Castell Oxwich: Tudor Manor House on the Gower Peninsula
Explore Castell Oxwich, a grand Tudor manor house blending mock-fortified elegance with stunning coastal views on Wales’ Gower Peninsula.
Castell Oxwich is a magnificent Tudor manor house on a wooded headland overlooking Oxwich Bay, Gower Peninsula, Wales. Built in the 16th century by Sir Rice Mansel and his son Sir Edward Mansel, it features mock-military architecture designed for social prestige rather than defense. The site includes a grand gateway, courtyard, a large hall, a six-story tower, and remains of a dovecote. Now cared for by Cadw, it offers visitors a glimpse into Elizabethan gentry life amid scenic coastal views.
A brief summary to Castell Oxwich
- Oxwich Castle, Swansea, Oxwich, SA3 1ND, GB
- +443000252239
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit between May and August to join guided tours offering expert insights into the castle’s history.
- Wear comfortable shoes as the terrain is mostly level but includes some uneven surfaces around the ruins.
- Bring a camera to capture panoramic views of Oxwich Bay from the castle’s long gallery and tower.
- Check Cadw’s official website for seasonal opening hours and any special events or exhibitions.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Car
Driving from Swansea city center takes approximately 30 to 40 minutes via the A4118. Parking is available on-site with limited spaces, so early arrival is recommended during peak season. No dedicated accessible parking is provided.
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Bus
Local bus services connect Swansea to Oxwich village with a journey time of about 50 to 70 minutes. Service frequency is limited, especially on weekends, so check current timetables. From the village, a 20-minute walk over gentle terrain leads to the castle.
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Walking
For active visitors, a scenic 2.5-hour walk from Swansea along coastal and woodland paths offers a rewarding approach. Terrain is moderate with some uneven sections, suitable for those with good mobility and stamina.
Castell Oxwich location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Castell Oxwich
A Tudor Manor with Noble Ambitions
Castell Oxwich, often called Oxwich Castle, stands proudly on a wooded headland overlooking the sweeping Oxwich Bay on the Gower Peninsula. Despite its name, it is not a traditional medieval fortress but a grand Tudor manor house built largely between 1520 and 1580 by Sir Rice Mansel and his son Sir Edward Mansel. The Mansel family, rising gentry in south Wales, sought to express their wealth and status through this impressive residence. The manor's design blends comfortable living spaces with mock-fortifications, reflecting the social aspirations of the Tudor era rather than true military defense.Architectural Layout and Features
The manor is arranged around an enclosed courtyard entered through a showy gateway adorned with the coats of arms of the Mansel family and their relations. The south range, attributed to Sir Rice Mansel, includes the original farmhouse used until the mid-20th century. Opposite lies the grand east range, built by Sir Edward Mansel, featuring a two-story great hall with an elegant long gallery offering stunning views of Oxwich Bay. At the corner stands a distinctive six-story south-east tower, providing extensive accommodation. Nearby are the ruins of a large stone dovecote, once home to around 300 nests, supplying fresh meat and symbolizing status.Historical Context and Family Legacy
The site originally hosted an earlier medieval castle belonging to the de la Mare family in the 13th and 14th centuries, with some remnants still visible. The Mansel family acquired the estate before 1459 and rebuilt the manor in the Tudor style. Sir Rice Mansel began construction, and after his death in 1559, his son Sir Edward expanded the house into a prodigy house—a lavish country residence designed to impress. The family’s ambitions eventually shifted to Margam, and by the early 17th century, Oxwich was leased out and gradually fell into partial ruin. The south range continued as a farmhouse until the 20th century.Preservation and Visitor Experience
Threatened with demolition in 1949, Castell Oxwich was saved and entrusted to the State, now maintained by Cadw, the Welsh Historic Monuments agency. Visitors can explore the ruins and restored sections during seasonal opening months, typically from late spring to early autumn. The site includes accessible toilets, picnic areas, and information boards. The atmosphere combines the romance of ruined grandeur with breathtaking coastal panoramas, offering a tranquil yet evocative glimpse into Tudor gentry life.Legends and Local Stories
The castle’s history is also marked by dramatic local events, including the notorious 'Oxwich Affray' in 1557, a violent dispute over the salvage rights of a wrecked French ship involving the Mansel family. This incident illustrates the turbulent social dynamics of the era and adds a human dimension to the site’s story. Nearby, the natural beauty of Oxwich Bay and its sandy beaches complement the historical experience, making the location a rich blend of cultural heritage and scenic charm.Architectural Significance and Legacy
Castell Oxwich stands as one of Wales’ finest examples of an Elizabethan prodigy house, showcasing the transition from fortified medieval castles to comfortable, status-driven manor houses. Its combination of military-style features with lavish domestic spaces reflects the evolving tastes and social ambitions of the Tudor gentry. Today, it remains a cherished landmark, connecting visitors to Wales’ rich architectural and social history amid the stunning landscape of the Gower Peninsula.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Rhossili Downs
8.1 km
Experience breathtaking coastal panoramas and ancient heritage atop the highest point of Wales' Gower Peninsula.
