the site's conservation and educational mission. Castell Henllys offers a rare opportunity to walk in the footsteps of ancient Britons, combining archaeological authenticity with engaging storytelling and natural tranquility.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Cardigan Walks
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Cardigan Guildhall Market
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Gwal y Filiast
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Sloeberry Farm
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Dyfed Chimneys
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Traeth Graig y Don
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St Clears Castle
28.6 km
Explore the earthwork remains of St Clears Castle, a Norman motte-and-bailey fortress steeped in medieval Welsh history at the rivers’ confluence.
Pembrokeshire Coast National Park
33.0 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, where dramatic cliffs meet golden beaches, rich wildlife, and vibrant culture.
Blue Lagoon - Abereiddi
33.0 km
Explore the mesmerizing Blue Lagoon of Abereiddi, a scenic wonder on the Pembrokeshire coast, perfect for adventure and relaxation alike.
Museum of speed
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Experience the exhilarating history of speed at the Museum of Speed in Pendine, where classic racing meets modern motorsport culture.
Abereiddi Tower
33.2 km
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Dyfed Powys Police Federation
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Druidston beach
33.6 km
Discover the serene beauty of Druidston Beach, a hidden gem in Pembrokeshire, perfect for relaxation, hiking, and breathtaking coastal views.
Castell Talacharn / Laugharne Castle
33.6 km
Explore the enchanting Laugharne Castle, a historical landmark that blends rich heritage with stunning views of the Tâf Estuary in Wales.
Dolphin Survey Boat Trips
34.3 km
Discover the wonders of Cardigan Bay with Dolphin Survey Boat Trips, where adventure meets the beauty of marine wildlife in New Quay.
Unmissable attractions to see
Pentre Ifan Burial Chamber
2.7 km
Explore Pentre Ifan, Wales’ towering 5,000-year-old Neolithic burial chamber with its iconic floating capstone and panoramic Pembrokeshire views.
Foel Drygarn Hill Fort
6.7 km
Explore Foel Drygarn, a majestic Iron Age hillfort with ancient Bronze Age cairns, nestled atop the scenic Preseli Hills in Pembrokeshire.
Preseli Hills
7.0 km
Explore the mystical Preseli Hills, ancient uplands of Wales with breathtaking views, prehistoric mysteries, and rich cultural legends.
National Trust - Cilgerran Castle
8.8 km
Explore the dramatic ruins of Cilgerran Castle, a 13th-century Norman fortress perched above the breathtaking Teifi Gorge in scenic West Wales.
A Bay To Remember
9.1 km
Experience thrilling wildlife boat trips in Cardigan Bay, spotting dolphins, seals, and seabirds on safe, family-friendly RIB tours from St Dogmaels.
Pembrokeshire Coast National Trail
9.1 km
Explore Wales’s rugged coastal beauty on the Pembrokeshire Coast National Trail, a scenic path rich in wildlife, history, and stunning sea views.
Cambrian Quay
9.1 km
Tranquil waterfront with stunning views over Cardigan Bay, home to native dolphins and rich maritime heritage.
The Cellar
9.2 km
A vibrant live music venue and community hub in Cardigan, blending eclectic charm with a welcoming atmosphere and rich cultural spirit.
Cardigan Castle
9.2 km
Explore 900 years of Welsh history and stunning gardens at Cardigan Castle, where medieval walls meet Georgian elegance by the River Teifi.
Custom House Shop And Gallery
9.3 km
Discover authentic Welsh crafts and heritage in a historic 18th-century customs house on Cardigan’s oldest street.
Tigers Eye
9.3 km
Discover unique artisan gifts and handcrafted treasures in the charming Tigers Eye gift shop at Cardigan’s historic High Street.
Welsh Wildlife Centre
9.3 km
Explore Wales’ premier wetland reserve with family-friendly trails, vibrant wildlife, and panoramic views at the Welsh Wildlife Centre.
PuffMami Makes
9.4 km
Historic Gothic market in Cardigan with local crafts, vintage finds, artisan foods, and a lively community spirit across two floors.
Visit Cardigan
9.4 km
Discover Cardigan Guildhall, Britain’s first Ruskinian Gothic civic building, blending historic architecture with vibrant markets and community life.
Food For Thought
9.5 km
A cozy Cardigan cafe serving hearty Welsh and British classics with welcoming vibes and vegetarian-friendly options.
Essential places to dine
Trewern Arms
3.5 km
Historic Welsh inn offering cozy rooms, excellent local cuisine, and riverside charm in the heart of Pembrokeshire Coast National Park.
