MANORBIER Castle and the area that surrounds it have been designated a Site of Special Mythological Interest, one of the first three in Wales.

Site of Special Mythological Interest is a designation created by Mythical Wales, the project connecting Welsh legend to the real places it came from. It marks places in Wales that hold, or have held, a living connection to Welsh myth and legend, and links them to the live, interactive Mythical Wales map.

Manorbier is announced alongside the Hawk and Buckle Inn, Llannefydd, the first Site of Special Mythological Interest in Wales, and the Elan Valley in Powys, in partnership with Dŵr Cymru Welsh Water. The three will be named at the official launch of Cymru Fytholegol (Mythical Wales) at the Hawk and Buckle Inn on October 26.

Manorbier Castle is a Norman castle on the Pembrokeshire coast, five miles south-west of Tenby. Gerald of Wales, the twelfth-century scholar also known as Giraldus Cambrensis, was born at the Castle. His mother, Angharad, was the daughter of the Welsh princess Nest.

Amanda Everson, Office Manager at Manorbier Castle said:

“We’re delighted that Manorbier Castle and the surrounding area have been recognised as a Site of Special Mythological Interest. We’re very excited to be part of this project and to welcome visitors to explore the castle, discover its fascinating history and legends, and learn more about the rich stories and heritage of the Pembrokeshire coast.”

The designation follows sightings of Captain “Jolly Jack” Furze the smuggler, and also recognises Princess Nest and her grandson Gerald of Wales.

After Manorbier Castle closes for the winter on November 1, the Manorbier trail will be developed in collaboration with the castle team over the winter and will launch alongside the Mythical Wales Passports when the castle reopens in spring 2027.