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Angle Tower House
Pembroke
A late 14th century tower house in the village of Angle is unique
in Wales, the style of building being much more common in Ireland.
It
was a fortified home for the Shirburn family, the local lords of the
manor. The need for fortification is a little puzzling, as South
Pembrokeshire was relatively peaceful at this time. Perhaps the family
were concerned about the growing tensions with France or Owain
Glyndwr's uprising in north Wales. It’s also possible that Angle was
prey to pirates sailing up the tidal inlet from the Milford Haven
waterway.
The 9m tall tower, which at one time was surrounded by a moat, is
three storeys high. The living quarters were on the upper levels, each
with its own fireplace, connected by a spiral staircase in the corner.
The vaulted ground floor room was probably used for storage. The main
entrance was at first floor level, via a drawbridge which must have
rested on a freestanding ramp or steps. The roof of the building has
been removed, but the corbels around the upper rim suggest that the
tower once had a parapet.
Close to the tower house is a medieval dovecote, recently restored,
which would have kept the Shirburns supplied with a plentiful supply
of fresh meat.
The tower house, which is privately owned, has
been leased to the Pembrokeshire National Park Authority which
recently oversaw the restoration of the building. It is usually open,
but if not, ask at nearby Castle Farm for the key.
Planning Grid
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Location: |
Angle Tower House, Pembroke |
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Grid Reference |
SM866030 |
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Map Link: |
VIEW MAP |
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Getting there: |
From Pembroke
take the B4320 to Angle |
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Parking: |
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Address: |
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Postcode: |
SA71 |
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Opening times: |
Usually open,
if not, ask at nearby Castle Farm for the key. |
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Charges: |
Free admission |
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Photo
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Other useful
websites: |
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CIN Page Ref: |
Angle_tower_house |
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