Llys Meddyg Hotel & Restaurant
5.9 km
Elegant coastal retreat in Newport offering refined dining, comfortable rooms, and a charming garden bar near Pembrokeshire’s scenic bay.
The Golden Lion Hotel
5.9 km
Historic Welsh inn offering cozy rooms, hearty fare, and a classic pub atmosphere near Newport Sands beach and Pembrokeshire’s heritage sites.
Tides Kitchen & Wine Bar
6.1 km
Fresh seafood, artisan bakery delights, and curated wines combine at Newport’s beloved Tides Kitchen & Wine Bar.
Castle Inn
6.1 km
Historic inn and lively pub in Newport offering cozy rooms, excellent British cuisine, and easy access to Pembrokeshire’s stunning coast.
The Ferry Inn
8.9 km
Scenic riverside gastropub in St Dogmaels offering fresh Welsh cuisine, warm service, and stunning Teifi estuary views.
Shampan Cardigan Restaurant
9.1 km
Authentic Indian flavors served with warm hospitality along the scenic River Teifi in Cardigan, Wales.
Catch of the Day Fishmongers and Fishermans Rest Cafe
9.1 km
Fresh local seafood and warm riverside charm combine at Catch of the Day Fishmongers and Fishermans Rest Cafe in Cardigan.
Pizzatipi
9.1 km
Rustic wood-fired pizzas served riverside under a giant tipi in the heart of Cardigan.
The Grosvenor
9.1 km
Traditional riverside pub and restaurant in Cardigan with fresh food, scenic views, and a lively, friendly atmosphere.
Mannucci’s Italian Restaurant
9.2 km
Authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality await you at Mannucci’s, Cardigan’s beloved Italian dining destination.
Crowes
9.3 km
Cozy, wholesome café in Cardigan offering generous homemade vegetarian and vegan dishes in a charming courtyard setting.
Yr Hen Printworks
9.3 km
Historic charm meets modern cuisine in Cardigan’s Michelin-recognized Yr Hen Printworks, where local flavors and a cozy atmosphere invite you to unwind.
DeeGee's
9.3 km
Classic British diner serving hearty breakfasts with friendly service in the heart of Cardigan’s historic center.
The Priory Restaurant
9.4 km
A cozy café-style restaurant in Cardigan serving hearty, delicious meals with great value in a friendly, unpretentious setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Labels For Less
9.2 km
Discover unique and affordable homewares with a personal touch in the heart of Cardigan’s historic High Street.
The Works
9.2 km
Affordable creativity and screen-free fun await at The Works Cardigan, your local hub for books, crafts, toys, and more.
Solo Clothing, Cardigan
9.3 km
Discover stylish, cozy knitwear and unique women's fashion in the heart of Cardigan’s historic High Street.
MIKE’S SHOP
9.3 km
Discover Mike’s Shop, Cardigan’s beloved variety store known for its quirky, practical goods and decades of local charm.
Awen Teifi
9.3 km
Discover Welsh culture and literature at Awen Teifi, Cardigan’s beloved bookshop and gift store brimming with local charm and creativity.
U Melt Me and Gifts
9.3 km
Discover handcrafted luxury home fragrances and unique gifts crafted with Welsh charm in the heart of Cardigan.
The Original Factory Shop (Cardigan)
9.3 km
Discover unbeatable discounts on clothing, beauty, and homeware at Cardigan’s friendly and budget-conscious Original Factory Shop.
The Eco Shop
9.3 km
Discover sustainable treasures and community spirit at The Eco Shop, Cardigan’s beloved secondhand store.
Saltrock Cardigan
9.4 km
Discover Saltrock Cardigan, where surf-inspired style meets durable quality in the heart of Cardigan’s vibrant town centre.
Cardigan Antiques & Collectables
9.4 km
Discover unique vintage treasures and timeless collectibles in the charming multi-level Cardigan Antiques & Collectables shop.
The prep shop uk
9.4 km
Cardigan’s trusted army and navy surplus shop offering authentic military gear, prepping supplies, and outdoor equipment for enthusiasts and adventurers.
Apricot
9.4 km
Discover timeless ladies' fashion and personalized style advice at Apricot Boutique in Cardigan’s historic market town.
Tŷ Hafan Shop
9.4 km
Explore unique finds and support a charitable cause at Tŷ Hafan Shop in Cardigan - where every purchase makes a difference.
