Oystermouth Castle, 1066 to 1326

Norman arrival in Gower and Glamorgan

Oystermouth deals with the Norman arrival in Gower and Glamorgan and the activities of the London family after the battle of Mynydd Carn in 1081. The Londons, as sub-tenants, were probably responsible for much of the extensive masonry remains including a great tower, numerous dwellings and a much destroyed twin towered gatehouse. These lie on top of an older and previously unrecognised castle ringwork.

First mentioned in 1116

The castle is first mentioned in 1116 when it was abandoned to the Welsh and destroyed. After its rebuilding the fortress played some part in the campaigns leading to the battles of Lougher and Kidwelly in 1135. Subsequently it remained in London hands until 1216 when its last lord died, probably defending the castle or the surrounding district. Subsequently the fortress passed through many hands, eventually coming to a cadet branch of the Braose family. Much building and rebuilding was done at the eminently picturesque Oystermouth castle in the Victorian era.

British Castles Series

The first of the British Castles Series to be home-published was Clun Castle in 1994. This was a successful comprehensive history based solely on original Anglo-Welsh manuscripts. Since this 32 more followed making up the present collection in the British Castles Series. Professionals and individuals find them useful for their research and interest purposes in medieval history, archaeology, genealogy, and family and local history.

By Paul Martin Remfry

Publisher: SCS Publishing, 1995
ISBN: 189937616X

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