Castell Mael

Heritage Site in Pembrokeshire

Wales

Castell Mael

Footpath southeast of Puncheston/Casmael A straight, slightly raised PROW, with a hard surface beneath the grass, between overgrown hedges leads downhill towards a ford and bridge across the Afon Anghof on the edge of the village. The stone set on the edge of the lane&#039;s end (left of the dog) appears to be some sort of marker, possibly connected with the long-dismantled railway line that ran NE-SW close to this point. See <span class="nowrap"><a title="http://www.disused-stations.org.uk/p/puncheston/index.shtml" rel="nofollow ugc noopener" href="http://www.disused-stations.org.uk/p/puncheston/index.shtml">Link</a><img style="margin-left:2px;" alt="External link" title="External link - shift click to open in new window" src="https://s1.geograph.org.uk/img/external.png" width="10" height="10"/></span> — Footpath southeast of Puncheston/Casmael Credit: Natasha Ceridwen de Chroustchoff

Castell Mael is a historic site located in Pembrokeshire, Wales. Situated on a hilltop near the village of Mael, the castle ruins overlook the beautiful landscape of the Welsh countryside. The site is a designated heritage site due to its historical significance and architectural remains.

Dating back to the 12th century, Castell Mael was originally constructed as a defensive fortification during the Norman invasion of Wales. The castle was strategically positioned to guard the nearby trade routes and provide a vantage point for monitoring the surrounding area. Over the centuries, the castle underwent various modifications and expansions under different rulers.

Today, only the ruins of the castle remain, showcasing its rich history and architectural features. Visitors can explore the remnants of the fortified walls, towers, and gatehouse, which offer a glimpse into the castle's former grandeur. The castle's strategic location provides panoramic views of the Pembrokeshire countryside, making it a popular spot for photographers and nature enthusiasts.

Access to Castell Mael is relatively easy, with a nearby car park and walking trails leading to the site. Interpretive signage provides historical information, enhancing visitors' understanding of the castle's past. The castle ruins are open to the public year-round, offering a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in Welsh history and enjoy the picturesque surroundings.

Castell Mael is not only a significant historical site but also a testament to the rich heritage of Pembrokeshire. Its well-preserved ruins and stunning location make it a must-visit destination for history buffs and nature lovers alike.

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Castell Mael Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 51.928/-4.902 or Grid Reference SN0029. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Footpath southeast of Puncheston/Casmael

A straight, slightly raised PROW, with a hard surface beneath the grass, between overgrown hedges leads downhill towards a ford and bridge across the Afon Anghof on the edge of the village. The stone set on the edge of the lane's end (left of the dog) appears to be some sort of marker, possibly connected with the long-dismantled railway line that ran NE-SW close to this point. See Link

Natasha Ceridwen de Chroustchoff

Fox-and-cubs in Casmael churchyard

Pilosella aurantiaca, very often to be found growing in churchyards, cemeteries and other rough stony places with good drainage. The name Fox-and-cubs refers to the way the open flowers and the buds are clustered together on the same stalk but it has a variety of other common names too.

Natasha Ceridwen de Chroustchoff

The crossing of minor roads at Castlebythe Farm

Looking north-westward.

Peter Wood

Road to Little Newcastle

View of the country road from Puncheston heading for Little Newcastle near the entrance to Greenland.

Martyn Harries

Former railway line and bridge near Puncheston

Alongside the minor road south of Puncheston and the lane beyond the gates by the remains of the railway bridge, is the embankment lined by trees on either side of the former railway line east of Letterston which was part of the North Pembrokeshire and Fishguard railway. A closer view of the disused railway bridge can be seen here SM9928 : Dead railway bridge , near Maesyafon.

Martyn Harries

Nondescript Lane Junction

But necessary for a geograph point!

Deborah Tilley

Ordnance Survey Cut Mark

This OS cut mark can be found on the west face of St Michael's Church. It marks a point 206.337m above mean sea level.

Adrian Dust

Ordnance Survey Cut Mark

This OS cut mark can be found on a gatepost north side of the road. It marks a point 167.719m above mean sea level.

Adrian Dust

Ordnance Survey Cut Mark

This OS cut mark can be found on the SE face of St Mary's Church. It marks a point 156.954m above mean sea level.

Adrian Dust

A ruined church

The ruined church of St Michael, Castlebythe. See also SN0228 : Casfuwch/Castlebythe church taken by Ceridwen 13 years ago. The ground inside the church has been cleared of young trees and a mass of wild garlic will shortly be in flower.

Alan Hughes