The Cardigan Bay Collective
9.4 km
Discover authentic Welsh craftsmanship and local artisan treasures at The Cardigan Bay Collective in Cardigan’s Canolfan Teifi.
ADERYN
9.4 km
Charming boutique offering unique fashion accessories in the historic heart of Cardigan, Wales.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Llwyngwair Arms
6.0 km
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Penybryn Arms
7.1 km
Cozy Welsh pub in Cardigan offering traditional dishes, local brews, and warm hospitality by a welcoming open fire.
Cardiff Arms
8.6 km
A family-run pub in Cilgerran offering hearty food, friendly service, and a cozy atmosphere in the heart of Welsh countryside.
Albion Aberteifi
9.1 km
An adults-only maritime hotel in Cardigan blending historic charm with riverside views and crafted cocktails.
The Castle Inn
9.1 km
Historic and welcoming pub in Cardigan offering quality ales, cozy atmosphere, and a true taste of Welsh hospitality.
Bar 45
9.3 km
Discover Bar 45, Cardigan’s intimate bar serving authentic Welsh whisky, cocktails, and local brews in a cozy setting with a secret garden.
Saddlers Arms
9.3 km
Cozy traditional Welsh pub on Cardigan’s High Street, known for cask ales, friendly locals, and lively nights with karaoke and jukebox tunes.
The Lamb Inn
9.4 km
A cozy and affordable traditional pub in Cardigan offering hearty British fare, friendly service, and a lively local atmosphere.
Dyffryn Arms
10.3 km
Step back in time at Dyffryn Arms, a traditional Welsh pub nestled in the tranquil Gwaun Valley, where history, hearty ales, and local warmth await.
Tafarn Sinc.
10.4 km
Historic community-owned pub in Rosebush offering a quirky atmosphere, diverse drinks, and vegan-friendly dining in scenic Pembrokeshire.
The Cliff Hotel & Spa
11.9 km
Cliffside luxury and serene spa indulgence with panoramic views over Cardigan Bay’s stunning coastline.
Royal Oak
16.1 km
Historic Fishguard pub and restaurant offering local ales and hearty fare in the scenic Pembrokeshire Coast National Park.
The Ship Bar & Grill
18.8 km
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Ship Inn, Tresaith
20.4 km
Seaside pub with stunning Cardigan Bay views, cozy rooms, and classic Welsh fare just steps from Tresaith’s golden beach and waterfall.
The Corner Piece Inn
23.4 km
Cozy dog-friendly pub in Rudbaxton serving hearty home-cooked meals and renowned Sunday roasts with warm, attentive hospitality.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Eddie Rocks
28.4 km
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Sands Nightclub
34.2 km
Saundersfoot’s lively nightclub with dance, drinks, and a vibrant atmosphere near the beach.
Savannah's Night Club
34.6 km
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Lucifer's Nightlife
35.0 km
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Comlongon
38.3 km
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The Star Club
38.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at The Star Club, Pembroke Dock's premier bar for unforgettable evenings filled with music, drinks, and fun.
Prince Of Wales
38.4 km
Tenby’s iconic late-night nightclub blending lively music, classic charm, and a spirited atmosphere in the heart of Town Wall Arcade.
Hazewell Club
38.7 km
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Boulevard Show Bar
39.3 km
Experience vibrant cabaret, live shows, and lively nightlife at Boulevard Show Bar, Milford Haven’s premier entertainment venue.
The Basement
39.4 km
Discover the energetic nightlife of Milford Haven at The Basement, where music, dancing, and vibrant gatherings create unforgettable experiences.
OUT Clubs
39.7 km
Discover the lively nightlife at OUT Clubs in Pembroke, where the drinks flow and friendships blossom in a vibrant atmosphere.
Paddles
39.7 km
Experience Pembroke’s vibrant nightlife at Paddles, the go-to nightclub for late-night music, drinks, and social energy in the town center.
OUT VIP Cocktail Lounge and Night Venue
39.7 km
OUT VIP Cocktail Lounge: Pembroke's ultimate destination for exquisite cocktails and vibrant nightlife, blending elegance with fun in a stylish setting.
The Rainbow Rooms Bar & Club
62.3 km
Experience lively nights and vibrant music at The Rainbow Rooms Bar & Club, Gorseinon’s premier destination for unforgettable nightlife.
Yokoswnb
62.9 km
A vibrant, budget-friendly nightclub and bar in Aberystwyth, popular with students for its lively atmosphere and central location.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Fun-filled
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Heritage Neighborhoods
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly