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Castell Henllys

Castell Henllys. Image: Crown © RCAHMW

Last updated: 03 December 2005



Visitors to Castell Henllys Iron Age fort in the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park look upon a sight that takes them back in time 2,300 years, to late prehistoric Britain.

Buildings here have been reconstructed using evidence uncovered in excavations on the site. The reconstructed Iron Age settlement consists of three massive thatched roundhouses, a smithy and a round thatch-roofed grain store raised off the ground on four posts with a fence around the front, as well as a chieftain's house and animal shelters. It's well worth a visit as it gives a vivid and unique insight into the living and working conditions of the original inhabitants.

Archaeologists from York University have been excavating here each summer and have uncovered postholes and pits representing roundhouses. The settings for four-post structures, believed to be granaries raised off the ground to protect the grain from vermin, evidence of craftwork, iron-working as well as agricultural activities, have come to light.

Historians suggest that the settlement housed a community of several families with a population of perhaps 100 or more people.

  • Directions
    Take the A487 from Newport to Cardigan. About 6.4km from Newport, the site is signposted. Turn left to get to site car park and the site is only a 100m walk.
    Opening hours: April - October 09:30 - 17:00.
    Telephone: 01239 891319 for enquiries.


  • more on Iron Age Celts
    Iron Age Celts Learn more about the Iron Age Celts
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    More Iron Age locations in Wales:

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