Maenclochog Castle

Maenclochog Castle sits on a modest mound just outside Clynderwen, a crumbling reminder of medieval Welsh ambition. What remains today are fragmentary stone walls and earthworks - nothing grand, nothing that'll take your breath away, but genuinely interesting if you know what you're looking at. This is a motte-and-bailey fortress from around the 12th century, built when the Norman push into Wales was still meeting serious resistance.

The ruins themselves are free to visit and frankly quite accessible, though there's no visitor centre or interpretation boards to spell things out. You'll need either a decent knowledge of medieval fortifications or a willingness to use your imagination. The walk up to the motte takes ten minutes maximum from the road. On a clear day you get decent views across the Pembrokeshire landscape - not dramatic, but pleasant enough.

Historically minded walkers will find this worthwhile. It's the sort of spot that rewards a bit of research beforehand; stumbling upon it cold might leave you wondering what you're looking at. If you're staying at Llandissilio Holiday Park nearby, it makes a sensible half-hour detour during a day exploring the area. Kids under ten will probably find it underwhelming - there's precious little to interact with - but older ones interested in castles and medieval Wales might get something from it.

Don't expect manicured grounds or visitor facilities. This is archaeology in the raw state, which is either exactly what appeals to you or not at all.