From ancient burial chambers to medieval castles, Pembrokeshire is steeped in history and legend - and at Bluestone, the county’s fascinating past lies within touching distance.
Within a few miles of the site are the majestic castles of Carew and Llawhaden, while even closer lie the remains of Slebech Church, around which the Knights Hospitallers of the Sovereign Order of St John established a commandery from which to protect 12th century pilgrims heading for St Davids.
Some say the sword found on the nearby ‘sacred isle’ and currently on display at the National Museum of Wales is the very one used to knight new members of the order.
Nearby, almost hidden behind a dense thicket of trees, lie the remains of the Sisters House, a complex of medieval buildings with a vast and still-impressive main chamber. The origin of the Sisters House is uncertain, but it is believed it was once a hostel for female pilgrims
But you don’t even have to venture off-site to get in touch with past. There are two scheduled monuments within the boundaries of the Bluestone site itself: Castell Coch and Newton North Church.
Castell Coch
Castell Coch is the substantial ruin of a medieval manor house, originally known as Newhouse.
Newton North parish and church
Originally known by the Welsh name of ‘Llys Prawst’, the ecclesiastical parish of Newton North has a well-documented history from the medieval period onwards.
Slebech Church
Within easy walking distance of Bluestone is the ruin of Slebech Church, which, in the 12th century, was part of a commandery of the Knights Hospitallers of the Sovereign Order of St John.