Cefnllys Castle (North)

Cefnllys Castle is actually two castles built at opposite ends of a substantial hill high above the River Ithon. The first, to the north, was built to replace Cefnllys Old Castle a short distance downstream, and consisted of a complex motte and bailey structure fortified from the outset in stone. This was destroyed, and at the opposite end of the ridge a new castle consisting of a stone keep within a courtyard defended by a great ditch was founded. Between the two a level area appears to have been defended throughout and may have housed a small settlement. It is accessible by public footpath – but is a strenuous climb.