Raised Terrace at East Entrance to Picton Castle

Cadw's description

Location

Adjacent to Picton Castle East Entrance

History

Amongst the improvements carried out for R B P Philipps at Picton Castle under the directions of the architect Thomas Rowlands of Haverfordwest c.1828 was the raising of this extensive terraced area linked to the main entrance, superseding the narrow causeway (of 1697) which previously linked the entrance to the rising ground to the E, and which is probably buried within it. Much of the old surrounding wall of the castle was demolished at this time, and it is conjectured that the rubble from this demolition was some at least of the fill material used to raise the terrace.

Exterior

A raised terrace merging into the land surface at the E. At the W it is confined by widely-embracing curved retaining walls extending as wings symmetrically to either side of the main entrance to the Castle. Similar hammer-dressed masonry to the masonry of the Castle itself, the common stonework perhaps re-used from mediaeval walls. Low parapets with overhanging copings. The basement of the Castle extends a short distance beneath the terrace. At either side of the entrance are curved flights of steps down to the lower level. Round ornamental hammer-dressed masonry piers with decorative carved copings at the tops of the stairs and at the terminations of the wings. Carved stone balusters and copings to the steps.

Reason for designation

Listed as an important element in the setting of the E entrance of Picton Castle, linking it to the landscaped grounds, and for group value with the Castle.