Coity Castle, Bridgend

Coity Castle rose in Bridgend when Sir Payn the Demon de Turberville built a late 11th-century ringwork, later strengthening it with a rectangular stone keep and curtain wall during the 12th century. The de Turberville family shaped that military core, while the Gamage family held it until John Gamage died in 1584. By the 14th century the harsh fortress had softened into a home, gaining a domestic range, stone vaults and an octagonal pier that still stands among the ruins. The 15th century added a chapel wing with a tall east window, but the castle was abandoned around the 17th century after passing through the Edwins of Llanharry to the Earls of Dunraven.