Manorbier Castle, overlooking a lovely beach, was originally built at the beginning of the twelfth century during the reign of Henry 1 and some buildings from that time remain today. The castle was most likely built as a baronial residence rather than a defensive building. It has mellowed by time and is probably more pleasant now than it was in earlier years.

As with many other castles in the region, the first fortifications were simple earth works crowned by wooden buildings. The stone castle was built when the powerful Lord de Barri family arrived and the building continued intermittently up to about 1300.

Manorbier's great claim to fame is that it is the birthplace of Gerald of Wales who was a great twelfth century scholar. He traveled extensively and was well known as a historian, topographer and intellectual.

Manorbier Castle is privately owned but is open daily for visitors to enjoy the beautiful gardens in the courtyard as well as a lovely beach.