Manorbier Castle

Perched high above a peaceful beach

with splendid views across the coast,

come visit Manorbier with me,

a castle haunted by old ghosts.

Baronial home of Norman style,

it's stood the test against the gales,

a treasure gem in Pembrokeshire,

much loved by Gerard son of Wales.

The masonry of limestone built,

and crafted by fine skillful hands.

Its turrets, towers, round and square

though aged and wind-worn, upright stand.

With strong and crenellated walls,

unspoiled by Medieval gloom,

no savage blows by evil foes

have turned this place to silent tomb.

A quiet solitude pervades,

to capture mood of years gone by.

the chapel and the gatehouse near

and inner ward has views of sky.

On cloudless days this spread of blue

can fall to greet a sparkling sea

and from the heights ones eyes can roam

to cast around on green country.

Neat borders edge the new cut grass

stocked full with flowers in fine bloom,

the colour lifts the whole display

and air is scented, sweet perfume.

I've stood and felt enchanted here,

looked back to times of toil and strife.

Heard strings plucked on a soulful harp

and mused on being Baron's wife.

Reviews

[Neville]

I have never been there except for maybe in flights of fancy but now, having feasted on its history and many views depicted here, I quite fancy a real time trip to Pembrokeshire sometime may be this summer in my new old camper van .. A real treat of an early evening May Day read Chris thank you :)

[Chris Shaw]

It was a lovely sunny day when we visited, but not at all crowded with visitors. The ambience was very medieval and I was transported in time. So, if you have a camper van Neville, it is well worth a try. Positioned right on the coastline. Beautiful views. Pleased you enjoyed the Thank you kindly.

Chris

[Neville]

I pick it up next weekend .. thanks for the tip Chris ..

[Chris Shaw]

Oh, you are going to have such fun Neville:))

[ohiojohn]

Very/quiet/serene/Christine.

Reminds/me/of/"Lake/Isle/of/Inissfree/"/by/W.B.YEATS.
A/private/place/for/solitude/peace.

[Chris Shaw]

Now that poem by Yeats is a favourite of mine. A place to escape to for peace and calm. Manorbier does have the same serenity. Thank you.

Chris

[emmajoy]

' A quiet solitude pervades, ~ to capture mood of years gone by.~ the chapel and the gatehouse near ~ and inner ward has views of sky. ~~ On cloudless days this spread of blue ~ can fall to greet a sparkling sea and from the heights ones eyes can roam ~ to cast around on green country.' Superb!

You write such wonderful details about places that mean something special to you! Via extraordinary verse you manage to incorportate facts and feelings, beckoning and begging your readers' to share this #and wherever else, makes such magic in your mind and heart. You travel with such keen eyes, Chris, there's not been a place, a building, surroundings, that i've not wanted to visit after reading one of your posts! That takes skill and sensitivity to the nth degree, luv... thank you.

[Chris Shaw]

Thanks Em. An old write, but one that I felt could do with an airing. Lovely place, recommend a visit. Hope all is good with you x

Chris

[emmajoy]

Your writing is gently inspiring: words beautiful, as
said above. For me, time to relax, shake off the dark clouds, perhaps adventure off and away. :)

[Dave]

Christine -
You describe such a beautiful place. I would love to go and see it for myself. It seems as though you frequently visit it yourself.
Take care - Dave

[Chris Shaw]

Thank you Dave. We don't go that often, but it stays within my memory. Scenery is spectacular and so unspoiled.

Chris

[Jimmy Yetts]

Alluringly portrayed; intriguingly conveyed.
An impressive creation, Chris!

[Chris Shaw]

Thank you Jimmy. Quite a place to sit and contemplate history.