Whiteford Lighthouse
12.2 km
A rare cast-iron lighthouse standing in the tidal estuary of the Gower Peninsula, reachable only at low tide across vast sands and saltmarsh.
Glamorgan History Society
13.1 km
Explore Glamorgan’s rich history through dedicated research, publications, and community events at the heart of Swansea’s heritage.
Gorsedd Circle
14.0 km
A modern stone circle in Llanelli celebrating Welsh culture, poetry, and the spirit of the National Eisteddfod.
Delta Hotels Swansea
16.8 km
Stylish waterfront hotel in Swansea’s Maritime Quarter with modern comforts, stunning bay views, and versatile event spaces.
Cwtsh Hostel
17.2 km
Modern, friendly, and centrally located hostel offering comfortable stays and social spaces in the vibrant heart of Swansea.
Premier Inn Swansea City Centre hotel
17.4 km
Comfortable city-centre hotel on vibrant Wind Street, with spacious rooms, tasty dining, and easy access to Swansea’s cultural and coastal highlights.
Cathedral Church of Saint Joseph (Eglwys Gadeirlan Siôseff Sant)
17.7 km
A majestic Gothic Revival cathedral in Swansea, symbolizing faith, history, and community since 1888.
Premier Inn Swansea Waterfront hotel
18.1 km
Modern comfort and scenic marina views combine at Premier Inn Swansea Waterfront, your gateway to Swansea’s vibrant coastal charm.
The Baltic Inn & Restaurant
23.4 km
A welcoming countryside inn in Pontyates offering cozy rooms, hearty dining, and a peaceful Welsh village atmosphere.
Tours of Wales
26.5 km
Discover Wales’ rich history and stunning landscapes on small-group, expertly guided day tours with Tours of Wales.
Kilns of Mynyddcerrig
27.7 km
Explore the historic limekilns of Mynyddcerrig, a window into Carmarthenshire’s rural industrial heritage and traditional limeburning craft.
Dyfed Menswear
28.1 km
Explore Llanelli with ease at Dyfed Menswear, a central bus stop connecting you to the town’s vibrant culture and attractions.
Y Bwlwarcau
34.1 km
Explore Y Bwlwarcau, a serene Iron Age hillfort nestled on Mynydd Margam’s slopes, revealing ancient Welsh heritage amidst tranquil countryside.
South African War Memorial
34.8 km
A dignified tribute in Carmarthen’s Guildhall Square commemorating local heroes of the Anglo-Boer War with a striking marble soldier statue.
Unmissable attractions to see
Three Cliffs Bay
4.0 km
Discover the wild beauty and iconic limestone cliffs of Three Cliffs Bay, a serene coastal escape on Wales’ Gower Peninsula.
King Arthur's Stone
4.3 km
Discover the enchanting myth of King Arthur at King Arthur's Stone, a historical landmark where legends meet breathtaking Welsh scenery.
