Bryn Y Castell
Bryn y Castell is the later of Knighton’s two medieval motte and bailey castles, built on the eastern side of the town to replace or supersede the earlier western motte. The castle was already established by 1402, when it was attacked and destroyed during Owain Glyndŵr’s great uprising. Its position overlooking the Teme valley and the eastern approach into Knighton suggests a deliberate relocation to a more commanding defensive point in the late medieval period, perhaps reflecting shifting priorities in the control of the Maelienydd lordship. The motte remains large and distinct, rising steeply above the surrounding ground with a summit approximately 40 metres in diameter, now shaded by mature trees. Although no timber or stone structures survive, the height and scale of the mound make its former defensive purpose clear. The bailey has been reduced by later land use, but the overall form of the castle is still legible. Unlike the obscured western motte, Bryn y Castell is easily accessible, lying beside public playing fields with nearby footpaths offering close views of the earthwork. It is protected as a scheduled monument, preserving the later chapter of Knighton’s medieval fortifications. Alternate names: Bryn y Castell, Eastern Motte, Knighton East Castle
Bryn Y Castell
Bryn y Castell is the later of Knighton’s two medieval motte and bailey castles, built on the eastern side of the town to replace or supersede the earlier western motte. The castle was already established by 1402, when it was attacked and destroyed during Owain Glyndŵr’s great uprising. Its position overlooking the Teme valley and the eastern approach into Knighton suggests a deliberate relocation to a more commanding defensive point in the late medieval period, perhaps reflecting shifting priorities in the control of the Maelienydd lordship. The motte remains large and distinct, rising steeply above the surrounding ground with a summit approximately 40 metres in diameter, now shaded by mature trees. Although no timber or stone structures survive, the height and scale of the mound make its former defensive purpose clear. The bailey has been reduced by later land use, but the overall form of the castle is still legible. Unlike the obscured western motte, Bryn y Castell is easily accessible, lying beside public playing fields with nearby footpaths offering close views of the earthwork. It is protected as a scheduled monument, preserving the later chapter of Knighton’s medieval fortifications.