Wales is renowned for having more castles per square mile than any other country in Europe, and the region in and around Swansea is no exception. From dramatic cliffside ruins to lush woodland strongholds, this part of South Wales is a treasure trove for history lovers, families, and curious travellers alike.

Whether you're planning a heritage holiday or just want to inspire the kids with tales of knights and dragons, here are the most captivating castles and historical ruins to explore near Swansea—plus where to stay for a truly unforgettable Welsh escape.

🏰 Kidwelly Castle – Majestic and Mighty

📍 Location: Kidwelly SA17 5BQ
🕰️ Time to Spend: 1.5–2 hours
Best For: History fans, families, panoramic views

Kidwelly Castle is a textbook example of a Norman defensive fortress, complete with rounded towers, arrow slits, and a commanding position above the River Gwendraeth. Dating back to 1106, it's remarkably well preserved and features in the opening scene of Monty Python and the Holy Grail.

What You’ll Love:

• Tower climbs with spectacular countryside views

• A reconstructed medieval gateway and prison cell

• Great picnic spots inside the walls

• Storyboards and plaques that bring the history to life for kids

🏯 Dinefwr Castle – A Castle in a Deer Park

📍 Location: Llandeilo SA19 6RT
🕰️ Time to Spend: Half day (include walks & Newton House)
Best For: Nature lovers, walkers, romantic ruins

Set within a 800-acre National Trust estate, Dinefwr Castle offers stunning views of the Towy Valley and combines natural beauty with powerful medieval architecture. A short woodland walk leads to this ancient ruin, steeped in the legacy of the Welsh princes.

What You’ll Love:

• Atmospheric ruins perched on a wooded hill

• Optional visit to Newton House for Victorian-era interiors

• Woodland trails, ancient trees, and local wildlife

• Springtime deer sightings in the park

Family Tip: There’s a fun woodland play area and nature trails suitable for children.

🏖️ Oystermouth Castle – A Coastal Crown Jewel

📍 Location: Mumbles, Swansea SA3 4BA
🕰️ Time to Spend: 1–1.5 hours
Best For: Coastal views, family-friendly events

Sitting proudly above Swansea Bay, Oystermouth Castle boasts dramatic sea views, an interactive visitor centre, and some of the most accessible castle ruins in Wales. Recent restorations include a glass bridge and stairways that make exploring easy and exciting.

What You’ll Love:

• 14th-century graffiti in the chapel area

• Seasonal family events and interactive displays

• Views over the Bristol Channel from the battlements

• Perfect location near the Mumbles promenade and pier

Nearby Bonus: Grab an ice cream from Joe’s or enjoy a beach stroll just minutes from the castle gate.

🧱 Carreg Cennen Castle – A Castle on the Edge

📍 Location: Trapp, Llandeilo SA19 6UA
🕰️ Time to Spend: 2–3 hours
Best For: Adventurers, hikers, photographers

Carreg Cennen Castle is wildly dramatic. Built on a limestone cliff 300 feet above the River Cennen, it’s one of the most picturesque ruins in the UK. You’ll need to walk uphill to reach it, but the views are worth it—and there’s even a hidden underground tunnel to explore!

What You’ll Love:

• Rugged, elevated setting with breathtaking views

• Secret passages and castle caves (bring a torch!)

• On-site café and farm shop

• Tranquil and off the beaten path

🧱 Weobley Castle – Overlooking the Gower Marshes

📍 Location: Llanrhidian SA3 1HB
🕰️ Time to Spend: 1 hour
Best For: Tranquil afternoons, architecture fans

This lesser-known gem on the Gower Peninsula was once a fortified manor house rather than a military castle. With sweeping views over the salt marshes and estuary, Weobley Castle is a peaceful, photogenic site away from the crowds.

What You’ll Love:

• Unique blend of defensive and domestic medieval design

• Peaceful setting perfect for picnics

• Ideal as a stop on a Gower coastal drive

Nearby Bonus: Head to Rhossili Bay or Three Cliffs Bay for stunning beach walks afterward.

🧱 Laugharne Castle – Literary Legends

📍 Location: Laugharne SA33 4SA
🕰️ Time to Spend: 1–1.5 hours
Best For: Literature lovers, relaxed estuary views

Once home to poet Dylan Thomas, Laugharne Castle is set beside the tranquil Taf Estuary. The 13th-century ruins feature twin-towered gatehouses and a peaceful garden. Visit in spring when the gardens bloom, and combine it with a stop at the Dylan Thomas Boathouse.

What You’ll Love:

• Beautiful riverside location

• Historic gardens and lush grounds

• Close to charming cafés and bookshops

🛌 Stay Near the Ruins with Pass the Keys

Make your castle-hopping adventure comfortable and memorable with a stay in one of the region’s handpicked short-let properties from Pass the Keys. Whether you’re based in Swansea, Mumbles, or the Gower Peninsula, you’ll find the perfect base to rest like royalty.

Why Choose Pass the Keys:

• Gorgeous self-catering homes with castle views or countryside charm

• Properties that suit couples, families, and groups

• Pet-friendly options (bring your loyal hound along)

• Professionally managed with local support

• Near beaches, hiking trails, and historic sites

🗺️ Suggested 2-Day Castle Itinerary

Day 1 (Swansea + Mumbles):

• Morning: Oystermouth Castle & Mumbles Pier

• Afternoon: Drive to Weobley Castle, enjoy sunset at Rhossili

• Stay: Mumbles or Gower with Pass the Keys

Day 2 (Carmarthenshire):

• Morning: Kidwelly Castle

• Afternoon: Dinefwr Castle and park trails

• Optional Stop: Carreg Cennen (if time allows)

🧭 Final Thoughts

Whether you're walking in the footsteps of Welsh princes, storming Norman ramparts, or admiring estuary sunsets from a crumbling tower, the castles of Swansea and beyond offer the perfect blend of history, scenery, and discovery.

So lace up your boots, charge your camera, and let Wales's ancient fortresses fire your imagination.