Pobbles Bay
4.5 km
A hidden limestone cove where effort rewards you with solitude, soft sand, and sweeping coastal views.
Gower National Landscape
4.6 km
Explore the UK’s first Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, where dramatic coastlines, ancient history, and diverse habitats create an unforgettable Welsh landscape.
Pennard Castle
5.1 km
Explore the evocative ruins of Pennard Castle perched above Three Cliffs Bay, where medieval history meets wild coastal beauty and shifting sands.
Giant's Grave
5.3 km
Explore a 6,000-year-old Neolithic chambered tomb nestled in a tranquil Welsh valley, revealing ancient burial rites and prehistoric heritage.
Weobley Castle
6.7 km
Explore the windswept ruins of Weobley Castle, a fortified medieval manor with stunning views over Gower’s saltmarshes and rich Tudor history.
National Trust - Rhossili and South Gower Coast
8.5 km
Discover Rhossili’s breathtaking three-mile beach, dramatic cliffs, and iconic Worms Head on Wales’ stunning South Gower Coast.
Wreck of the Helvetia
8.7 km
Discover the haunting remains of the Helvetia, a 19th-century Norwegian barque wrecked on Rhossili Beach amidst the wild beauty of the Gower Peninsula.
Rhossili bay Beach
8.9 km
Discover Rhossili Bay’s stunning three-mile sandy beach, dramatic cliffs, and iconic views on Wales’ breathtaking Gower Peninsula.
Rhossili Bay
9.5 km
Experience the breathtaking three-mile sandy beach and iconic tidal island of Rhossili Bay, a natural wonder on Wales’ Gower Peninsula.
Worm's Head
10.8 km
Experience the wild beauty and tidal adventure of Worm's Head, a dramatic island at Rhossili Bay accessible only at low tide.
Rotherslade Bay
11.3 km
A tranquil, sandy cove near Mumbles offering scenic coastal views, family-friendly waters, and charming local artistry.
Burry Holms
11.6 km
Discover Burry Holms, a tidal island rich in ancient history and stunning coastal views at the northern end of Rhossili Bay.
Oystermouth Castle
11.7 km
Explore Oystermouth Castle, a majestic 12th-century Norman fortress with stunning views over Swansea Bay and a rich medieval heritage.
Essential places to dine
Beach House Restaurant
0.5 km
Michelin-starred fine dining with stunning Oxwich Bay views, showcasing the best of Welsh seasonal produce in a rustic-chic beachside setting.
Fredricks Bar & Brasserie
11.7 km
Relax and dine in style with stunning golf course views at Fredricks Bar & Brasserie, Llanelli’s refined yet welcoming culinary spot.
The Lighthouse Bar & Kitchen And Lounge
13.0 km
Seaside dining with stunning views, fresh flavors, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Mumbles, Swansea.
The Secret Beach Bar & Kitchen
15.3 km
A vibrant modern British beachside bar and kitchen with stunning Swansea Bay views and a welcoming, dog-friendly atmosphere.
Morgans Restaurant
17.5 km
Elegant European dining and refined bar experiences in a historic Swansea hotel near the marina and city centre.
The River House
17.8 km
Scenic waterfront dining with seasonal modern European cuisine and award-winning cocktails in Swansea’s vibrant SA1 district.
Lezzet Authentic Restaurant
18.2 km
Experience authentic Turkish cuisine in a bright, welcoming setting with expertly crafted dishes and attentive service in Swansea.
Garden Room Restaurant
19.0 km
A bright, plant-filled restaurant inside Pontarddulais Garden Centre, serving generous British classics and Sunday roasts in a relaxed, family-friendly setting.
The Bird In Hand
20.1 km
A welcoming country pub in Swansea offering hearty British fare, friendly service, and a lively bar in a family-friendly setting.
Harvester Llandarcy Neath
24.2 km
A family-friendly British bar & grill near the M4, offering hearty meals, a free salad bar, and casual dining in Neath’s Llandarcy.
