Standing on a headland above the wide sweep of Oxwich Bay is the fortified house known as Oxwich Castle.

The castle is a fascinating place to explore and well worth a visit.

~ History ~

1459 - First records of a castle at Oxwich held by Philip Mansel.

1480's - The influential Mansel family forfeit Oxwich and their other estates during the Wars of the Roses.

1487 - The 'great' Rice Mansel is born. He is placed into the care of his uncle, Sir Mattew Cradock.

1526 - Rice is knighted. One year later marries for a third time at the age of just 39. His wife Cecily having influential contacts within the court of King Henry VIII.

1520's - The building of Oxwich castle commences.

1535 - Rice distinguishes himself in the king's service in Ireland, and is noted for his 'right good exploits'.

1543 - Vice-admiral Sir Rice records 'a great fight' with a French fleet.

1557 - Following Rice's appointment to the office of chamberlain and chancellor of south Wales, an affray at Oxwich Castle with their powerful rivals the Herberts, results in the death of Edward's aunt, Anne.

1559 - Rice's eldest son and heir, Sir Edward commences building of the impressive and grand eastern range of buildings.

1560's - Sir Edward experiences serious financial difficulties, partly due to the extravagant expansion of Oxwich castle.

1630's - The eastern range falls into disrepair whilst the remainder of Oxwich castle is used as a farmhouse.