Spectacular and dramatic, 12th century Roch Castle rests high above the landscape on its volcanic, rocky outcrop at the edge of Roch village in St Davids Peninsula, West Wales providing panoramic views over Pembrokeshire and St Brides Bay.
Meticulously restored in 2009 reflecting its history and former use, Roch Castle has six double ensuite bedrooms on four floors plus a dining room, lounge, sun room, chapel and fully equipped domestic kitchen. It can be booked for exclusive gatherings and private celebrations for up to 12 family or friends on a self-catering basis.
The castle’s historic footprint remains intact from the circular entrance hall with exposed rock, to the strangely shaped room at the top, where the legend of the castle’s founder, knight Adam de Rupe, lives on. The five-foot thick walls enclose an aristocratic dining room and intimate chapel as reminders of its past, while the contemporary interiors, enormous bath tubs, high end luxury beds and bright sun room with its floor to ceiling glass walls, have preserved the castle for another century of life.
Step out onto the fourth floor viewing platform and look south past the turrets to see Skomer Island emerging from St Brides Bay; west to St Davids Peninsula jutting out into the Celtic Sea, and north to the rolling Preseli Hills heading into the heart of Wales. A brilliant place to watch sunsets and enjoy a sundowner. Back at ground level, take a stroll to find the grave of Gelert, who was the favourite dog of Colwyn Philipps – one of two sons of the 1st Viscount of St Davids.
Roch Castle also provides a contemporary, natural backdrop for a carefully selected collection of works by just five artists; amongst them are Daniel Wright and Amanda Wright of Goat Street Gallery, St Davids. Daniel’s commissioned range of ceramics is based on the architecture and landscape of St Davids Peninsula with detailed drawn images of Roch Castle and sister venues, Twr y Felin and Penrhiw Priory.
For more details visit here or call 01437 725 566; exclusive self-catering stays are priced from £1,440 per night (£120pppn) with a two night minimum booking. As a 12th century castle, Roch Castle is not suitable for guests with mobility difficulties. The onsite parking facility includes electric car charging points with two Tesla destination chargers and one universal charging unit for guests use.
W: Roch Castle
A: Roch Castle, St Davids, Pembrokeshire, Wales, SA62 6AQ
