Scheduled MonumentsWalesCastell Cwm Aran
Medieval · Motte and Bailey

Castell Cwm Aran

Radnorshire, Wales
Cadw SAM RD095
Period
Medieval
Site type
Motte and Bailey
Broad class
Defence
Nation
Wales
Boundary

Scheduled area

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Overview

History & significance

Castell Cwm Aran is a motte and bailey castle situated in Radnorshire, Wales, representing a form of fortification characteristic of the Norman period following the conquest of Wales. The site consists of an earthen mound with an attached bailey, typical defensive architecture of the eleventh and twelfth centuries, though the precise date of its construction remains uncertain. Its location in the upland terrain of Radnorshire reflects the strategic importance of controlling this border region during the period of Anglo-Norman expansion into Wales. The castle survives as an earthwork monument, with the motte and bailey earthworks remaining visible on the landscape, though no substantial stone structures are recorded at the site.

Castell Cwm Aran is a scheduled monument protected by Cadw under reference RD095. View the official record →

About this monument

Questions & answers

What is Castell Cwm Aran?

Castell Cwm Aran is a motte and bailey castle situated in Radnorshire, Wales, representing a form of fortification characteristic of the Norman period following the conquest of Wales. It is designated a Scheduled Ancient Monument by Cadw under reference RD095.

What period does Castell Cwm Aran date from?

Castell Cwm Aran dates from the medieval period, and is classified as a motte and bailey. It is one of over 32,000 scheduled monuments protected across Britain.

Who is responsible for protecting Castell Cwm Aran?

Castell Cwm Aran is a Scheduled Ancient Monument, legally protected by Cadw — the body responsible for designating and safeguarding heritage sites in Wales. The official designation reference is RD095.

What other scheduled monuments are near Castell Cwm Aran?

Several scheduled monuments lie within 10 km, including Coed-swydd enclosure (5.8 km), Great Rhos round barrow (6.5 km), Medieval Settlement on Penybont Common (6.7 km).

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