Carew Castle

Carew Castle & Tidal Mill
The magnificent Carew Castle has a history spanning 2000 years. Set in a stunning location, overlooking a 23 acre millpond, the castle displays the development from a Norman fortification to an Elizabethan country house. The site incorporates an impressive 11th century Celtic Cross, the only restored Tidal Mill in Wales, a medieval bridge and a picnic area all linked by a delightful mile roundwalk.

Carew runs a varied education programme which can be adapted to meet the particular needs of groups. The education service includes information for teachers planning a visit, free preparatory visits, teachers' training days, schools programmes, worksheets and guided tours.

Tidal Mill
The present building probably dates from the early 19th century and indeed one of the two mill wheels carries the date 1801. The term "French Mill", often used about Carew, may be a reference to the use of French burr stones.

The fortunes of the mill were restored by the revival in agriculture in the late 18th century and from that time the mill was constantly in use. Activity finally ceased in 1937 and from that time onwards the building lay derelict. Renovation was carried out by the Carew estate with the aid of funds from the Historic Buildings Council of Wales, Pembrokeshire County Council and Pembroke Rural District Council.

This work was completed in 1972. The National Park Authority acquired the lease of the mill in 1983 and has continued with restoration and improvement work, including the provision of the reception area, audio-visual facilities and a special exhibition on the Story of Milling. It is hoped that the south wheel will at least be able to turn some of the auxiliary machinery on a regular basis in the future.