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History

The English castle was taken by Welsh princes on three occasions during the 13th century; falling into the hands of Rhys ap Gruffydd, Llywelyn the Great and Llywelyn the Last. 

The first well-established ownership was that of Sir Guy de Brian in the early 14th century.  The earliest remains of the castle consist of round keep and round tower built near the end of the 13th century.  The gatehouse dates from the 15th century but the impressive entrance arch in the gateway was added during the 16th century.  The original form of the castle is uncertain as the old castle was incorporated into a later building. 

In Tudor times the castle passed to Sir John Perrott, thought to be the illegitimate son of Henry VIII.  Sir John did not find the medieval castle to his lavish taste and built a mansion on the site. 

The foundations of his hall can be found in the courtyard.  During the Civil War the castle, a Royalist stronghold, was besieged by the Roundheads and cannonballs have been found embedded in the walls.