The Travellers Well
24.7 km
Cozy pub in Skewen offering great food, live music, and a friendly atmosphere for casual dining and special events.
The Front
24.9 km
Enjoy fresh seafood and classic British dishes with friendly service in a relaxed seaside setting on Port Talbot’s Princess Margaret Way.
Bagle Brook Beefeater
25.8 km
Family-friendly Beefeater steakhouse in Port Talbot offering classic British and American dishes with vegan options and lively weekend vibes.
The Coach House
27.1 km
Historic charm and scenic gardens combine at The Coach House, Neath’s premier wedding venue and steakhouse restaurant.
The Welsh House
27.8 km
Experience authentic Welsh flavors and warm hospitality in a cozy Neath setting with a charming beer garden and locally sourced dishes.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Parc Pemberton Retail Park
14.1 km
Llanelli’s vibrant retail park offering leading brands, leisure spots, and easy access near Parc Y Scarlets stadium.
Quadrant Shopping Centre
16.9 km
Swansea's covered shopping destination blending high street chains with independent boutiques in a modern, accessible setting.
Wax 2 Relax
20.7 km
Discover handcrafted candles, bespoke perfumes, and unique local crafts in a cozy Morriston boutique that celebrates artisan creativity.
Obsessive Koi Disorder
21.0 km
A vibrant Swansea shop blending koi fish expertise with unique aquatic-themed gifts and apparel for enthusiasts and pond keepers alike.
The Range
21.8 km
A spacious and affordable homewares and leisure store in Swansea offering everything from furniture to crafts and garden supplies.
Best-one Convenience Store
22.3 km
Discover the Best-one Convenience Store in Swansea - your go-to spot for local snacks and essentials while exploring the area.
Inspired Aroma
22.4 km
Explore the enchanting world of scents at Inspired Aroma, Swansea's beloved candle shop, where every fragrance tells a story.
The Funny Gift Store
22.6 km
Discover quirky, handmade novelty gifts that bring laughter and joy to Swansea and beyond at The Funny Gift Store.
Peniel Green Food & Wine
22.8 km
A friendly family-run off licence and convenience store in Swansea offering wide selection and late hours for local shoppers.
Juno candles
23.3 km
Discover handcrafted candles that tell a story of scent and craftsmanship in the heart of Birchgrove, Swansea.
Wooscrafts
23.3 km
Discover unique handmade gifts and artisan crafts in the heart of Birchgrove, Swansea at Wooscrafts.
Seren Jewellery
23.4 km
Handcrafted wedding jewelry in Swansea blending traditional silversmithing with personal service in a charming Birchgrove boutique.
Lush and Tidy
23.6 km
Explore Lush and Tidy, a charming gift shop in Skewen offering unique treasures and local artistry for every traveler.
Pooja Stores
23.6 km
Discover the charm of Pooja Stores in Birchgrove, Swansea - your go-to convenience store for quick shopping and local flavors.
Books and Bobs
23.7 km
Discover rare books and thousands of vinyl records in this family-run Swansea shop blending literature and music.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Uplands Tavern
15.6 km
Experience the vibrant local spirit and classic British pub charm at Swansea’s Uplands Tavern, a lively hub for great drinks and live music.
Noah's Yard
15.6 km
Discover Swansea’s quirky Noah's Yard—a vibrant bar blending artistic charm, live jazz, and a welcoming community spirit.
Hogarths
17.2 km
Discover Hogarths Swansea, a lively Victorian gin palace offering over 120 gins, cozy booths, and a vibrant city centre atmosphere.
The Perch
17.2 km
Experience Swansea’s energetic live music scene and rustic charm at The Perch, Wind Street’s vibrant bar with cocktails and great vibes.
No Sign Wine Bar
17.3 km
A cozy, character-rich Swansea pub blending real ales, live music, and acclaimed Sunday lunches in the heart of Wind Street.
Bambu Beach Bar
17.3 km
Experience Swansea’s vibrant Latin tiki nightlife with tropical cocktails, rooftop dancing, and unforgettable party vibes at Bambu Beach Bar.
