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Old Beaupre Castle: A Majestic Tudor Manor in the Vale of Glamorgan

Discover Old Beaupre Castle, a hidden Tudor manor with stunning Renaissance architecture nestled in the tranquil Vale of Glamorgan countryside.

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Old Beaupre Castle, near Cowbridge in south Wales, is a striking medieval fortified manor house with origins around 1300 and major Tudor-era renovations. Known for its grand Renaissance porch and three-storey gatehouse, the castle reveals the wealth and status of the Bassett family. Set amidst farmland and accessible via a public footpath, this atmospheric ruin offers a unique glimpse into Welsh history and architecture.

A brief summary to Old Beaupre Castle

  • Cowbridge, CF71 7LT, GB
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 1 to 3 hours
  • Free
  • Environment icon Outdoor
  • Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
  • Monday 9 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-5 pm
  • Friday 9 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Wear sturdy footwear as access requires walking across fields with uneven terrain and stiles.
  • Keep dogs on short leads and be cautious of livestock in the fields, especially during spring and summer.
  • Visit during daylight hours; the castle is open daily from 10am to 4pm, with last admission 30 minutes before closing.
  • Parking is very limited near the site; a small layby is available about 250 meters from the castle entrance.
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Getting There

  • Car

    Drive from Cowbridge via St Athan Road, approximately 2.5 miles and 7-10 minutes. Limited parking is available in a small layby near the castle entrance, accommodating about 3 cars. Parking is on a public road, so arrive early to secure a spot.

  • Bicycle

    Cycle using National Cycle Network Route 88, which passes within 1.5 km of the castle. The terrain is rural with some gentle hills, suitable for moderately experienced cyclists. Secure bike parking is not provided at the site.

  • Walking

    Access requires walking across three fields via a public footpath. The path includes stiles and some gentle slopes, with moderate terrain. The walk from the nearest layby to the castle takes about 10-15 minutes. Be prepared for livestock in the fields and keep dogs on leads.

Old Beaupre Castle location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather
  • Weather icon Clear Skies
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures

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Discover more about Old Beaupre Castle

Historic Roots and Architectural Evolution

Old Beaupre Castle, despite its name, is better described as a fortified manor house rather than a traditional castle. The earliest part of the building dates back to circa 1300, originally constructed as an L-shaped residential structure. Over the centuries, it evolved significantly, especially during the 16th century when the Bassett family undertook extensive renovations. These included the addition of a grand three-storey gatehouse and a remarkable Renaissance porch, completed around 1600, which features a striking combination of Doric, Ionic, and Corinthian columns and the Bassett family’s heraldic crest.

The Bassett Legacy and Tudor Grandeur

The Bassett family, prominent landowners since the 13th century, used Old Beaupre to showcase their wealth and status. The manor’s Tudor additions are rich in symbolism and architectural detail, reflecting Renaissance influences and the family's ambitions. The porch, often described as unique in Wales, stands as a testament to their legacy. Inside, the manor once boasted large windows, elaborate fireplaces, and a fine stone stairway, elements that speak to the luxurious lifestyle of its former inhabitants.

Decline and Preservation

Following the English Civil War, the Bassett family's fortunes waned, leading to the sale of Old Beaupre in 1709. The new owners did not reside in the manor, and it gradually fell into disrepair. Despite this, parts of the building remained in use as a farmhouse into the 19th century. Today, the ruins are managed by Cadw, the Welsh heritage agency, preserving the site for visitors to explore. The castle’s atmospheric remains, including the roofless great hall and the enclosing courtyards, offer a poignant window into its storied past.

Setting and Access Experience

Nestled in the gentle valley of the River Thaw, Old Beaupre Castle is surrounded by farmland, accessible only by crossing a public footpath through fields that may contain livestock. Visitors enter via a stile and traverse several fields before reaching the castle, adding a sense of adventure and discovery. The site’s rural setting enhances its tranquil and secluded atmosphere, making it a peaceful retreat for history enthusiasts and explorers.

Architectural Highlights and Visitor Experience

Among the castle’s most notable features are the imposing gatehouse and the elaborately decorated porch, which display Renaissance artistry rarely seen in Wales. The interior ruins reveal fireplaces, large windows, and remnants of plasterwork, inviting visitors to imagine the manor’s former grandeur. Safety measures like guardrails protect visitors while allowing close exploration. The site’s quietness and rarity of visitors contribute to a unique, immersive experience.

Legacy and Cultural Significance

Old Beaupre Castle stands as a significant cultural landmark, embodying the architectural transition from medieval fortification to Renaissance manor. Its history intertwines with the fortunes of the Bassett family and the broader historical currents of Wales. The castle also served as a filming location, highlighting its evocative atmosphere. Today, it remains a hidden gem that offers insight into Welsh heritage and the evolution of manor house design.

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