Peppermint
17.3 km
Sophisticated cocktails, vibrant nightlife, and exclusive VIP lounges in the heart of Swansea’s city centre.
Pump House
17.4 km
Classic British pub fare and refreshing drinks with stunning views of Swansea Marina in a lively, dog-friendly setting.
Maltsters Arms
17.4 km
Cozy and vibrant pub in Swansea’s Cwmbwrla, offering local ales, hearty food, and a warm community atmosphere.
BeerRiff Brewing co
17.7 km
Discover innovative craft beers and vibrant community spirit at BeerRiff Brewing Co, Swansea’s waterside brewery and taproom.
The Ship Inn
17.9 km
Experience authentic Welsh hospitality and hearty local ales in the cozy, welcoming atmosphere of The Ship Inn in Swansea.
The Wern Inn
18.5 km
Friendly traditional Swansea pub with hearty food, a lively atmosphere, and a spacious beer garden, newly refurbished in 2025.
Ivorites Arms
18.9 km
Cozy Welsh pub in Swansea’s Plasmarl offering local ales, hearty food, and warm hospitality in a friendly, inviting atmosphere.
Tafarn Tawe
21.1 km
Lively and welcoming bar at Swansea University Bay Campus, perfect for drinks, events, and socializing in a vibrant student atmosphere.
The Copper Pot
21.4 km
A friendly Swansea pub offering hearty meals, generous portions, and a relaxed atmosphere in the heart of Swansea Enterprise Park.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Rainbow Rooms Bar & Club
15.5 km
Experience lively nights and vibrant music at The Rainbow Rooms Bar & Club, Gorseinon’s premier destination for unforgettable nightlife.
Sin City
16.7 km
Energetic Swansea nightclub with live music, affordable drinks, and a lively atmosphere on Dillwyn Street.
Cuba Escape
16.9 km
Experience Swansea’s vibrant nightlife at Cuba Escape, where live music, energetic crowds, and a colorful atmosphere come together for unforgettable nights.
PlanB
16.9 km
Swansea’s energetic two-floor nightclub with a focus on dance music, lively DJs, and great drink deals for a night to remember.
Popworld - Swansea
17.3 km
Experience Swansea’s energetic retro nightclub with affordable cocktails, themed events, and a lively dance floor in the heart of the city.
Jimmy's Bar
27.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and live music scene at Jimmy's Bar, Port Talbot’s lively local hotspot with a welcoming atmosphere.
The Arch Bar & Nightclub
27.6 km
A lively Neath hotspot blending nightclub energy, live music, pub charm, and Thai cuisine in one vibrant venue.
Lucifer's Nightlife
34.8 km
Experience Carmarthen's vibrant nightlife and fast food fusion at Lucifer's Nightlife, where music, dancing, and late-night bites come alive on Queen Street.
Savannah's Night Club
34.9 km
Experience Carmarthen’s vibrant nightlife at Savannah's Night Club—where music, dance, and stylish vibes create unforgettable Saturday nights.
Hazewell Club
38.9 km
Discover the Hazewell Club in Tenby: a cozy sports club offering a warm atmosphere and local drinks amidst stunning coastal views.
Prince Of Wales
39.0 km
Tenby’s iconic late-night nightclub blending lively music, classic charm, and a spirited atmosphere in the heart of Town Wall Arcade.
Sands Nightclub
40.6 km
Saundersfoot’s lively nightclub with dance, drinks, and a vibrant atmosphere near the beach.
The Top Club
40.7 km
Experience Blaengarw’s vibrant nightlife at The Top Club, where electrifying entertainment meets community spirit in the heart of South Wales.
Comlongon
44.0 km
Experience vibrant nightlife in the charming village of St Florence with Comlongon, Tenby’s energetic nightclub gem.
Squares Night club
52.8 km
Experience Porth’s vibrant nightlife at Squares Nightclub, where music, dance, and unforgettable evenings come alive every weekend.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Historic
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Myth & Legends
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
